Janie,
First you are very strong in your perseverance to improve. That’s very impressive and important in recovery and we know it’s a slow, constant and daily push to make any bit of improvement, but as you have seen… it’s all possible. You can continue to defy the odds!
I survived two strokes in 2017, renal failure, had severe liver damage plus now have a pacemaker and a few other ‘’juicy’’ issues but I keep pushing every day. I walk extensively without assistance, ( I carry a fold up cane for night or if I’m going to unknown areas), I carefully live alone, do most everything except step up or down a high curb, use steps without a handrail, run, step over obstacles/puddles or drive a car. I keep daily lists, play sudoku, work puzzles, exercise most days, try doing anything I couldn’t do yesterday. I’ll never give in to anything or to anyone who has an attitude of defeat or sympathy. I am a retired OT and I am an example of rock solid belief in neuroplasticity which has returned most of my fine motor abilities. In my early post stroke days using a walker and I saw someone walking down a long stairway using a cane and thinking ‘’some day I’m going to do that’’! I now can and then some. You MUST have the best and supportive doc, PT and OT you can find in addition to family and friends who will support your efforts. You must ALWAYS be smart and safe, say ‘’I can’t today ’’ but ‘’I’ll try’’ ! Hope this helps, Shani