Today marks the start of Marcus’ rehabilitation journey at Shirley Ryan Ability Lab. The day consisted of the first round of assessments done by the team. They confirmed the previously presumed diagnosis of a Disorder of Consciousness (DOC); he currently remains in the minimally conscious phase. There are several levels within this disorder ranging from coma to full recovery. Marcus is doing purposeful movements but not consistent command following. If you’re interested in learning more about the specifics of this there is a chart below as well as a link. 

https://www.aapmr.org/about-physiatry/conditions-treatments/rehabilitation-of-central-nervous-system-disorders/disorders-of-consciousness

Today’s therapy work recap:
“All therapies are done for the day with Blair, Brian and Britney. They all commented on how strong and responsive he is based on his reactions to them. 

Brittany is a former basketball player, so she was telling him that they would be playing horse at some point and to get ready to be beat by a girl. She said she was going to order a different type of brace for his hands rather than us using the towels and rolls for him. She said she wants him to be able to keep his shooting form once he recovers.  Brittany told him they would be having a Jordan versus LeBron debate just as soon as he wakes.

They all say it’s going to be just a matter of them figuring out how to get the brain to refire, so there will be some trial and error, but they have pretty good ideas for things they want to try in the beginning. There are some things that they see from working with these type patients that make them have a pretty good idea of how recovery could be and all three said they feel that way about Marcus even though they can’t explain exactly what it is. That makes them know.”

With day one in the books we are feeling excited and optimistic about the resources and expertise that SRALAB has on hand and are already extending to Marcus.