Dear Friends and Family

It's been a month since Lance left New York City to begin his rehabilitation at Northeast. He struggled the first two weeks dealing with his new surroundings, doctors, therapist and the realization that this is going to be the place he will live for a long time. However, his desire to get better is evident as he works tirelessly with his therapists who tell me he is determined and attentive during his sessions and that desire is meaningful to his recovery. In an effort to incorporate alternative therapies into his treatment program we are investigating Holistic Doctors, Naturopathic Physicians and Acupuncturists in the Hudson Valley area to give Lance some of the more natural treatments he would prefer. I believe he will respond well to their intervention and hope I can bring them on board soon.

Although Lance is adjusting, he is clearly missing his friends, family and New York City. He is very busy during the week attending different Speech, Occupational and Physical Therapy sessions and is being introduced slowly to other activities offered at the facility. However, the weekends are for visitors and since he is 2 hours out of New York, that makes visiting inconvenient. I knew when I made the decision to send Lance to Northeast visiting would be an issue and a sacrifice but they offered more than any other rehab facility in the Northeast so the decision seemed clear. As you all know, Lance is all about his friendships and family. He prided himself in being loyal and available to those he was close with and you have all returned that loyalty to him during this difficult time in his life. He misses the familiar faces he saw with regularity during the 9 months he spent at St.Vincent's Hospital; that love and support got him to where he is today. We truly believe you were all instrumental in him surviving the stroke. You all gave him a reason to hang in there and weather the storm and where he is today is truly a miracle. His endurance has been tested big time and continues to be tested everyday as he faces daily challenges.

I guess what I'm hoping is that you will find the time to visit. Lance truly misses all of you and would be so happy to know he has not been forgotten. I realize this is asking a lot since it is not convenient but he is feeling a little isolated and lonely on the weekends. I know how much his relationships with friends, family and the incredible women in his life help him to reconnect to who he is and those memories are very precious to his recovery. So if you can find the time it would bring such a smile to his face and make his time at Northeast more enjoyable.

Fondly,
LaVerne