April 20-24, 2020
 
On Thursday the 23rd, I spoke with Brian Dean, neighbor and friend since 1997. He was curious about the stroke, how I was feeling and the rehab progress. We discussed each and I shared the numbness I have on my left side, and the loss of use in my foot and hand. He said he was sorry about the loss of my communication skills. I was confused and asked what he meant. Brian said “John your Italian, loss of the movement and coordination, mainly my left hand. That’s a speech impediment! I can’t complain. It’s very  funny!  The photo collage is food created by our family over the last couple of weeks.
 
I’m going to give you a whole week’s update in 2 to 3 pages. And then I’ll probably post a couple times a week just to update on where I’m at during this journey post stroke. This week brought a few realities to me, time is needed for correct healing.
 
My therapists, Linda and Jesse come over twice each week and worked me over for about an hour each time. Well needed. I’m learning a lot and it’s helping the process. Interestingly, enough I found out this week is that I just have to be dog determined to walk correctly, keep my balance in order and start to function normally. Whatever the definition of normally is, without looking prior to April 5, 2020.
 
Linda and I had two great sessions this week. She is determined to really do the exercises as disciplined as possible when she is here. She introduced a couple of new things like standing on my toes, walking with a cane, I should really say practice with a cane and some rubber bands for exercise. They create a tension that strengthens the muscles in the knees and legs. Jesse did the same thing for hand and upper body strength. I can feel it at the end of the day as well as the following morning.
 
Linda also asked me if I had any pain and how I was managing it. Well I did have some aches in my muscles I did not think about taking any kind of a pill. But I am taking some Tylenol and it’s relieving some of that pain and/or muscle fatigue. Thank you, Linda.
 
I clocked in about 20 to 25 hours’ worth of work and I need to tell you about a webinar that I listen to on Wednesday for an hour and a half. The man’s name is Darren Hardy. I met him 4 or 5 years ago. Incredible individual. He thrives on helping people in all levels of business. Personally, Darren knows people like Elon Musk, Sir Richard Branson and many others influencers and business leaders. His seminar was about 10 Questions that we should be asking ourselves and business leaders throughout our lives. He moved me with many things that he talked about, but he names three things that are coming out of the CoVid 19 lockdown, that hit home.

There are three major areas people are being affected:

1. Physical
2. Mental
3. Financial
 
That should give you plenty to think about when you are talking with people about this time. To be sensitive to whatever their situation might be. And I think we all know somebody in all the categories.
 
One other thing that he made a point about was that this lockdown will be as big of an issue in our lives as the 1930 depression was in our parents and grandparents and the 2007 financial recession that we experienced in our careers. In my life I’ve never seen a worldwide affect like this pandemic.
 
Which leads me to say I feel very fortunate which I’ve said before with being given a second opportunity to learn to walk and regain my strength and coordination. This webinar put a lot of things in perspective. Personally, it’s going to make me a better person just having the perspective he shared as well as giving me insight of family, friends, business associates and customers. And their employees, families etc.
 
That’s some heavy conversation. I’ll touch base a little bit about the people that called me this week. I’ve heard from my cousins (Joanna, Gina and Monica) in Arizona, the Shoop’s brought us some homemade cabbage rolls that were incredible! We enjoyed them for two meals. I received a couple of gift baskets, coffee from the Pearson’s in California (I’ll be revved up for weeks), fruit from the Neely’s and…, I am in receipt of barbecue from Kenny and Alyssa Monacelli, Austin Texas which was enough food for the family. Every day five or six cards come in the mail and that is humbling. I can’t say how grateful I am to everyone. Cards have come in from around the country with very kind words of encouragement and a speedy recovery. I also receive some holy cards which is very kind from Carol Pozelnik and my sister Toni, and a card with Saint Anthony on it and prayer cards from different parishes. I spoke with Mike Cardamone, (He is a prayer warrior, no kidding), we worked together and stay in touch since he retired. All very kind and considerate.
 
I believe that the people from Edible Arrangements are wondering what happened to me. But I appreciate them stopping by every couple day. I need to send them a big tray of Italian meatballs!
 
This blog has been remarkable. Some of the posts received over 200 likes and the very first one I believe received over 140 comments. If that was you, I want to say thank you very much. I read every comment, Liked them all, and I apologize I could not respond to everyone. If you say something in Italian I probably will respond, because I will have to use a translator to find the meaning.
 
I received a phone call from Phil, a big-time Washington DC attorney that had two jokes for me, but I cannot repeat here. He did not know about the stroke and when I told him, he went into a different mode. What a guy, one of my favorite speakers in the country. Thanks Phil and I can’t wait to get into the books you sent me.
 
I had a great conversation with Glen from Tampa with our company in the IT department. He’s a big shot computer guy, Glen and his wife are foodies to the top degree. He just bought a great pizza oven and made the first pizzas last week. He sent me a picture of the pizza in the new oven which goes up to 900°. Cooks a pizza very quickly and looked delicious.
 
I spent about a half hour on the phone with our CEO Mark. He wanted to make sure I wasn’t working too much, was getting enough rest and that I was listening to Debbie. I answered yes to all his questions. And I’m grateful to have him call and check in on me. When it comes to leadership, he wrote the book.
 
My son and daughter stop by at different times to drop off food or we’re picking up food. They post pictures every night on the family text chain that we have of what they’re cooking. Creative, simple, complex and always looks delicious. You’re doing a great job. They could write a coronavirus shut down cookbook. And they should. Debbie and I are eating food that were gifts, cooking meals and we’re making some pretty good tasty and healthy food. I’ve not been very picky and tell her whatever she wants to make I’ll eat. Thursday night she made grilled Portabella mushrooms with some other grilled vegetables. She serves them a grained bread with Coleman mustard and I used a little bit of a fig preserves. I have to be honest it was like eating the best hamburger I ever have in my life with no cheese and no fat! We also sent out to Farinacci’s for pizza one evening, without cheese and it was delicious. Debbie made a pot of Ribelotta, and Italian vegetable soup served with crusty bread that we learn to make in Italy. Who knew we were going to be eating comfort food in April.
 
