Diagnostic
Sunday
Today Clark and Lois were woken up by Julie and Anne
- Good morning Mr and Mrs Kent - greeted Anne, while Julie left the tray with Clark's breakfast on the table
- How did you sleep Mr. Kent? - Julie asked.
- Fine, thanks - Clark replied.
- Wasn't it uncomfortable to sleep on your left side? - asked Anne
- No... When can I be on my back again? - Clark asked.
- That's why we came, to help him change position - Julie replied with a smile
- Great - Clark replied.
The change of position was not difficult, nor painful for Clark. As always Anne and Julie worked with very coordinated movement
- Enjoy your breakfast, Dr. Klein will come to see you a little later today... - Julie said before leaving the room
- How do you feel today? - Lois asked when they were alone.
- Fine... How did you sleep?
- Okay - Lois said, as she moved the table closer to Clark so he could eat - I'll go get some coffee and I'll be right back, ok?
- Ok... Before you go, would you pass me the glucometer
- Sure - Lois said, handing him the machine that had been left on the nightstand.
A couple of hours later Dr. Klein entered the room.
- Good morning
- Good morning Dr. Klein
- How did you sleep Clark? - asked Dr. Klein - how are you doing with the pain?
- Well... The pain has decreased a bit compared to yesterday..
- Excellent - answered Dr. Klein, writing down everything Clark told him - and have you been using the glucometer? Any change?
- No change yet
- Well... In that case let's call the others
- Very well Clark - Dr. Klein said before beginning - today you will have to help us a little...
- With what? - Clark asked confused.
- You will make the last effort to sit down - explained Sean, who had come early today - we will lift you up most of the way, but you will have to do the last push...
- Oh ok...
- Also, this time your legs won't be hanging over the side of the bed - explained Sean - since we will take advantage of doing new exercises
- Ok... - Clark replied, somewhat anxious about what he would have to do today.
Dr. Klein, along with Anne and Julie began to sit Clark down, but when Clark was already at approx 45, Sean climbed onto the bed (very carefully) and positioned himself on his knees (with his legs spread above Clark) in front of Clark. Meanwhile Julie and Anne had released Clark, and hisweight was only supported by Dr. Klein
- Well Clark, it's your turn to make the last effort - Sean said - you can try to do it by yourself or take my hands to give you something to pull
- Ok... - said Clark, who, somewhat insecurely, preferred to take Sean's hands.
Taking Sean's hands, Clark gave himself a little initial momentum, but quickly stopped pulling Sean's arms and ended up sitting up, straining only with his abs.
- Excellent Clark! - Sean congratulated him, as soon as Clark was seated and with his legs stretched out on the bed - did you feel any pain?
- Um... No... - Clark replied.
- It was too difficult? - asked Dr. Klein
- A little... but less than I expected - Clark replied very happy
- Great, keep in mind that it might be a little more difficult to balance with your legs on the bed - Sean said, as he climbed out of bed.
- Are you ready for me to let go? - asked Dr. Klein
- Yes... - Clark said, to his relief he was able to keep his balance without major problems when Dr. Klein released him.
- Excellent - said Sean - so now we will use the time that you manage to stay seated to do some exercises
Sean went over to the bag he had brought with him, and pulled out a ball, about the size of a handball ball
- The first thing we're going to do is I'm going to put this ball on the bed to your right - Sean said, putting the ball on the bed to Clark's right. The ball was next to the middle of his thigh, and about 30 cm tonthe right from his leg - and with your left hand you should take it and leave itnat the same place but on the left side
- Ok... - Clark said, stretching out his left arm to reach the ball.
- Very good - Sean said when he saw how Clark performed the exercise without problem - now take the ball with your right hand and leave it at the starting point
- Ok... - Clark said, very satisfied with what he was achieving.
- Excellent Clark - said Dr. Klein - how is the pain?
- Well... It hasn't increased
- Good, remember that we can stop as soon as you feel that you have reached your limit
- Yes I know...
- Okay, let's do a couple more reps then - Sean said.
- Now I'll put the ball a little further - Sean said, putting the ball to his right, this time next to Clark's knees, and about 30cm from his legs - if you feel you need to use the other hand for support, you can do it, no problem
- Okay...
- This exercise will be a little more difficult since you will have to lean forward a little to be able to reach the ball - Sean explained - and as soon as you leave it on the other side you will have to throw yourself back again
- Oh... ok... - said Clark, who lost his balance a bit when trying to stretch to catch the ball, so he decided to use his right hand as a support on the bed. By doing this he was able to take the ball and leave it to his left without problems, but lean back was not so easy -... Phew... I almost didn't make it
- You did very well - said Sean - let's try now with the right hand, and from there we will do a couple of repetitions as we did with the previous exercise
- Okay...
- Very good honey - Lois said very happy for Clark - you have done very well
- Thanks - Clark said with a smile.
- How's the pain Clark? - asked Dr. Klein - shall we continue?
- Yes... I can go on a little more.
- Very good! That's the attitude - Sean said enthusiastically - in that case we'll move the ball away again, this time to the middle of your calf.
- Oh... - Clark said, thinking how hard it would be to go back. In the previous exercise he had managed to do it, but it required a bit of effort not to lose his balance -... ok
- Well... First with the left hand - said Sean - support your right hand, if you move it a little away from your body it comes out easier... Like this
Clark followed Sean's instructions calmly, he didn't want to lose his balance and fall forward. Dr. Klein was intent on watching what was happening as he took notes, while Anne and Julie kept an eye out (one on each side of Clark) in case Clark lost his balance.
