Journal entry by Charlotte Shristi —
I think mom would appreciate getting a phone call or even a short skype or What'sApp call from family and friends (especially if you forgot to send a card:) to help her celebrate her big day, September 3rd. Because they will probably go to church in the morning, and she needs a nap to recover, it would be good to spread the calls out over a few days leading up to her birthday. See contact info below.....
It seems to me that her life has become quite isolated and lonely since her stroke, because of the severe damage to the language part of her brain (known as aphasia and apraxia to those interested in medical language). She can't pick up the phone and call you like she used to, or even communicate with you over the phone. She uses hand gestures, body language, facial expressions and pointing to words on lists/charts, so a video call is really the only way to have an interaction with her. You could call on the phone if you'd just like to say happy birthday, but I recommend a video call to feel more connected. Please speak slowly and clearly, and give her plenty of time to respond. Her language comprehension was also affected.
How to get ahold of her!
- Call dad's cell phone number: 1 319 430-1384 (most likely to result in successful initial contact)
- Try their Skype account: kenoreen (if they don't answer, call dad's cell to give them a head's up)
- Try mom's cell phone number: 1 319 430-9548 (not sure she will answer but worth a try)
Thanks everyone for helping make her birthday a special day for her!
Please share this info with other family members and friends who might want to join the birthday shower!
Charlotte
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Noreen Stay Connected to Family and Friends
A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Noreen's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?