We also experienced a lot of cold weather this week along with snow on a couple of days. I never remember this much snow after April 10, but we’ve had about three days of it. It is great just to sit on the deck and 65 or 70° weather. Hopefully we won’t have to wait too long.
 
I’ve been struggling through a book and I have to finish reading and I watched a Ted talk by a Jacqueline Woodson. Her talk was about being a slow reader. And I’m prepared to do about a half hours’ worth reading tonight after I finish writing this. An excellent 11 minute talk, if you have the time.
 
It is a tough time not being able to see grandchildren, but we do see videos or pictures of them through our texts. They’re very busy and they’re doing some cooking with mom and dad. There’s a lot of homemade bread being made, wonderful appetizers and meals. I’ll share a few pictures on this blog.
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If anyone can connect with me on how to imbed a video, I’ll start to add links or vids for you to enjoy.
 
I am hoping to go for a ride on Sunday the 26th. It’s for a surprise anniversary, Bertha and Ray, so if that happens, I might put a video next week for you to view. That will be something that would be very special for me. I have left home to walk a couple houses or halfway around the block a number of occasions, of course I’m using the walker. But driving the car will be fun.
 
It is hard to believe the month of April is winding up. I’ve been working from home since approximately March 13. 3 1/2 weeks before the stroke. And I will have in 3 full weeks after the stroke when this is posted.
 
The next post will be from the weekend, April 25 and 26. Sometime the week of the 27th. Thank you for checking in. please share the blog and write a comment.

Daily update-4-17 to 19-2020


NOTE: So, I’m getting ready to post this on April 25th and the week has been really good. Stronger each day. A little more disciplined with rehab and actually, better form on the exercises. My muscle memory is returning, but there is a lot of numbness on my left hand and arm as well as my cheek, which radiates at times to my lips, left eyelid and sinuses. Life goes on… here is a good quote from Dr. Kevin Elko, a sports psychologist, business consultant and an inspirational speaker. “I don’t have to, I get too” I love that quote and I have 2 framed copies of the quote that my friend, Victor Rzepecki of Phoenix sent to Cleveland. One hangs in my office at home, the other at work.

So, I’m condensing the weekend starting with Friday the 17th and sharing through Sunday the 19th. Seems that each day is getting better, I’m feeling stronger throughout the day. I’m also accepting the fact that I tire after a morning of exercising, eating and catching up on things on my to do list.

A nap or laying around for a couple hours really relieves my whole body. To share with you the last couple of nights and mornings, my blood pressure has been getting close to what it used to be 130 over the high 60s. The bottom number has been a little bit higher sometimes high 70s or low 80s. But it’s refreshing to see a 130 Number on top. Also, my pulse rate fluctuates from the 50s through the low 90s. It has never been a problem in my life, but it is interesting to keep track of the numbers.

Friday, I got a few hours of work in. Lined up lunch for a handful of title agents around the state of Ohio and Kentucky. That is very fulfilling to know that these folks are working to serve the public in a way I’ve never had to before. And getting great results. The real estate community, lending community and title community are essential. I’ve worked for a long time raising political action dollars for our industry. I believe today our members who are non-givers or non-believers in our efforts are going to become believers. Our people in Washington, DC and state houses around the country, have reach out to our legislators and their staffers, to discuss efforts in streamlining our industry. And they are listening. We are getting legislation adopted and passed. Our legislators are listening. They know how vital real estate and mortgages are to the economy, and none of it is possible without clear title. For once, price is not a forefront issue. Get the title searched and close with as little headaches as possible. It’s a great industry!

I have spent the mornings doing some writing and updating in my journal. Reading a new book, (I received from Jan and Doug. Traveling companions in Italy. The book, Engine 2 Diet), more to come on that in the future and getting ready for the day. When I finish and head downstairs, my first stop is a dining room chair to do some arm push-ups, stands, leg exercises and a ball toss. Then I head out to the kitchen for a few more exercises in front of the sink holding onto the counter and then a little breakfast. That is almost set like clockwork. I missed stepping outside on Saturday when the temperature got in the high 50s and sunshine. So today Sunday the 19th, I committed to go outside as soon as I got downstairs. We went outside and I ran into three neighbors before I got to the end of the drive which started conversations that took almost 15 minutes. I was actually tired before I started to walk down the street. We walked two houses, ran into another neighbor talked for eight minutes, an estimate, and then I turned Luke Skywalker back towards home. Pretty happy with myself, I broke up a few conversations to Move On. That is definitely not like me, but it will keep me energized.

I plan on taking a walk outside Sunday evening, most likely before dinner.

I’m actually eating less, and I don’t have a big craving for flavor. But I do usually eat everything that Debbie makes or my children who have been cooking and baking up a storm. I am not overdoing it on carbohydrates, sugars and fatty foods. It’s sort of funny but the cravings almost ended instantly. My sister Linda Jo brought me some sorbet the middle of the week. I’ve always been an ice cream guy, vanilla, butter pecan and some with a little chocolate. The Sorbet sat in the freezer for a couple of days, Friday evening Debbie asked me if I wanted a bowl. I said a little bit of each. They were delicious. In the short term I could probably get by with a little bit every couple of days. It was cold and refreshing!

Since this journey began on April 5, I started at about 189 pounds that morning prior to the stroke. The morning after I arrived home April 8, I weighed myself and I was around 181. I wanted to get under 180 for quite some time. But not as quickly as this. The last time I checked my weight Thursday, April 16 I was just over 182. I’m content right there right now.

I’m actually looking forward to some sunshine in the next week or so I can sit on the back deck and work on a tan on my legs and chest. To my dermatologist, Dr. Hirsch I’ll keep the hat on I promise, and I’ll wear sunscreen. But I know that the sun’s vitamin D will heal my body quicker.

Friday afternoon I made the decision to get these updates on the blog. I had a conversation earlier in the week with Kate from Streamline CLE, she got me pretty connected with pulling the word docs over and having it in bedded into the blog. In the future I’d like to put some links as well as some photographs. I just think it’s easier to read when you got a visual. Saturday, I went live and today Sunday the 19th I put up the fourth post. Which gets us to about April 8. 

