|
Roger H.  Ray Bey and Gramp Survivor Stroke Survivor and his "therapy" petI came to live with my family after my adoptive dad (Gramp) had a massive stroke. Gramp was determined to survive and regain control of his left side paralysis, and always talked about having a cat of his own. Encouraged by the doctors and therapists, since studies show pets are great therapy for stroke survivors, as well as caregivers, to relieve stress & offer motivation and affection, once Gramp returned home, my adoptive parents got on a list with an ocicat breeder. My name was given to me before I was born, so I have always been called "Ray Bey". Ray is a family name and Bey is for the Montagnard interpreter Gramp had while serving in the US Army Special Forces. Due to Gramp being on Warfarin for the stroke, I was declawed in the front so I couldn't scratch him and cause more problems. Every day I help Gramp with his home therapy he uses his left arm to play with me I chase toys that he throws and bring them back to do again. I also snuggle with him to take a nap. In the nice weather we go outside for walks (I walk with a leash beside his wheelchair) and we have picnics in the park where we soak up the sunshine. Although not the traditional "Face of Stroke", I am happy to be a part of recovery therapy caused by the devastation of stroke for both the survivor and caregiver in my adoptive family. |
|