On Tuesday, January 28, Barb suffered a stroke - technically a Basal ganglia capsule lacunar stroke. As a result, she has experienced near complete paralysis on her right side. Fortunately, her cognition is fully intact. However, the physical manifestations of the stroke has also made her speech slurred.
After initial treatment at Methodist Hospital, she was transferred to the inpatient rehabilitative unit at United Hospital in Saint Paul run by the Courage Kenny Institute. There, she is participating in daily physical, occupational, and speech therapy with the goal of improving her motor and speech skills so that she can return home. We are so thankful of the quality, compassionate care she has received so far by the wonderful staff at both Methodist and United.
Her husband Vern has been lovingly by her side day and night, regularly joined by their daughters Nancy and Patti. Her golden doodle Teddy is disappointed that he is not allowed to visit. For those humans wishing to stop in for a visit, we ask that you come after 4pm Mon-Sat or any time on Sunday. She will be busy with therapy during other times throughout the day, and as much as she would love to see you, it is important that she concentrate fully on that. And the visits will likely need to be short. Please text Patti (605.370.9900) or Nancy (651.402.8717) before coming over, just in case Barb is not feeling up for visitors at that time.
In the meantime, she would really benefit from hearing from you - not only to send healing thoughts and prayers, but also just to hear what’s going on with you. Those who know Barb well can appreciate how important it is to her to stay connected with her friends and family. So, please don’t hesitate to send her photos and stories of what you are doing - it really raises her spirits. And of course, she always loves a good joke! You can send those directly via text or email to Barb or Vern or post them here.
We will post occasional updates here on the CaringBridge site. Obviously, progress will take some time, but we are hopeful and optimistic that Barb and her care team (professionals, family, and friends) will help her gain more and more functionality in the days and weeks ahead.
