“Never underestimate standing people!”, David says through the giggles. While it’s always great to see him smile, I’m aware that behind the smiles, David’s struggle is all too real.
David’s journey to recovery has been a long and challenging one, with the difficulty of his muscular spasms and the demands of his physiotherapy program making it a constant uphill battle. Despite these obstacles, David has continued to persevere and make small strides towards his goal of regaining his mobility and independence.
One of the key components of David’s recovery has been adapting to his weekly demands in physiotherapy and occupational therapy. Occupational therapy has helped him to learn how to use technology and assistive devices to navigate his daily life. Specially designed glasses have allowed him to move the mouse on the screen, while a large button has made it easier for him to select items on a desktop. Adjusting David’s electric and manual wheelchairs has also been a challenge, as the team works to ensure that he is completely comfortable and not in pain.
However, one of the biggest obstacles that David faces are the intensity of his muscular spasms, which can be painful, exhausting and debilitating. David can jest about it, but after months of this it takes its toll on David. These spasms restrict David’s movement and momentum, particularly when it comes to his physiotherapy journey. Despite the difficulty, David continues to work hard to overcome these obstacles and make progress towards his goals.
Having witnessed David’s journey first hand, I have gained a deep appreciation for the amount of hard work and dedication that goes into his recovery. Every week, he puts in hours of effort into his physiotherapy program, which can be both physically and mentally demanding. Yet despite the challenges, David has continued to make progress, and this week, with assistance, he was able to stand for over an hour – a significant milestone on his road to recovery.
However, amidst all this progress, it is important to remember that David’s outcome is still largely uncertain. Adjusting to a new independence and what that entails is still a journey that lies ahead, with no certain destination in sight. The week schedule is often packed, planned this way to allow for his daily appointments and hospital visitations. Being on a busy, noisy ward adds to the challenges that David faces every day. David’s recovery journey has been a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs, but his determination and resilience continue to inspire everyone around him. His story serves as a reminder that no matter how difficult the obstacles may seem, it is possible to overcome them with hard work, perseverance, and a strong support system.
Images www.pexels.com Анна Рыжкова
