By Marty Arlen

Dear Uncle 007,

How did you get to be 80%?

Improving in Idaho

Dear Improving,

I'm going to be absolutely serious. Although these tips may not help everyone, they got me from 5% in Jan. 2004 to where I am today. So with a little faith, a lot of hope, and a sense of humor, maybe, just maybe, someone else will be as satisfied as I am. If you are at 100%, don't read any further. the following have appeared in various posts through the years, so here they are in case you missed them

I find my greatest ally is water. I attend an arthritis class at the YMCA 3 days a week. If you can't get to a YMCA, fill the sink or a pan with warm water. Helps get the fingers opening and closing. While watching TV, put a soft ball in your hand and squeeze.

Keeping the muscles in the shoulder lubricated through movement is very important. For less than $25, I bought a pulley that fits over a door. With my back to the door, I exercised my arms to where I can lift both arms over my head. On the website of Sammons Preston Roylan, http://www.sammonspreston.com, you will find several interesting equipment options. See pulley options at http://www.sammonspreston.com/Supply/product-list.asp?subsection=1195. I have the reach and range pulley.

I do a host of leg lifts and walk a lot. For help with balance, I go up and down a short staircase sideways with assistance. I find walking on grass or sand (preferably barefoot) of great help.

Now I know some of you have read this before. You need to set aside time each day to exercise. How are you going to retrain your brain if you're lazy? It's frustrating, but in the long run, very rewarding.

Now in October Uncle 007 is going attend his niece's wedding. I will dance for the first time in three years. My wife told me I couldn't dance before the stroke, so at least she won't be disappointed.

Uncle 007

E-mail your questions to Uncle 007 at marlen@strokenetwork.org.