Mama Update: There’s No Place Like Home: Tears of Joy

This update from Wayne Kitchens:

Bonnie Kitchens update: I apologize for not posting sooner. It has been 2 weeks today that Bonnie was discharged from the Shepherd Center ( in my opinion, the greatest facility of its kind in the world). As we made our way home, she began smiling a little bigger as we traveled through Conyers. When we drove through Covington on I-20, she was smiling bigger and tears of joy were falling. As we exited I-20 at Stanton Springs, she was literally sobbing and laughing at the same time. As we drove up our driveway to her son Jay and the pups who were waiting on us, there are no words to describe the joy she was showing!! The very next day, 2 weeks ago tomorrow, we made the trip back to Atlanta… well, I guess technically North Decatur, a few miles above North Dekalb Mall, to begin outpatient therapy at Shepherds Pathways facility. And, yes indeed, you can tell it is a Shepherd facility.. AWESOME! Bonnie continues to improve, she is still just as determined to get better as ever. Last Friday, she walked, with assistance from her PT and a special walker, 250 feet. While she is still unable to walk on her own, she is closer to that accomplishment. With speech and music therapy, she was able to sing along with 4 songs played on a video and sing along with the therapist on a song that he made up and played on the spot to help her use certain sounds and words. Occupational Therapy is continuing to help her with every day chores, such as dressing and grooming, and taking care of her right side. She still isn’t able to use her right arm, hand or leg, but they are stretching and moving the joints as well as teaching me/us what to do at home to help. She continues to AMAZE me at her hard work and determination!!! She keeps me going, and I’m not just referring to being busy, I’m talking about inspiration and determination, the tenacity of a bulldog and the courage of a warrior! How could anyone not be encouraged just watching this amazing lady fight like she does to regain what she needs!! I can’t thank you all enough for all the thoughts, prayers, calls, texts, food, visits and gifts! I am truly humbled by your most generous gestures! And, I can’t thank God enough for giving her the strength, courage and determination to get back to where she is. I have no doubt that he will continue to provide all these and more!!