Ideas: Katie’s Story, Part Nineteen

When Judene and I visit, we listen and observe.  Later we brainstorm to identify obstacles, needs, potential solutions, and how we can help.  But at this point, we have tabled our thoughts until the more immediate fundamentals are taken care of.  Sam doesn’t need more on his plate than he can handle at one time and right now his plate is full:

• First of all, there has been some progress since funding has AGAIN been approved, but there is still no green light on the flow of funds.
• Secondly, Gloria has decided that the physical aspects of providing care are too difficult for her to handle. She and Sam have made good progress at working together as a team. But the fact remains that it is essential that Gloria is able to work independently so that Sam has the ability to come and go more freely. Katie has gained 50 pounds since becoming disabled and has almost no ability to assist with her own movement. Gloria is not a young woman and she is small. The concern that she will lose her own health and well-being is undeniable.

Some ideas for Sam:  You are spending most of your time at home in the role of caregiver.  You need to learn to step back and try to reconnect with Katie as her husband.  I know that’s quite a challenge because Katie has changed.  It’s like forming a relationship all over again, and learning to do things differently the second time around.

• Start with small things like: having breakfast together at the kitchen island; discussing the news of the day; planning for an outing or two each week.
• Find free time to go off by yourself, especially when Katie is napping; reconnect for dinner and TV or a movie during the evenings you do not work.
• Hire another caregiver to assist with getting Katie ready for bed.

Some ideas for Katie:  You would like to walk again and are frustrated that every day is the same as the day before.  You need to learn to take control over your life again by speaking up, taking responsibility, and making choices.  Work on developing the perseverance to do things that are difficult for you.

• Set small / short-term goals.
• Establish a routine to do cognitive and physical therapy, and then DO it.
• Read on your Kindle.
• Get help to work on picture books on the computer.
• Write to Gabrielle Giffords to share your experience.

Some ideas for Sam and Katie:

• Go to church services.
• Join a Stroke Support Group so that Katie feels like she can make a contribution.
• Try other community outings.
• Attend the grandchildren’s sporting events.