My wife and I are both employed in healthcare professions. We knew of an outpatient examination room away from patient care areas that would provide good lighting and privacy. Isaac, a trombone student, brought his horn and his family for a visit. Dad left the floor for the most important hour of his therapy. He gave Isaac a lesson and then delighted us with his rendition of “Black Orpheus.”
After that lesson, he began to speak more positively of returning home. He is currently in a short-term rehabilitation facility for physical and occupational therapy. His goal is to return home after he learns to transfer safely and can navigate with a wheelchair.
Obviously, we have some work to do to prepare. We need to move his bedroom furniture and studio to the main floor. We need to acquire equipment and install grab bars. He may need assistance with dressing, housekeeping, bathing, transportation, and physical therapy for a few months. We are confident that a return home is on the horizon. Anything is possible with the right attitude. TH
Stroetz is a certified respiratory therapist at the Mayo Clinic. Lucinda Stroetz, PA, also contributed to this article.