Birthday Blessings

another year around the sun is not to be taken for granted.

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Yesterday was my birthday. Every year since my diagnosis of Takayasu's Arteritis I feel extremely blessed with every birthday I get to celebrate. But this year - it is even more bittersweet. After 2.5 months in the hospital, being home on my birthday is extra special. I celebrated my birthday by having an echocardiogram, blood work, getting my haircut (for the first time since June) and going out for dinner. Our son met us at Gordon Ramsay's Kitchen for a very nice meal together. I even got a free dessert for my birthday.

I am making lots of progress at Day Rehab - physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, psychology, nursing/nurse practioner and vocational counseling. I am using my walker less and a single-point cane more. I am able to walk further, and my stamina is increasing all the time. Stairs are getting easier and less intimidating as well. I am scheduled to attend Day Rehab three days a week, 3 hours each of those days until just before Christmas.

Did I mention that I HAVE A VOICE again?! I had my paralyzed vocal cord injected with a gel filler to plump it up last week. Now the vocal cords can touch to produce voice. No more whispering! The injection is temporary, but I am being followed closely by a fabulous ENT.

I have had several victories over the last few weeks, but there have also been bumps in the road. Having a chronic illness, recovering from a long-term illness and recovering from surgery is a complicated process. Please continue to pray for healing and strength as I navigate all the complexities of my continued recovery.

Are you able to provide a meal on a day I have Day Rehab?: https://mealtrain.com/4rl838