Jenny had family in town to visit again and it always seems to go better when new faces are here that she enjos seeing. Jenny tries harder in therapies and is happier. We tired letting Jenny sit cross legged on the floor with only her arms holding herself up. Her torso was strong and when she felt herself falling, she reacted by locking her arms and catching herself. Her neck still wants to pull to the left and so she fights this movement while she tries to balance herself and remember to swallow all at the same time. She was able to sit by herself for 30-5 seconds with no help and for several minutes with slight readjustments. She gets stronger in her neck and torso each day that we work on it. There has not been any new movements, but the old ones get a little stronger each day. Again, none of her movements in themselves are capable of performing any self help tasks at this time, but she is getting so close to making this happen..
July 8, 2004
Therapies today introduced more difficult movements to Jenny’s routine. I have really been working on her neck control and strength lately, which seems to be paying off. I am excited to see more deliberate movements that appear to have more control. I really think Jenny is doing well. Jenny is feeling better baout her situation. We read through various verses of scripture relating to trials and tribulation, and she was comforted by the examples of those in the scriptures who have overcome and grown to be better people. I think she appreciated most the references to being helped and supported by her Heavenly Father during these times. Jenny has always been faithful and strong in her religious convictions throughout this ordeal.
On a side note, she apparently has raised he bar concerning when she will give me sympathy. At one time I had to give birth to a child, but she has demonstrated she is tougher than me on a whole new level.
July 7, 2004
Jenny has been a bit discouraged lately reguarding her progress. Appearantly, Jenny set a goal early on to be totally healed by Zach’s birthday (which is next week). I guess a 4 month total regaining of all abilities may have been too aggressive, but I respect her desire and faith. Of course, she has far surpassed all that she was expected to do and has the ability to go much farther. Jenny also stated that she has done all that she was suppose to do, but she did not get any better. In turn, I asked if she wanted to review some video I have been taking of her progress since she returned from Cleveland. After seeing this, Jenny changed her mind concerning her lack of progression. She still works hard and is slowly getting stronger. This was kind of a tearful day, but a good day none the less.
July 4, 2004
Jenny continues to get stronger and more able to endure her therapies. We have not been as aggressive or tried many new therapies, but Jenny looks great in what she is able to do. She went with us to see Spiderman last week and it was great to go to the movies as a family, and with the help of her sister Missy. The kids are feeling more comfortable around Jenny and her health. Appearantly, Jessie thought her mom was “sick” to the point of being contageous. I explained that her condition was more of an injury than being sick and Jessie has been more comfortable with hugs and kisses.
Jenny has also been a little devilish by being part of numerous pranks that I pull on her siblings as they come to visit. I usually do these on my own, but Jenny is more than happy to be in on my plans and often reminds me to make sure I don’t forget to carry out our plans. I am afraid I have created a monster now when it comes to tricking people.
June 30, 2004
Jenny has definately changed from constant crying/emotional outbursts to laughing fits. Both are typical effects of her stroke, but the laughing is so much more enjoyable. Jenny is getting stronger in her trunk and neck. I sat her in a rocker and a glider chair and she sat so well. I moved the glider down to the main floor so she could use it more. She also is able to sit and support her trunk and neck for several seconds if not more. Jenny is working so hard that by evening time she is truely wiped out. The physical therapist took her wheel chair leg supports off and Jenny began swinging her right leg from side to side with quite a bit of force. It appears that Jenny discovered this movement and had been waiting for a chance to show it off, She can also lift her knees a little, when helped. She pretty much can move anything with a little help.
I took Jenny on a date to see Harry Potter in the theatres. I was well prepared, but a few obstacles popped up. This was one of the first times we went out where we were totally by ourselves. I had to use the restroom, but realized I did not know what to do with Jenny. I could not take her with me, and I did not want to leave her in the hall alone. Aside from waiting to use the bathroom until I was home, it was a great date. I was greatly aware of how accessible buildings were due to my social work background and having a double stroller for all these many years. It is just a bit more difficult because Jenny and I had each other to hold doors and help over curbs.
JENNY LYNN'S NEWS 