As we kick into springtime in Chicago, Mike’s abilities continue to grow like the weeds in my yard! His latest accomplishments including: driving around the neighborhood, programming web pages and talking on the phone. He has been so encouraging to watch over all the ups and downs that come with recovering from a major stroke I have even begun to take up some things in my own life I have given up on before. Ok, I’m not sure if my neighbors appreciate my armature guitar playing (since it sounds like strangling cats) but I know if Mike can overcome hurdles, then so can I. Mike has finished his clinical therapy and continues to work on his speech at home. He has such great days we can chat over the phone about programming and I forget there’s anything wrong. Of course not every day is like that but I’m seeing more and more “really good” days it’s thrilling to know he’s getting closer to that 100% place we all want him to be.

It’s amazing how when one person is hit with something like this, just out of the blue, it has measureable effects on everyone around. People pull together, sometimes drift apart, and maybe each of us takes a moment to really look at where we are in life. What is it all really about. What really matters. Who are your friends and family. Who you are.