Sunday
The Power of Community.
[From Liza Rachetto]
As I've followed through these updates and information from friends on Steve's progress, Jono Coulter and I were anxious to get to the Craig Neilsen Rehabilitation Facility in Salt Lake and see where he was at and observe his daily routine. Fortunately we were able to make time this week for 3 successive days of visits and spend some time with him and his amazing care staff & friends. On Tuesday afternoon we sat in on discussions about custom wheelchair fitting and discussion of types of material, durability, etc. Of course Steve was wondering about the cost of upgrading his wheels to carbon fiber. The PTs worked with him on an assisted standing and light swiss ball toss. Steve was keen to get through his therapy so he could play some music. Jono and Eric played a few tunes on the guitar and ukelele, with Steve on the Banjo. It was relaxing and delightful.
Wednesday mid-morning when we came in, we heard the excellent news of Steve being able to drink coffee that morning. When I asked how that experience was, with glee he said "Just great!" One of the "exercises" of the day was AMPCARE so through a non-invasive device that combines electrical stimulation with resistive exercises to improve swallowing function,. This was fascinating as he drank a full gatorade and followed the therapy with a few bites of pudding. His request for after dinner was immediately some "chocolate milk and ice cream".
The next activity was a few rounds of Tic-Tac-Toe on a mirror in front of him,. The suction cup-colored devices were placed at his side so he was forced to work on multiple functions of trunk rotation, hand-eye coordination, while of course winning each round against the amazing Paul! Between the games he practiced sit to stand out of the chair which he did quite rapidly (speed and strength is there) but with vestibular and balance limitations.
Thursday was another day of progression with eye tracking exercises, followed by medicine ball (4#) and tennis ball tossing in various directions. His chair to rehab mat is noticeable better each day it is a true testament to Steve's positive and spirited attitude. His daily schedule is overall pretty busy with occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, doctor visits, daily activities and visitors coming by. The photos that surround his room, gifts that have been sent, and musical instruments to play are all the incredible support of his community. The friends, family, and fans of Steve Baker have created such an impact on the healing and path to a successful recovery.
-Liza and Jono-
“Hey Jono, is that an apple in your pocket or are you just happy to see me?”