With some effort Clark managed to get the ball to the left of him, but he was having trouble getting back.
- Rest your left hand on the bed, so you'll keep your balance... - Sean said, guiding him - ... Now try to push yourself backwards... If you can't do it in one push, it doesn't matter, you can move your left hand little by little backward
Again Clark followed Sean's instructions. He couldn't make the necessary push to go back, so he had to lean on his left hand to get back to his original position.
- Brilliant! - Sean said - how is the pain? Shall we try it the other way?
- Uff... - said Clark, who was already a little tired - yes... Let's try it
Clark managed to perform the exercise with his right hand, and as in the previous attempt, he had to lean on his other hand to be able to go back. However, on the third attempt on the left side, he was able to push himself back without support.
- Excellent Clark! - Lois said excitedly.
- That was very good Clark - Sean congratulated him - I think that's enough for now... What do you think?
- Yes... - Clark answered tiredly.
- Well, in that case Julie and Anne will help you lie down - said Dr. Klein
- Thank you - Clark said once he was lying down again.
- You did very well Clark - Sean told him - we'll try again later
- Ok... Thanks Sean - Clark said
- Thank you all for the help - said Dr. Klein, subtly inviting the others to leave the room - now I'll check Clark
- Oh, sure... See you in a bit Clark - Sean said, leaving the room followed by Anne and Julie
- You were amazing honey - said Lois - you were sitting for 20 min
- And you maintained the position at all times, even with Sean's exercises - added Dr. Klein
- It wasn't easy - Clark said.
- How was the pain? - asked Dr. Klein
- Well... I think the maximum was 5, with the last exercise... But the majority were between 3 and 4 - Clark replied relieved, sitting was much easier with the pain decreasing
- Fantastic - said Dr. Klein writing down in his notebook - at what time did you use the glucometer for the last time?
- At breakfast... It was 8:30, I think
- In that case, it's time to use it again - said Dr. Klein, who took the machine from the nightstand and handed it to Clark.
- Ouch... - Clark said when the small needle tried to enter his finger and got stuck in the middle.
- Let me see - said Dr. Klein, approaching to observe Clark's finger and the needle - ... It didn't bend... But it definitely had a hard time entering
- Could it be a faulty needle? - Lois asked.
- It's an option - replied Dr. Klein - ... Give me your other hand Clark
It was Dr. Klein who used the glucometer this time, pricking the index finger of Clark's other hand. Again the needle had trouble going in
- Ouch...
- Definitely not the needle - as he carefully removed the small needle from Clark's finger - ...The myelography can't wait any longer...I'll call Julie and Anne
- Oh... Ok - Clark answered nervously
- Calm down honey... - Lois said as soon as they were alone - whatever the result... we will always be here with you... you know that
- ... - Clark didn't say anything, and he just gave a big sigh trying to calm down a bit - ... Could you call my parents and let them know?
- Sure, honey, I'll let them know.
At that moment the others returned to the room, bringing a stretcher so they could move Clark to the room where the exam would take place. Before Clark was taken away, Lois approached him.
- Good luck - she told him, and then she gave him a passionate kiss.
- We will be back very soon - said Dr. Klein
While Clark was being tested, Lois did as she had promised, call his parents.
- Hello?
- Hi Jonathan
- Hi, Lois. How is everything there?
- Fine... Clark made great advances today... he sat for 20 min, and did various exercises
-That's my boy!
- And ...
- And? What's up Lois?
- His invulnerability started to come back... Dr. Klein is doing the myelography right now
- Oh, god... Let me tell Martha, she's with John... Martha!
- In fact, Jonathan, I think the best thing is for you to come here...
- What's going on? - Martha was heard saying in the background
- The best thing will be that we all be here with Clark when Dr. Klein has the results... - Lois said, taking a deep breath before continuing - either to receive good or bad news.
- Jonathan? What's going on? - Martha was heard saying more and more worried
- You're right Lois, we'll go there.
- See you soon... - Lois said, ending the call
Lois was very distressed and worried about the result of the myelography... From the bottom of her soul she wanted the result to be good... But her brain kept reminding her that the chances were low...
- I hope they manage to get there before Dr. Klein returns with the results... - Lois said, slumping on the sofa - ... I don't know if I could be enough support for Clark if it's bad news.
Lois held her head in both hands and leaned back on the sofa, silent tears rolling down her cheeks.
- Please, please don't let it be bad news... - she said, very anguished
All these days Lois had been strong in front of Clark, she had to support him at this moment, not be another cause of her concern... But it was difficult, so very difficult... And emotionally exhausting...
Now that she thought about it, Clark must be repressing his emotions too... He had had some moments where he had been a bit pessimistic, but... He hadn't shown much of being angry, sad, frustrated, or scared... Maybe it was good that Clark talk to someone? A psychologist?
- Ugh! This is torture! - Lois said standing up, and beginning to walk from one side of the room to the other.
- Lois? - someone said from the door, interrupting Lois' tireless walk
- Martha! Jonathan! - Lois said relieved to see them arrive - I'm glad you arrived...
- Clark isn't back yet? - asked Martha, pulling John out of his stroller.
-;No... But it shouldn't be long... - Lois replied, taking John in her arms. -;Hi, honey... You're going to give daddy a big surprise
- How are you Lois? - asked Martha, remembering that she had seen her pacing around
- Fine... Nervous... Anxious... - Lois said, pacing back and forth.
