This is what her new home would look like, Lisa turly would love to be able to get home.Friday, August 27, 2010
New Apartment
This is what her new home would look like, Lisa turly would love to be able to get home.
Lisa visiting her home.
Lisa was a bit scared to visit her home for the first time since May 16th. I still cant believe it has been that long but she did such a great job showing everyone just what she can do. You go Lisa Ann :) Big Smiles
I went to see Lisa today and the first thing we did was go outside and walk around the building. I asked Lisa if she wanted to sit for a little bit or go inside? She said lets sit outside. So we did and she got the biggest smile on her face and said look what I can do! I said what is that Lisa she said just watch.
KARLA AND AMY DO NOT READ ANY FURTHER. I HAVE STRICT INSTRUCTIONS NOT TO TELL YOU, LISA WANTS IT TO BE A BIG SURPRISE. I TOLD HER I WOULD NOT SAY ANY THING SO HERE WE GO GIRLS DON'T READ IT..............................
Lisa has started moving her right arm. She can lift her right arm up to her face. It's hard to give you a visual but just put your arm straight out and lift it up. She can do that but when it's up past her face her elbow bends back past her wheel chair. Does that make any sense? It was very hard for her to do that simple little move, the things we all take for granted, yet you should of seen her determination and when she got done she had the biggest smile ever. She is so proud of herself, I said great job Lisa, she said just don't tell Karla and Amy they have to see if for themselves.
KARLA AND AMY YOU CAN START READING
OK, when I made Lisa's appointment for the Physiatrist as Karla stated it was 2 weeks out and the nursing home really wanted it to be sooner I told them that I would be on a waiting list if anyone cancelled to just call me. They said no problem. Well Julie the lady who admitted Lisa asked me if she could call and see if they could move it up and I said sure no problem see what you can do, she said I'll wait till Friday to call. She stopped me in the hallway and said hey LISA'S SISTER that's what they call me. I go what? She said that she called and they said that that was the earliest appointment they had, and that they had no waiting list. I told her well that's not what they told me, let's just wait and see. So then 1 hour later I get a phone call form Dr. Ghee office and they said that they had a cancellation and it would be this Monday at 1:00 I said sure well take it. So keep Lisa in your prayers and let's hope that she will be able to get back to her apt. She truly is working very hard as Lisa would do let's keep our fingers crossed.
KARLA AND AMY DO NOT READ ANY FURTHER. I HAVE STRICT INSTRUCTIONS NOT TO TELL YOU, LISA WANTS IT TO BE A BIG SURPRISE. I TOLD HER I WOULD NOT SAY ANY THING SO HERE WE GO GIRLS DON'T READ IT..............................
Lisa has started moving her right arm. She can lift her right arm up to her face. It's hard to give you a visual but just put your arm straight out and lift it up. She can do that but when it's up past her face her elbow bends back past her wheel chair. Does that make any sense? It was very hard for her to do that simple little move, the things we all take for granted, yet you should of seen her determination and when she got done she had the biggest smile ever. She is so proud of herself, I said great job Lisa, she said just don't tell Karla and Amy they have to see if for themselves.
KARLA AND AMY YOU CAN START READING
OK, when I made Lisa's appointment for the Physiatrist as Karla stated it was 2 weeks out and the nursing home really wanted it to be sooner I told them that I would be on a waiting list if anyone cancelled to just call me. They said no problem. Well Julie the lady who admitted Lisa asked me if she could call and see if they could move it up and I said sure no problem see what you can do, she said I'll wait till Friday to call. She stopped me in the hallway and said hey LISA'S SISTER that's what they call me. I go what? She said that she called and they said that that was the earliest appointment they had, and that they had no waiting list. I told her well that's not what they told me, let's just wait and see. So then 1 hour later I get a phone call form Dr. Ghee office and they said that they had a cancellation and it would be this Monday at 1:00 I said sure well take it. So keep Lisa in your prayers and let's hope that she will be able to get back to her apt. She truly is working very hard as Lisa would do let's keep our fingers crossed.
This is a note on Lisa's door. She always writes notes, of course this was before leaving for her surgery in May.
(BHA) is Bloomington Housing Authorities, I think she is trying to say I will be gone to the hospital in Peoria to get my seizures gone. Brain Surgery Thursday (opening brain?) will be hurt and sore for a while.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
A Praise!!!
Wow! Here's the scene:
I came to see Lisa this morning and I stop to talk with a couple of people in the hallways. I go to Lisa's room, no Lisa. I look at all the cards she is getting and she is getting quite a few. She loves them! She told me yesterday that I haven't given her one in a while...I told her that I had just put one in the mail and to be on the look out for it! I think she thought I was just saying that, but today she got it! I told her!
I thought maybe she was in therapy so I walk down to the OT/PT room and peek in...there she is...She is sitting in her chair and getting ready to get up and walk down the hallway. I walked in front of her backwards and she starts vearing off to the doorway...I didn't know she was going to the hall. The PT told her that they were going to walk down to the nurses station. Linda (the PT) was talking to Lisa and me the entire time, talking about her progress, her stamina, her endurance and how she wants to build it up. Today she stood for 5 min. with no one around her. She wants Lisa to build it up to 7 minutes! Linda is excellent at her profession. She knows her stuff. She knows when to quit when someone is fatigued. She is getting to know Lisa.
Until Tuesday, Linda was a professional looking at Lisa through a PT pair of eyes. I believe that Linda is now looking at Lisa as a challenge and as someone with potential...hope. She was joking with Lisa, jabbing at her, telling her to "stop going so fast because it was making her (Linda) tired"...
