Hello,
Did any of you have the opportunity to watch CNN (Campbell Brown) last night (Tuesday)? The program was thought-provoking at the very least.; It was about several new, radical discoveries and corresponding theories about the brain. It was really interesting, especially with Norma in mind. Some of the older theories of the brain sustain the idea that the brain cannot grow new brain cells, but this theory is now disputed in light of some recent research. The testimony was impressive. Patients have made huge advancements after suffering severe strokes.
Edward Taub (the phonetic is correct, but I am not sure of the spelling), runs a radical brain therapy clinic at the University of Alabama-Birmingham. Many successful stories were broadcast. Another man named, Norman Doidge was also on the program who wrote a book titled, The Brain that Changes Itself. You can re watch it on CNN if you would like to watch the show. Maybe we can raise some money together and send Norma? Why not?
I visited Norma on Saturday. She now has a new roommate; a rather youthful woman who suffered a stroke during surgery for a tumor on her brain stem. She couldn't talk when she first arrived at Danto, but now she is able to communicate well; she is a good, positive model for Norma. Norma has successfully endured several weeks of deep emotional trauma, and she is doing better, so remember to write and call whenever you can. If you have any news that you would like to share with Norma's friends on Norma's blog, please e-mail me (or Jim, Chris or Kevin) Thanks.
Colleen
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Colleen and Norma, We are so sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing your sad news with all of us here. You have all been through so much. Your Mom was a beautiful and caring person. I know that your loss is so profound, but we hope that you will surround yourselves with loving family and friends and that you will find comfort among them.(and us) I met your Mom on several occasions and what really caught my attention was how kind and friendly she was. You girls also have those same beautiful traits, and all of her unique and important traits will be shared forever through you and your families. Lorene is truly in our prayers and you are as well. With our deepest sympathy, Janet and Tom and of course our friend Paul
ReplyDeleteColleen, thank you for the information on the CNN program. I went online to try to find a future broadcast date/time, but no success with that. I did manage to find the text transcript, under CNN, Campbell Brown, Transcripts...it aired in 2 parts on Tues 10/12 & Wed. 10/13, as part of "The Brain That Heals Itself" series (?). Edward Taub is the correct spelling for the brain scientist @ U AL-B'ham. The other doctor, Norman Doidge, MD, has a book titled The Brain That Changes Itself; Stories of Personal Triumph From The Frontiers Of Brain Science (Penguin, 2007) and there is a corresponding 10 audio disc version (from Brilliance Audio, of Grand Haven, MI (!), 2008). I've placed a request for both at my local public library. Neuroplasticity -- was discovered in "phantom limb" studies & now the brain is no longer believed to be hardwired like a machine, but can make new connections to compensate or relearn. Awesome! Thanks again Colleen for telling us about this program & topic! ~ XO Susie
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