Something was bothering Ryan all morning yesterday. Even now, I can’t determine a cause. He sat with his left leg completely straightened-out in spasm. His thigh muscle (quad) was working so hard I could feel the heat through his pants from the energy the muscle was burning. He sat like this for hours and hours.
Ryan's leg stayed in spasm for hours
Nothing seemed to work for more than a minute or so to stop the spasm. Finally, in one of occasional good decisions, I put him on the floor and stretched his entire body — head to toe — for 2 ½ hours. It worked! He was comfortable the remainder of the day.
Myself, on the other hand, well… I lost all feeling in my legs from sitting on the floor. Naturally, this is when the dogs, without the courtesy of even a warning yelp, decided they couldn’t wait another second to be taken outside.
Resulting from the FDA medicine recall scare the day before, I took the time to subscribe my Google Reader to get daily updates of drug recalls. This is crucial because it affords me the opportunity to be scared senseless even sooner.
Oh my, I know your day was a struggle and I am sorry for that but I have to say when I read this to my family we had a laugh. We can only imagine Duke doing his thing right in front of you, probably staring you straight in the eye. We really miss him. Ken you are amazingly intuitive, Ryan could not have a better care giver. I hope tomorrow is a peaceful day for all of you.
There is something about the floor. It’s soothing. That was smart thinking on Ken’s part. Ryan has come a very long way. Many blessings to the family, loyal friends, relatives for continuing to be there for Ryan.
Hello Ken, what wonderful treatment you gave Ryan, and it fixed the problem! Oh gosh, then your legs went numb from sitting on them — and the dogs did their business on the floor — sighhh — thank the Lord you have a sense of humor, not to mention a great deal of perspective. Do you get tired of people telling you that you’re amazing? I have to say it, because you are! Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this blog — I always learn something, and often ponder what you’ve said throughout the day. No wonder your kids are so wonderful. Still keeping the candle of hope and faith burning. Love and prayers, Paula
In all fairness to our dogs, I was so focused on Ryan that I wasn’t paying attention to them.
I know — and — the dogs are very special and we love them too! Even “underdog” with all the energy! All Duke needs to do is sit there and be Duke, and he is adored.
If we are home we are always happy to help with the dogs Ken. I hope Ryan has a good, calm day today. You too ; )
Hi Cheryl, I just wanted to say that you are a jewel of a person. I have deep respect and gratitude for you, and for the other neighbors in the court. Saying “thank you,” doesn’t even begin to cover it, but I hope you know how much your help is appreciated. Seeing your willingness to help has inspired me!
My prayers continue, for you and Ryan. Do you get any extra help during the day so you can leave your house for a few hours and re-group.
What a day… but once again, you got through it, Ken. It’s amazing how well you read Ryan and can determine just what he needs, and then take the time to provide it for him. You make so many good decisions for your precious son every day. Never doubt that. We are praying for continued wisdom and strength for you and Sue, and for God’s perfect timing and guidance to help you protect Ryan from every potential danger he is exposed to in this imperfect world.