- I know dear... We are the same - answered Martha, taking her husband's arm
- But we must keep calm... We have to be able to transmit calm to Clark - said Jonathan
- I know, I know... And I really have these days... But now...
Just at that moment the door of the room opened, they brought Clark back
- Oh, you are all here - said Dr. Klein
- Mom? Dad? - Clark asked confused, as they passed him to his bed.
As always, Dr. Klein waited for Anne and Julie to leave the room to start talking.
- Well... said De. Klein, taking his laptop to be able to show them the images - ... These are the images from Thursday...
- Okay...
- And these are today's - said Dr. Klein, showing the images obtained, with a serious tone he added - I'm sorry to tell you that there is no change between them...
Hearing this, Lois squeezed Clark's hand tightly, but she didn't say anything, waiting for Dr. Klein continued with his explanation.
- As you know, the theory was that if your speed healing was able to regenerate your spinal cord, we could see some change in the images... - said Dr. Klein - ... But it wasn't like that... This could be because your spinal cord, just like ours, does not have the capacity to regenerate... Or that its regeneration is slow, and that after only three days we cannot see the changes...
- Do you really think that's an option? - asked Jonathan
- It's possible, although highly unlikely, since Clark's speed healing is been at its maximum capacity since a few days ago... - said Dr. Klein - ... Anyway, if this were the case, just the time will tell... Since from now on the only way to perform a myelography would be exposing Clark to kryptonite...
- In that case it's best to assume this is permanent - Clark said in a monotone. Up until now Clark had been silent and not moving a muscle, Dr. Klein's words had hit him like a bucket of cold water - I don't think that's a real possibility...
- Oh, Clark... - Martha said, hugging her son.
- I'm very sorry Clark, I really would have liked to give you good news - said Dr. Klein
- It's not your fault Dr. Klein - Clark replied with a sigh - you've done everything possible
- ... I'll leave you alone for now, so you can talk... - said Dr Klein, approaching the door - I'll come back later, then we'll talk about what's coming later
- No, Dr Klein... - Clark said, before he could leave - ...Could you tell me now, just in a general way...
- Clark... - Martha said.
- No mom, it's okay... - Clark replied - ... I need to know...
- Well... Due to the nature of the injury, and the great damage to the spinal cord... Your official diagnosis is paraplegia, due to a complete rupture of the spinal cord - said Dr. Klein - so you will need to use wheelchair...
- Will I be able to use canes or some other thing?
- No... The injury is complete... yoi won't regain your movement
- Oh...
- Kelly and Sean will help you in your rehabilitation... - Dr. Klein said - and soon we'll take you outside so you can get some sun... With this your powers should come back faster, and your recovery in general would be better. and speed up...
- Ok... - Clark answered, still with a monotonous tone and without emotion
- But we'll talk about that later, okay? - said Dr. Klein, approaching the door again - I'll leave you...
- Thank you Dr. Klein - said Martha
- Honey, are you ok? - Lois asked, trying to keep her composure.
- Yes, of course I am... - Clark answered, as if nothing had happened - ... You'll have to call the owner of the house that you went to see with Jimmy...
- That can wait, Clark... - Lois answered, somewhat worried about Clark's reaction.
- Why wait? You heard Dr. Klein... It's official...
- Honey... - Martha said, in a soothing tone trying to make her son look into her eyes - ... It's not good that you ignore how you feel
- I'm not ignoring it... It's just that... - Clark answered.
- It's okay if you're angry Clark...- Jonathan said - or sad...
- Or scared... Or frustrated - added Lois
- Or nervous... - said Martha - or wanting to scream or cry...
- No... I just ..
- Clark... You know we won't judge you - said Martha - and to be honest, we also want to scream and cry...
- Let it out Clark - Lois said, as a tear slipped down her cheek.
- I... - Clark said, but he couldn't continue as tears began to come out uncontrollably from his eyes.
- Oh, honey... - Martha said, hugging her beloved son, -;...everything is going to be alright...
Clark hugged Martha with all of her strength... he was once again a scared child where only his mother's hug could calm him down. Lois hugged little John while silent tears fell down his cheek, while Jonathan approached his son and began to stroke his hair.
- Everything is going to be fine son... We're here with you... - Jonathan said with great tenderness - ... Your mom and I are here, don't worry... And now you also have Lois and John...
- Everything will be fine honey - Martha repeated - your strength isn't what makes you strong, is you heart... This is just another challenge that you will accomplish and show us that you can do anything
After a few minutes Clark began to calm down, and he was able to pull away from Martha.
-Thanks mom, dad... Honey... - Clark said, taking off his glasses to dry his tears - ...I needed that...
- We know honey, it's fine - answered Martha sweetly
- John also wants a hug from his daddy - Lois said, offering the little one to Clark.
- Come with daddy - said Clark, taking John in his arms - I'm so sorry that we will never be able to play soccer or baseball together...
- That's not true Clark... - Jonathan said - there are all kinds of sports that can be played even while in a wheelchair... Have you never seen the Paralympics?
- He's right, plus you're the only one who can take him flying around the city - Lois added with a smile.
- You'll see that you won't miss any moment with John because of this - Martha added.
- Yeah... I hope so... - Clark said, concentrating on playing with John - ... Seriously, Lois should call the owner of the house...
- Clark, that can wait a few minutes... - Lois said - ...I want to be here with you...