Lisa told her "you don't have to keep walking with me if your tired!"...Linda laughed and told her, "you are the only one who has ever told me that!" Lisa..."It's true! Isn't it Karla?" Linda wanted Lisa to walk 100 feet today. We get to the end of the hallway and Linda stops and waits for Lisa to stop. Lisa isn't stopping.
Lisa turns around and looks at Linda and bluntly says to her, "YOU told me to walk to the nurses station...that's what I'm doin'" LOL! Linda laughed and looked at me and replied, "I did, didn't I?" I nodded and agreed with Lisa. Lisa walked, using her hemi walker (1/2 walker) with Linda holding on to her gait belt 130 feet. I walked backwards in front of Lisa, talking to her and somewhat distracting her. [Tuesday she wasn't consentrating on what she was doing and almost fell because she was losing balance, talking to the person in front of her]
Like I said, Linda is excellent in her profession. She didn't know how to take Lisa. From what I saw today, and what Karen saw yesterday, Linda is starting to enjoy working with Lisa. She is thinking about adaptions for her to be successful in her apartment and will work on Lisa getting out of bed in case of a fire! Karen said that Lisa had an adaption on her right brake for her wheelchair and Karen saw Lisa trying to move her right arm to manuever it. Yay!!!!!!!
I believe that what was thought to be a hopeless and unrealistic situation, in others' perspectives, is being looked at with a new pair of eyes. New possibilities. We are so very thankful that there was a home assessment. We are thankful that there was someone else, other than family, there to encourage Lisa; and to believe in the the abilities that people with mental disabilities have. In many cases, those who have great challenges have more of a determination to prove themselves. If we, normal people, had half that determination, think about what this world would be like. Wow!
Lisa is working her way into the heart of some naysayers...she is still proving herself. She is just being Lisa.
When Lisa was done walking, she sat gently in her chair and sighed. She was tired. I took her to the dining room and sat with her while she ate. Linda came up to me and was suggesting we get Lisa a winged back chair instead of a recliner...they sit higher and it would give her all around support. If she wanted to put her feet up, get her an ottoman too. She also suggested foam cushions for extra height, possibly going to the fabric strore and getting outdoor fabric in case of accidents...She is thinking!!!! Yay! As she was talking, I took her pen from her hand and started writing everything that we were brain-storming. She is beginning to understand where we are coming from too. Thank you God. Thank you for the shift in thinking...and thank you for not letting Lisa's sisters give up on people who don't understand:)
Lisa is going to see a physiatrist...have no idea if I spelled that right...Dr Ghee will evaluate Lisa to determine if she belongs in a 24 hour home...we are hoping that he will recommend about 40 hours a week, with the stipulation that she go to the Adult Day Center during the day. Lisa can't wait to get out of the nursing home. She did not sign up for any activities toward the end of the month, when I asked her why, her reply..."I won't be here!" Her appointment for the Dr is Friday, Sept 10th. We were hoping for next week, but, it is all in God's timing, and just maybe, God knows that she needs that extra time to practice, get stronger and to show the Dr that she belongs (in so many ways) at the apartments. That is what we are praying for.
I came to see Lisa this morning and I stop to talk with a couple of people in the hallways. I go to Lisa's room, no Lisa. I look at all the cards she is getting and she is getting quite a few. She loves them! She told me yesterday that I haven't given her one in a while...I told her that I had just put one in the mail and to be on the look out for it! I think she thought I was just saying that, but today she got it! I told her!
I thought maybe she was in therapy so I walk down to the OT/PT room and peek in...there she is...She is sitting in her chair and getting ready to get up and walk down the hallway. I walked in front of her backwards and she starts vearing off to the doorway...I didn't know she was going to the hall. The PT told her that they were going to walk down to the nurses station. Linda (the PT) was talking to Lisa and me the entire time, talking about her progress, her stamina, her endurance and how she wants to build it up. Today she stood for 5 min. with no one around her. She wants Lisa to build it up to 7 minutes! Linda is excellent at her profession. She knows her stuff. She knows when to quit when someone is fatigued. She is getting to know Lisa.
Until Tuesday, Linda was a professional looking at Lisa through a PT pair of eyes. I believe that Linda is now looking at Lisa as a challenge and as someone with potential...hope. She was joking with Lisa, jabbing at her, telling her to "stop going so fast because it was making her (Linda) tired"...
Lisa told her "you don't have to keep walking with me if your tired!"...Linda laughed and told her, "you are the only one who has ever told me that!" Lisa..."It's true! Isn't it Karla?" Linda wanted Lisa to walk 100 feet today. We get to the end of the hallway and Linda stops and waits for Lisa to stop. Lisa isn't stopping.
Lisa turns around and looks at Linda and bluntly says to her, "YOU told me to walk to the nurses station...that's what I'm doin'" LOL! Linda laughed and looked at me and replied, "I did, didn't I?" I nodded and agreed with Lisa. Lisa walked, using her hemi walker (1/2 walker) with Linda holding on to her gait belt 130 feet. I walked backwards in front of Lisa, talking to her and somewhat distracting her. [Tuesday she wasn't consentrating on what she was doing and almost fell because she was losing balance, talking to the person in front of her]
Like I said, Linda is excellent in her profession. She didn't know how to take Lisa. From what I saw today, and what Karen saw yesterday, Linda is starting to enjoy working with Lisa. She is thinking about adaptions for her to be successful in her apartment and will work on Lisa getting out of bed in case of a fire! Karen said that Lisa had an adaption on her right brake for her wheelchair and Karen saw Lisa trying to move her right arm to manuever it. Yay!!!!!!!