We had a visit early Sunday afternoon by our nephew Frank, his wife Angela and our niece Isabell. They brought us a half a dozen of cranberry orange muffins. When they left, I went in the basement, made an espresso, enjoyed half a muffin and relaxed and wrote this update

Isabell is a Rockstar, a junior with a 4.5 grade average! She balances out people like me. I hate to admit it, but I think I was maybe a 2.8 as my best. I’m really not embarrassed, shortly after graduating high school I picked books and never have set them down. It was actually a motivating factor in authoring the books that I have published. Do you know a kid from the east side of Cleveland that has three books in the Library of Congress! Mom and Dad would be proud.

Now back to Isabell. I found some rock ‘n’ roll T-shirts online and I gave them to her when they showed up today. We practice social distancing, they stood on the back deck and Debbie and I were in the house. A couple of the shirts dated back in the 1960s and 70’s, Led Zeppelin, Janice and the Beatles. A couple of them are from Trunk, for the rock and rollers you know what I mean. I was very excited to share these with her. I hope they fit, and she wears them like a true rock and roller. Here’s the newest fact I learned on care for these shirts. How do you iron a T-shirt that have a picture or saying on it? Inside-out. I ironed all of them and folded them sitting on a chair with the ironing board in front of me. Debbie warned me twice not to burn myself. I had beat her to it. I told myself the same thing about a half a dozen, “Be careful that iron is hot”.

We had a great visit with Frank, Angela and Isabell.

Two things when you’re in rehab, that you here over and over. "Don’t fall and don’t burn yourself." For an old guy I’m learning about taking care of myself. After they left, I rearrange some things and finished writing seven thank you notes, (It took about 40 minutes), but they are addressed and stamped and ready to go out. I’m a little behind on my notes, but they’re all in order and I’ll catch up on thank you cards.

On Saturday I actually watched two episodes of the Heist and Hunters. They are on Netflix I believe. It’s brainless entertainment, personally I feel like I’m wasting a lot of time, but it gives me an opportunity to put my legs up and relax. I’m not a friend of multitasking. One thing at a time and do it right. But watching these helped me pass about 3 1/2 hours of time.

Somewhere around here I have all of the James Bond movies, and I had watched up to 1978 or 79 last year. I think I’m going to dig those out and give the next few years a view, get some relaxation and watch them. Possibly knock a few off in the next week or two.

I hope you’re enjoying the updates; they are very therapeutic for me.

I'm really look forward to this weekend, with nothing on the schedule except exercise and relaxing. We have had a couple of visitors. They really take it out of you, not the individuals personally. Just the interactions. When folks are here, I try to walk a little bit for them left my legs and pick some things up with my left hand, just to give them an idea of where I’m at in this journey. I think they appreciate it and it helps eliminate some of the questions.

This update is just over two full pages of print, and I am dedicated to keeping it that short whether it’s a one day or three-day update. So, thank you for checking in, please share the website johnvoso.com

Thank you and have a great week!
​John

 Daily update 4-14-2020
NOTE: This post is from Tuesday the 14th. I am writing on the 22nd. Progress is going well. Monday, I learned about Environmental Support, from Linda the Physical Therapist. I walked from the dining room to the kitchen and back, with the walker. She was happy and also wanted me to go slow and be  careful. understandable. Environmental Support is using a wall, door jam, countertop etc. to maneuver around an area (my definition). I immediately put the words in my phone, and told Linda i would share it on the blog. Linda also demonstrated and let me take a couple laps with a cane on Monday the 20th. More to follow later.
But remember, the most important thing in rehab, is not to do anything stupid or careless and take a FALL! I go that message loud and clear.

​Tuesday the 14th started with a burst of energy. Woke up did some exercises on the bed had about a half hour conversation with Debbie. We put a plan together for the day. I finished the update for the day before getting ready to go downstairs.

I completed a little groundwork for a client that we were doing a special project in about seven of his operations. Was about a half hour worth of communication talking and emailing.

I put a call into my webmaster Kate Toma. We were discussing the website for the update blog. I became sick to my stomach. I had to cut the call short I never got back on the phone with her the rest of the day. Spent the next couple of hours just trying to feel a little bit better.
I made myself go downstairs around 11 o’clock trying to do a couple of exercises. I needed to get something in my stomach. I showed Debbie a Facebook post from the weekend. They prepared eggs quickly and efficiently. She made me a very thin omelet, you set a soft tortilla on it just before flipping. You allow the omelet to cook through for about 20 seconds. Flip it back over on the tortilla to warm and place whatever you like on the inside. I elected for a little bit of Swiss cheese and some black pepper. You could add salsa, avocado, ham and cheese. During this time of the pandemic whatever you have in your refrigerator or fresh counter you could use. Complete with as a roll up. It was delicious and it hit the spot. My stomach was settled, and I had a visitor coming about 11:30 AM to drop off a document. We spoke for almost 45 minutes from the kitchen through my screen door. And I wore a mask!

We settled into the afternoon. I did a couple more therapy exercises with Debbie at my side. She prepared a sandwich for a snack and I settled in on a chair in the family room. Fortunately, throughout this new chapter in my life I have not turned the TV on early in the day. So, I missed Governor Mike DeWine and Dr. Aton’s daily updates. I cannot tell you that I miss them. Prior to the stroke I was listening and practicing both social distancing, clean hands and environment. I still am. I was actually keeping track of the number of sick people in Ohio as well as the number of deaths in the state. I missed a few days last week and just put a total in probably on Holy Saturday. And I need to update that today. Sad thing is watching that numbers grow. The good news it is flattening. It will grow again if we are given permission to leave our homes and socialize in big numbers.

For those of you that know me, a big part of my life is socializing. On March 13 I began to social distance. I was becoming very good at it, clocking from our family room close to 40 hours a week Monday through Friday for work. And then watching movies, cooking, watching great documentaries on rock ‘n’ roll and just working around the home. Well I want to get myself better and move around without balance being my number one priority.

