Desperate Times Spawn Creative Ideas

May 12
Marilyn had a terrible day today - her legs gave out after a trip out into the hallway and she couldn't make it make to the bed without a lot of help. To her this is a fall and failure to accomplish. It is hard for her to focus on the positive and take her mind off the bad things that happen. By the time I arrived at the hospital she was in tears with pain. The "fall" did seem to create a problem with her good knee and leg because as the day wore on the pain in this area seemed to increase. Ardith and I talked for some time on the phone trying to come up with an idea that might help the situation but didn't really arrive at any great conclusion. I was thankful though when Ardith arrived right in the middle of Marilyn's cry time because she took over in her kind way and helped her though it. Of course when Ardith arrives it is never with empty hands so when she left Marilyn was sporting a little smile, new lipstick and beautiful blue stone heart shaped earrings. I don't know if she knows this or not - but blue stone jewelry is Marilyn's favorite. 



One more amazing thing did happen today - and that was - a new OT has been assigned to help Marilyn (OT - occupational therapist). The thing that is amazing is that Laura, (the new OT) just happens to be Tracie's (David's fiancé) best friend and bridesmaid. Laura spent an extra hour at least with us, partially just visiting but also working on a plan of action for exercise. My homework - is to set up an exercise chart with some goals and accomplishments.

Last night I received an email from Marilyn’s sister in Slovakia and she had a great idea I would like to incorporate into an exercise regime for Marilyn. Here is her idea –
“Its great what I hear about you being able to get up and walk a bit Marilyn. It must take a lot of strength and courage. I had a great idea ­ why don¹t
we make an agreement that for every step you take across the floor, Bryon has to do the same number of push-ups or setups. Good idea, right. Maybe you could get an exercise mat put down on the floor by your bed, so you could check his count. And some of the rest of us can also join the club. For example, for every step you take, I have to do the same number of minutes of my stomach and back exercises. How does that sound ­ that way we all win and all reach our goals. I could use the extra motivation. “

This idea has now spawned an exercise chart – for Marilyn – AND for anyone who would like to buy in for a few personal exercises of your own. I will keep Marilyn’s chart updated and you can decide whatever exercise fits for yourself. Then email Marilyn with a challenge to make sure she keeps up with her end of the bargain. Here is the link to Marilyn’s exercise regime. Simply click on it or paste it into your browser to see it on the web. The challenge starts today!!!

http://www3.telus.net/brseeley/Exercise/Exercise%20chart.htm