- I know... And I really appreciate that you are here with me... But the sooner you make the call, the better... It's something less to worry about...
- Ok,... I'll go make the call if that calms you down - Los said, standing up - I'll be right back
- Mom? Dad?... Do you really think I can handle this? - Clark asked them when Lois leave the roon
- We have no doubt about it, honey - said Martha.
- What about superman? - asked Clark annoyed.
- What about him? When your powers fully return, Superman will too - replied Jonathan
- But how? With the chair I will not be able to excuse...
- Oh, honey... - Martha interrupted him - That's a logistical thing that we'll have to solve... But not a skill issue
- Don't worry Clark, we'll think of something together.
- Thank you... - Clark said with a sincere smile, he didn't know what he would do without the support of his parents.
Lois decided to go out to the laboratory gardens to talk on the phone, she still felt overwhelmed by the news that Dr. Klein had given them and she needed some air. Sitting on a bench, she took out her cell phone.
The first thing would be to call the owner of their next new house
- Hello?
- Hello, Mr. Jenkins, I'm Lois Lane.
- Oh hi, how are you?
- Fine, thanks... I was calling to tell you that we're going to buy your house
- Oh, I know what that means for your husband, I'm sorry... - answered Mr. Jenkins - ... But I'm glad my house can help you
- Yes, it has been a great relief... - Lois replied - tomorrow morning I will start the paperwork with the bank to be able to do everything as soon as possible
- Wonderful, I'll talk to my real state agent, so that he has everything ready as soon as possible too
- Brilliant! I already have the credit pre-approved, so it shouldn't take long for everything to be ready - said Lois
- Excellent, I'll wait for your call then
- See you soon
Since it was Sunday, she couldn't go to the bank until tomorrow... And was the same thing with looking for the moving truck... She could call Phill now, but she didn't feel like doing it
- Lois?
- Dr Klein...
- Are you ok?
- Yes... I just needed some air... - Lois said - besides, Clark insisted that I call the owner of the house that we will buy...
- Oh... Well... Everyone grieves in their own way...
- What do you mean?
- This situation, everything that is happening... It is a loss for Clark, and therefore requires a grieving process - explained Dr. Klein - ... And we all deal with grief in different ways... And sometimes in our own schedule...
- Oh... I hadn't thought of it that way - Lois said.
- And probably you as a family member also face this loss in a similar way... - said Dr. Klein - if at any time, any of you think you need help to cope with this, just let me know and I will put you in contact with someone who can help you, okay?
- Thank you very much Dr. Klein
- Especially Clark... This can be a very hard change for him, if he doesn't deal with it emotionally too
- You are right Dr. Klein .. thank you - Lois said, standing up
- It's nothing... - Dr. Klein said - I'll be back with you after lunch... I don't want Clark to feel too overwhelmed today
- Ok... Thanks for everything Dr. Klein
Returning to the room, Lois could see that the mood had changed a bit... Clark was playing very animatedly with John
- I already made the call Clark - Lois said, approaching her boys - Are you feeling a little better now?
- Yes... I... Sorry if I was rude a while ago - Clark apologized
- There's no need to apologize honey... I understand - Lois answered - ... In fact I saw Dr. Klein, and he said that if any of us needs help to face this in a better way, emotionally I mean... that we tell him and he can contact us with someone
- Oh... - Clark replied.
- He said that this process... All this that is happening is a loss for you... so a grieving process is normal... - Lois explained - That you should allow yourself...
- I know but ...
- Everyone faces grief in different ways, honey - said Martha - but you have to learn to face it and accept it... Pretending it doesn't exist and ignoring your feelings is not healthy...
- I know... - Clark replied - ... I'll think about it...
- Nobody is forcing you son - Jonathan said - ... If you don't want to talk to a psychologist you can do it with us if you need... Or do whatever you need to be able to face this in the right way...
- But keep in mind that there is the option that Dr. Klein gave you - Lois said -... And for us too...
- Thank you, dear - said Martha, who, seeing the clock on the wall, added - it's almost time they bring Clark's lunch... Why don't the two of us - she said to Lois - go get something in the cafeteria? Jonathan, you stay with the boys.
- Okay...
- I'm so thankful that you were here when Dr. Klein broke the news to Clark... - Lois said, as they walked to the cafeteria, - ...I...The way Clark hugged you...I think that I have never hugged my mother like that
- Clark has always been very sensitive, from a very young age...
- Yes... He's a softy - Lois said with a smile
- But he's always been good at hiding how he really feels... Always with the excuse of not wanting to see us worried...
- Yeah... He always does that...
- When he was little and his powers began to appear... We had no way of explaining to him what was happening... - Martha said in a low voice, remembering what had happened years ago - ...every time something new appeared, he would get a little scared and began to practice how to control that power so as not to harm someone by accident...
- Oh...
- Each new power scared him a little more... And it required that all three of us to be more careful to keep the secret - said Martha - ... He felt that he was more and more a burden for us...
- Oh Clark...
- That's why he always tries to make us believe that everything is fine... So as not to cause us more worries
- I understand...
- One time in particular the development of one of his powers gave him a great fright... - Martha said - ...his heat vision appeared out of nowhere while Clark was in the barn...
- What happened?
- A huge stack of hay caught fire... Being so flammable the fire spread throughout the barn in seconds, and Clark was surrounded by fire
- Oh my God
-Jonathan ran to the barn to try to help Clark... But just when he was at the door the fire reached one of the machines... That ran on gasoline
- It exploded?