I’m afraid we may be social distancing through the summer. If that’s the case I will make leaps and bounds in my recovery, develop a habit of eating a lot better and strengthen my upper and lower body just from the therapy. I also believe there is a creative energy running through all of us if we take the time to sit down and let ourselves speak to ourselves. There is going to be music written, books, plays, and movies created. Businesses are going to be retooled and work processes changed for the better. Artist Are going to cover canvases, wood, anything that they could get their hands on with colors, landscapes and thoughts that they have grabbed through this shut down that has given us an opportunity to get into ourselves.
I have actually been inspired for a sales presentation. It’s going to be a good one! I have listened to a handful of webinars in our industry on workflow, process and communication skills. The bottom line prior to the coronavirus we were too BUSY to take the time to think about it and its long term affects. I think some of these ideas could’ve helped us do more business, more efficiently and profitably.  We have a product called Pavaso. It’s been a reality for over 2 1/2 years. Three weeks ago, 2700 companies applied to use it. A complete overload. As our people get their arms around the applications people are starting to use the product and they say it’s easier. It will change the industry and products just like it. I watched another webinar, to very bright young industry changers talked about texting and its effectiveness. It was a productive hour. I emailed him and told him, great hour and content, good luck and I’m looking forward to their next webinar.

Another feeling that I strongly have is the people that are reaching out and communicating by Zoom, Go-To-Meeting or other ways to be face to face while social distancing are going to make a huge impact on their business, relationships and will even sculpt the new look of our business and industry.

Business is getting done and people are learning without the old clichés, “We don’t have time to change” or “That will never work”. My advice, no matter what industry you work in, get off your TV, set up a time to watch an hour or a half hour of news a day, schedule time to watch a movie or documentary and steal some ideas. Write them down. Pick up a book and look for something to grab your attention. Always review the Chapters of a new book. If you find any interesting topic, flip to that page. Even if it is 200 pages in. Read it. That may be all you need from that book today or ever. Make notes and look for an opening to develop.  Schedule your day for some creative time. We are definitely in a time of renewal. Draw, paint, sculpt, organize and renew.

As a lifelong salesperson, think of other ways to connect with customers, I am hearing of inexpensive and creative ways to touch people from folks all over the country.

I write/read in a journal every day. It was given to me by my son-in-law Andrew for Christmas. In March I made a commitment to write a quote about Calmness every day. For April I decided to write a quote on Renewal. On April 5 I had a stroke. After I was released from the hospital on April 7, I missed the next few days journaling. I went back and filled in a couple of notes and on the bottom of the page for April 13, I wrote “a stroke survivor is reborn “. And yesterday I wrote “life renews itself daily! “JV Jr. What a work! Calmness and Renewal, and BAM, a stroke, and both are now part of my healing process. That’s crazy, but I’m rolling with it.

We had dinner brought in from a neighbor, Pam Skelton. Corleone's is a fine Italian restaurant close to Independence Ohio. She has three brothers there are vegetarians one or two may actually be vegans. I have a heck of a time telling the three men apart. One of them loves the portobello mushroom medley. It consists of roasted and sautéed vegetables. Very tasty we also had a Napolitana pizza and a side salad. This was a delicious dinner with no animal proteins. We were full and satisfied. Maybe the Skelton brothers are onto something. All I had for dessert tonight was a graham cracker. That’s pretty weak for me. But I feel very good. Since the stroke, I am not consuming or craving sugar. That is beneficial, and it will lend to a healthier recovery. I did some exercises on the couch and called it a night around 915. Thank you, Skelton Family.

Before I finish this update, I have to tell you about Jesse, the occupational therapist. We spent an hour together this afternoon. Jesse is from Georgia. He is a dead giveaway as soon as he spoke. His character and his mannerisms. I just flat out asked him, where you from? He said Atlanta. He is a Veteran and spent time in Minot, ND. And has a handful of jokes that he shared with us on each visit. He gets people laughing, while he’s helping you do the simplest things that you take for granted with your hands or arms, your whole life. I spent three days in Minot, with some of the finest Title Professionals in the industry at their Christmas dinners. It never got warmer than -30 degrees. We had two great dinners, hosted by Paula and Tim. Tim introduced us to Chef Michael Monzon-a Teppan Chef, internet sensation, TV personality and a great guy Find him on Facebook. And Mr. Richard Turner, a Card Mechanic. Richard is extraordinary! To say the least. I will share a link; 
https://youtu.be/nPuQF3eSJ
so you watch him and be amazed. We had breakfast, dinner twice and I watched in amazement and delight at his trade.

Back to Jesse, I now I have a container of rice and a container of elbow macaroni’s with a little items in them like a black clip, little things from a pen drawer or junk drawer an eraser, paperclips, a little rubber stopper Just miscellaneous items that I can pick up identify and then reach back in to the rice or pasta. All with my left hand. It’s pretty juvenile, but beneficial for getting the feeling and coordination back in that hand. He also had me picking up coins off of a wooden table. This is not great for building your self-esteem! He had me do it with my eyes closed, I had no clue, couldn’t feel them or can pick them up. Jesse backed off and said let’s do that with your eyes open. I’m happy to say that produce much better results.

Next we filled up two nice size containers at the sink. The first one with hot water (100 degrees) and second with cold water and ice cubes, (approximately 32 degrees). My job put my left hand in the hot water and squeeze a sponge for two minutes and then switch over to the cold water for a minute squeezing sponge alternating back-and-forth three or four times until the cold water really starting to affect my hand. Jesse said that’s good. You can feel your left hand, mostly the cold sensation. The exercise is to wake up your nerves.
Throughout his visit he explained the nerves in my hand and arm, they went dead, and we were waking them up. He ran a massager over my hand and arms, He also ran a dishrag through the palm of my hand and rubbed it in the palm of my hand all to activate life. I will tell you I’ve been taking a lot of things for granted for 63 1/2 years.
Without going into every exercise, we did on Tuesday afternoon, I was given a number of great opportunities to accelerate my recovery. Thank you, Jesse. Day 10-Out!

Quote for Calmness-Always ask: "What will happen if I say nothing?"

 Daily update April 11-13, 2020 (photo from 4-19-20 by Alan Papa. Beatles hat and John Lennon t-shirt, wore them for inspiration) 

NOTE: So it is the evening of April 20th. I am posting Easter weekend here. As a music lover, I recommend, if time permits, to ask Alexa or your Google Home etc. to play Beast or Burden by Keith Richards and Jimmy Burns. It is a bluey rendition, without Mick, I believe it will settle well with you. I read Keith’s book this summer, “Life”. This guy has the Blues through his soul, and has a huge heart and passion for many types of music.. Worth a listen if you have, TIME! An apropos song for the aftermath of a health issue.

