This week has been very good for Sherrie. Virtually every day she made significant progress that pleased and amazed her therapists. The other day she held her head up for 8 minutes, took 5 pegs out of the peg board and even put chap stick on her lips. She is becoming more aware of her surroundings and care givers every day. It is not unusual to have a therapist after their session say goodbye and see my sweetheart lift her hands and wave her fingers. Today I was siting by her side talking about what had been going on in the world when she lifted her head a few inches toward my face, closed her eyes and wanted a kiss. I can't explain the joy and gratitude I felt.
Sherrie and I have sung "You Are My Sunshine" to each other for many years. We have tried to do it in two part harmony, but it doesn't work so well and we end up just laughing at one another. Today, I decided to sing it to her, but before I started, I told her I needed her to help me. As I started to sing, I saw her lips move so I would stop and then ask, "are you singing with me?" she then moved her head ever so slightly up and down for "yes". I started again, and after reminding her to sing with me, she would move her lips again. While there was no real noise, I was honored that she would remember a song that has been important to us for many years. She really is "My sunshine".
Our journey continues and we are still standing. Some days are more difficult than others, but we remain very greatful to see our mother, grandmother, friend and wife making regular progress. She is with us, aware of us and fighting like crazy to make it back. We know the source of these rich blessings and we stand in awe of the Lord's love and mercy. I sincerely thank all who keep my dear wife in thoughts and prayers. You are an important part of our journey. The Labrum and Christensen clan pray for you and your goodness continually.
Sherrie and I have sung "You Are My Sunshine" to each other for many years. We have tried to do it in two part harmony, but it doesn't work so well and we end up just laughing at one another. Today, I decided to sing it to her, but before I started, I told her I needed her to help me. As I started to sing, I saw her lips move so I would stop and then ask, "are you singing with me?" she then moved her head ever so slightly up and down for "yes". I started again, and after reminding her to sing with me, she would move her lips again. While there was no real noise, I was honored that she would remember a song that has been important to us for many years. She really is "My sunshine".
Our journey continues and we are still standing. Some days are more difficult than others, but we remain very greatful to see our mother, grandmother, friend and wife making regular progress. She is with us, aware of us and fighting like crazy to make it back. We know the source of these rich blessings and we stand in awe of the Lord's love and mercy. I sincerely thank all who keep my dear wife in thoughts and prayers. You are an important part of our journey. The Labrum and Christensen clan pray for you and your goodness continually.
I can see in my head the picture of Sherrie lifting hers for a kiss from you. Makes me smile to know that some things will never change. Love you guys!!
ReplyDeleteSuch great news!! I love how she is doing all that she can to show you guys how much she is fighting! All Zachs friends are so so happy that she is making such outstanding progress. We couldn't be happier for Zach, along with all of you! Let her now how proud I am of her for her amazing determination to get better. Love you all! -Molly White
ReplyDeleteThe news all week has been so beautiful and heart touching. We have been sharing her progress with our children who also include her in their prayers. Thank you for sharing your sunshine with us. Sherrie truly is a ray of sunshine in the love that radiates through all she is doing to connect with each of her loved ones. Sherrie -- you are a beautiful example to us and so is your wonderful husband! We love you and continue to pray for you.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Elise and Jim Bouc
I so love your note about singing and communicating with her. Music has always been such a powerful link. It reminded me of the last time I saw my mom here on earth last June. Brad and I had just finished singing several hymns to her as she was lying in bed in her advanced state of Alzheimers. Just as we were about to leave I gave her a kiss goodbye and I could feel her trying to kiss me back. Then Brad said, "Bye grandma" and she raised her arm up and waved goodbye to us. It was another testament to me that although trapped in a body that may have difficulties moving and communicating the spirit is still vibrant and alive inside and can connect with ours in small and simple ways if we are sensitive and are watching for it. What a beautiful blessing life is and what joy is the Plan of Salvation in eternal families. I'm so happy to hear of her continued progress. We love you all so much and continue to put her name as well as your whole family in the temple and in our personal prayers.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Sherra Schupple
Thank you for these updates, I look forward to seeing them and seeing the progress that Sherrie is making. I know that she is an incredibly blessed lady, and so is your family. I am grateful for this church, and to know that we can turn to the Lord whenever we need him for the strength we need. I have learned over the last few months now thanks to you guys, that extreme patience is required for these types of injuries, and I know that in the end, no matter how long it takes, that she will pull through this, and be stronger for it. Thank you again for being such great examples to all of us.
ReplyDeleteWhat great news! Those must be such tender moments for both you and Sherrie! I'm not sure how the speaking valve is going but singing might be good incentive to have her practice vocalizing again (that's the speech pathologist in me talking;)
ReplyDeleteHello Labrums,
ReplyDeleteGreetings from Cincinnati! We love keeping up on the blog and continue to include your family in our prayers. We are so happy to hear of Sherrie's daily victories and count ourselves among many who have been blessed by your "sunshine." She brightened so many of our lives over the years! Hugs and kisses to Sherrie!
Love,
Claire Schrecengost and family
Ron and family...
ReplyDeleteWe are so happy to hear of Sherrie's continued success, along with the kindness of you and those taking care of her. We pray that God may continue to abundantly bless you all. Thank you for sharing these special tender moments.
With love from, Frank and Janet
Ron and family,
ReplyDeleteI so look forward to these updates of Sherrie's progress. Thanks for sharing the news of your Sunshine with all of us. It seems that she is making good progress, and I continue to hope and pray for the best for all of you.
Love and hugs,
Avis