- Yes... For some reason Clark had just turned to see Jonathan, and as soon as the machine exploded Clark ran and moved Jonathan away enough for nothing serious to happen - Martha said, still scared by what happened so many years ago
- That's horrible!
- Clark was terrified...he wouldn't stop crying and shaking - Martha said -... The only thing that worked was holding him while Jonathan caressed his head...
- Just like today...
- Yes... It has worked since then every time Clark is very overwhelmed - said Martha - although it has been many years since we had done it
- How old was Clark when this happened?
- About 8...
- Oh... he was just a kid
- Yes... he was scared for weeks, he didn't want to get away from Jonathan, nor go near the hay or anything flammable - said Martha -... And he felt very guilty for all the damage and expenses we had to make to repair the barn
- Oh Clark...
Lunch was quite enjoyable... Since they were able to share it as a family while watching a movie.
Everyone was still somewhat discouraged, but little by little the food and the company of the others raised their spirits.
While Lois ate, she fed his bottle to John, who then took a long nap in his stroller while the others watched the movie.
It was already around 3 in the afternoon when Dr. Klein came back to the room
- Hello... How have you been feeling Clark? How is the pain? - asked Dr. Klein
- Fine... it's been going down slowly - Clark replied
- That's good ... And the mood?... I know that what happened in the morning was hard for you...
- Better too... A bit calm...
- That's good... - said Dr. Klein - as I told Lois this is a process... There will be times when you will feel better than others, or when you feel frustrated or angry... And it will be normal ...Little by little you will feel like yourself again... Don't try to rush it and "force yourself to be okay"
- I understand... Thank you Dr. Klein... But I think that for the moment I feel fine... At least better than a while ago
- That's good... - replied Dr. Klein - in that case we better continue and focus on your recovery...
- Okay...
- First I want to verify if your invulnerability is complete - said Dr. Klein, who took out the glucometer and tried to prick Clark's finger without success - ... No, no pricks...
Then Dr. Klein took out a pair of scissors from his pocket.
- Let's see if I can cut your hair... No, neither - said Dr. Klein, who this time approached one of the medical cabinets and took out a scalpel - Could you try to prick or cut yourself?... Not very hard, I don't want you to hurt yourself...
- Sure - Clark said, taking the scalpel to try to cut the skin on the tip of his finger - ...No...nothing...
- Well... Obviously we won't test if you're already bulletproof or not... There's no need to know at the moment.
- What a relief - said Martha.
- But the fact that you are already invulnerable has some consequences - said Dr. Klein - we won't be able to carry out any more tests without submitting you to Kryptonite first... so we'll leave it only as a last resort in case we need it.
- Ok... - said Clark, who suddenly frowned - oh... I won't be able to shave... My heat vision hasn't come back yet
- Don't worry, from today we will have UV lamps in the room, and you will go out to sunbathe whenever possible - said Dr. Klein - possibly this will make your remaining powers come back faster... And you will feel much better
- Go out? That mean...
- Yes... In a while Kelly and Sean will come to work with you... And maybe you sit in a wheelchair today
- Oh... - Clark said, using the chair would make everything more real and definitive.
- Only if you feel ready... - Dr. Klein said, resting a hand on Clark's shoulder - There's no rush... We can wait a few days
- No... I really want to go out and feel the sun... - Clark said - ... And go to the bathroom...
- Haha... Well, in that case let's call everyone else
A few minutes later, only Kelly and Sean entered the door, apparently Anne and Julie were no longer needed.
- Hi Clark... Lois - Kelly greeted as she entered
- Hello Kelly... Sean - Clark said - ... These are my parents... Martha and Jonathan
- Good afternoon - they all said to each other
- I know that you received important news this morning, and that you must still be processing everything - Kelly said - but the sooner you manage to carry out the activities of daily living by yourself, the better you will feel
- That's right... Our main focus right now is that you can regain your independence, as much as possible - said Sean - we will focus on your capabilities, not on the things you can't do
And you'll see how soon you'll feel like yourself again... - Kelly said.
- Ok... - Clark answered, trying to catch Kelly and Sean's optimism.
- So, just like in the morning, the first thing will be to sit down and try some exercises, ok? - Sean said
- Okay ...
- Let's see if you can sit up by yourself this time - Sean said, getting on the bed just like that morning - I'll be here in case you need to pull yourself with your arms... But you can also try to push yourself by resting your hands on the bed... Whatever you feel is simpler...
- And we'll be here making sure you don't lose your balance - said Dr. Klein, who was on one side of Clark, while Kelly was on the other.
- Ok... - Clark said, taking a deep breath before trying.
In a first attempt Clark took Sean's hands to propel himself forward, but it wasn't as easy as he expected... he managed to get up a bit, but not sit completely.
- Don't worry... If it's too much effort, go back slowly and try the other way - Sean said, guiding Clark to lie down again. Then he got out of bed so he could continue giving instructions.
- Okay...
- So now let's try the other way... Place both hands resting on the mattress, one on each side... Next to your hips... Not too close to your body, not too far...
- Over here? - Clark asked.
- Yes... Very good... - Sean said.
Clark took another deep breath before trying. To his surprise, this way was more effective, and not so tiring. He was able to sit on his own with no problem.
- Great Clark! - Sean said - How do you feel?
- Fine... I thought it would be more difficult... - Clark said cheerfully... He had to concentrate on the achievements... Not on what he couldn't do...