One thing tonight, my Blood pressure measured 138/83. I usually checked in around 130/68. It seems to be settling down. Which is cool.

I am still dictating through my phone. Please excuse the capital letters in the middle of sentences. If the speech goes off and I restart it gets capitalized. I am working on blogging all of these responses and going forward soon
This update will encompass Saturday, Sunday (Easter) and Monday.
These three days resembled each other from exercise trying to get into a routine, medication as well as accepting a lengthy road to getting back to 100%.

It also got me into watching some movies and documentaries as a form of entertainment as well as rest. I’ve had a number of people that told me this was a sign to slow down. I find that a very interesting statement. We all move at different paces. As an accomplished individual who continues to challenge himself, I think the majority of the people who told me this, find the pace tiring. I have never felt like that, I’m a list person and as I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned to except that you can’t do it all in one day, but the list helps me get it done and accomplished most items on the list.

Writing these daily updates is both therapeutic and keeping my mind working in a positive sense since I know that I am writing for others. Let’s talk about the exercise. Linda my PT has given me about 14 exercises to do on my back or sitting in a chair. She also helps me with some balancing and standing routines. Initially they would like you to do two sets of 10 each. They are not terribly taxing and on Sunday, I time myself and I took approximately 25 minutes. I actually did about 18 minutes in a bed upstairs and then walked downstairs and finished in a dining room chair.

I do them faster than with my PT. But her workout is more thorough. And that is a lesson by a professional trainer is better or in this case the physical therapist. Over the weekend I was able to get the ball of my foot up off the ground. Each day it’s gotten a little better. I’m proud of that and Linda was happy to see the movement today. I told her I would like to wiggle my toes on my left feet by next week. Last week when I was interviewed by the in-house manager and she informed me that the furthest part of your body from your brain is the last to heal. That’s informative and also a bummer. You need your feet and you need, balance and movement. I understand the desire and work will bring the results sooner.

After today’s work out, Linda told me to stand below the step up into my kitchen and march my left foot up over the stop. We did 10. It was amazing how much easier walking with the walker was after that exercise. I have done 30 since she left. I’m committed to getting up and down stairs easier and safer.

On Sunday it was warm, and the family came over with the grandchildren in three shifts. We exchanged some food, kept a safe distance and did not hug. That’s brutal but with the lockdown and distancing understandable. I was able to walk down the driveway and passed the next-door neighbor’s house with the walker and back home. And then I sat in the sun on the driveway and visited with both my daughters. The highlight was the Easter egg hunt for the grandchildren. They retrieved all of the eggs in the back yard while I stood on the deck. It was priceless and also a memorable Easter.
In the evening I watched one of the Jumanji movies and got a pretty good night’s sleep. I’m also trying to read through a book that my friend Bill Feller gave me called, “The Secret Gift”.
It is a very good book written in the 2000s by Canton, Ohio man Whose grandfather did an incredible act during the depression in 1933. He gave gifts of five dollars to between 75 and 100 individuals/families. It is a moving book which reflects some of the kind acts going on during the coronavirus shut down.

We had some great food over the last three days. And probably eating better than I’ve eaten in a long time and eating less. I have been given some ginkgo and also prescribed from a friend to take vitamin B complex, raw. I have an email into my neurologist before I start taking supplements. We have a follow up visit with the neurologist and orthopedic doctor in May. I may not have mentioned in a previous update, but the MRI that they did from my toes to my head share that I have a slight fracture on the wing of vertebrae L5. It would be elective surgery to repair and both doctors agree that they do not recommend the surgery.

On Friday I received a call from my Occupational therapist Derek, and he informed me that on Thursday the day after he met me that he met with the patient that had tested positive to the virus. He is off my case Unfortunately. I am meeting with a new therapist tomorrow Tuesday by the name of Jesse. Today I had a text exchange with Derek, he tested negative for the virus which is great news. I bought a book for him call “The Craftsman”. It is about the hand; how valuable it is and how taken for granted it may be. He said he would stop by when he is on the road to visit and pick up the book.

I met a woman years ago whose son battled and beat cancer. She said she met the greatest people she never wanted to meet during this journey with her son. I can tell you my doctors, nurses, housekeepers, therapists and others have introduced me to a whole new side of friendly people. Dedicated and giving. Most people that I had met that went through cancer said they wouldn’t change a thing. Having a stroke is a setback. It is a spoon of reality. I’ve had a couple of pity parties and after the first one I said I would never do another one but, one showed up and I entertained it for a while. That was earlier today. I stood up after trying to take a nap and went downstairs in my basement, set up my computer and organized a couple of work projects as well as listen to some music and lined up my next couple of days. During the 3 1/2 to 4 hours in the basement I was able to take two walks around and I enjoyed an espresso. When I came upstairs, I did half my exercises and ate a wonderful dinner that Debbie prepared. I would call April 13 an accomplishment and a wonderful day. Deal with the “bad moments” quickly and move on.

When Linda the physical therapist came over and mentioned how bad the weather was, it really did not even bother me. I’m inside, I stopped at the door twice, opened it and took some deep breaths of the outside air. It’s a great day more to follow.
Enjoy the evening, John

Daily update April 9, 2020
 
NOTE; I’m growing a beard, the first time ever. Seems like a perfect time, no face to face meeting with clients and it shortens my shower, shave time. We will see how long it lasts. Also, been revving up in the morning with a little Rolling Stones-Start Me Up! Debbie and I saw them for the first time at Richfield Coliseum 1981, from Cole National’s lodge. When they played Start Me Up, the floor came alive. Everyone was standing and jumping up and down. Looking down on them I realized the power of music. I was 25 years old, and still recall the moment perfectly, when the song starts.

If anyone know how to add a picture and resize it on a blog,? Please reach out to me. I apologize for the oversized face that greeted you for this update.

Well as most things that happened Sunday, the days following are get calmer which is a blessing, and this is update is about Wednesday, 8th April.

