2004-03-12
The doctor’s appointment went VERY WELL. Dr. Kalonaros is a specialist in neurology & electromyography. They asked tons of questions and preformed a number of tests on Lois. The most exciting of these was testing her reflexes. Her right leg responded well to the taping on the knee. She was also able to feel a light pin prick on her right leg and also on her arm. He used a tuning fork device to test her ability to feel vibrations. Lois was able to feel the vibrations even in her weak arm. This was excellent. Lois was smiling from ear to ear. Especially after the Dr. said that it was a good sign that she will most likely regain feeling and use in her arm. This is the first time ANY doctor has given us ANY hope in this regard. Every doctor has stated the opposite. But he did stress that much work is needed. He is also going to review Lois’ last CT to look at the size of the blood clot. He stated that from the written report from the hospitalization at the time of the seizure a month ago that the blood clot had been totally dissolved. The Dr. also evaluated all the medications Lois is taking and made some immediate changes that may help her not be so tired all the time.
The bad news for the day was that Lois’ physical therapist Linda has decided to retire from the industry. Thursday, March 11 was her last visit for Lois. We might have liked more time to get use to the fact but Linda felt it was better to do it this way. Lois has two or three weeks of in home PT and her new therapist will be Jill. At that time Lois may have to go to an out patient facility to receive PT. Linda recommends that we do this as it will be good for Lois to build her stamina and to get out of Weinberg on a regular basis.
3/11/204
Lois’ Birthday was a great success. It wore her out however, and several times during the afternoon she needed a little break to lie down. Thanks to everyone who visited, sent cards or flowers. Those who attended enjoyed a wonderful birthday cake from Schroeders Bakery in Buffalo. Pat Potts sent three huge balloon arrangements which we used in different areas of the reception area. Many from the NewsTrax office visited and for some it was the first time to see Lois since the stroke. She was very happy to see her coworkers. Today (Thursday) we have her first appointment with the new neurologist, Dr. Kalonaros. We have developed a list of questions and hope to start a new source of medical information. It will also be the first time for Lois to go in a car since the stroke. All other transportations have been by wheelchair van. We have been practicing with Linda the PT and we feel we are ready. Howard will be going to the Dr. with us.