Day Eleven - Historic Moment

I usually blog in the evening after a day at the hospital but I just couldn't wait. Dick has had a historic moment this morning and we had to share it with everyone immediately. Clark, the PT (Clark said PT stands for physical therapist not pain and torture) came in this morning and they got Dick up and in a chair. As I write that it sounds so easy, they got him up and got him in a chair, actually it took about 25 minutes. First came a round of exercises, 10 ankle movements, 10 leg bends at the knee, 10 leg lifts. It was amazing he did each set of 10 like he was at the gym. He heard the count, he did as he was told, he stopped when he heard Clark get to 10. The next step was to sit on the side of the bed. He was so anxious that he started moving his legs before Clark was ready for him, and Clark had to tell him to wait. When Dick finally got sat up he was exhausted but pleased. He felt so good with his accomplishment. He was off balance but when Clark asked him what he would do if he felt himself start to fall backwards he immediately leaned forward. Good answer! The next step was to stand. Clark attached a belt to Dick's chest to assist him and Amy and I were ready to move tubes and hoses out of the way. Unfortunately, there was no one to hold the gown closed, sorry Uncle Dick. Listening to everything Clark told him he helped to push himself up and to turn to be moved to the chair. His legs are very weak and he will definitely be needing extended physical therapy but what a great way to start the day! More to come later today!