The weeks remain busy at the Harbridge House. Ethan's mobility continues to improve each week. He has officially dropped the use of his cane both at home and out in public. Ethan is kept very busy at home with daily leg exercises and walking.  At the YMCA he is challenging his right leg with leg extensions, walking on the treadmill, and biking. This week we plan to incorporate electrotherapy on Ethan's right foot to stimulate his foot muscles. The AFO (ankle, foot, orthopedic) works well for Ethan; however the end goal for Ethan is to be able to walk without it. The E-stim will hopefully assist his brain in making the necessary neuro connections with his foot. 

Ethan's Occupational Therapy is working hard on the right arm and hand. Ethan is doing a lot of weight bearing exercises on his wrist and hand. He wears his glove at home and uses his right hand to help assist him in some day to day activities. We are also using electrotherapy on his arm at home.  Ethan's control in his right hand greatly improves after the E-stim. This week OT added exercises to help improve Ethan's  right eye deficit.  We  added optical exercises to our daily therapies at home. Jeff and I continue to learn so much from each and every one of Ethan's therapy appointments. 

As part of Ethan's overall recovery he has had several acupuncture therapies. Ethan has found acupuncture to be very beneficial both physically and mentally. Dr. Samantha Hotchkiss has taken the time to coach Ethan on his diet, and his overall health and wellness. Notably while Ethan had a cold for several weeks, he attributed acupuncture to relieving sinus pressure and congestion. Ginger tea has been added to his beverage list at home. 

Ethan's speech therapy continues to challenge his memory and to be honest, that includes our memories as well. We have learned there is are lots of exercises we can ALL do at home to help improve our memory.  Our at home exercises include card games, word exercises, and various other brain games. 

As for the summer, Ethan is enrolled in an online class through UW Lacrosse. He is so excited to officially be enrolled back in college.  Additionally he is enrolled in the fall semester to finish his remaining courses and graduate in December.  Ethan's journey forward remains a long one, however his positive attitude and determination certainly has helped him overcome so many obstacles he has faced since his AVM rupture February 6th.   

We continue to remain grateful for the support and prayers for Ethan, thank you.