I believe that what was thought to be a hopeless and unrealistic situation, in others' perspectives, is being looked at with a new pair of eyes. New possibilities. We are so very thankful that there was a home assessment. We are thankful that there was someone else, other than family, there to encourage Lisa; and to believe in the the abilities that people with mental disabilities have. In many cases, those who have great challenges have more of a determination to prove themselves. If we, normal people, had half that determination, think about what this world would be like. Wow!
Lisa is working her way into the heart of some naysayers...she is still proving herself. She is just being Lisa.
When Lisa was done walking, she sat gently in her chair and sighed. She was tired. I took her to the dining room and sat with her while she ate. Linda came up to me and was suggesting we get Lisa a winged back chair instead of a recliner...they sit higher and it would give her all around support. If she wanted to put her feet up, get her an ottoman too. She also suggested foam cushions for extra height, possibly going to the fabric strore and getting outdoor fabric in case of accidents...She is thinking!!!! Yay! As she was talking, I took her pen from her hand and started writing everything that we were brain-storming. She is beginning to understand where we are coming from too. Thank you God. Thank you for the shift in thinking...and thank you for not letting Lisa's sisters give up on people who don't understand:)
Lisa is going to see a physiatrist...have no idea if I spelled that right...Dr Ghee will evaluate Lisa to determine if she belongs in a 24 hour home...we are hoping that he will recommend about 40 hours a week, with the stipulation that she go to the Adult Day Center during the day. Lisa can't wait to get out of the nursing home. She did not sign up for any activities toward the end of the month, when I asked her why, her reply..."I won't be here!" Her appointment for the Dr is Friday, Sept 10th. We were hoping for next week, but, it is all in God's timing, and just maybe, God knows that she needs that extra time to practice, get stronger and to show the Dr that she belongs (in so many ways) at the apartments. That is what we are praying for.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Busy Day
Lisa has had a couple of busy days...
We went to the Olive Garden for lunch on Monday. Phil the mgr told everyone that Lisa was coming and many people took time away from their work to say hello and to give Lisa a hug. Everyone was so nice and Lisa enjoyed being there with her co-workers. The new dessert tray...little cups of awesome desserts were brought out to us, we didn't order it, but were we glad they brought it out! We shared them and Lisa got to eat her strawberry dessert by herself...her fav! We waited forever for our ticket only to find out that lunch was on the Olive Garden! It was bitter sweet for Lisa, she was so happy, and sad. She choked up a little when a couple of guys came up to give her a hug. But she was thankful for them.
Yesterday was the big day for her. Her Home Assessment went well. We, well, Joe the Marc first employee, got her up the steps, along with 2 people helping at the bottom of the wheelchair, get up the 2 flights of stairs. She went down to her apt and just looked at it. There is a note to the BHA telling them that she will be in the hospital to get her seizures gone...I saw that note taped up on her door and instant tears welled up. Man! It is such a heart wrenching thing.
The PT and OT were there to see what she can do, and what she needs to work on. We are going to have to make some physical adjustments to her furniture and get her a different bed with a rail so she can grab it, but Lisa did it all!!!!! She needed verbal reminders, and she was a bit nervous I think, there were 4-5 people watching her, encouraging her. She transferred to her couch, chair, toilet, bed and opened the frig...took out a cold Diet Pepsi...LOL! It is FULL! She hordes that stuff and the PT and OT have never seen anything like it before...but then again, they have not dealt with people like Lisa. Carmen from BHA was there and said that she is nothing compared to other people in the complex and her thing is DP! Its not so bad.
Carmen answered any questions that the therapists had about safety, supports, and how many hours she would need. She has been working tirelessly in Lisa's behalf. She wants her to come back to her home, to the apts and she wants people who are like Lisa to have choices. We love you Carmen! You are exactly what these people need. Carmen showed us the apt that is vacant...it is now Lisa's apt. IF she can safely get out of it in case of an emergency. The apt is 100% wheelchair accessible and it is beautiful! It has bars for the toilet, a walk in shower with no lip for the shower, lowered sinks in the kitchen and the bathroom, and all the cabinets are within reach. Her bedroom closet has a hanging bar which she can reach. Lisa liked it and is ready to move in. She wants to know the date.
The PT/OT got to see first hand her home and the one that she will be moving into. They feel better about it after seeing it and with Carmen telling them how much support Lisa will be able to get.
Lisa will be able to go to Adult Day Programs and she will be there 5 days a week and will be able to have 1 on 1 support at night until bedtime. She will have support on the weekends and will be able to get a job coach to retrain on doing her job one handed and sitting in a wheelchair. This is ALL what we are hoping for...it will not happen unless she gets $$$$ from the state and approved for everything that she needs. We are praying really hard over here. Pictures of Lisa in her apt will be on the way, but I have got to show you her cute smile when we were at Olive Garden....priceless!
We went to the Olive Garden for lunch on Monday. Phil the mgr told everyone that Lisa was coming and many people took time away from their work to say hello and to give Lisa a hug. Everyone was so nice and Lisa enjoyed being there with her co-workers. The new dessert tray...little cups of awesome desserts were brought out to us, we didn't order it, but were we glad they brought it out! We shared them and Lisa got to eat her strawberry dessert by herself...her fav! We waited forever for our ticket only to find out that lunch was on the Olive Garden! It was bitter sweet for Lisa, she was so happy, and sad. She choked up a little when a couple of guys came up to give her a hug. But she was thankful for them.
