Whatta Year ! ! !

Christmas week HOOK REHAB gave La Donna her final report ... she has completed all of her work/assignments, her progress has been extraordinary, and she is dismissed from all other services they can perform! We have nothing but the highest praise for HOOK REHAB, Dr. Ed Haskins (Director) and his wonderful staff! We recommend it to any persons whose doctors are willing to refer them to HOOKS and who can pass their needs assessment program.

Later (next year) she may pursue some in depth therapy to improve her walking ability, but she has demonstrated her ability to walk with and without her cane. She wants to be rid of the cane permanently.

Christmas was celebrated at her house with great joy. Each member of the family expressed at the dinner table (1) some gift they were most grateful for, and (2) what gift they would like to give Jesus in the next year. Almost unanimously the gift they chose to be most grateful for was the gift of still having MOMMO with us again this year. Last Christmas she was just surviving a 5-bypass heart surgery performed a week before, and then she suffered a stroke within the next month. She is a model of determination and perseverance, and as one member of the family has put it "There just isn't an ounce of 'quit' in that woman's body!"

When she awoke this morning, one of the first things she said was "I am so happy!" The joy is back and in spite of the lingering limitations she is positive and optimistic in her approach to life.

So all thanks to our Wonderful Creator, and also to HOOK REHAB and to our many friends who have stuck by us through it all.

LOVE -- POPPO

Happy Birthday, MOM! You're 80!!

Wednesday, December 17th was Mom's 80th birthday! She was showered with cards and letters from family and friends near and far. Even the President of the United States, George Dubya, sent her a card! Thanks to all of you who sent your happy birthday wishes! She called today in tears saying what a great birthday she had!

Lori and I fixed dinner and we had a wonderful time! Butchie (Art) and Fishie (Dave) were also there, giving Mom their usual hard time...lots of laughs were had by all. Later, Monte and most of his family (Caitie went home because she had a rough week) stopped by, too. And so it was, "Let the Wii games begin!!"

I don't know who likes the Wii the most: Gpa or the Grandkids. Well, really, I think Gpa does. He does Wii Fit almost everyday for his work out now since they don't go to the web. It's a great thing - that Wii is! What's even greater is that Mom/Dad and all there friends are staying young by playing it and having Wii Parties!

Last year at this time, Mom was just a few days post 5-bypass surgery. It was by God's grace that we got to keep her with us for some more time. As usual, we thank you for your prayers and your loving attention. And thank you for making her 80th birthday special for her...

Love,

Audi

GRADUATION DAY HAS COME

Monday, November 24th was a significant day in La Donna's stroke recovery. Dr. Ed Haskins and his rehab therapists met with La Donna, her family, and fellow members of her ORANGE TEAM to celebrate her completion of four months of intensive therapy and declare her GRADUATED with honors. Dr. Haskins indicated that La Donna had surpassed with flying colors the goals they had set for her, and noted her determination and perseverance as being chief factors in her recovery. He also said with a smile that her "perfectionist tendencies" had driven her to keep going when the work was hard until the results were satisfactorily accomplished.

Refreshments were provided for all in attendance, and her whole family expressed their profound gratitude for the marvelous work that HOOK REHAB had accomplished on her behalf. Her Physical Therapist (Shannon) confided that when she first came to HOOK REHAB they were in doubt that she would ever be able to walk again. But Shannon has worked tirelessly with her to the point that La Donna was able to walk a considerable distance without the aid of the cane. She walks with a four-wheel cane unassisted (with a family member trailing close by just to make sure she does not lose her balance).

After a week off from the rigors of intensive all-day therapy, she returns during the month of December two days a week for just two hours of speech and physical therapy. We are grateful to the staff at HOOKs, to the neighbors and friends who have cared for her so diligently. AMAZING ... OVER 3600 HITS ON THIS BLOG BY PEOPLE WHO ARE REALLY CONCERNED ABOUT HER. THANKS FOR YOUR LOVE AND SUPPORT.

LOVE -- POPPO

LATEST GREATEST NEWS

If you are ready for some great news, fasten your seatbelts because here it is coming.



HOOK REHAB has determined that La Donna will be qualified to graduate from her intensive training routine with them on Monday, November 24th! Her four days a week routine will be over (and she has earned it with her hard work and determination). She will return for a brief stint for specialized therapy three times a week, then two times and then one time a week (but each of those sessions will be abreviated 45 minute sessions in physical therapy, occupational therapy or perhaps speech therapy). NO MORE 9:00 - 4:00 ORDEALS AND SHE IS HAPPY ABOUT THAT.



Secondly, physical therapist Shannon has been able to get La Donna to walk on her own without a cane! It is marvelous to see this miraculous improvement. We still walk along beside her ready to catch her if she loses her balance, but she has been able to walk a considerable distance without any assistance. Nelson's promise that he would shave off his goatee or beard when she learned to walk by herself has been fulfilled. He is clean-shaven again (and of course La Donna appreciates that change as well).



Finally, Nelson picked up La Donna in his Delorean sports car (see it at http://www.st11.us/ on the MY TOY Page) but before that he gave Dr. Ed Haskins a ride -- actually had him drive the Delorean for a short trip. He was the envy of the whole office staff and they watched him perform. We just cannot express enough praise for him and his great staff for the wonderful work they have done for us.



LOVE -- POPPO

Mom Update

Mom is doing great. Wish I had another picture to share with you. My friend, Andrea, called me yesterday and said, "Your mom looked so pretty at church last week. She looks like herself again!"

Mom has walked into church for the last two weeks (no wheelchair!) Last week, Dad dropped her off at the door. This week, she walked from the parking lot! She also stood this week during the final hymn! So, I guess it is accurate to say she is getting back to her old -- I mean, young -- self!

Dad is reverting back to his old self, too. Since Mom is getting better, I see him lightening up a bit and doing more fun things. For example, he bought a Wii last week!! He set it up in the living room so he and mom can play instead of watch the stupid shows that are on TV. He also bought the Wii Fit program to help get them both back in shape. (I did it and it said I had the fitness of a 63 year old, which I highly disagreed with! Jack, my son, said, "You don't have the body of a 63 year old, but you do play video games like a 63 year old!" That, I could buy!)

