Therapy is definitely not for the faint at heart. The rehabilitation process can be long with many ups and downs along the way. It takes strength, dedication, time, support and good ol’ fashion grit to conquer your goals. Who said it was going to be easy? No one. As a matter of fact it’s hard work. However, with the right mindset and a great support team you have what you need for this incredible journey.
What does it mean to embrace? Embrace is defined as the act of accepting or supporting something willingly or enthusiastically. It is also defined as holding something closely. Support your rehab process and hold your goals close. They mean so much to you and as the saying goes anything worth having, is worth fighting for.
It is so important to celebrate your success along the way. No milestone is too small. Participate in a celebration break with cupcakes and ice cream (as long as it doesn’t violate any dietary restrictions). Sometimes we’re so focused on where we want to go, we’re unable to see how far we’ve come. We can become so distracted by how things use to be, we overlook the superhero living amongst us.
I’ve worked with clients who could only speak 1 or 2 words following their stroke and now can hold a conversation with friends, family and even strangers. Was it easy? No. How long did it take? Months and sometimes years. Are there things to continue to work on? Of course. One of the first things I encourage my clients to do is to keep a journal. It can be the traditional book or a video journal. I ask them to document themselves on a daily or weekly basis speaking, reading, writing or working on household tasks. I also encourage them to document their feelings too. I want to encourage you to do the same. At different intervals review the journal. It will surprise you!! When you’re able to see where you’ve been it’s easier to gird up and stay focus on where you want to go. It’s a great way to pull yourself out of a pity party and spark motivation.
Embrace the race and stay in the fight. You’ve come too far to quit now.
Dandelion Speech Language Pathology Services 