Yesterday was the big day for her. Her Home Assessment went well. We, well, Joe the Marc first employee, got her up the steps, along with 2 people helping at the bottom of the wheelchair, get up the 2 flights of stairs. She went down to her apt and just looked at it. There is a note to the BHA telling them that she will be in the hospital to get her seizures gone...I saw that note taped up on her door and instant tears welled up. Man! It is such a heart wrenching thing.
The PT and OT were there to see what she can do, and what she needs to work on. We are going to have to make some physical adjustments to her furniture and get her a different bed with a rail so she can grab it, but Lisa did it all!!!!! She needed verbal reminders, and she was a bit nervous I think, there were 4-5 people watching her, encouraging her. She transferred to her couch, chair, toilet, bed and opened the frig...took out a cold Diet Pepsi...LOL! It is FULL! She hordes that stuff and the PT and OT have never seen anything like it before...but then again, they have not dealt with people like Lisa. Carmen from BHA was there and said that she is nothing compared to other people in the complex and her thing is DP! Its not so bad.
Carmen answered any questions that the therapists had about safety, supports, and how many hours she would need. She has been working tirelessly in Lisa's behalf. She wants her to come back to her home, to the apts and she wants people who are like Lisa to have choices. We love you Carmen! You are exactly what these people need. Carmen showed us the apt that is vacant...it is now Lisa's apt. IF she can safely get out of it in case of an emergency. The apt is 100% wheelchair accessible and it is beautiful! It has bars for the toilet, a walk in shower with no lip for the shower, lowered sinks in the kitchen and the bathroom, and all the cabinets are within reach. Her bedroom closet has a hanging bar which she can reach. Lisa liked it and is ready to move in. She wants to know the date.
The PT/OT got to see first hand her home and the one that she will be moving into. They feel better about it after seeing it and with Carmen telling them how much support Lisa will be able to get.
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| Lisa and her Manager Phil |
Monday, August 23, 2010
Say a prayer for Lisa
I am not able to take the time to write all that has happened these past few days...Lisa has up and down moments. She gets teary eyed when she thinks about what she is not able to do anymore...she makes me cry too. However, we need a prayer for Tuesday around 2:00. Karen and I are going to take her to her apt so she can "perform" her abilities to the therapists. We hope that Lisa will be strong enough and have the endurance to do everything she needs to do to help her get out of the nursing home. She will need to:
- make it down the hallway
- be able to see her key into the door lock...she is having trouble with her sight
- use her key to get in the apt
- open her door and get through
- transfer herself to her toilet
- get into and out of her bed
- open doors
- and little things that I can't even think of right now.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Who'd a thought?
Karen spent some time with Lisa yesterday...she was a grouch!
Karen informed me that Lisa absolutely HATES when I tell her to keep her chin up! I say that to her and to lots of people and write it in cards when the world is not looking too grand at the moment. Lisa told Karen that "She needs to keep HER chin up, it's always down...NOT me." LOL!!!!!!!!!!! OH Lisa! I laughed, then went to tell my kids about it and asked them what it meant. They all looked at me and they ALL raised their chin UP. Ha! I laughed and told them what it meant...to keep going, to keep up the hard work, don't get discouraged...they laughed and then they got it. Well, Lisa won't get it. So I will stop. I have told her that forever, and I even write it in the cards I send her!!!!!! So, beware...don't say it or write it to her, she will write you off!!!!!!!!!!!!
Joe, the kids and I went to see her on Wed. Joe worked on her hand, trying to limber it up and pry it open. It has soooo much tone in it! He must have worked on it for 10-15 minutes! Lisa's bed was moved and she told Karen that she HATES it that way, she is left handed, not right and her bed should be the way it was due to that fact. You know, she probably did get out of bed on the left side and walked around it to get to the bathroom (in her apt). Once again, we did it wrong and she is telling us, as only Lisa can, how to do things.
When we were young and Lisa and I shared a bedroom (my entire 18 years:)), Lisa would get out of bed that was close to the wall which was the wrong side and announce that she woke up on the wrong side of the bed and would be a grouch that entire day...She does take things literally. She does things like that on purpose, according to what kind of mood she decides to be in.
She is on a low dosage of anti-depressants. She is in our opinion, depressed. She is beginning to cry and get so frustrated...she doesn't understand why. She just wants to get better. It is soo sad to watch.
While we were there on Wed, the reception lady came by and handed Lisa a card that was mailed to her...you'd a thought that she was handed a wad full of $$$$$. She ripped that thing open and was very appreciative that her teacher from school sent her a card. She said, "That was sweet of her to do that" and she wanted it taped to her wall. Up it went and she had the cutest smile on her face. Thank you Chris!
Karen informed me that Lisa absolutely HATES when I tell her to keep her chin up! I say that to her and to lots of people and write it in cards when the world is not looking too grand at the moment. Lisa told Karen that "She needs to keep HER chin up, it's always down...NOT me." LOL!!!!!!!!!!! OH Lisa! I laughed, then went to tell my kids about it and asked them what it meant. They all looked at me and they ALL raised their chin UP. Ha! I laughed and told them what it meant...to keep going, to keep up the hard work, don't get discouraged...they laughed and then they got it. Well, Lisa won't get it. So I will stop. I have told her that forever, and I even write it in the cards I send her!!!!!! So, beware...don't say it or write it to her, she will write you off!!!!!!!!!!!!
