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Stroke recovery questions

My brother had a stroke in June 07 at the age of 28.  Couple of questions with some points of history:
- Damage to L side of brain.
- Much of R side affected including speech.
- Positive note... he does comprehend, has decent hip control on R side which allows him to walk with brace/other aids, and has some R shoulder control.
- He is working hard on OT, PT, and speech and has shown some recovery... very slow, but it is there.

Questions:
- Since it is now in the 7th month, can we expect that he can/will still improve (even if it is slow and assuming we are diligent about his therapy)?  I have heard from some and read on this site that what happens in the first few months will provide insights for the future.  I am really hoping that he continues to improve, even if it is slow.  
- Can anyone share stories of young and healthy stroke victims recovering slowly over the years.  I hope and pray that his youth and good health translate to better chances for long term progress?
- Last, they discovered just last week at outpatient therapy that his right hand reacts to vibrations.  After using a vibrating machine on his R forearem, he is able to do some movements in his R wrist that he can not normally do.  Can anyone share their thoughts on this.  Is this good news or is this a common thing that is not necessarily good news???

I appreciate greatly.  I really admire you all.
Scott
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Avatar universal
I have done a lot of research since my father suffered a stroke last month.  I enjoy reading that research is leading to new breakthroughs to help victims of stroke.  I have also read that although most recovery for stroke patients is seen within the first 6 months, that patients may recover for YEARS after stroke.

I personally believe that a persons will and the support they receive greatly assist in their ability to recover.  Researchers are also making breakthroughs to assist in the treatment of aphasis, dysphagia, paralysis etc.  Keep supporting your loved ones and let them know with each improvement that it was a GREAT improvement.  

Vital Stim Therapy has been used to greatly improve swallowing, Zolpidem (Ambien) has for some reason helped stroke and coma patients, and hope, faith and prayers can work wonders too.  
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Avatar universal
Sounds like your brother has a great support system and the motivation to get where he wants to be.  I personally think that is why I am doing so well today.   I had a stoke in July 2006 at the age of 29.  A different area of my brain was effected than his so it is hard to compare exactly but I have met many people since my stroke that have had them and improvements always happen...it doesn't matter the timeframe, as long as the motivation to get better is there.  I was able to walk with a walker and my therapist wanted to get me walking with a cane.  I had a then 2yr old at the time so was very adamant about re-learning to walk on my own!  I am happy to say that I now am.  My hand hasn't been quite as quick to cooperate with me but it has improved IMMENSELY so I am very happy with where I am at.  I am right handed and that was the side that was effected so it has been very hard for me but if I never use it I know that I will never get it all back....even though it may be easier to use my left, I make myself use my right!  I would take it as a very good sign that he is able to do movements with the vibrating machine!  Keep doing them....repetition.  The brain is sure amazing at what it is able to do.  Also...two months after my stroke my brother was in a serious accident.  He suffered massive brain damage on the L side.  His speech was greatly effected...severe aphasia.  He now struggles but it has improved greatly and keeps getting better.
Patience and persistence.  My best to him!
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