THERE ARE TIMES TO IMPROVISE
Every stroke survivor is unique, no two strokes are the same and the same can be said about recoveries, as I meet more survivors, I find similarities. First they overcome the depression that is apparent, the next thing that’s common is a burning desire to overcome their disabilities, with therapy, mechanical aids, or through inventive soulutions.
My right arm was one of the last physical distresses to overcome, and I had five different occupational therapists. I made progress, but I wasn’t satisfied. My arm had movement and was functional, but it was weak and not very stable.
I was discouraged by my therapist’s request to implement weight training for fear of injuring my shoulder…so I improvised.
I tied a stretch band around my wrist, hoisted my arm up in front of a window put the other end out the top of the window closed the window and then pulled down, the band would pull my arm up, I would repeat this actions for minutes at first, then extended periods and then several times a day…
After strengthening my arm with my inventive solution, I now tell everybody who’s frustrated with their rehabilitation to take matters into their own hands and improvise…visualize positive changes and they will happen…