My Stroke Recovery
- Updated -
THEN: June 26, 2021
I was hospitalized after a Stroke that left me with a right (stroke) arm that functioned at only about 50% of the previous day’s strength and dexterity. I could not hit my nose with the tip of my right index finger, even with my eyes open. I did not have the finger/hand dexterity to, brush my teeth, comb my hair, or button my shirt. But, I did have a very strong grip in my stroke hand !
I could not move my right (stroke) foot, or wiggle my toes. And, could barely command any movement in my right leg.
I could not sit up without assistance. And, of course, I could not
stand or walk, even with assistance.
I do NOT have facial, verbal, or cognitive impairments.
With My Personal Trainer Sarah
Any Time Fitness, Rocklin, California
NOW: March 15, 2022
I have 95+% use of my stroke hand, and still getting stronger.
I can now sit up, stand, and walk (short distances) without assistance of any kind. My endurance is still challenged by unforecastable tiredness; and occasional bouts of overwhelming FATIGUE.
I have developed a condition known as Spasticity in my stroke leg/foot. This condition prevents my foot from falling flat during my stride. If I'm not careful, I can ( and have ) stepped down and rolled over the outside edge of my foot and stumbled. Unfortunately, this has created a new FALL RISK for me. My Recovery Physician has reinstituted my Physical Therapy to address this condition going forward.
​
Lack of dexterity and controlled precision with my stroke foot still prevents me from driving my car or truck with full confidence. I retain my full cognitive and speech functions. I can walk ( without a walker) to the end of my block, and back. And, I work about
2 straight hours at my computer. In each case, I need to rest at least 30 minutes after the activity.
In spite of my limitations, I enjoy preparing meals and perfecting recipes for the Recovery Kitchen. I can perform light gardening on my patios; and trips to the Store, where most days I am comfortable walking behind a shopping cart. I can wash and wax my truck. I have just returned to my woodshop to take up some of the lighter projects I had started before my Stroke. And, I continue to work out for one hour, 3 times a week at my local Fitness Center, supplemented with 1 hour at home the remaining days.
​
My outlook is still one of hope for a "full" recovery and returning to work. I consider myself to be extremely lucky and look forward
to the challenges and victories, each day still brings me, my wife, son, and sisters !