Joe, the kids and I went to see her on Wed. Joe worked on her hand, trying to limber it up and pry it open. It has soooo much tone in it! He must have worked on it for 10-15 minutes! Lisa's bed was moved and she told Karen that she HATES it that way, she is left handed, not right and her bed should be the way it was due to that fact. You know, she probably did get out of bed on the left side and walked around it to get to the bathroom (in her apt). Once again, we did it wrong and she is telling us, as only Lisa can, how to do things.
When we were young and Lisa and I shared a bedroom (my entire 18 years:)), Lisa would get out of bed that was close to the wall which was the wrong side and announce that she woke up on the wrong side of the bed and would be a grouch that entire day...She does take things literally. She does things like that on purpose, according to what kind of mood she decides to be in.
She is on a low dosage of anti-depressants. She is in our opinion, depressed. She is beginning to cry and get so frustrated...she doesn't understand why. She just wants to get better. It is soo sad to watch.
While we were there on Wed, the reception lady came by and handed Lisa a card that was mailed to her...you'd a thought that she was handed a wad full of $$$$$. She ripped that thing open and was very appreciative that her teacher from school sent her a card. She said, "That was sweet of her to do that" and she wanted it taped to her wall. Up it went and she had the cutest smile on her face. Thank you Chris!
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Rain Man
Remember the movie Rain Man? I remember seeing it in the theatre and I couldn't wait for it to come out on video so my mom would watch it...Dad too. It came out when I was in college, studying to be a special ed teacher. That movie brought alot of awareness to the autistic world. I loved that movie, I couldn't wait for Mom to sit down and watch it with everyone in our family. So....we rent the movie and we all get situated and start it. Not even half way through the movie, Mom gets up and goes to the kitchen...gets something to drink, comes back and sits down...then gets up again, and does something else. To say that I was irritated is not the word I would use. She does this throughout the rest of the movie. I follow her to the kitchen and asked her, in a not so nice way, why she wasn't watching the movie....it was so good and on and on. She took one look at me and I will never forget the tone, or her words to me. She said, "I lived it, I don't need to watch it!" Ouch!!!!! I can honestly say that I had no idea. I was 20 years old and thought I knew so much. Mom did not watch the rest of the movie. I understood why and I didn't condemn her for it. I understood.
I remember when Lisa worked at ODC, a place where people with disabilities worked, that one her jobs was to walk around a table and assemble pens. She did this for weeks. She got paid by the number of pens she put together. She got let off from the bus at the store and someone asked her how work was that particular day. Lisa's reply, "I walked around that table 317 times and I get so damn sick of it" LOL! We all laughed, but Lisa wasn't laughing. I don't remember the exact number, but it was up there...and she probably did walk around it that many times. Like Rain Man, or Raymond...Lisa has her set ways, don't try to deviate from them either. She has to watch Wheel of Fortune at 6:30; needs to go to bed at a certain time; wears short sleeves up until Thanksgiving and only then will she wear long sleeves; goes to Parkview on certain days to eat...will not go there on off days. She walked to Hardee's or South Hill Cafe and ordered the same exact thing every single time, no need to try something different. She goes to the bathroom at certain times too, if it is 15 min prior to the set time in her head, she will wait.
As I remember all of this, I totally get what Mom said to me so many years ago...I lived it. I am not able to go back and reread this blog just yet. I can't. It hurts. It is still fresh my heart. I am thankful that my sisters are writing on here too. I am thankful that Amy encouraged me to start this blog so that we could share Lisa's life with whoever reads this. Rain Man is still one of my favorite movies, it reminds me of Lisa. I know that one day, I will sit down and reread what has been written...but I think it will take a very, very long time. That is OK.
I remember when Lisa worked at ODC, a place where people with disabilities worked, that one her jobs was to walk around a table and assemble pens. She did this for weeks. She got paid by the number of pens she put together. She got let off from the bus at the store and someone asked her how work was that particular day. Lisa's reply, "I walked around that table 317 times and I get so damn sick of it" LOL! We all laughed, but Lisa wasn't laughing. I don't remember the exact number, but it was up there...and she probably did walk around it that many times. Like Rain Man, or Raymond...Lisa has her set ways, don't try to deviate from them either. She has to watch Wheel of Fortune at 6:30; needs to go to bed at a certain time; wears short sleeves up until Thanksgiving and only then will she wear long sleeves; goes to Parkview on certain days to eat...will not go there on off days. She walked to Hardee's or South Hill Cafe and ordered the same exact thing every single time, no need to try something different. She goes to the bathroom at certain times too, if it is 15 min prior to the set time in her head, she will wait.
As I remember all of this, I totally get what Mom said to me so many years ago...I lived it. I am not able to go back and reread this blog just yet. I can't. It hurts. It is still fresh my heart. I am thankful that my sisters are writing on here too. I am thankful that Amy encouraged me to start this blog so that we could share Lisa's life with whoever reads this. Rain Man is still one of my favorite movies, it reminds me of Lisa. I know that one day, I will sit down and reread what has been written...but I think it will take a very, very long time. That is OK.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Thank you for your cards!
Lisa is getting a couple of cards each week. Today we went up toward the front doors and she asked the receptionist if she got any cards...she didn't. It was so sad. The kids felt bad for her too. For as long as she has been on her own, well, even when we were little...she HAD to get the mail, (ohhh, she got mad if someone beat her to it...) just to see if she got a card. Sweet. Simple.
Thank you for those of you who have stopped by to see her, even those of you who have never met her, but know her through this blog. That means so much to her, so much to us! She loves for people to come see her.