- And the pain? - asked Dr. Klein
- Well... It hasn't increased
- Excellent! In that case let's start with some exercises... - Sean said, putting the little ball on top of the bed - first we'll try the last one you did this morning...
- Okay...
- The ball will be at the height of the middle of your calves - Sean reminded him - let's see if there are improvements compared to this morning... Remember that you can lean on your other hand if necessary
- Okay...
To the delight of all present, the exercise went smoothly on the first try.
- Excellent! Now the ball will be closer to your feet... - Sean said - this may be a bit difficult, since the fusion of the damaged vertebrae has decreased your flexibility...
- Oh ok...
- So I want you not to overdo it, or you could hurt yourself - Sean said - ... With this we will see how diminished your flexibility is and what will be the range of movement that you will handle
- I understand ...
- Obviously with exercise and constant movements this will improve, but it will do little by little and by itself... So don't force it
- Okay...
- Fine, let's try.
Well, Clark had never been very flexible to begin with... He wasn't the type to touch his toes easily... So it wasn't much of a surprise to him when he couldn't stretch far enough to reach the ball.
Sean moved the ball a few inches closer, to see if Clark could make it on another try. This time the attempt was successful, it requires a lot of effort from Clark, but he did it.
- Very good Clark - Sean congratulated him - your range of motion is quite good...
- That's good - Clark said relieved
- Then the next thing that follows is to try to perform a push up - Sean said - I mean, you manage to lift your butt off the bed, with the help of your arms
- Oh...
- This movement is fundamental - Kelly said - since it is the one you will use to be able to transfer to the wheelchair, to the WC, back to bed, to the car... Etc...
- I understand...
- Well, the technique is similar to what you did to be able to sit... Arms next to your hip... not too close and not too far from your body - Sean said - ... And then you lift...
- Ok... - Clark said, putting his arms in position
- Very good... Try to stay like that for a couple more seconds.. Excellent!!! - Sean congratulated him - very good Clark.. we'll do a couple more repetitions, keeping you up for 5 seconds and then 10 seconds
- Ok... - Clark answered taking a deep breath before trying again.
.Clark was sure that these exercises would be very easy if his super strength had already returned, but since it was not the case... They required a lot of effort, despite his large muscles
- Very good! - Sean said - Now you will have to sit with your legs hanging over the side of the bed
- For that, first take one leg with your hand and move it to the side - Kelly explained - and then do the same with the other
- Okay... - Clark said.
The exercise itself was not that difficult, but a bit strange. By taking and moving his legs with his bare hands, it felt very strange not feeling his own touch
- Very well Clark - said Sean - so now we will repeat the last exercise, but instead of just staying suspended in place, I want you to move a little to your right when you get up
- You will use this movement a lot every time you transfer from one place to another... - Kelly explained
- That's right... - Sean said - I want you to gradually move towards the foot of the bed... And then we'll do it again moving back to the head of the bed
- Ok... - Clark said, understanding the instructions.
It sounded easier than it was. Going forward to the side required effort not only in the arms, it also required concentration not to lose balance, and from time to time he had to stop to manually move his legs
- Excellent! How are you feeling Clark? Sean asked as soon as Clark returned to his original point.
- Fine ... A little tired, tough ...
- And the pain? Can you continue? - asked Dr. Klein
- Yes... The pain has not increased... It's just tiredness
- Well, don't worry, we're done with the exercises for now - said Sean
- What we will do now is put you in a wheelchair - Kelly said - if you agree, of course.
- Yeah... Let's do it... - Clark said. It would have to be done sooner or later, and the sooner he did it the better, so he could go out and sunbathe and regain his independence a bit.
Lois walked over and took Clark's hand in support.
- Before sitting in it, it is important that you and your family are well familiar with the chair - Kelly said - so please come closer so you can see well
Martha, with John in her arms, and Jonathan walked over to the bed to see what Kelly would teach them.
Kelly pulled up a wheelchair and began her explanation.
- First, as you know the chairs are foldable, which makes it easier to put them in the trunk of a car or store them in the house when they are not being used - Kelly said, seeing that everyone nodded, she continued - so how do we fold it... Pretty simple, we just move the footrests and then pull the center part of the seat up, and voila
Clark and the others watched Kelly intently as she explained and demonstrated what has to be done.
- And to open it again, we only have to support our hands on the seat and begin to lower it slowly, then we must put one hand on each of the sides of the seat and press down until we hear a click, this means that the rails of the seat clicked into place. Later we accommodated the footrests, and that's it - Kelly said, demonstrating what she was saying, just as she had done while she was folding the chair. - Is that understood?
- Yes, very clear - answered Lois
- Great, in that case, you try it Lois - said Kelly
- Oh, ok... - Lois answered somewhat nervously -... Like this?
- Yes, you're doing very well - Kelly replied as she watched Lois fold the chair-... Now try to open it again... Be careful not to pinch a finger
- Ok... Ha, I did it! - Lois said excitedly.
- Very well, honey - Clark told her.
- With this learned, we will move on to another topic... - Kelly said - ... Many times the environment makes access difficult with a wheelchair, so you'll have to ask other people for help...
- In what cases? - asked Jonathan
- One of the main situations occurs in places where there are stairs, but there are no ramps or elevators... - Kelly said - ... In those cases, other people must help, lifting the chair and its occupant
- Oh... And is it safe? - Martha asked worriedly.
