Dad receives Botox (Round #2)

I think it is absolutely fascinating that BOTOX can be used to relieve SPASTICITY (a condition where the muscles tighten as a result of the stroke and inability to move them normally).

Dad received Round 2 Botox injections last Tuesday, January 26, 2010. Donna shared an email among the siblings and this is an excerpt for all BLOG readers. Please, please pray for everyone involved here to help Dad after Round 2 Botox....this opens Dad's benefits to include MORE PHYSICAL THERAPY, SPEECH THERAPY and OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY. He should be very busy with his days filled with all these therapies, as well as each family member should be working with him individually. Call it a "divine feeling" or "divine encounter" -- I have a divine feeling that Round 2 Botox is going to bring our Dad to a new level of recovery -- we're going to see much more movement, mobility and miracles!!!! Please read the excerpts of Donna's update (below) and please pray with us!

Donna and Mike were able to get Dad to his Botox injection visit at Audubon Hospital Tuesday morning (1/26/2010) @ 8:30 AM, despite the ice on the roadways! Dr. Blupalum was happy to see Dad again; but, a little concerned about the spasticity in his left arm. His arm was very tight against his side with his hand turning inward. So, the arm got most of the Botox attention. Dad did get one syringe injection for the muscles just above his left knee. Most amazing -- after the injections Donna and Mike could actually see the relaxation of Dad's arm! It's still contracted somewhat; but, hopefully with therapies, and stretching it will relax even more.

Donna further asked that everyone who visits with Dad help with the stretching of his left hand, fingers and arm. She went on to share with each of us that we should "slowly stretch until we meet resistance; then relax" his left hand/fingers/arm. Each time we make the stretch, the part you will be able to stretch should become a little more relaxed each time. Slowing - stretching - resting - and repeating. We do this until we see a relaxing/stretching difference; or until Dad tells you "that's enough"....

John also called me on Saturday night so I could talk with Dad. It was great to speak with both Dad and John. John was working on the stretching with Dad at that time. Dad did share unfortunate news that Parkway had NOT followed through with his therapies earlier in the week. That was extremely disappointing to him (and to me), and he said Rich was going to follow up on that on Monday morning (today).

Dad also shared that Louisville received about 6 inches of snow...yikes!

Just wanted to share all this great information regarding the use of BOTOX for Dad's stroke-affected body. I'm so grateful that Dad is a great candidate to receiving this form of medical treatment. Now, he has big work to do, and everyone who can learn a few new things as to how to help him will be a part of this most important recovery!

Best to all,
Kathy