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| Hepperly Family Reunion Aug 1st...Lisa got out for 2 hours! |
Baby steps
Ohhhh, where to start...
Lisa is doing well. She is human and she is getting frustrated with herself and she wants so much to go home. Karen was making phone calls and making contact with people to help us, help Lisa. Karen had a good talk with Lisa after the PT said that she has plateaued. She explained to her that she is doing really good...and that she can do better. Lisa didn't come right out and say it, but she really isn't feeling too great about the therapists...I have noticed it too. The therapists are great at what they do, they work with the elderly. They really don't know how to work with people who have mental disabilities. I never really understood how people can't...but then again, I have never known what it is like to not have a "normal" family.
I went to see Lisa today after being absent for 9 days. She was sitting in her wheelchair and was so happy to see me and the kids. She hugged us and talked about everything. While I was there the PT came in and asked me if Karen had kept me abreast about Lisa. I told her that she had, but I wanted to know more about the in home assessment....So here goes:
Gayle, and Emily, the awesome ladies (who love Lisa) came to the nursing home to cut her hair. Gayle is the only one who has cut Lisa's hair for the past 16 or 17 years. Lisa loves her and the feeling is mutual. Gayle has seen Lisa at her best and her worst. Lisa was grumpy today. Sorry Gayle. I left before she started cutting, but Karen said it looks really good. She evened it up and was careful around her shunt. I bet Lisa feels better about herself too. That is what matters.
Karen told me that she had about an hour talk last week with Carmen (she works with the people at the apts on the Housing Authority side) about our options for Lisa...Karen, correct me if I am wrong...Lisa was approved for state funding that went into effect July 1st. This is a huge deal because it takes years and many waiting lists to get this type of funding. Once you have it, it is for life. Lisa never needed it, but the process started over a year ago. Funny how God works.
Lisa will be able to get the extra help she needs to be independent. Carmen wants to make this work, she believes in Lisa, she believes in her family, and she knows that we support her 110%. It will not be easy, those days are gone. But we are fighting for her freedom here. The supervisor over the complex has been a friend of the family since we lived on Olive street 40 years ago. He told Carmen that whatever the Taminger's need, is what they will get. Lisa will need to move down to the 1st floor. He told Carmen, that the 1 that is open will be hers. Thank you Bill, and thank you Lord.
I know I am skipping around here, bear with me. Lisa has a neuro appt with the Dr in Bloomington, the one who did her shunt, on Monday morning. Karen and I will take her and tell him what is going on with her situation. We hope that he will approve that she can be independent, to some extent. We just want him to say that she will be fine. The PT has been in contact with Carmen and did not realize that Lisa will get the support she needs to get back to her apt. That is the reason for the home assessment. She made the assumption that Lisa will never be able to go back to living life as she knew before, so we needed to find a place like a nursing home for people who are developmentally delayed. I guess we are like my Mom, we are not listening to the professionals opinions and we are trying to do what we think is best for Lisa, and being Lisa's advocates. We hope it all lines up with the plans of the One upstairs!
We think, we know, that getting Lisa into her apt (for a visit:)) will be a HUGE motivator for her. The PT is worried about getting her up the steps...I told her that Karen and I did it all the time for my mom, and we can handle it. She is all about safety though. I know that once Lisa gets into her home, that she has not seen since May 16th, that she will try so hard to get back there. Please pray that everything works out for her. Lisa only wanted to keep her memory. We only wanted to stop her seizures...which, by the way...she has yet to have one!!!!!!! Thank you God!
This picture was taken the day before we left for vacation. I called Lisa and asked her if it would be OK if we ordered pizza for lunch since we wouldn't see her for a week. Her answer? "Sound's Delicious!!!!" It was!
Lisa is doing well. She is human and she is getting frustrated with herself and she wants so much to go home. Karen was making phone calls and making contact with people to help us, help Lisa. Karen had a good talk with Lisa after the PT said that she has plateaued. She explained to her that she is doing really good...and that she can do better. Lisa didn't come right out and say it, but she really isn't feeling too great about the therapists...I have noticed it too. The therapists are great at what they do, they work with the elderly. They really don't know how to work with people who have mental disabilities. I never really understood how people can't...but then again, I have never known what it is like to not have a "normal" family.
I went to see Lisa today after being absent for 9 days. She was sitting in her wheelchair and was so happy to see me and the kids. She hugged us and talked about everything. While I was there the PT came in and asked me if Karen had kept me abreast about Lisa. I told her that she had, but I wanted to know more about the in home assessment....So here goes:
- Lisa will be taken to her apt and Karen and I will be there to help
- Linda and another PT/OT will assist
- therapists will evaluate what Lisa can do by herself
- they will simulate her apt as best they can so she can practice at the nursing home
- things such as moving her bed so she gets out on the right side, instead of the left
- get dressed by herself
- get out of bed
- go to the bathroom by herself
- get around her apt
- get out of her apt in case of a fire
Gayle, and Emily, the awesome ladies (who love Lisa) came to the nursing home to cut her hair. Gayle is the only one who has cut Lisa's hair for the past 16 or 17 years. Lisa loves her and the feeling is mutual. Gayle has seen Lisa at her best and her worst. Lisa was grumpy today. Sorry Gayle. I left before she started cutting, but Karen said it looks really good. She evened it up and was careful around her shunt. I bet Lisa feels better about herself too. That is what matters.