- It is, if it is done properly - answered Kelly - the important thing is to lift the chair between 3 or 4 people, and from the right place
- Why so many people? - Lois asked.
- Mainly to distribute the weight well... Also if they are stairs, it requires more effort not to lose balance - said Sean
- There should always be one or two people in the backrest and the rest in the feet - Kelly said - ... And the chair should be lifted from its frame, that is, from the handles and from the tubes that connect the seat with the small wheels and the footrests
- There are many people who try to lift the chair by the wheels ... That obviously move when they do that - she clarified sean
- Or sometimes they try to lift the chair from the armrests - Kelly said - ... And since these are collapsible, it is not a safe place to do it
- Oh... Ok... - Clark said, trying to retain the information, to be able to use it in the future and give instructions to people who try to help him at some point.
- Well, if that's clear, we'll process with the transfer - Kelly said - in this case, the transfer to the chair will be done by us,ñ Clark since the hospital beds are very high and you're very far from the chair, but with the normal beds this does not happen
- Oh ok...
- Well, the transfer with help is done between two people - Kelly said - that's the safest way, although eventually it can be done by one person alone, but it requires much more effort
- I understand...
- In this case, is one person on his back and the other on his legs? - Lois asked.
- Exactly - said Kelly - the person with the most strength goes on the back, in this case it's Sean... And I'll take the legs
- First they must put the chair near the bed, but not so close to have space to move without tripping - Sean said - and make sure to put the brakes on the chair
- Clark, you must first cross your arms over your chest... In such a way that your hands are resting on the opposite shoulder - Kelly said
- Okay...
- Then Sean hugs you from behind and puts his hands under your arms - Kelly said, as Sean went behind Clark - while I put my hands under your knees
- Since you're sitting on the bed, I have to turn a little to the side to be able to get into the correct position - Sean said - ... you should always make sure that the position is comfortable enough and that you can exert the force to lift Clark up without problem
- And that there is nothing in the way that hinders the passage - Kelly added - ... always the person in the back is the one who guides the movement...
- On my count...
1...2... 3 - Sean said
With a simple and coordinated movement, Clark was seated in the wheelchair.
- And then you just have to adjust yourself to be able to sit properly - Kelly said - and make sure that your legs are well positioned
- This is very important Clark - Sean said - since you will be sitting there for many hours a day, so if you sit crooked you can start causing damage to your spine or hips
- Oh ok..
- How are you feeling honey? - Martha asked.
- Okay... - Clark replied.
Being in the chair hadn't been as terrible as he had imagined...it was a bit strange, however, to be looking up at them all... Being 1.82m tall he was used to being taller than his family
- Well... To move the chair you must keep in mind that the wheels move independently of each other - Kelly said - this is what allows you to turn around
- To turn to your right, you must push forward on the left hand rim to propel the left wheel forward while slowing down or stopping the right wheel. To turn left, propel the right wheel forward while holding still or slowing down the left wheel - said Sean
- I understand... - Clark said, removing the brakes to start moving the chair a little.
- Let's go to the bathroom, I want to show you some things - Kelly said
Clark followed Kelly into the bathroom of the room, which luckily was spacious and the chair fit easily.
- Well, as you can see, this is an accessible bathroom, since you can get close to the sink without problem and you have enough space to maneuver the chair without problems - Kelly said - ... The transfer to the WC is one of the first things you should learn
- Oh yeah... Please - Clark replied, he really wanted to be able to go to the bathroom and stop having to ask the nurses for help.
- The transfers to the WC will change according to the bathroom and the space available - Kelly explained - sometimes you can approach from the side and other times you will have to do it from the front
- Oh I understand
- The easiest one is from the side - Kelly said - and it is the one we will practice now
- Great - Clark said.
- In this case, the first thing is to put the chair in the correct position and then apply the brakes
- Okay...
- Then you must lift the armrest on this side, since this way you can pass more easily
- Oh I understand
- And then you must perform the same movement that we practiced a few minutes ago - Kelly explained - first to position yourself as much on the edge as possible
Clark started doing everything Kelly told him to. As soon as he was sitting on the edge, Kelly continued
- And finally to make the transfer you must put one hand in the place where you are going, and the other in the place where you are - Kelly said - ... In this case it is a hand on this support bar that is on the side of the WC, and the other in the wheelchair
- Ok... - Clark said, somewhat unsure if he could pull off that move.
- Don't worry, I'll be holding you - Sean told him
- Thank you...
Sean grabbed Clark around the waist, just as a precaution. Then Clark reached out with his right hand to reach for the bar and positioned his left hand on the chair as best he could.
- Take a deep breath, and try to do a single big jump - recommended Sean
- Okay...
Clark followed Sean's final instructions, and in one motion he was able to sit on the toilet without much trouble.
- Excellent!! - they all said at once
- I thought it would be a little more difficult - Clark said.
- It's thanks to those big muscles in your arms - explained Sean - from now on you'll use them a lot
- Oh excellent..
- I have a question - Lois said - when should he drop hus pants?
- Lois! - Clark said embarrassed.
During all this time that they had been practicing Clark had been wearing pajamas and the WC had been kept closed. Since Dr. Klein had removed the stitches Clark had stopped wearing hospital gowns and started wearing pajamas to be more comfortable.
- It's a valid question - Kelly said - you'll see, when you...