Things aren't perfect, but we are adjusting to this new way of life. There isn't a day that goes by that I am so thankful that I have my mom...and that Dad has my mom! I don't even want to imagine the void -- well, I won't even go there. Nevermind that.

It's hard to believe that it has been 10 months since this whole ordeal began. God is faithful. He has provided us with blessings through this that we would have never imagined. Our faith has strengthened. Our family has strengthened. Our gratitude has grown. And we, once again, have learned that God gives us the grace when we need it (and only when we need it) to persevere through whatever comes our way.

Thanks for your prayers and keeping up with us...

Lots of love,

Audi

WE'RE OFF TO THE RACES !!

Great NEWS ... and Great PROGRESS --

La Donna's physical therapist (Shannon) brought in a wheeled cane for her to try out, and with it she made a wonderful transition in her walking ability. Her balance is much better and she is able to walk good distances without help (except to have a helper walking along side her to make sure she doesn't lose it).

Thursday night we traveled to Anderson to have dinner with some friends. She walked with her cane all the way into the restaurant (and back out again after dinner). Her friends sat in their car in astonishment to see her walk as she did.

Tuesday we had a family conference and Dr. Ed Haskins (head of the Hook Rehab Outpatient Facility) noted her progress and approved her for at least another month of therapy there. While her speech has improved, her right arm and hand have been very slow in making progress (and she is concerned about that). She has been taught how to stand at the kitchen sink and perform kitchen duties (to the delight of her husband), and she is able to count out her medications and take them with supervision.

We are grateful to God and to the Therapists at Hook Rehab for the progress she is making. We are thankful also for your prayers and concern. Any doubt about how much people care about her? Just look at the count of hits on this blog ... way over 3000!

Dustin and Garrett were home from Iraq!

Dustin and Garrett were home from Iraq for 18 days. Hit the "play" button if you'd like to see some photos of our time together!!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Dustin and Garrett Home from Iraq!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Quick update

Hi Friends! It's been a busy week. Mom gave us a little scare last week on Friday...she had "heaviness" in her chest and her doctor had an ambulance come and get her and take her to the hospital! Well, they did test after test for two days and watched her. We were so pleased to hear that she is fine and received a clean bill of health! Don't know what that was all about, but we are tickled that she is okay!

The Cathcart homefront has been very busy! Dustin and Garrett, both, are home for an 18 day respite from Iraq. We have tried to squeeze 6 months into two weeks. We (the old folks - not Dustin and Garrett) are so tired! They wear us out! Not really...but it has been non-stop for awhile. Unfortunately, it will end all too soon as they return to Iraq on Thursday.

Well, it's late and I must go to bed! Hope all is well with you...

Lots of love, Audi

It's been awhile...

Hi Friends! It's been awhile (as I was so kindly reminded of by my friend Bill Berry from Memphis). This is no indication of bad news. Quite the contrary!
Mom started her intensive rehab at Hook's (as an outpatient) and I must say they are working her hard! They are addressing all kinds of things through occupational, physical and speech therapy as well as working on memory and problem solving, etc. (I've threatened to join the memory/problem solving group myself.) Mom comes home exhausted but we have been able to see some improvements.
I've been "tied up" - enjoying the beginnings of an 18 day respite for our boys, Dustin and Garrett. They are back from Iraq for some R & R. We'll be celebrating their birthdays tonight at Maggiano's (yum). Right now, they are enjoying a movie with Brother Jack.
They look great and are in wonderful spirits. Dustin talks a mile a minute as usual. Garrett is enjoying being with his girl, Kari. Oh, and yes, I think they enjoy seeing the rest of the family, too.
More later...must go check some emails, do some school work, and then go celebrate the birthdays and homecoming!

Thanks for the prayers. Love, Audi

HELLO HOOKS REHAB

Today (Thursday, August 7th) La Donna graduated to a new level of rehabilitation. She was evaluated by the professionals at Hooks Rehab Facility on 56th Street in Indianapolis and they concluded she would make an excellent prospect for intensive rehabilitative care.



Dr. Ed Haskins presented a detailed evaluation of her condition at her family consultation and concluded that her determination and dedication to get well is quite evident and qualifies her for their treatment.



Today in the evaluation process she walked 130 feet on her quad-footed cane! They believe she is surprising in several ways (we could have told them that already).



She is looking forward to the more intensive care program which will take her on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and on Thursdays for one half a day. She will be a busy lady indeed.



Their facilities and equipment are much superior to anything we have seen before. Beside Speech, Occupational and Physical Therapy, she will attend group classes. The family has been invited to attend any of her sessions except the group classes.



In a month they will bring the family in for another evaluation conference. Nobody is fooled into thinking the recovery fr0m her stroke is going to be an easy one or a rapid one, but she is going to give it her best effort and we will "leave the rest to God" (as Dr. Ed Haskins put it).



Thank you all for your prayers and concern.



Love -- Poppo

Moving on...

Remember a few weeks ago when I was struggling with God over anxieties about work, Mom's progress and all? My message from Him was "just trust me; you don't need all the answers now."

I guess He's finally decided it is time to let us in on His plan.

Mom's headed to Hook Rehab's very intensive outpatient program next week! She'll be going to therapy M, W, and F from 9 til 3:30 and maybe on Thursdays for a half day. Sounds like they're going to stretch, strengthen, increase, and maximize every smidge of ability that she has! They've got state of the art equipment and we really feel like the Home Health therapists have gotten her strong enough to participate in a program as rigorous as this.

We are so grateful for the team that worked with us. Some of them were so nice, I almost wanted to go work for them! (That would be you, for one, Carolyn!) Fortunately, I love my job that I have now and since I can't do two jobs at once, I figured I better stay where I know they'll tolerate me!

Now, it's time to move on, though, and trust God as we take a new turn in our journey. We'll certainly be updating you on the all the progress that we anticipate.

As usual, thanks for the prayers and more later...

Lots of love,

Audi

“WORLD TRAVELER” by Poppo

Last week Medicare and our Insurance Company got together and provided Mommo a new JAZZY SELECT SCOOTER (Electric powered wheel chair).