Karen told me that she had about an hour talk last week with Carmen (she works with the people at the apts on the Housing Authority side) about our options for Lisa...Karen, correct me if I am wrong...Lisa was approved for state funding that went into effect July 1st. This is a huge deal because it takes years and many waiting lists to get this type of funding. Once you have it, it is for life. Lisa never needed it, but the process started over a year ago. Funny how God works.
Lisa will be able to get the extra help she needs to be independent. Carmen wants to make this work, she believes in Lisa, she believes in her family, and she knows that we support her 110%. It will not be easy, those days are gone. But we are fighting for her freedom here. The supervisor over the complex has been a friend of the family since we lived on Olive street 40 years ago. He told Carmen that whatever the Taminger's need, is what they will get. Lisa will need to move down to the 1st floor. He told Carmen, that the 1 that is open will be hers. Thank you Bill, and thank you Lord.
I know I am skipping around here, bear with me. Lisa has a neuro appt with the Dr in Bloomington, the one who did her shunt, on Monday morning. Karen and I will take her and tell him what is going on with her situation. We hope that he will approve that she can be independent, to some extent. We just want him to say that she will be fine. The PT has been in contact with Carmen and did not realize that Lisa will get the support she needs to get back to her apt. That is the reason for the home assessment. She made the assumption that Lisa will never be able to go back to living life as she knew before, so we needed to find a place like a nursing home for people who are developmentally delayed. I guess we are like my Mom, we are not listening to the professionals opinions and we are trying to do what we think is best for Lisa, and being Lisa's advocates. We hope it all lines up with the plans of the One upstairs!
We think, we know, that getting Lisa into her apt (for a visit:)) will be a HUGE motivator for her. The PT is worried about getting her up the steps...I told her that Karen and I did it all the time for my mom, and we can handle it. She is all about safety though. I know that once Lisa gets into her home, that she has not seen since May 16th, that she will try so hard to get back there. Please pray that everything works out for her. Lisa only wanted to keep her memory. We only wanted to stop her seizures...which, by the way...she has yet to have one!!!!!!! Thank you God!
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Battle
It seems like when "you think" things are going well, there is always a set back! We are constantly battling for Lisa and trying to figure out whats best for her.
I received a phone call from the therapist at McLean County, she said that Lisa has plateaued. Which means, "she is not doing better on a day to day basis" in her eyes. She informed us that medicare won't pay if your not showing progress. In my opinion, I can only believe the therapist does not understand people with disabilities and just the "littlest" of accomplishment is huge for Lisa and for people like her! Meanwhile, she said that she wants to stop therapy in a week which means that we need to find a new place for Lisa.
When I heard her say that, I just said to myself "you have got to be kidding me" and I just cried and still cry! I pray! Which is the right thing to do! What's next for Lisa? The past 2 days I have been on the phone talking to people who are willing/helping us find a new place for Lisa. Thank you God for that encouragement! I have been talking to someone who knows Lisa and knows that her goal is to be back into her own apartment, and working. She is trying so hard to help us with that goal. So the battle begins. I'm finding out the battles my Mom must have encountered 45 years ago which I'm sure was 10X's worse.
Lisa has to be able to get herself out of bed and use the restroom. At this point she's not quite ready. I truly believe with the right people helping and encouraging her she can do it, but it is going to take more time than just 30 days. The therapist said that she will see how does this week. PLEASE PRAY FOR LISA!
Meanwhile, I had a little talk with Lisa and told her "You're doing a really good job and it must be hard for you, but I need you to work really hard and try to do what they tell you and do the very best you can do!" She needs us to pray for her, to encourage her! We are all on the front lines of her recovery. It's time to send cards, to visit, to encourage her even more! If anything, pray for us, her sisters, her family, Dad & Dolores, Rod, to help encourage her and keep her focused!
I received a phone call from the therapist at McLean County, she said that Lisa has plateaued. Which means, "she is not doing better on a day to day basis" in her eyes. She informed us that medicare won't pay if your not showing progress. In my opinion, I can only believe the therapist does not understand people with disabilities and just the "littlest" of accomplishment is huge for Lisa and for people like her! Meanwhile, she said that she wants to stop therapy in a week which means that we need to find a new place for Lisa.
When I heard her say that, I just said to myself "you have got to be kidding me" and I just cried and still cry! I pray! Which is the right thing to do! What's next for Lisa? The past 2 days I have been on the phone talking to people who are willing/helping us find a new place for Lisa. Thank you God for that encouragement! I have been talking to someone who knows Lisa and knows that her goal is to be back into her own apartment, and working. She is trying so hard to help us with that goal. So the battle begins. I'm finding out the battles my Mom must have encountered 45 years ago which I'm sure was 10X's worse.
Lisa has to be able to get herself out of bed and use the restroom. At this point she's not quite ready. I truly believe with the right people helping and encouraging her she can do it, but it is going to take more time than just 30 days. The therapist said that she will see how does this week. PLEASE PRAY FOR LISA!
Meanwhile, I had a little talk with Lisa and told her "You're doing a really good job and it must be hard for you, but I need you to work really hard and try to do what they tell you and do the very best you can do!" She needs us to pray for her, to encourage her! We are all on the front lines of her recovery. It's time to send cards, to visit, to encourage her even more! If anything, pray for us, her sisters, her family, Dad & Dolores, Rod, to help encourage her and keep her focused!
Saturday, August 07, 2010
Lisa Ann
It's been almost 30 days since Lisa has been at McLean County Nursing Home! Time is flying. Lisa adjusts well wherever she goes.
