Mariah’s Reemergence

Mariah is adjusting to her new quarters at Walter Reed. She eats every chance she gets.

Saturday she walked with assistance around the ward. On Sunday, she ate a lot and had an MRI that shows no unexpected damage beyond what she suffered in the original stroke. Today she had a rigorous sit-stand-walk workout in the PT gym, followed by dozens of tricky and fun questions from her speech therapist conducting an assessment. Did I mention she’s a great eater?

Unfortunately, an expected visit to the beauty shop was vetoed by the doctors who don’t want her leaving the ward yet, leading to disappointment. But a quick regroup by the nurses resulted in a new plan to get her a shower on the ward and a mini-makeover in her room. Depending on the results, we may yet get a photo op.

She’s trying to be a good sport, and the nurses, therapists, and her family are making a mighty effort to thwart boredom. But she’s used to a marching band and now there’s only the buzz of a kazoo, albeit an enthusiastic one. We’re all hoping the doctors’ predictions of a rapid stabilization and return to Richmond are correct.

Blessings on all who continue to love and support Captain K., especially the terrific staff at Walter Reed.

– Mark