It is a sturdy (190 pound) piece of machinery that ably transports her anywhere she chooses to go – around the house, visiting in the neighborhood, etc. A Joy Stick on the left arm rest enables her to experience a new freedom to get around like she has never had since her stroke occurred. The plush carpet in her home made it nearly impossible to propel herself around in the manual wheel chair.

Poppo is relieved that he does not have to push her everywhere. Since the SCOOTER is so large he cannot pick it up and put it in his car, he carries the old manual wheel chair in the trunk of the car for those occasions when they need to go somewhere outside their home.

The SCOOTER STORE was great to deal with – lived up to all they promised including no charge for the $4,000 machine. Their technician (Tony Adams) came out to deliver the chair, fit it to La Donna’s needs, and train her in the proper use of it. We could not be more pleased.

If you know anyone who might be benefitted with such a machine, you should contact THE SCOOTER STORE at 1-800 723-4535.

More on storms...

Okay...We had storms again and Bear was his same ole self (shaky, pacing, panting as if life were about to end). Poor guy.
I forgot to tell you about Petey.
Petey is our 4 pound Maltese. He is the total opposite of Bear. He knows no fear. (He has little dog syndrome.) So, whenever we have a storm and the thunder rolls, Petey runs around, growls and barks as if to say, "Bring in on. I'll take you down just as soon as I find out where you are." It's ridiculous.
Petey is just down right stupid when it comes to his self image. He has attacked a 120 pound bull mastiff, he's nearly caught a squirrel twice his size, and he runs under cars while they are pulling down the driveway. He has issues. One of them being he does not understand his limitations.

I wonder where God would like us to be on the Bear/Petey scale. My guess is that he doesn't want us walking around in fear of our circumstances but he doesn't want us to totally ignore the dangers of this world, either. Isn't that what we often do, though? We're fearful, upset and even shocked (and in a tizzy) when things don't go our way and when things are going well, we are totally unaware of the enemy around us.

I had a hard weekend. Anxieties about work and my mom's progress among other things had me in a real tizzy. I begged God for answers and solutions. "Just tell me what to do!" I said. I wrestled with God all weekend.

Finally, I got it. "You don't need answers," he said. "Just trust me."

Is it really that simple?

Yes.

My friend, Vicki, read this to me over the phone this morning. I don't know the author but it's from a devotional book called Jesus Calling. I love how the author paraphrased God's word to us...

Keep walkng with Me along the path I have chosen for you. Your desire to live close to Me is a delight to My heart. I could instantly grant you the spiritual riches you desire, but that is not My way for you. Together we will forge a pathway up the high mountain. The journey is arduous at times, and you are weak. Someday you will dance lightfooted on the high peaks; but for now, your walk is often plodding and heavy. All that I require of you is to take the next step, clinging to My hand for strength and direction. Though the path is difficult and the scenery dull at he the moment, there are sparkling suprprises just around the bend. Stay on the path I have selected for you. It is truly the path of Life. (Psalm 37:23-24, Psalm 23:2-3)

I'll stay on this path but I'm going to make sure I don't walk it alone. That makes all the difference inthe world... in the storm and out of the storm.

Mom Update

Hi Friends...
It's been a while since my last update. We were in Florida on a wonderful vacation with friends. It was relaxing, fun and renewing. Like I said in an earlier post, "His mercies are new every morning..." I certainly sensed that on our vacation.
Mom continues to move along in her therapy. I was able to watch her "hand therapy" yesterday. It had been a month or so since I'd sat in on a session and the improvement was evident!
Well, since Mom is such a good driver on the Wal-Mart scooters, Dad is looking into getting her a scooter so she can scoot around at home. This would be very exciting.
Mom's spirits continue to be good. She gets out and about with Dad and we are thankful for every day we have with both of them. Thanks for all the prayers!! -- Audi

Getting around...

Mom is getting really good at getting around at the grocery store, Wal-Mart, etc. thanks to their motorized scooters. She's a really good driver and does a great job.

Mom and Dad have also been "getting around". They went to Boggstown last week with friends and had a ball.

This week, I'm in Florida so I'm "getting around", too! So, you all keep in touch with my mom and dad and make sure they're doing okay - okay? More later...

Audi

Trip to Corydon

Sunday June 8th --

Audi, Mom and Dad travelled all the way down to Corydon, Indiana for the Memorial Service of our long-time friend (Macon A. Ray). This was the first long trip La Donna had taken.

A former parishioner at the Corydon Old Capital United Methodist Church, Macon and his wife Linda have been life-long friends since their first acquaintance.

Macon was one of the driving forces of the highly successful Stephen Foster Story Show at Bardstown, Kentucky. Later he portrayed Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln State Park in Southern Indiana. He was widely known as a Lincoln impersonator because of his depth of knowledge of Abe and his personal appearance to so resembled Lincoln himself.

People of the Corydon community were delighted to see La Donna in her wheel chair looking so pretty and doing so well. Nelson was one of the featured speakers in the Celebration of Life for Macon Ray and was well received as well.

Audi drove her parents home and they arrived at 30 minutes after midnight ... but the long day was survived well by La Donna. Her strength and courage and determination is a vital factor in her continual remarkable recovery. We are all grateful for her progress.

Peace through the Storm

We've had some mighty storms in the last few days and if you knew our dog, Bear, you would feel sorry for him regardless of your like or dislike for dogs. He trembles with fear and sometimes even cries at the hint of thunder or lightning. This week, we had non-stop storms with 4 1/2 inches of rain in one day. Needless to say, Bear got no rest and there was no peace in the storm for him.

We tried to console him. "It's okay, Bear!" We hugged him. Loved on him. I even held this 45 pound dog on my lap. Still, no peace in the storm. His greatest relief was to go into a closet in the middle of the house and hide.

"What's wrong with him?" I wondered. He doesn't know Jesus! It's as simple as that. If he knew Jesus, he probably wouldn't be so rattled. Maybe a little up tight, but he would know the final outcome would be okay whether he lived through the storm or not.

It's hard to find Jesus if you're a dog, no doubt, but even if you're a person it's hard to find Jesus in the midst of a storm if you never knew him before. That's why the Bible tells us the way to life - to God - is vigorous and requires your total attention! In order to have life, especially in the midst of a storm, you have to have God.

