Well, it’s official.  The inmates have taken over the asylum!  The animals are running the zoo.  Marshall is now a flight risk and Michael was holding court within his hospital room, in a backless gown, very loosely tied,  before being discharged earlier this week.  Yes, the imagery is not easily forgotten!

Marshall’s successful surgery has now morphed to days and weeks of recovery and rehabilitation, with the expected pain and occasional setbacks that one would assume.  Just days into his recovery Marshall had the pleasure of returning to solid food, well, as solid as a hospital can make it, only to retract back to a puréed form in an attempt to relax his swelling neck.  Perhaps remarkably for us, but common to Marshall, these setbacks present a mere speed bump to a disposition built on the expectation things are just going to get better.  “I’m lucky I’m here!”  Marshall would tell you.  And in reality, nothing could be closer to the truth for his brother Michael!

As I mentioned, Michael was released mid day on Monday.  I am told he was not asked to leave, but I am still looking for a corroborating witness.  What a difference a week makes.  Last Wednesday was the first glimpse of Michael’s demeanor returning, albeit for only a brief moment.  An additional dose of the “clot buster” and Michael was back to “full strength” on Thursday.  Well almost.  I called Sharon on Thursday and immediately heard Michael’s animated chatter in the background.  Something about motorcycles, tires or an engine.  “Is that Michael talking?”  Sharon’s reply quick and cheerful, “Chad, he hasn’t stopped!”  By the end of Thursday Michael had begun early negotiations for his departure, leading hospital staff to gently apply caution while simultaneously introducing him to a cadre of therapists intent on helping him maximize his recovery.

Michael’s miraculous recovery was predicated by where he was standing when he had the stroke.  At his brother’s hospital bedside.  When I made this observation, as others had while visiting with Marshall, he was quick to respond; “Ah great!  Now he’ll blame everything on me!”  Complete with Marshall’s hearty giggle and a mischievous twinkle in his eye.  Due to the fact Michael was literally standing in Regions ICU when he had his stroke meant that within minutes life saving measures were being applied and potentially permanent damage was being prevented.  For all of the pain and suffering Marshall will bear, he was truly and perhaps unintentionally, his brothers keeper when Michael needed critical medical care the most.

The Brother’s Cook have a long recovery journey yet to unfold.  Both thrive on your love and support and are thankful to all who have been able to reach out.  Joanne and Sharon too have appreciated your thoughts, outreach and kindness.  They all have the gift of positivity, easily shaking off what many would consider life changing.  I am lucky to be their friend.

Have a great Fall!