Hey HIWBB
In brief DH was in a bad way - had a Biliteral Brachial Plexus Injuries i.e both arms severing the majority of his nerves. He also had a stroke, so has muscle wasting to his left side too. He has 3 'functioning' nerves . His right arm is usable although he wears a splint from time to time. The left hand he is able to grasp things but has little feeling per se. He says everything feels the same, so sensitivity of touch is a bit shot away. He also burns himself a lot if not careful.
I met DH four years ago so wasn't around in the early stages. I know that he was in rehabilitation for over a year and in reality he was very lucky to regain any use in his arms. His Mum was a star and she has told me she had to do phsyio with three time a day for an hour for three years - when he couldn't feel a thing.
In theory he is still 80% disabled, yet he still drives a car, goes fishing, plays the wii (!), works full-time. He still gets terible nerve pain when he is coming down with a bug. horrible shooting pains.
He has had numerous operations, the most recent being a tendon transfer in Oct 05 which improved the movement in his left hand considerably. DH is under Professor Birch at the royal orthopeatic (sorry fast typing and bad spelling!) In fact we went to see him this Tuesday for a check up and he said in theory DH shouldn't have the level of mobilty and movement he has due to severity of his injuries. DH may have another operation in the future to transfer muscle to his tricep, as he doesn't have any at the moment, so cannot really lift his arms. This is new, so will see if it is worth having when the time comes.
Basically, it is a nasty injury and it will take time to heal - patience and hard work. However, DH is a shiny example of what is possible so I have every faith things will improve for you and your DH.
didn't mean to post so much - maybe if you post any further questions on your other thread we can chat there and leave these lovely ladies in peace!
x