Imagine being in the middle of any chaotic, frightful situation and looking for someone that you don't know. You may actually find him but how easy would it be to trust him if you didn't know them very well?

If there were anyway I could help Bear to understand what it's like to be under God's umbrella of protection, he wouldn't be so frightened in the storm. He may never know that peace but I hope you do.

Draw near to God and He will draw near to you.

James 4:8

No News is Good News?

Hi Friends...

Well, it seems like my blog entries get further apart as time goes on. Perhaps that is an indication of the busy-ness of my life AND the fact that we are no longer in crisis! Both good things - and proof once again that God provides and handles things for us.

Mom continues to be like the tortoise in the Tortoise and the Hare story. Her therapists say she keeps plodding along - not at record speed but with good steadiness and consistency. We'll take that even though Mom would like a more swift results.

We're thankful that Mom says she enjoys life. Her biggest worries are about Dad and his shoulder pain. He's had a massage therapist out to the house which gave a little bit of relief. We'll hope for more.

This summer looks like it's going to be good. Mom and Dad enjoy time in their screened in porch and going to lunch with their friends. We'll have more time to hang out, hopefully, since I'm off for 8 weeks in the summer (YEA!)

Thanks for all the thoughts/prayers/cards and visits. And don't let me forget -- the meals! People have not forgotten Mom/Dad even though it has been 4 months since her stroke. You are good people and we love you all.

More later...

Audi

All the way from Iraq!

See? You can still have a stroke and have a "bum right side" and affect others on the other side of the world! Here's a picture of Mom's grandson, Garrett, in Iraq. The card on the package of cookies says "Made by Grandma Chamberlin with her left hand!"

It was a thumbs up welcome package - I bet they didn't last long - so we'll just have to get on it and send him some more.

Mom continues to be busy and make progress. All of our spirits are good and God continues to work good in our lives! Sing and make music to the Lord! (Ephesians 5:19)

Happy Mother's Day

Mother's Day was especially joyful for us this year because we had our mother with us! We had a great day. We promised Mom a year ago that Monte, Lori and I would sing in church for her on Mother's Day. We sang together as we grew up and it has been years since we had done so.

"It is Well with my Soul" couldn't have been more appropriate. It is the story of our lives and the attitude that Mom/Dad have taught us to have. Not always easy...but we have learned through our trials of heart attacks, job losses, debilitating diseases, strokes, divorce (and the list goes on) that God will always give us the grace we need to get through whatever trial comes our way.

"Consider it pure joy when trials come your way" (James 1:2) is not something that we instinctively. I'm working on it though, and try to remind myself to ask, "How will God use this to help me grow?"

Mom says she enjoys life, now. That was always one of my prayers - that no matter how far her progress takes her - that she can enjoy life. And she repeatedly says she does. Her sense of humor comes in handy when the words don't come out right. And during therapy sessions, she makes us laugh when everyone is going crazy over how well she does and she just rolls her eyes and flips her hand as if to say "Whatever!"

My momma is a blessing to all those around her. How thankful we are to have her in our lives!

Back to the Kitchen...

Well, I told Mom today, "Your vacation is over! It's time for you to get to work!!" So, we started our work on our One Handed Cookbook by experimenting with different cutting techniques. Cutting with one hand sounds easy until you try it! I've learned a lot already. For one thing, don't make things so difficult! Tear the tops off of those strawberries and then lay them upsidedown and cut 'em up! After we got the strawberries cut for tonight's dinner, we moved on to making Peanut Butter Cookies for Dustin and Garrett in Iraq.

Bowls don't hold still when you stir so we put all of the cookie ingredients in a 1 gallon baggie. Mom did it all...cracked the egg/measured the oil/cut the bag open. A brick covered in aluminum foil serves as her "other hand" and holds many things down quite nicely! After we got everything in the baggie, Mom squished and pushed and squeezed it until it was mixed up quite perfectly.

We made a pan of cookies for both Dustin and Garrett and they're vacuumed packed and ready to go! They'll be tickled first of all, just to get the cookies, but secondly because Gma Chamberlin made them!

Like a good cook, Mom washed and dried all the dishes by herself -- with me standing by as the "balance supervisor" - even though she did not require any help. I'm thinking she's going to be back to work quicker than she may think! Dad's gonna love that because I can just about guarantee he likes HER cooking more than he likes his own!

We also went to quilting club today and had a nice visit with the ladies. The food is always good at quilting club and as I write this, I'm feeling kind of guilty for not bringing some of that yummy dessert home for Dad. Oh well, next time!

It's been a great day! Thanks for your prayers and interest in Mom's progress. They're certainly working...

Love, Audi

Good Morning Friends!

Hello everyone! I hope you've had a good week! We certainly have! On Monday, Mom and I spent most of the day together. We went to the credit union, to Wal-Mart and had a nice leisurely lunch at the Olive Garden with my sister. Then we just went home and hung out for awhile.

Mom and I have a new project! (Wish us luck!) We are going to start working on One-Handed Cookbook! I have searched the web and googled everything I can think of and although there are a lot of PRODUCTS out for "one handers" there are few ideas out of how to do things one handed.

Mom is a great cook and it's one of my passions, too. So, I'm thinking that we can help ourselves and others, too. Don't get too excited! I'm notorious for great ideas and little follow-through! SO, if you want to pray for me, pray that we will get some work done on our cookbook so others can benefit as well.

Hope all is well. It seems like Spring is here and hope is all around!

Love you all -- Audi

Remarkable Progress

The good word this week is that although her progress is not quite fast enough for La Donna, her therapists are saying she has made (and IS making) remarkable progress. In a conference with her involved therapists, they marveled at the way she is improving.

She walked about 150 feet on the hemiwalker this past week and only had to have her balance corrected one time. Her speech (aphasia) is improving and her right hand is beginning to get a little bit more mobility.

Yesterday she joined the 30 Whispering Woods Residents for their monthly luncheon (this time held at Bravos Restaurant in Indianapolis). Her occasional trips outside the house help to brighten her spirits and negate her impatience as she hears her friends tell her how much improvement they see in her.

The people of Fishers United Methodist Church have brought her meals since her second week home ( and Nelson is learning to be an efficient microwave operator). It is wonderful to have so many great friends caring for her. Please be assured that she enjoys having company. It would be well to call her before coming to make sure she is not involved with any therapist at the time of your visit.

