After I posted earlier today, I got this note from Betty's daughter, Susan. Also if any of you want Betty's address to send her a card or note, I included my email address. Just email me and I will send her address to you.
Brenda
Hello,
I just wanted to send you all an update on Dad. On Tuesday Dad was moved to the rehabilitation floor of Mount Vernon Hospital, where he is getting OT, PT and Speech therapy every day. They have a pretty aggressive therapy schedule and Dad is making progress. He is able to move his right side of the body, he can stand briefly (10 seconds) with support, and he is able to talk in sentences when his trach is plugged. He has some weaknesses with his short term memory, so we frequently remind him of what he has done that day. He has quite a bit of strength, especially in his upper body. He has a good cough and is able to cough up any secretions so he does not need to have his trach suctioned anymore. His trach is plugged during the day, but is unplugged at night and when he is napping, because of his sleep apnea. When he first got to Mount Vernon, they said that he would probably be there about 3 to 4 weeks. We don't know yet if he will be ready to come home after his stay there, or if he will need to go to another rehab facility for a little while before coming home.