I was able to witness Sam's Vitalstim therapy first hand--what an experience.  I don't think I've laughed that hard in the last nine months! 

The therapy starts with electrodes being attached to Sam's cheeks and throat.  These electrodes are connected to wires which feed into this little machine.  What happens is electrical currents stimulate these muscles that are weak from the accident and help retrain and strengthen them.  But a happy side effect is it also causes the helpless victim make some really excellent faces!  I have a wonderfully hilarious picture, but Sam made me promise not to post it on the website (too bad.)  But here's what happened...Sam went from looking at me with a very impassive look on his face to, suddenly, half of his face jerking up into a really excellent imitation of The Joker of Batman fame.  His nose got into the action, too, with the left nostril hooking up toward his eye and the tip becoming very white and pointy.  And, finally, as I sat there, laughing so hard I started to cry, his eye also started to wink at me.  That is when I lost it (and he was cracking up, too.)  I finally had to turn around and face the wall so I wouldn't disturb any more of the therapy. (I had a contraction just thinking about it--so funny!)  Sam also confirmed that if the roles were reversed he would also be laughing and pointing at my twitchy face.  (After all...what are siblings for?)

But the vitalstim does seem to be working for him.  He was able to swallow without sticking out his tongue (a first), cough on command (another first) and he swallowed five spoonfuls of chocolate pudding with very little coughing.  Another great side effect of the therapy is his speech is much clearer since the therapy started (it works on the muscles of the face, too.) 

I'm so very proud of him, he is such a trooper.  Tomorrow for Thanksgiving he is making his yearly dish--Tuna Salad (he's been in charge of it since he was six or so...).  So enjoy your Thanksgiving and all those people who are special in your lives.  And remember to be thankful for all that you have...I know we are!

Love,

Bec and the rest of Sam's fam