Good morning, everyone!

Just finished my first four days of therapy at the VA Medical Center (Jefferson Barracks) in St. Louis. Evaluated by OT/PT last Wednesday. My OT is using an apparatus to strengthen my deltoid muscles in both shoulders and using games to improve dexterity with the fingers on my right hand. It did not take long to feel the pain, but by Friday I could feel the gain…I’m pleased! I’m also very optimistic that I will make great strides while here and will see improvement with my right arm and hand.

I was given another honest assessment regarding the prospect of ever walking again or seeing any real use of my legs—looks like I’ll be wheelchair bound, but I’m okay with this. My PT will do range of motion on my legs to keep them flexible and nimble.

She also shared great news with me that she’s made the decision to replace my existing power chair. The chair I’ve been using has turned out to be a bit of a lemon and has been giving me a lot of trouble of late. It’s getting the boot as soon as my replacement chair arrives in 4-6 weeks. My new chair is coming from a different vendor and, after meeting with the sales rep on Friday, I’m thrilled with the bells and whistles it will have.

My voice continues to get stronger every day since my vocal cord surgery three weeks ago. I have a follow-up visit with my doctor in Nashville scheduled for October 7th…so far, so good.

Finally, I still plan to attend the St. Louis Scottish Games on September 28th and hope to see many of my friends and fans while there.

Life is good; I have many positive things going on right now and am truly happy!

All the best,
Alex