If you've been watching the blog you will have noticed an absence of new information for a while. That's because Louis completed his contract at Arts in Muskoka and is now pursuing other avenues. We thank him so much for managing the blog and for being such a great addition to the team. He was truly a blessing. All the best in your new adventure Louis. We miss you.
When you last heard from us Gary had just received his wheelchair. That seems like a hundred years ago now and he's become quite the expert at driving his chair using only his right thumb. We were a little concerned about his altercation with a door casing but we're sure that by the time he gets home he'll be doing wheelies.
Speaking of driving, he actually drove himself down to the hairdressers and is shown here with the hairdresser and his Occupational Therapist Emelda. Sporting his new haircut and shave, he later took his first trip to the cafeteria for a cappuccino.
It's not unusual to see Gary, Gayle and Rafi outside on the grounds of Westpark taking in the great outdoors. They recently attended the Westpark Fall Fair and Gary was in his element - surrounded by people to talk with. This chair has given Gary some hard-earned independence and the ability to see something more than three walls and a curtain.
Gary's days at Westpark are busy. He gets out of bed and into the chair, usually has some sort of therapy, goes off the respirator (currently twice a day for two hours each time), visits with family and friends and talks with a myriad of folks who are working hard to get him prepared to go home. In addition to the chair Gary has been working hard at strengthening his body. Part of that effort is spending time on the tilt table which, although he's strapped in, allows him to put weight on his feet again. He loves doing this and it is strengthening his body.
He's also adding some communications tools to his agenda so this will allow him further independence.
Our thanks go out to all the folk who are rooting for Gary. Your questions about his health, your good wishes, your cards, your donations and your prayers are most appreciated by Gary, Gayle and family. You have been such a comfort.
Thanks also to Jen Morgan Anderson who is now managing the blog.
- Judy
