David had his first shower since coming home a month ago. He no longer takes sponge baths in bed.
This is what the bathroom looked like after his first shower:
It was quite miraculous. I cannot believe how the occupational therapist managed to solve the problems inherent in giving this big man a shower. Believe it or not, numerous rehearsals had to be accomplished before the actual shower took place.
First, the wheels of the walker had to be turned inward in order to squeeze through the tight doorway.
David had to approach the shower bench, then turn the walker to the right, sit, swing his legs over the tub, and slide. Then, Julie, the bathing aide, had to remove the left leg brace. Then, she proceeded with the shower. She told David to shampoo and soap himself. She then sprayed him with water, trying not to get water on the floor.
After the shower, David was dried with a towel. Then, 2 bath mats were placed on the floor. He then slid along the bench and swung his legs over the tub while leaning his right hand on the vanity. Then, his brace was placed on his left leg. Then, he stood up, holding the walker. The bench and David’s butt were dried with a towel. Then, he sat down and was dressed by the aide. Then, he leaned on his walker, stood up and walked out of the bathroom.
Whew! All of this took an hour. David was absolutely thrilled with this amazing feat.