Update from the Cathcarts

Hi Friends! We've had a good week. Mom and Dad were over for dinner and the weather was so nice we ate on the screened in porch! It was beautiful out and so wonderful to have the parents back at our house! Mom and I were talking yesterday and we were looking forward to walks outside. Mom continues her therapy and is still making steady progress. Not as quickly as she would like, but steady...

My best friend was in town this week (she's a speech pathologist too) and she was so shocked by how great Mom's speech was. She kept saying "I give her an 85 - 90%!" She saw Mom about a month ago and reminded me that what she did then does not even compare to her speech now. Way to go, MOM!!

Some of you have asked about Dustin and Garrett, our twin sons, who are BOTH over in Iraq right now serving our country. Word from them indicates they are doing great. They are both in charge of the MITT (something to do with M____ I______ Transition Team). They are training 650+ Iraqi soldiers to take over. They are at different bases but have seen each other while Garrett was training on Dustin's base.

Dustin LOVES his job. He's been there since December and repeatedly says he has "no complaints." He's encouraged by the progress that they are making. He talks a mile a minute when he calls home and his enthusiasm is evident.

Garrett says he's fine, but he's tired because he's doing two jobs. (MITT plus his job last time he was there.) This is also his second tour in Iraq so he's probably not quite so enthusiastic! His tour last time was physically and emotionally costly. Anyway, he says that he is doing fine and he's safe. He's not on a base. He lives in an old meat packing facility. Has a roommate but that should change eventually.

We continually pray for their contentment and safe return to home and thank many of you for doing the same. Sometimes I feel so SELFISH because so many people are praying for our family! It is very humbling to say the least. Goes to show how needy we are on family/friends and most of all, Jesus!

Well, that's all I know for now! I'll write more later. Have much to do on this last OFFICIAL day of my Spring Break! Lots of love... Audi

Riverview Rehab Revisited (by Poppo)

Last week La Donna had to go to Riverview Hospital for an Ultra Sound on her thyroid.

After the test, I took her up to the third floor rehab facility to visit the therapists there. When we came in Sara looked up and fairly squealed in delight to see her. She was so happy to see the evident progress that La Donna has made.

We went around the corner to where Susan was working with a patient. When she saw La Donna she stopped therapy on her patient, came running over to the wheel chair where Mommo was sitting, hugged her and said, "La Donna ... I will never forget you as long as I live."

We had a delightful conversation with both of these great therapists, then went down the hall to visit with some of the nurses who had cared for her in the rehab facility. They were all delighted to see her and to note her progress. They had not forgotten her.

It was evident to me (Poppo) that even in her diminished state of a stroke, she had made a profound impression on all of these people. Thank God for the progress that surprised even the professionals who took care of her.

"Lefty" Playing Her Piano Again - by Dad

What a great family we have!

Monte (who owns his own construction business) brought in some of his men to refit our house with the equipment needed for her stroked condition – lowered bed from 34 inches high; removed some doors from hinges so the wheel chair could get through more easily; established a grab bar in the bathroom to help La Donna stand; refitted lounge chair to remove the tilt and swivel mechanisms to provide a more secure foundation for her sitting down and getting up.

Audi established her blog (lamentations3.blogspot.com) to keep all our friends informed about La Donna’s progress; has used her skills as a Speech Pathologist to help her overcome her aphasia (speech difficulties); and has guided us in all our medical decisions.

Lori has redecorated our house with a Spring Theme (to Mom’s relief); has spent a great deal of time sitting with her and caring for her; BUT MOST OF ALL, SHE HAS SET UP A PROGRAM WHEREBY MOM CAN PLAY THE LEFT HAND PIANO PART WHILE LORI PLAYS THE RIGHT HAND PART (RECORDED) ON THE ROLAND KR3 DIGITAL PIANO. She has provided a written musical score for the left hand so La Donna can get back into using her piano in a meaningful way.

And the original arrangement Lori has written so beautifully – “IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL” … is that not prophetic?

Love Thy Neighbor - by Dad

Let us tell you what real love and concern and neighborliness is all about.

Last week Denny and Donna Sheets (Adams and Marshall neighbors) came by to see La Donna. We always appreciate their visits … they are such genuine people.

Poppo decided he wanted to “show off” Mommo’s progress. So he got her up on her hemiwalker (see photo courtesy of Mike Delladio) and exhibited her walking across the room with minimal assistance. She is walking now with only occasional help to keep her in balance when the weak right side doesn’t want to do its thing.

As they walked along together in front of Donna Sheets, Poppo looked over to see the broadest grin overcoming Donna’s face. But that was not the best of it. He saw tears of joy and gratitude swelling up in her eyes.

For neighbors to be so glad for her measure of recovery that they would be moved to tears … that is what real love and concern and neighborliness is all about.

And when they attended worship at Castleton United Methodist Church Sunday, Denny and Donna were the first to race across the sanctuary to greet them. They never got rich serving in the ministry, but nevertheless they are millionaires. Wonderful friends like this cannot be bought with money. But they are some of the most priceless possessions a family can have. Thank God for neighbors and friends like this.

