6-year-old's stroke recovery includes work with occupational therapists

The Star Press reports Elijah Owens of Daleville is working with people who hold speech and occupational therapy jobs to bounce back from a stroke he suffered on October 17. Following recess that Monday, his teacher noted he was off-kilter so she approached him but found him to be unresponsive. Elijah's mother, Jeri Sue Owens, said she immediately recognized his health condition when she saw him drooling and his mouth drooping at the local hospital where he was transported.

His recuperation from the reduced blood flow to his brain through a vessel on the left of his face includes enhancing endurance and strength on his right side while practicing the 's' and 'g' sounds.

"It's a slow process. It's just a day to day thing," she told the publication. "Elijah is a perfectionist and it's been hard for him. He gets frustrated with therapy, and he'll say 'I hate this hand!' when he can't get something right."

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates occupational therapy career prospects are forecasted to grow more rapidly than average, particularly for those aspiring to help the elderly.