2 replies to this topic

[lovethyneighbor]

My father in law sustained a SCI at C3 which has been classified as Central Cord Syndrome. He is 73 years old and has come through the ICU, off the vent and into in-patient rehab over the course of 4 weeks. He had spinal stabilization surgery at day 11. He has some movement in his thumbs now and both feet. Our family is all close by and able to support him and his wife through this, we are just very unfamilliar with this Syndrome. He is at the NUMBER ONE Neuro ( by Time magazine) hospital in the country, so we are confident in the care, just would like to reach out for more information and support. Strangely, just over 2 years ago, our very close friend sustained a c5/c6 ( incomplete)compression fracture and we were very close, and still are, with his recovery and daily life. Of course, we know that no TWO SCI are alike even at the same level of injury, but it's such a difference in the two people and it's hard not to compare the recovery of the young friend ( age 38 ) to the relative. I am looking for information and support here, as I have been reading on this sight since our friend was injured 2 years ago. A wonderful resource for patients, family, friends and caregivers.
Thank you!

[wheeliebear75]

Yes it can be hard NOT TO "compare" but the truth is that having a higher up injury + the added years are likely to make the road to recovery a bit rougher AND longer.....but being that he's "at the best place" + has the support of family & friends, although it's still one of the longest and bumpiest roads you'll ever get through.....you WILL get through it & you'll get through it together. If you have any questions or just need to vent & scream kinda like a tea kettle on a stove.....much better to let off that steam than to let things boil over......& this is a great place to blow off some steam if not THE BEST. Keep us posted on your dad's recovery & get both your father & your guys' friend who was hurt earlier to join up if he isn't already a member. And remember that you still need to take care of YOU in order to take care of anything or anyone else.

[Tetracyclone]

Sounds like good progress at weeks. At 73 people will need to work overtime at keeping his limbs moving in order to ward off atrophy that would severely limit his progress.