Yesterday started with taking a bit of medicine, not a major inconvenience, followed by two meetings with therapist. The first was physical therapy. It was mainly administrative, but we spent about a half hour walking through the house looking at where I’m traveling, what’s convenient, what could be changed and just some helpful tips on being safe. (Keep in mind, Falling is always a bad idea)

Fran has been on the job 40 years, she’s a wealth of knowledge, very encouraging and easy to talk to. She also is concerned about the virus, asked us questions, we asked her question, she wore a mask, didn’t except a drink from us, worked on top of a couple of paper towels and cleaned up her work area before she left.

Had lunch and a nap. At 3:30 Debbie and I met with Derek occupational therapist. The guy iss funny and loves his job. He gave me a lot of little projects to do with my left hand which could be frustrating and encouraging. They are very time-consuming, and quite simple.

Debbie keeps reminding me to do this or do that, do another set of these, hey how about if you do some isometrics for your legs. That works well.

Personally, I am not an exercise guy. So, during this time, I am committed to doing reps on impulse as well as when i need a whole routine. Keep trying to wake up my sleeping limbs!
I got a good night’s sleep woke up at 6:15AM. Today will be walking around the house doing some of these exercises. And I need to write a few thank you notes. I’ve already confirmed a luncheon for a customer of ours and I’ve got two customers to call to set up lunches for either tomorrow or early next week.

I have eliminated most television, continue to listen to music. Reading a book from a friend, Bill Feller. Also, calling a few friends to update and or inform them of the stroke.
​
Debbie is doing good; she made a couple of healthy meals yesterday and I’m ready to attack Thursday the ninth. Look forward to updating you soon. Say a couple prayers for my friend Jane she’s having surgery today for her back.

My friend Robert Maschke said I should write a blog of the events, it will keep people informed, me busy and be good therapy for everyone involved. 

That’s all for now John

4-7-2020

​Here’s an update for what I did on April 7 and getting up today in April 8. I was released from the hospital yesterday about 130-2 o’clock and I was ready to come home.


Yesterday morning a handful of visitors from the floor doctor Dr. Chao, Dr. Richardson, Dr. Eubank and a lady named Julie from physical therapy. Busy morning, everyone liked my progress for one day. I am feeling lucky. Go Figure!

Medication has been prescribed for cholesterol, Lipitor and aspirin and my blood pressure is up a little bit, so they put me on an evening dose. We log the medications and blood pressure readings.

Dr. Eubank is an orthopedic surgeon. Very cool guy said they were not going to have to operate on my back they found a little stress fracture on the MRI and L5 and he said that it carries some Edema, that would be sort of like an inflammation. It is elective surgery and they don’t really see a need at this time. They did give me a brace, wraps around my midsection sort of compresses everything from my back around my belly. It’s not uncomfortable. And Dr. Eubanks said that he wouldn’t even wear the thing. But I’m going to wear it when I’m walking around or sitting up. They don’t want to wear it when you’re laying down and I’ll probably do plenty of that.

Dr. Chao, the floor Doctor, reports up to Richardson, put me on the height blood pressure medicine just as an FYI my blood pressure usually like 130/68. During this visit in averaged over 160 between 100-110. Personally, I don’t feel stressed, but I can understand the activity of the brain from the stroke and maybe just the uncertainty causes you know your pressure on her.

Dr. Richardson, what a great guy we talked about PT and they would’ve like me to do an inpatient at a rehab facility for UH. I don’t want to do that with the coronavirus running around and he said he won’t even argue with me. If corona wasn’t around, he would insist on it, he said, “but I’m wearing a mask and I’m as cautious as you are. No argument, go home and be diligent about the exercises.”

Julie from physical therapy visited with me and she allowed me to walk with a walker and a nurse in tow around the six floor and then we walked up a flight of stairs and down a flight of stairs. (Of course, I didn’t use the walker on the stairs!). And then I elected to walk  halfway up a flight of stairs, by myself with the therapist behind me and turned around and walked down using both railings. They want you to have a railing and a person or two railings and still a person accompany you. It might be a while before I take two steps at a time to run back upstairs to get something. Timing has slowed down quite a bit.

One other visit from Corbett the occupational therapist. Very cool big guy, 6’2” maybe. What a patient Cat he is. He gave me a few exercises to help develop my left-hand, easy things to do. Tedious and yet time-consuming, but I probably have quite a bit of that on my hands. Take a magazine turn the pages from the right page to the left I did about 120 pages last night in a magazine called Garden and Gun. A gift from the Isgett’s. It was the second time I flipped through it, saw a couple of really good recipes, as well as a place to visit in Charleston in July. He also told me to flip playing cards one at a time from one pile to another. And the last function he had, was a stack of 10 dish cloths. Using my left-hand thumb and my index finger to fold it in half and folded in a quarter making sure everything lined up and stack up all ten as you fold them.

When I was released, Alan Papa (president of the Hospital, in Italian, we call him A Bigga Shot") escorted me to Debbie and our car. Thank you for everything Alan. It was great to drive out of Ahuja Medical Center. A nice drive home. Debbie was driving, FYI. It was great to get back home, it’s comfortable, there are some challenges, more steps, smaller access areas and carpet changes from hardwood to carpet etc. But I’m at home and today plan on sitting on the deck a little bit and probably doing some walking up and down the driveway.

Debbie’s been great she has help me out immensely. I’m sure that anybody reading this would know that. So, I’m grateful thank you and I’ll have patience with my time, and I appreciate your patience. We know it’s going to be a little bit of a longer haul than we expected.

I took a nap yesterday afternoon and woke up really hungry. By the time I got downstairs, I was pretty frustrated and probably had a little pity party for myself. I admitted up to it and apologized, the situation is a situation and I had a little anxious episode and I’m going to work hard not to have any more of those. It’s probably normal, I just don’t want it to be my normal.

So that’s it, hope I’m not boring you with three pages today. I appreciate all the text messages and emails and phone calls. Do me a favor limit the phone calls. I know I like to talk and I know I like to connect with everybody, but they are exhausting, especially if I hold the phone in my left hand because I would guarantee you that in 10 minutes it’ll slip out of my hand at least three times.

So, enjoy your Wednesday I’ve got a physical therapist coming here in a half an hour. She will be here for 90 minutes I’m sure I’ll need a nap at that time.

