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June 10, 2013
May 5 Email: Waiting at Home
Date: Sun, 5 May 2013 23:51:03 -0400
From: Jon Nathan
Subject: Neuro update: Sun 05/05
Hi again everybody. Sorry I have been out of touch for a while, but
I have been busy, and there have been no substantial updates.
In-house therapy turned out to be a bust. There was not a lot of
time to do it, as I am transitioning to outpatient therapy at my
local hospital clinic. I'm continuing to do the routines that I was
originally given, for both occupational and physical therapy. I am
slowly seeing progress, more so with the physical aspect. Occupational
will continue to be difficult as I attempt to regain nerve sensation
and control in my right hand. They continue to say it will take
practice and time, and I believe them.
One exciting part of my rehab is that my wife braved a scary
craigslist encounter to procure a full-length mirror for me. She
was undaunted by a deserted house, a creepy, snoopy, elderly neighbor,
and general bad vibes. The mirror itself is crucial for helping
me regain proprioception of my legs.
I had a follow-up doctor's visit last week, but ended up with more
unanswered questions. I will get a copy of my neuropathology report
on Monday. The informal version was that there were no significant
tumor cells found. There was a very small possibility of low-grade
tumor cells, but that does not appear to be the real cause. I am a
bit concerned that the report will be inconclusive, but we will
see. I'm also awaiting confirmation on the date that I can remove
my neck brace. The first two things I will do when that happens
is to get a professional shave and a massage! Then the third will
be to find a hot tub and soak in it for two straight hours.
My doctor wants me to schedule a follow-up MRI in four weeks. He
wants me to gradually lower most of my medication quantities and
schedule to about half of my current amounts by that time. My
general discomfort is becoming less, so I am amenable to this.
I wish I had more answers and news, but unfortunately, this process
is not quick or easy. I am working hard to get better, but as I've
said quite a few times, it looks like it will not be fast.
I am continuing to take time off work to concentrate on my
rehabilitation. I am grateful that they have been flexible and
understanding through this process.
Thank you again for your continued support. I will make more updates
as events unfold.
-Jon
Posted by jon at June 10, 2013 4:00 PM