After Kelly's explanation, the entire group had headed to the laboratory gardens so that Clark could enjoy the sun and fresh air for a few minutes
- Oh, this is amazing - Clark said as soon as the first rays of sunlight touched his skin
To keep up appearances in front of Sean and Kelly, Dr. Klein had said that Clark missed the outdoors and that's why they were going outside for a few minutes.
- Haha, you can't deny a Kansas' boy the outdoors - Lois said, seeing the happiness on her husband's face.
About 10 minutes later a disappointed Clark was led back to his room, pushed by Lois.
- Don't get discouraged Clark, tomorrow you can go out for a while longer... - said Dr. Klein - ... But for now it's been enough... You made a lot of effort with the exercises and now it's time to rest a little more
- Okay...
- Well, the transfer back to the bed we will also do it between two people - Kelly said when they arrive to Clark's room again - but this time it will do it between Jonathan and Lois, ok?
- Ok... - they both answered, a little nervous about it.
- Then, just like before, put the chair in position and put the brakes on - Kelly said - then Clark crosses your arms...
Clark, Lois, and Jonathan began to follow Kelly's instructions.
- In this case, you should not raise the armrest, as it will only hinder Jonathan's passage...
- Okay...
- Well, Jonathan hugs Clark from behind and Lois takes his legs...- Kelly said - ... Jonathan, you must be careful not to trip over the handles... And Lois, you must pay attention to the small wheels ..
- Okay...
- Jonathan, on your count...
- 1... 2... 3...
To Jonathan and Lois surprise, it wasn't that difficult to transfer Clark to his bed.
- Was that okay? - Lois asked.
- Yes honey, thank you
- Everything was very good Clark - said Sean - you advance at great speed
- I'll leave the chair here so you can use it if you need to go to the bathroom - Kelly said - but don't take advantage of it... As Dr. Klein said, you need to rest for now
- Thank you Kelly
- Tomorrow we will see more things like the shower, dressing, and some other things with the chair
- Great
Seeing that Clark was already back in his bed, Dr. Klein, Sean and Kelly left the room.
- How do you feel son? - asked Jonathan
- Fine dad... It wasn't as terrible as I had thought - Clark replied with a smile
- You did very well honey - said Martha - you surprised me when you transfer yourself to the WC
- Yes... I was surprised too - Clark said - it will be great to be able to go there by myself, and don't have to ask for Julie or Anne help
- Besides, Kelly said that you would soon practice using the shower - said Lois
- We are not saying that you smell bad honey - said Martha between laughs
- No, of course not - Jonathan added with a smile.
- But sometimes a sponge bath isn't enough - Lois said, laughing too.
- Ha ha... Maybe I won't shower for a few extra days, just so you guys have to smell me - Clark replied with a playful smile
- Oh honey! - Martha answered between laughs - we already went through that once... Not again
- Mom!
- What? When? - Lois asked intrigued.
- When Clark was about 9 years old... one day he decide that he didn't want to bathe anymore... - Jonathan said - ...And by then he already had several of his superpowers, so it didn't was so easy to force him to bathe
- Haha, how many days did this strike last? - Lois asked, looking at her embarrassed husband.
- Almost two weeks - replied Martha laughing - ... I think the strike ended just because he couldn't stand his own smell haha
- Mom!
- Haha oh, Don't worry honey, I love you even if you're stinky and sweaty - Lois told him, kissing him on the cheek -... But seriously, taking a shower will do you good... Always helps me lift my mood
- Yeah, your right - Clark replied.
- And with how fast you advance, I'm sure you will be able to go home soon - said Martha - that will make you feel much better too
- Yeah... Even if it's a new home - Clark replied
- Don't worry, it will be as cozy as the other one - answered Lois - we will make sure that you feel comfortable in it
- I know honey, thank you.
- So, son ... It wasn't that difficult to move around with the chair? - asked Jonathan
- No... It wasn't - Clark said - ... Although I think it will take me a while to get used to my new height...
- Oh... Yeah... That will be new - Lois said not knowing what else to say
- Oh, honey... The important thing is how far you've come in so little time... - said Martha - and that you can start to get out of bed and do things on your own
- Yes, that's a great relief - Clark said - ... In fact I think that all that exercise made me want to go to the bathroom ...
- Are you serious or are you just trying to go outside again? - Lois asked with a smile.
- Seriously... - Clark said - Can you help me?
- Sure - Jonathan replied.
Between Jonathan and Lois they put Clark back in the chair, ready to go to the bathroom.
- Before you enter the bathroom we say goodbye, ok? - Lois said, kissing Clark on the cheek - I have a lot of things to do tomorrow... And I have to start packing some things to be able to move as soon as possible
- Oh, yeah .. you're right - answered Clark
- I'll go with you Lois - Jonathan said - I can help you pack things
-Thank dad
- Then we'll have another mother and son night - Martha said cheerfully
After that the afternoon was relatively quiet. Jonathan and Lois, along with John, returned to the house, while Martha stayed with Clark.
When Clark came out of the bathroom Martha had had to ask Anne for help to get Clark back on the bed. After that they had talked for a while, Clark expressing some of his fears in the face of his new reality, and Martha calming her son as only a mother can. Then they had seen some movies and had dinner together.
Dr. Klein, just as he had said, did not want to overwhelm Clark today, so he went back into the room just one more time to see how Clark was doing, but there were no more exercises or attempts to sit up. The day had been exhausting enough physically and emotionally
.
WretchedHandsSJS Clark was able to feed himself during the last chapter, since it was his first time being on his back, not on his side. Besides, the IV with the painkillers has also been remove that day