Mom: 101 Things Stroke Didn't Take from You

1. Your family
2. 58 years of marriage
3. Your home
4. Your love of music
5. Your ability to make us smile
6. Holidays with your family
7. Your purpose for living
8. Your noble character
9. Dad’s 100% confidence in YOU
10. Your hard work ethic
11. Your church
12. Your intelligence
13. Grandchildren who love you
14. Your ability to give godly advice
15. Your ability to pray
16. Your faith
17. Companionship with Dad
18. Shopping with Audi
19. Dinner plans with Jack and Betty
20. Friends who love you
21. Your ability to inspire
22. God’s plans for you
23. Your decorating ability
24. Singing hymns
25. Living in the USA
26. Reciting the Lord’s prayer
27. Memories of dating Dad
28. Family dinners
29. Back seat driving
30. Neighborhood get togethers
31. Mother’s intuition
32. God’s word in your heart
33. Your beauty
34. Your children’s thankfulness that you’re here
35. Communion with God
36. Snuggling with Dad
37. Daily phone calls with your kids
38. Visits by the Granddogs
39. Being pretty
40. Peace in the storm
41. Years of serving
42. God’s ability to comfort you
43. Spring weather
44. Days on the screened in porch with dad
45. Coffee and toast in the morning
46. Abundance of food
47. Your beautiful blue eyes
48. Your smile
49. Your humility
50. Your ability to discern
51. Forgiveness
52. Evenings with Dad
53. Freedom to worship
54. Church on Sunday mornings
55. Opportunities to witness
56. Afternoon naps
57. Quiet evenings
58. Your wisdom
59. Wealth of friends and family
60. Your cheerful heart
61. Your positive attitude
62. Your onery son-in-laws
63. Love that covers all wrongs
64. Joy in the morning
65. Memories of a Hawaiian vacation
66. God’s faithfulness
67. Victory over the grave
68. A song in your heart
69. Dad’s loving protection
70. Daily phone calls from your girls
71. More time with Dad so he doesn’t have to be alone
72. Your giving nature
73. All the lives you’ve affected
74. Hundreds of lives changed through Divorce Recovery
75. Ears that hear and eyes that see
76. The gift of salvation
77. Courage to continue on
78. Our united family
79. Peace that transcends all understanding
80. Gift of God’s son, Jesus
81. Eternal life
82. Victory over the adversary
83. 79 years of magnificence
84. Undying love
85. Motivation to recover
86. God’s amazing creations
87. Majesty and glory of God
88. Constant hope
89. Deep faith
90. Your heart for God
91. Patience while suffering
92. Your children’s honor and love for you
93. Grace for the moment
94. Your deep love for others
95. Your hospitality toward others
96. Your value in our world
97. Your value in God’s eyes
98. God’s ability to work in your life
99. Safety and security in God
100. All of God’s promises
101. Your heavenly home

Mom Update

We've had a good week. Mom has been busy this week with therapy and guests. She's had friends in for lunch, she's been to dinner at the church, and she came to my (Audi) church today @ Castleton United Methodist Church. You don't know how blessed I felt to see my sweet "mama" sitting in the congregation as I sat in the choir. It was also wonderful for all my friends who have prayed our family through Mom's illness to see how God has worked in our lives. Today, several times people asked "How's your Mom?" and I was tickled to respond, "She's here!"

Mom's getting around on her feet a bit more. Instead of rolling from here to there in her wheel chair, she's starting to walk here and there. On Friday when she walked with me, I did NOTHING except stand by for an occasional "balance check." She stood at the sink and washed a pan, stacked up clean dishes, and did her usual "straightening up" of things. Mom likes to have things straight and organized.

Dad is a gem. I can only pray that my husband will love me half as much as Dad loves Mom in 30 more years! If he does, I'll be one lucky woman! Dad's main struggle is wanting to do too much for Mom. The physical therapist explained to him Friday that instead of helping her so much, he'd be helping her more to let her do more by herself. "But I've always protected her and taken care of her!" he exclaimed. This will be a different way of taking care of her.

Along with the hope of Spring, we continue to have hope that God will continue doing great things in Mom's life. We keep praying and giving thanks for all that He's done so far!

SuperBowl Returns!

Hi Friends! We have an abundance of tupperware, really nice pie plates, casserole bowls, etc. that are looking for their true homes! We can't remember where they all belong, thanks to your overwhelming generosity and goodness.

Please use coming to get your bowls as an excuse to drop in and sit awhile for a visit. Mom and Dad are usually home and would love to see your smiling faces AND return your bowls.

Easter, this year, was especially good for the Chamberlin Family. We had a few empty chairs that we wished could have been filled (Dustin and Garrett in Iraq - Duane and family in Florida - Monte's family fighting a bug) but our "Momma's" chair wasn't empty! And for that, we were truly grateful!

Our family is blessed...and even though times are a little harder now than before, we are still Easter People! We have so much to be thankful for and will do our best to remember that!

Hope your Easter was full of hope and joy...

Audi

Perfection...

Wow...it's been almost a week since my last post! Perhaps that is an indication that life is getting a little bit back to normal or that life is crazy busy. Probably a little bit of both.

Mom continues to get better. Last weekend, I took her out for our first mom/daughter outing. We went to JCPenney and managed to spend a bunch of money! It was great to have someone to shop with again. (I hate shopping and I hate shopping alone even more!) After getting Chinese for lunch and home to work on some errands, we were both pooped and ready to retire for the night. So much, that we canceled our dinner plans with each other!

Mom has started back to church and has done a few lunches as well. We still look forward to Mom being able to walk around and be more independent physically. She does not like her present physical status. (Can't say I blame her!) On Monday, the doctor had lots of good encouraging comments - indicating that he expected her to do very well along those lines. The message was to "keep on". The road is long and hard but she can do it.

This week is Holy Week and no one knows better about long and hard roads as does our Jesus. I cannot even imagine the dread He was feeling on the night of that last supper or in the Garden of Gethsemane. But He knew the rest of the story and now we know the rest of the story. That gives us hope...

Well, the one thing we can be sure of: God's love is not a pampering love; it's a perfecting love (James McDonald). Even my precious, sweet little Mama has a little perfecting that God can do in her. My guess is that God is working in her and all of us throughout this journey. So, as usual, I just pray that we can all open our hearts to what God would like to do in us amidst the trials of life whether big or small.

Here's hoping you experience the deep, deep perfecting love that God has for you during this Holy Week...

Love, Audi

Making Plans...

Hi Friends...We continue on our journey with Mom. Each week she continues to show progress and we have hope of better things to come.

I think this has been a hard week for Mom. She's getting bored. You know how Mom was before her stroke (always on the go)...always cooking a meal and having someone in for dinner, visiting people who were "shut-ins" and being a Stephen Minister, going to Quilting and to breakfast with her friends on Thursday mornings. All this has changed and I think she's had her fill of "just sitting around" between therapy appointments!

This week she has shown more movement in her arm as she lifted it up over the arm rest of her wheelchair! Whew! That looked hard, but she did it! She's still walking in PT and today she walked with me as well. She also did some laundry with just a little stand-by assistance. Tomorrow, we're going to JC Penneys to see how much money we can spend!