Karla talked to the therapist, she said they will be having a 30 day review, and she thinks Lisa has plateaued. This breaks breaks my heart. I/we want her to get better, faster than this, but realize you cant always get what you want.
Lisa asks me when is she going back to work. I tell her she needed to be able to get out of bed on her own, and so on. She is a trouper.
This week is FAIR time, they have been doing some fun things at the nursing home, pickles and preserves, ice cream, dog show, pie eating contest. Today she went outside in the morning and sat in the garden doing her puzzle book. Her eye sight it getting a little better, but still struggles with her left eye.
One good note, I don't think she has had any seizures since she's been there. That was the one thing that she wanted so bad and so far so good. It's just to bad she had to have her stroke.
If anyone is reading this and is close to Bloomington, she would really love to see you! It would only help her get her motivated to get better faster. You could come anytime! Visiting hours are from 8:00am to 8:00pm. Your time and efforts will not go unnoticed!
Thanks for all your cards and keeping Lisa in your prayers.
Karla talked to the therapist, she said they will be having a 30 day review, and she thinks Lisa has plateaued. This breaks breaks my heart. I/we want her to get better, faster than this, but realize you cant always get what you want.
Lisa asks me when is she going back to work. I tell her she needed to be able to get out of bed on her own, and so on. She is a trouper.
This week is FAIR time, they have been doing some fun things at the nursing home, pickles and preserves, ice cream, dog show, pie eating contest. Today she went outside in the morning and sat in the garden doing her puzzle book. Her eye sight it getting a little better, but still struggles with her left eye.
One good note, I don't think she has had any seizures since she's been there. That was the one thing that she wanted so bad and so far so good. It's just to bad she had to have her stroke.
If anyone is reading this and is close to Bloomington, she would really love to see you! It would only help her get her motivated to get better faster. You could come anytime! Visiting hours are from 8:00am to 8:00pm. Your time and efforts will not go unnoticed!
Thanks for all your cards and keeping Lisa in your prayers.
Friday, August 06, 2010
My Big Sister!
40 years old and things NEVER change.
My goal was to visit Lisa... REMEMBER THAT!
Last Friday (Last Friday in July), I said to myself and KIDS.. "Let's go to Bloomington"! I was hoping to help out at the store, deliver some stuff to my little (now big, Brooke) cousin who is going to a mission trip to Africa to help out orphans, and to visit Lisa. Check out Brooke's Blog..
I get to West Side Clothing(WSC) after stopping off at a produce stand to buy tomatoes. I bought a commercial tomato slicer at a garage sale earlier in the morning. Certain things I can't pass it up?! Karen, she said "I'll buy IT"! So, I bought it... The thing is awesome! Only wish she didn't pay me for it so I would have it... aaaaahhhhhh...
Back to WSC... I get there, organize my stuff for Brooke, feeling pretty accomplished, sliced some tomatoes with the kids, and I'm ready to see Lisa. Remember that!
Lisa knew I was back home, knew I was coming to visit, called me several times to make sure I was there. I LOST MY KEYS! LOOKED HIGH AND LOW... believe me High and LOW! For 3 HOURS Straight!
I/We gave up... Karen delivered the bad news to Lisa that I couldn't find my keys and she would be taking me home to pick up the spare set.
Lisa was NOT happy! She lectured me for 20 minutes on where to put my keys. Two days later.. the same lecture... 4 days later... the same lecture.... ONE WEEK LATER... I was happy to report Karen found my keys where I put them, in Parker's high chair (where I put them)... STILL a 20 minute lecture on where to put my keys!
Loving my Lisa! I hope know one ever loses their keys and tells Lisa! We did see her again just two days later on Sunday at a wonderful family reunion on my mom's side! Such a nice visit! HOWEVER, she was still upset that I couldn't come and see her the Friday before!
My goal was to visit Lisa... REMEMBER THAT!
Last Friday (Last Friday in July), I said to myself and KIDS.. "Let's go to Bloomington"! I was hoping to help out at the store, deliver some stuff to my little (now big, Brooke) cousin who is going to a mission trip to Africa to help out orphans, and to visit Lisa. Check out Brooke's Blog..
I get to West Side Clothing(WSC) after stopping off at a produce stand to buy tomatoes. I bought a commercial tomato slicer at a garage sale earlier in the morning. Certain things I can't pass it up?! Karen, she said "I'll buy IT"! So, I bought it... The thing is awesome! Only wish she didn't pay me for it so I would have it... aaaaahhhhhh...
Back to WSC... I get there, organize my stuff for Brooke, feeling pretty accomplished, sliced some tomatoes with the kids, and I'm ready to see Lisa. Remember that!
Lisa knew I was back home, knew I was coming to visit, called me several times to make sure I was there. I LOST MY KEYS! LOOKED HIGH AND LOW... believe me High and LOW! For 3 HOURS Straight!
I/We gave up... Karen delivered the bad news to Lisa that I couldn't find my keys and she would be taking me home to pick up the spare set.
Lisa was NOT happy! She lectured me for 20 minutes on where to put my keys. Two days later.. the same lecture... 4 days later... the same lecture.... ONE WEEK LATER... I was happy to report Karen found my keys where I put them, in Parker's high chair (where I put them)... STILL a 20 minute lecture on where to put my keys!
Loving my Lisa! I hope know one ever loses their keys and tells Lisa! We did see her again just two days later on Sunday at a wonderful family reunion on my mom's side! Such a nice visit! HOWEVER, she was still upset that I couldn't come and see her the Friday before!
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