Healing the brain is hard work. Reconnecting synapses, making new pathways--or whatever is happening within Neil's skull--takes enormous amounts of energy. Along with relearning, there is constant "new" learning as well. And physical fitness continues to be important, so he is also working out and building muscle. Early hours for school, a schedule that includes four classes, the accompanying homework, two hours a week of tutoring, volunteering at two locations, doctor's appointments, etc., all make for busy days for anyone, let alone someone who is trying to rehabilitate his former abilities. What this boils down to, is one very tired young man. By 5, 6, 7 o'clock there is not much in the tank for coherent conversations. If Neil's not in bed by 8:00 he pays the price the next day with an inability to stay focused and alert. A nap at mid-day sounds like a good idea, but the meds he takes for concentration and attention won't let him sleep.
The thing that Neil misses most in his post-accident existence is a social life. Though he has a few friends that he messages or texts, he has very little opportunity to get together with anyone. Old friends have moved on. His church young adult group meets at night. And of course, that's when most parties and social gatherings take place. What's a lonely, sleepy boy supposed to do? I'm not sure. We're still working on that. I'm pretty sure this neuro-fatigue won't last forever. Just another lesson in patience, I guess.
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| The good old days |