All the best John

April 7, 2020


These updates are being dictated into my phone. It’s more convenient, quicker and because my left hand doesn’t have the coordination or let’s say that it is directionally challenged the dictation comes with a couple grammatically incorrect words. I have fun when I say "going" that it sometimes comes out as gonna. Rather than going back and correcting each one, find a little enjoyment in my natural E. 140th St. slang. Or as Giuseppe would say neighborhood dialect! And you are going to see capital letters in the middle of sentences or words. They are when the dictation stops and then I restart it, it may start it like it’s a new sentence.  Sorry one of the flaws of the program.
Thank you for taking the time to read it.

 This is a recap of Monday, April 6. After I woke up and found out that I needed two nurses to walk me to the restroom, realize that my legs mainly my left leg was not gonna carry me the six steps to the restroom. They were very cautious and wanted to make sure that I didn’t try to get up and walk anywhere. I thought it was sort of funny so probably come I made it to the front door by myself. They put the alarm on the bed so that if I did get up, they would be notified at the nurse’s station. I am certain that they have had patience to try to get up and wander around, they fall down and then have more problems. And I’m sure there’s some liability on the nurses.
My left hand has a challenge in regard to gripping an object with Strength and doing anything really coordinated. Just too fast forward to a late lunch, I ordered a salad a roll and lemon ice.
The salad was served in a small soup bowl, consisting of cucumbers, shredded carrots some onion and some very fresh curly green lettuce. It was apparent that once you put the dressing on, you have to cut just about everything to make it a mouthful. I took the bun and set it on a napkin and took about half of the Lettuce and put it on the plate to cut it in the month-size pieces. I placed a fork in my left hand and the knife in my right hand and proceeded to attempt cutting the lettuce. Speaking of very entertaining process. It also made me realize that I have to train myself to use my left hand. Lettuce slide off of the plate, along with carrots onions and a cucumber. I decided I was going to pick up the cucumbers and eat them with my hands, because I’m sure I could not get anything off the plate with those cucumbers. I managed to eat a couple of bites of lettuce with my left hand, but found more success Setting down the knife and using my right hand to eat the cut-up salad. The salad was probably 10 bites for a healthy person. For me it was probably 15 bites, slicing and spreading the salad across my tray. I actually was laughing and surprised the nurses did not come out to find out what was going on. The tray looked like Cooper or Lucy (grandchildren), ate the salad without any utensils.

By the way the salad was delicious with just a little bit of vinaigrette. Just sort of an awakening on what was ahead of me.

My body is working well and functioning. Other than needing a hand to the restroom, I did a little reading, ate a little bit and had a number of visitors. My friend Alan Papa showed up in a suit ready for the day at the hospital. He made three visits Spending time with me and sometimes the nurses that were in the room. We had quite a few laughs. He also broke away from the schedule at 10:45 AM to meet Debbie in the lobby to pick up a delivery she had for me. Couple of work items toothbrush, toothpaste and a bag of goodies which I really only ate a gram cracker at 10 o’clock at night, when they gave me some medication which I’ll share with you.


And one medication I have during the day was an aspirin. Taking them on and off over the last five years. 81 mg once a day reduces the opportunity of a male having a stroke by approximately 20%. I wish i would have taken them everyday. THIS IS A PUBLIC SERVIVE ANNOUNCEMENTS, GENTLEMEN. By coincidence after my leg got numb On Sunday afternoon I went upstairs and took an aspirin. Back to the story. Another medication during the day and right before bed the nurse brought in two Tylenol’s, Lipitor (I may have spelled that wrong forgive me) but I was inform by the neurologist that he’s going to put me on those. Cholesterol medicine and the main reason he’s doing it for blood flow. He added that adds about another 20% off of the risk of having another stroke. There are pretty good odds, so I’ll take the message and take a pill each night before bed. I also talked them in to a 5 mg of Ambien. It worked perfectly I fell asleep around 10:45, nobody bothered me until 4 AM. Which time as well come out vitals were taken. My blood pressure is coming down and the scope course my left hand and my cheek and my left foot are still numb and will require some therapy.


The staff here has been great. I got in some reading done yesterday. I probably gave a heads up to 25 people, my family, friends and coworkers in regard to the event of Sunday. My location at the hospital and with the near future looks like. I received easily 45 to 50 text messages and a couple of phone calls. Producing this document in the morning, allows me not to have to repeat the same story over and over to callers. I also talk to my family members a little over a dozen times, between children, grandchildren, customers and coworkers I would easily say that I spent over two hours on the phone. I’m a good hour and a half returning text messages. A little bit of the day I returned emails for work.


I finally turned the television on at around 430 or 5 o’clock after a short nap. I watched a little bit of the news, shut it off and never turned it back on until 8:30 PM. I watched Men in Black International, to the ending because I had seen it before missed the finale. It took me right in the 10 o’clock and a dose of pills.


I’ll give you a short recheck of visitors from the floor nurse and doctor, Dr. Richardson neurologist and an occupational and physical therapist. There was a doctor that came in that was like a quality process person Dr. Vivian just want to know how my stay was and how things are going along with the nurse later in the afternoon that does the same thing. They’re all very nice and there’s definitely a process in place in the hospital for quality assurance. The neurologist shared what he saw from the MRI results. He stated that the right globe of my brain showed signs of a stroke. Which is caused the numbness on the left side of my body and the lack of response to do normal ask that I’ve done my whole life.
He also shared that the MRI showed that I had a fracture in the lumbar five. He would recommend not operating which was good. And he said that I would have someone come and visit from an orthopedic doctor’s office.


We discussed the therapists that we’re going to visit. Shortly after he left, people started showing up. Gina from the Orthopedic group told me that they were going to order a brace that I could wear while I was standing or sitting that goes around my midsection and it will compress the vertebrae. Then Gary showed up from the ortho company with the brace. He demoed it for me, I tried it on, easy enough to work with and he left. Shortly after his departure two ladies showed up to give me a little bit of therapy. They talked about the back brace, set me up in the bed we put it on. It is easy to work with and does give support. Then they were going to have me walk around the room a little bit and produced a walker with wheels on the front legs.