Okay -- now here's our call for help! So many of you have said, "What can we do to help?" Well, things are starting to pile up at home for Dad. He needs to run errands...go to the grocery...post office...license branch...oh yes, let's not forget FRY'S ELECTRONICS! Would anyone like to come visit with mom for 2 1/2 hours or so during the day sometime? I told him I'd try to set up a schedule.

If you're interested, please either email me at audicathcart@sbcglobal.net or call me at 332-4158.

Now...I want to thank everyone AGAIN for all of their prayers, cards, calls, visits, and meals! Mom/Dad have been so well cared for. The food has been wonderful. Your visits break up the day. Most of all, there is no question that they are loved.

If one falls down, his friend can help him up.

But pity the one who falls and has no one to help him up!

Ecclesiastes 4:10

Thanks for helping Mom/Dad get back on their feet! Lots of love -- Audi

Beautiful Weather!

Wow...today it looked like Spring in Indianapolis. As a result, Dad took Mom on a stroll through the neighborhood. I know it must have felt good to breathe in some of that good, fresh air!

Mom continues her therapy schedule and is gradually adding the "normalcies of life" back in. She's started making more phone calls and got a perm Monday (thanks to Virginia). She looks like a million bucks! More later...

A Picture of Hope

Hi Friends! I'm all snowed in and snuggled up in my friend's house in Kentucky and when I called Dad to check in, he was so excited at the newest development: Mom started pinching her fingers together! This picture is of her Occupational Therapist (OT) working that hand!

Strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees! (Hebrews 12:12). God not only loves us and disciplines us, but he also is a demanding coach who pushes us to our limits and requires us to work! Sometimes he sends us coaches like Carolyn, Mom's OT, who helps facilitate our work when we may not feel strong enough to push on to victory!

As a result, we feel hope and and a growing strength to move on! Mom could respond to hardship in several ways. She could accept it with resignation, self-pity, or with anger or resentment. But, she has chosen to accept her hardship in faith and with hard work and discipline. What a picture of hope that paints for us all!

Did you Pray?

Just a couple of days ago I mentioned that Mom needed prayers for her spirits and wham! She's had a couple of great days! Have you been praying? If so, thank you!

Today, her Occupational Therapist came and Mom reported that she had a "great day" yesterday. Mom seemed to be in good spirits.

Speaking of the Occupational Therapist - we really hit it off! We take a similar approach to rehab and we were both tickled to meet each other and to find that we are "on the same page" when it comes to Mom's rehab. We are always thankful for the people that God puts in our lives that give us hope and motivation.

It's late...I'll write more later. Hope you all stay safe and warm...sounds like a winter storm is on it's way!

Much love...Audi

We Continue On...

Hi Friends...

Mom's home health therapists have all been out to see her and it looks like her therapy is in motion. It's not as rigorous as when she was at Riverview. I don' t know if she likes that or not. She certainly wishes her progress were a bit swifter. She tries to say everything now and with the increased complexity comes a little more difficulty. She thinks her talking is worse. I don't think it is...she's just attempting to say so much more!

Fishers UMC has taken over the meals this week. Thanks to Whispering Woods (Mom/Dad's friends in the subdivision) for taking them food last week... Wow! You guys are good in the kitchen! I was lucky enough to sample some of the food.

Well, please just pray that Mom will find joy in living and that she will recognize what a BLESSING she is to all of us. Dad is so tickled to have her home. I'm so thankful that I can bounce over for lunch or after school. We all are thanking God that we still have our Mom to lend a listening ear, laugh with, and enjoy her presence. Right now, life is more of a struggle for her but I'm hoping that soon it will be a little easier. It certainly is a "new normal" that we are adjusting to.

Again, thanks for your prayers! I thank God for all of you. Much love... Audi

Mom Accompanying the Trombone Trio

Hi Friends...This is an experiment! How many years ago (was it Dad?) that you and Gig had the trombone trio? Well, it's actually a good love story because it's how my mom/dad met. Mom was asked to play the piano for them and Dad was in the trio and well, the rest is history. Anyway, here's an old recording of them playing God of our fathers. Go to the link on the right. It will take you to http://www.esnips.com/web/GodofOurFathers . After you get there, scroll down to "files" and click on the little picture titled "God of our Fathers". They were really good! I hope it works and enjoy the show! --- Audi

Dictated by Mom -- Typed by Audi

Hi Everybody. This is to say THANK YOU for your prayers and concerns. Thank you for the cards and the considerations. Also, thank you for the food. I love you all. Love, LaDonna

Visual Update...

Well, I think my parents are certainly enjoying being in the comfort of their home instead of being at Riverview hospital. Therapy is getting started and I can see Mom is still really motivated to get that hand better and to talk better! That's encouraging -- motivation is certainly a key component! Dad is doing a great job of keeping things going and Mom's speech is good enough to give him direction when he needs it! Once again, I say we are so thankful that they are such a good team and example for us. We could all learn from them.

I think one of the hardest things for Mom now is just "sitting around" waiting for things to happen. Mom has always been "one who serves" and I think once she can get back to work in that capacity she's going to enjoy life a little more. Please don't hesitate to call and ask Mom to pray for you -- that is one thing she is certainly good at!

Well, must go...just thought I'd give you a little visual update. Much love -- Audi

Home Therapy Begins -- Monday, Feb. 25th

The TENDER LOVING CARE Company began our Home Therapy on Monday with a visit from their Home Health Care Nurse (Diana). She took La Donna's vital statistics (including her Coumadin level) and got acquainted with her case. Leslie is La Donna's Physical Therapist now, and has already worked with her twice on walking and the balance issue. Carolyn (her Occupational Therapist) appeared and worked with her on her lame right arm and leg. She expresses great hope for improvement there.

Her Speech Therapist and Home Health Care Assistant are scheduled to begin work with her immediately. We are so grateful for the help she is receiving in bringing her to some sort of recovery. We believe we made a wise choice in accepting Riverview Hospital's Rehab high recommendation of Tender Loving Care Company. We look forward to working with them.

Home Sweet Home -- Sunday, Feb. 24

Be it ever so humble ... there's no place like it !

