Christmas 2015

It’s been a few weeks since I updated everyone on my progress and I wanted to get in here and share what I think is good news. Today is Christmas Eve and I’ve had two more follow-up appointments since my last update. My intrathecal Baclofen (ITB) pump dose is now at 500 mcg/day and the spasticity of my left leg, ankle, and foot is nearly gone. My left hand is still lagging behind just a little bit, but still, it is better.
Since things have improved enough to allow me to start setting new goals for myself, I started back to school on December 7. I got to where I was comfortable enough to sit at my desk and do course-work. I just wanted another degree in a field where I have great interest. I enrolled at ITT Technical Institute and am working toward a Bachelor’s Degree of Information Systems & Cyber Security—who knows where that could lead in the future? I’m just enjoying learning and making good grades again—I’ve missed accomplishing things like that and am very thankful to be able to do it again! I must say, I am totally impressed with the level of professionalism and customer service at ITT Tech. I have an assigned counselor, Mark, that really went above and beyond to get me started and he still calls every few days to make sure all is going well.
Additionally, I began working out this morning—especially focusing on strengthening my left leg. My left leg felt like a boiled noodle when I finished. I anticipate some soreness over the next few days, but soreness means “progress”—bring it on!
Anyway, I just wanted to drop in and update everyone. I hope you all have a very merry Christmas!

Born: July 22, 1941
Died: December 19, 2015

http://www.mckneelys.com/home/index.cfm/obituaries/view/fh_id/10545/id/3531997