Walkers are a reality check. They stood on each side of the walker and explained the process. You could have a friend, relative or have observe people with walkers and think that you can do them right out of the gate. Not so. In short, I learned that you can’t lean on the walker, or use the walker to get yourself up from the bed. It’s not that strong. So, I learned to take my weak left foot and move it to the center of the space of the walker and then move my right foot up next to it, Then and only then you can push the walker. It has to be a step ahead of you. And repeat left foot center of the space on the walker right foot to follow and then progress another 8 to 10 inches. That’s a slow process considering you’ve been running around through airports, in and out of appointments, running up and down stairs to grab things you forgot or just moving through your day. The real value of time was demonstrated on Monday afternoon. Also, patience. Now that I’ve done a couple of turns around the room, the therapist opens up the door and we walked about 25 feet down the hall turned around, 25 feet back.  I still have a back brace on, and I have a therapist to my left and one behind me. The one behind me corrected me as we walked back towards the room, she said she would rather have me looking forward, rather than looking at my feet, while I walk. I understand that completely, but I want to make it really clear, when you’re moving your left foot forward which is very weak and off-balance, You get sort of fixated, I’m trying to move it straight 8 inches without having it taking you off your line.


I realized I’m not going to be moving very fast I’m gonna have to relearn a lot of things I’ve been doing for over 60 years. They were taken for granted once they become habits. For some strange reason in that hallway being followed by two therapists, I realized how lucky I was to be learning how to walk all over again. You know you can walk, but at this time, as opposed to 61 1/2 years ago it’s going to take a little more concentration, patience and an awareness that if you fall your butt is not 12 inches off the ground any longer!


So, I’m looking forward to the challenge of getting the strength up in my left foot, Assuming the balance and agility that I’ve had my whole life, but I understand that it will take some patience. And it will take some time and dedication. Dr. Richardson said these setbacks can take three months to 18 months to get back to where you were.


That’s acceptable and I feel privileged to have the opportunity. He also stated that I could drive almost immediately because the use of my right hand my right leg and I would be able to balance steering wheel with my left hand and I should be good to go. It’s not my first priority to jump in the car and drive anywhere, since were house confined with the coronavirus shut down.


Our last discussion of the day, I heard that I could head home today Tuesday. And then we are going to set up the therapists that would come to my home for outpatient training. I’m up for both.


It is 6:05 AM on Tuesday morning. I’ve been up for about an hour and 45 minutes and I’m looking forward to having some eggplant Parmesan and pasta with meatballs that the Old Republic employees sent to our home. Deanna brought me a little to go package, so that’s going to be my breakfast.


I hope this two-page briefing will give you each an update of where I’m at. I’m grateful for the outline of a kind words, prayers and thoughts by all of you.


8:25 AM I just met with my new nurses and the care doctor. They are going to release me today. I’m going to be on blood pressure medicine and check my own blood pressure just to make sure it gets stabilized. And they’re going to get me up and around a bit to do a little walk this morning. Afterwards they said I could get out of here. Debbie has spoken to the case manager in regard to therapy. I’ll be doing outpatient as well as maybe some in-home therapy one or two times a week. My brother-in-law and sister-in-law Frank and Connie are giving me to use a walker with wheels and a couple other items that help at home in the short run. And if you’re driving by the Eaton Estates, you’ll probably see me practicing in my driveway or around a cul-de-sac. In the long-term, getting ready for next bowling season at Yorktown. This year I averaged between 206 and 207. I’m setting my goal for 2020-2021 season to be at least 210. It should be higher. That is aggressive, but sights and goals have to be set high.


Enjoy your day and I will mine. It’s a new adventure and a life lesson. 


I’ll take it in stride and the strides will get better. Feel free to text me back or comment.


All the best Salute Cin Cin.
John Voso Jr

​Daily Update, 4-6-20
University Hospital Ahuja Medical Center
Beachwood, Ohio


So, I woke up this morning at 6 o’clock, the nurse came out at 6:15 and stuck me, she took five little capsules of blood and two other nurses came in to get my vitals. They asked me how I was doing and asked me to perform a couple of tasks for them. How interesting. When we were done, they had to help me to the rest room. I said I don’t have a problem, they left, and I was able to pull my pants down and have a seat. I had a bowel movement, straightened up, everything back together, they came back in and finished pulling my pants the rest of the way up. Prior to April 5th, I did these functions for myself since I was a baby or old enough to take care of my business. It’s funny how 24 hours can change your life.


Somewhere around noon yesterday I had a stroke. Spent the next few hours doing a couple chores and walking back-and-forth slowly trying to keep my balance. I did make it upstairs twice, the first time I went up I thought I was going to have to scoot down the stairs. But I did manage to walk and keep my balance. I don’t think I could do that right now. My left arm has going to need strengthened. And my left leg sort of likes to walk to the left, which is not good for my right leg, so I would think that I would fall easily without help. I am relatively calm with all the uncertainty.


Today my nurses are Holly, Charmaine and Ceriah (sorry if I spelled her name incorrect). Very nice ladies very patient. I am certain it is a normal Monday for them.


Today should be interesting. I do not have much of an appetite, but they have some avocado toast I can get there without goat cheese, that could be pretty good. Last night when I got to the room around 1 o’clock they brought me some applesauce pretzels and pudding. I had the applesauce and drank water. I’ve had two glasses of water through the night and here we sit at 6:52 AM. It’s Monday


I wonder how many times I will be repeating the same story to family and friends. So shortly, I will text us everyone. From the fammjammm❤️ group! (our family’s text group name) I love you guys, please write a list of what you want me to ask the doctor today. I’ll be meeting with a neurologist name Dr. Richardson and an orthopedic doctor, Dr. Eubank.


Oh yes, a couple of things. One I hope to the use of my left leg back, I can’t even wiggle my toes. As a bowler I’m going to need to do that. So, I’ll be working on it, I am controlling my left hand a little bit better, but it is quite numb. I have numbness on my face from my cheek under my nose right side. It feels like I had a couple Novocain shots, that did not wear off.


That’s a pretty good update. But I’m sure you have questions. OK one other thing, I’m not a very good typist, my left thumb is all over the keyboard. So, I’m talking into the phone. My thoughts are clear, I could have used a couple more hour’s sleep. I figure that’s not going to happen.


Morning update April 6, 2020.