On La Donna's last day of Speech Therapy at Riverview Rehab, I heard her Speech Therapist ask her, "What is your favorite meal?" She responded, "Cube Steak with Mashed Potatos and Gravy." So to celebrate her home-coming, I ran to the grocery store and bought some steak. I got the recipe out of her box, but couldn't figure out how to do it.

So when I got her home, I parked her in her wheel chair in the kitchen and had her advise me step by step how to make the celebration meal. It came out beautifully and we had a great first day home.

Now for meals ... the people of Whispering Woods have committed themselves to bringing in meals for this first week (and I can tell we are going to gain some of that weight we lost the last few weeks). Then the Fishers United Methodist Church people will bring the meals the next week. (We never got rich in the ministry ... but we are millionaires because of the friends we have accumulated.)

Our son (Monte) came in on Saturday and took off doors to ease the passage of the new wheel chair through. He set up the shower with a bench (and shower curtains to replace the shower doors). Then he put in a grab bar in the Master Bathroom which greatly aids in the transition from the wheel chair to the toilet. He lowered the 32inch bed to 21 inches by removing the box springs (making the transition into be much easier.

Our kids have been so supportive in this ordeal and we are grateful to them all.

Home Sweet Home!

Hi there faithful friends! Indeed, Mom came home on Saturday. What a blessing it is to have her home. Now the place seems a little normal!

It's gone very well. On Friday, before Mom came home, Lori and I went up to Riverview and "officially" got trained on transfers. Mom does all the work. We're just there for back up. It really put us both at ease to see how well she does.

Mom/Dad's Whispering Woods Neighborhood has stepped up to the plate and is supplying them with food this week. (I got some of that GREAT cherry pie yesterday and today I ate one of Mom's oatmeal raisin cookies -- yum yum!) They'll get fat if everyone keeps bringing them all that good food. (I need the recipe for the taco chili! -- Had some of that, too!)

Mom's new nurse has already been out and the Physical Therapist was scheduled to come this afternoon. What a blessing it is to live in this country where we have healthcare like we do. Yes, there is a cost to all of us but I could never put a price on my momma! I thank God everyday for his goodness to her and our family. God is good.

Again, thank you for your prayers. More later...

Home on Saturday!

Hi Friends! Mom's had a few great days since I've last updated you! On Tuesday, it was confirmed at the care plan that Mom will go home FOR GOOD on Saturday! Today, the Occupational Therapist, Mom, Dad, and my brother, Monte, went out to the house to assess any accomodations that need to be made to make the transition easier. Nothing too major needs to be done -- just a few modifications!

Mom will be able to do her therapy at home. Now, won't that be nice? It will be so practical. She'll be using her stuff - walking around her home!

Well, the cards are down! Mom must be really looking forward to going home. She's sending things home and already having things packed up at the hospital.

Isn't this just a great example of how wonderful God is? We asked him with confidence for his blessing upon Mom and he has answered with an emphatic YES! Dad is elated and so are we!

We are truly grateful for all the prayers, the staff at Riverview, and all the support that we have received. Thank you so much!

More to come later! Keep prayin' and keep the faith!

It was a Great Day!

Today was a great day as Mom got to spend the whole day at home! She arrived home at about 10:30 "This is nice," she kept repeating. Mom and Dad were like two kids on a date. It seemed like almost everytime I left the room to go get something or do something, I would hear Dad say, "I love you."

Just the little things were so delightful: eating around the kitchen table, reading the newspaper in the living room, listening to "elevator music", snuggling up in a blanket and just having her at home. I told Mom if she didn't improve one smidgeon more, we are tickled to have her just as she is. It was so wonderful having her there.

It was a learning day, too. Dad had it all under control - directing and handling all the transfers from here to there. We were a bit wobbly every now but as the day went on, it seemed like things got a little easier.

I thought it would be really hard sending Mom back to the hospital but it dawned on me that this was just another step in getting her home for good! One visit by therapist to assess any need for equipment and then Mom will hopefully come home for good!

Keep prayin' and we'll be celebrating when Mom comes home for good!

Late Night Update

Just in case you didn't read Dad's comments -- here's a quick, late night update!

• Mom is coming home for a 8 hour furlough on Sunday! Dad's been practicing transferring Mom in and out of the wheelchair AND in and out of the car. Since he's been so strong and reliable -- she can come home for a one day visit!
• Mom walked 55 feet on the hemiwalker cane (a new record for her). She is moving her right foot much better now (though she still needs the therapist's assistance to maintain her balance).

We're so proud of Mom and Dad! They're both doing great. More later...it's late at the Cathcart house and it's bedtime!!

Oh...here's a suggestion from Dad about visiting:

"Therapy keeps LaDonna busy most of the day besides meals. After supper (5:30 or so) she is probably ready for company.She is not good for long visits, so I suggest you put a mint or life savor in your mouth before you go into her room, and when the mint or life savor has melted in your mouth it might be a good time to say good bye. (That is a trick I employed when I was in the active pastoral ministry, and it served me well.)But don't be misled ... she loves to see her friends and you are most welcome (for a short visit)." Nelson Chamberlin (a concerned husband)

Hallelujah!!

Hi Everyone! Just a quick update. Mom and Dad had a Care Plan Meeting on Tuesday and although nothing is in stone - and we continue to take things one day at a time - there is a possibility that Mom could go home in a couple of weeks! Of course, she will continue getting therapy after she gets home but wouldn't it be better to be in the comforts of your own home? Yes!

Thank you for the prayers for her spirits. It's amazing how God listens. I cannot tell you the difference in her mood. She said last night "I...think...my...pain...is...gone." She wasn't talking about physical pain - she was talking about her sadness.

Thank you so much. I hope that you will call on our family to pray for you when you are in need. Many of you are already on our prayer lists but we are happy to add more. Hopefully, all is going well for you and we'll be celebrating Mom's return to home soon!

Much love...

Audi

There's Work to be Done

Mom's busy at work in speech therapy six days a week. She's making good progress and her speech gets a little better everyday.

She usually has 5 therapies a day for a total of 4 hours. Being up for at least 3 hours a day for meals makes for a very busy girl!

She's hanging in there, though! Dad is too! He's usually present for her therapies. If not, he's out running some type of errand that Mom has sent him out to do or managing the things at home. They are certainly a good team and a good example for all of us!