M has come much further than many expected: his language skills are very good; he accomplishes some aspects of self care (eating, dressing, shaving, etc., once everything is set up), and he can walk a fair distance indoors in a quiet area. His memory continues to improve. And he is less self-centered and volatile than many with similar brain injuries. Go outside a routine he learned before the injury, though, and you'll see how profoundly he remains affected. And when he encounters an obstacle (for example, his electric razor doesn't work because it's unplugged), he's unable to problem solve (in this example, he'll just switch the razor off and on, then put it down, not even knowing or able to check the plug). He's supposed to do something; he can't do it, so he's stuck. Quite a difference even from a two-year-old. An incredible entity, the brain; but broken, it breaks down in so many critical ways.
Four and a half months since M's injury and just when I get used to one routine, it changes. Since March 2nd, we had the same therapists and same routine - physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and group therapy five days a week. M has been moved to the next step, TIRR Challenge, and this week had four days of mostly group therapy. It will take another week or two for the evaluations to be completed and his treatment plan developed and approved. By then, we'll get used to the new setting and new personnel, who already seem enthusiastic and kind.
We'll have a lot more time at home, so more time for one on one work. And we have an exercise program for the pool that we can do in our neighborhood pool. Having so much time with M at home, though, reminds me of being at home with a toddler, only harder. To keep M engaged and working productively (on worksheets or rudimentary housework) or playing, constant attention is required. Every week, though, something gets easier. I pray for strength and to align myself with God's will. After all, his burden is light.
