Running a little behind....

Not sure if I have just been that busy or plain out putting off this update.

This has been a busy few weeks. Of course Easter and Ruthie turned 3 on Friday. She is very excited over her Zhu Zhu pets, new wardrobe and the bike Grandma and Grandpa got her. Mikayla returns to school today - though she INSISTS she's not going. Ruthie told Grandma that Daddy was being mean making 'Kayla go to school.

Ok - now Jim.

Symptoms have certainly been showing up this month. He is showing a lot of increased aggitation this last month. Some of this has caused irrational responses or behaviors. I have found that it is best to redirect his attention when this happens if at all possible. (this is an FTD symptom)

Another reminder of the FTD is his continued lack of self awareness. We find him "wandering" across the street and parking lots with out looking. Even Mikayla has warned him on this one.

I have taken greater control over his medications, especially the ones on an "as needed" basis. He has difficulty figuring out how much he can take and how often.

He continues to show increased stiffness or rigidness especially in his upper body. We have an appointment on Wednesday to get a referral for physical therapy to come to our house. He was given stretching exercises to follow at the ALS clinic in January but hasn't managed to do so. After some discussion we think that having someone showing him these in house may help.

He has had an increase in his drop foot (or feet in this case?) This causes almost a constant shuffle in his walk. His hands are more unsteady and he is experiencing an increase in pain especially when active. This will also be addressed at Wednesday's appointment. I am trying to convince him not to over exert himself but sitting around drives him crazy.

He is on the waiting list for a loaner wheelchair. Though he does not "need" it now I am trying to convince him to use one so he does not fatigue himself while walking at places like the mall. I am trying to get ahead of the game on this one.

Perhaps his biggest change - and the most significant - is Jim is no longer staying home alone or with the kids. This has been a big adjustment for us all. Trying to get someone to watch your kids and husband has been a little difficult. Mom has been a tremendous help in this area. She has been playing chauffer while I am at work and hosting sleepovers for Jim, the kids and the dogs. She is also spending a few nights at our house to help out. Jim IS aware of this change, even joking about having a babysitter. I have explained the safety aspect to him and he seems to accept it.

Now we are just praying for another plateau in the progression. We have had enough changes for now - time to adjust again.

PLEASE PRAY - IT IS THE BIGGEST THING YOU CAN DO FOR HIM.