Giffords Makes `Major Leap Forward' by Moving Legs on Command, Doctors Say

[jefferson_dem]

Giffords Makes `Major Leap Forward' by Moving Legs on Command, Doctors Say
By Laurie Asseo - Jan 13, 2011 12:30 PM ET

U.S. Representative Gabrielle Giffords, shot in the head in last weekend’s Arizona rampage, has made a “major leap forward” in her recovery and can move her legs on command, doctors in Tucson said.

Doctors have started physical therapy and had her “dangling on the side of the bed” today, Dr. Peter Rhee told reporters at a news conference. She is starting to open her eyes and become aware of her surroundings, including the presence of family and friends, said Dr. Michael Lemole.

“She is able to move both of those legs to command,” Lemole said. “That’s huge.”

“This is a major leap forward; this is a major milestone for her,” Lemole said. Rhee said doctors hope to put her in a chair tomorrow and may remove her breathing tube in the next few days.

The Democratic congresswoman’s relatives have “asked her very specific things and she’s used her hand to communicate with them,” Lemole said. “We have seen the eyes begin to track.”

Doctors still must watch for medical complications that might occur, such as pneumonia or blood clots, Lemole said.

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-01-13/giffords-makes-major-leap-forward-by-moving-legs-on-command-doctors-say.html

[stray cat]

1. both arms, both legs and responsive - a long recovery but certainly hopeful

[Kali]

2. thank you

this atheist is grateful to the universe and all the circumstances surrounding this event that are allowing her to do so well after being so gravely injured.

[Old and In the Way]

3. Truly amazing...I wish her a full and speedy recovery. nt