December 4, 2008 pm

It is 9:55 pm. I am back in St. Louis with my girl. I am sorry that I missed a day of writing. For those of you who follow this everyday, please forgive me! While it was hard to be away for a few days, it was nice to get back home for a little "normal". I went to work for a few days and got some other things done at home that were on my plate. Even though I was home, guess where my mind was. I talked to Mary a few times each day, but it wasn't the same as being there. However, if being away for a few days results in what I saw today, I am more than happy to do it again. Keep in mind that I have only been gone for 3 days. The first thing that I notice was the strength and flexibility in her left hand. When I left Monday, she could barely open up her hand. When I asked her to do it this morning, she opened it up all the way, with out putting forth much effort. (at least it seemed that way). Then we went to physical therapy. When I left Monday, she was still doing her walking with what I consider "heavy assistance". Today, Mary got up out of her wheelchair, grabbed the cane, and began to do her walking with basically very light, to no assistance! She looked so much stronger, and steadier than just 3 short days ago. I couldn't believe what I was seeing. On Saturday of last week, she walked about 50 feet or so. Today, Brooke (her therapist), said she went at least 150 feet or more. Keep in mind, with hardly any help! (a little though). I was so happy to see that. In speech therapy, she was reading so much better than when I left also. Even the therapist said that was the best she had done. She said she was reading at a 95% level. I'm not sure what that means exactly, but I know it was pretty good in her therapy terms. Her attitude was good, she was smiling and making jokes with the therapists, and working really hard to impress everyone involved. I think even herself. Oh, I forgot, she also climbed a flight of 12 stairs at least 3 times, up and down. This was with no help, just the therapist next to her in case she fell. Needless to say, I was so impressed with Mary today, and the improvements that she made in such a short time. She still has a long, long way to go, but from what I witnessed today, I really feel that Mary is up to the challenge. I thank you all for your prayers, and thank God for listening. Please keep 'em coming! Hopefully, she will have another banner day tomorrow. Thanks.