Renowned Vietnamese Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh, known affectionately as Thay, has been able to communicate more clearly a very strong wish to intensify his recovery program, according to a recent statement from his monastery.
From TNH Foundation
A news update from Plum Village on 14 July reported that Thay is very determined to do everything possible to recover both his physical movement and speech since suffering a stroke in November 2014. After many options were presented to Thay, he made a clear decision to travel to the United States to undertake a more intensive rehabilitation program that could be specifically adapted to his needs.
Thay arrived on the West Coast of the United States in the afternoon of 11 July. To make his flight as safe as possible, Thay was flown in a private jet provided by a friend. He was accompanied by Sister Chan Khong, Thay’s first fully ordained monastic disciple, and a team of attendants, who will provide round-the-clock care during his recovery. Rehabilitation will be guided by a team of neurologists specializing in stroke and cognitive rehabilitation at San Francisco’s UCFS Medical Center.
Thay enjoying the fragrance of a lotus flower, 16 June 2015. From Plum Village
Plum Village expressed gratitude for the care provided by the medical team in France who had been treating Thay, in particular the doctors and nurses at the University Hospital of Bordeaux.
During the flight, Thay was relaxed and at ease, and eager to practice walking meditation in the aircraft with the help of his attendants. He enjoyed looking out of the window and contemplating the icebergs visible below.
Plum Village praised Thay’s diligence and determination. While he is currently unable to speak, Thay disembarked the aircraft on foot and “continues to transmit the essence of his practice.” (Lion’s Roar)
Thay’s doctors have recommended that he follow an intensive program of therapy for five to six months, including hospital visits during which he will have access to the latest innovations in robotic rehabilitation techniques, as well as physical training with therapists. Specialists will also visit Thay at home to provide physical therapy on other days of the week.
Plum Village expects the cost of the intensive rehabilitation program to run to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Donations can be made to the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation.