Tough Day

Today reminded us that we can't stray to far from the reality of Greg's injury. First, the ASIA exam had to be given again before Greg leaves the hospital. It is a test that documents a spinal cord injury. A q-tip and then a pin is gently stuck in Greg at each level of the spinal cord all the way to the sacrum to see if he can feel and then he is asked to do certain movements from shoulders to toes. It is very hard when it goes below the level that Greg can feel or move because he has to keep saying no (as in I don't feel it or can't move it).

Next, he had a shower that ended with an unfortunate incident. One of the issues we have been educated in is skin care. Greg's skin has to be monitored and we have to be vigilant on all transfers. Unfortunately,  this morning he ended up with a skin tear. It could have been the transfer (the sling he sits in) or the shower chair which did not fit him well. This taught how important the fitting and pressure mapping they do for Greg's equipment is. However it takes up to 2 months to get his wheel chair and his shower chair.

Finally, we had to return to Mass General for a procedure. The ambulance ride is tough on Greg as it it bumps him around. All went well-just tiring and a bit of pain in the neck. Again-a reminder of how far we still have to go and what great care we have to take.

Sometimes I feel so strong and then so weak. We have to be kind to ourselves, remember to be kind to ourselves. Greg is gentle with me when I get emotional over each of these issues as I am with him. Our relationship, our partnership is stronger than ever. I truly love and cherish this man.