Week of Sept 15th

We've slacked with the blog this week. The good news is that there is no major drama to report. Heather has been sleeping in late every morning and has been able to get out and do more with her mom this week. She has been shopping a couple of times and even had a pedicure yesterday. There are days that she gets too worn out and ends up with some pain and insomnia as a result, but it seems that the good days outnumber the bad.

Heather's pain is much more tolerable now. She only takes pain medication when absolutely necessary, and there are days when she does not require any. Judith has been very dedicated to ensuring that Heather gets adequate rest throughout the day and has been known to confiscate her cell phone so that she can't stay up texting people.

On a few occasions Heather has attempted to do some weeding in the yard. Bending over really gets her dizzy and the effects seem to last for hours. This is a manifestation of the stroke. Her cerebellum was responsible for balance and fine motor coordination, so it may take some time for different areas of her brain to pick up the slack. She is very fortunate that the severity of the impairment is so minor. We were told that some who suffer this type of stroke are affected by severe balance impairment for years or even indefinitely.

The boys are still concerned about their mother. Spencer will say at times, "Mom! Please don't get upset or you will strain your neck again!" Austin tries to be a little more gentle around her, although he doesn't quite understand why. They are both doing very well in school and their respective sports.

I was in El Paso and Albuquerque for work this week. It is great to know that Judith is here taking care of Heather while I am away. She will return home to Georgia/Florida next Sunday. We're hoping that by that point Heather is able to drive and get around a little better.

Thanks to everyone for the prayers, meals, visits, and service. We feel so loved and are very grateful.