Last
month was a busy month for me due to a family emergency, so I was unable
to do a blog update. Now things are getting back into a normal routine. I
have been progressing nicely in the past couple months, but I still have some
deficits. My eyes are still having some issues and I can get over
stimulated easily.
It
has been six months since my brain surgery. Day by day I don't notice the
difference, however when I look back at how I was 6-7 months ago, I am amazed
at my progress.
Since
the last blog, I am no longer using a cane during the daytime. I still use a
cane sometimes in the evenings, or times I am over stimulated by noise or
excess ambient movement, such as in large crowds.
My
balance has much improve and I am able to hike with Rod's help. We have done a
couple hikes over 6 miles and I am hiking the Ridgeline trail behind our house
more often. It is so great to be active again!
I am
getting out in the public some and going into some stores. Loud voices, ambient
noise and/or a lot of movement can cause me to get over stimulated. I
wear earplugs and sunglasses in public to protect me from being over
stimulated.
Some
friends look at me and think I have fully recovered. However, I cannot see and
hear things the way others perceive things. Sounds are intensified and I have
troubles visually tracking movement. Hence if you see me in public it is best
to approach me front-on slowly and not to the side so I can recognize you.
Perhaps say “Hi” first and your name as my eyes move upwards slowly and I don’t
often recognize friends immediately. If you see me in public, please come by
and say “Hi.”
I am
neither driving nor working at this time. I am not sure when I will drive
again. I have gotten more comfortable taking the city bus around town and Rod
makes an effort to chauffeur me whenever possible. I am working hard on my
physical therapy daily; presently it is my full time job. Along with my intense
eye therapy, and I have new prism eyeglasses for distance and computer work
that seems to be helping. I plan to return to work in September.
Not yet
ready for prime time, but getting there!
