Today Much Like Yesterday
Jul 7 2011 in The Unit Known As Shandi's blog by The Unit Known as Shandi
I hope to get some medical questions answered today. We only have 2 days left of antibiotics left, and the diarrhea has not slowed. Mom still cognitively aware of what’s going on, but not speaking. Her brother (93) is calling her this afternoon. I am very tired, and working hard to slow down a bit today and cut out “extra” activities and phone calls.
This picture was taken at my best friend’s home a few weeks ago. She had given lodging to our chickens after the landslide, and we’d gone to pick them up and bring them home. My friend is an amazing support, and I’m so lucky to have had her in my life for the past 26 years.
Denise said on July 7, 2011
Hi TUKAS–Another just beautiful photo.
Let go of feeling like you have to fight. Let go because there’s no need to fight. What will happen will happen. And, whatever happens, she will remain in your hands or in another pair of hands as loving as yours. You win, no matter what. Which is to say that you’ve already won. Which is why you can let go of the fight. Just be.
Laura Arnold said on July 8, 2011
Denise, it is true to let go. Today my caree who, has dementia, was on a war path, he needed to supply a urine sample and I had him do it at home, but he couldn’t do it, and at the Dr’s office it is impossible. So, I thought I have to let go of his actions, and I called his Urologist and I will be taking him into the lab at the office and they will get the urine with a catheder,(spelling). Thanks for listening…Laura Arnold
The Unit Known as Shandi said on July 7, 2011
I wish I could. Unfortunately, her care depends on knowing which way this is going. IV fluids, or no IV fluids (as she’s not drinking). Meds to keep her comfortable (which can permanently worsen her dementia), or continue antibiotics. That’s the fight. Needing answers, and hoping they will come today when the Hospice nurse sees her. I’m okay, whichever way it goes. Just in limbo at this moment.
The Unit Known as Shandi said on July 7, 2011
Nurse said she wouldn’t recommend IV fluids. Mom’s blood pressure is too low, and there is a slight irregularity in her heartbeat. She has some fluid in one lung, and the nurse ordered oxygen to be delivered tomorrow to help her breathe better. On the plus side, Mom and her brother did connect by phone today, and Mom was alert and aware that she was hearing him. She’s talked a little more this evening, and was allowed to have some jello (all she’s had since Saturday is applesauce, toast and banana). She’s comfortable, other than when we roll her. Nurse echoed what Denise said, to keep doing exactly what I’m doing, and just let what happens, happen. She did say that, if the diahrrea stops, it will be after her last dose of antibiotics on Saturday. We probably won’t see much improvement until then in that area.
Denise said on July 7, 2011
How wonderful for the phone call between your mom and uncle! Sounds like it’s been a good day.
As you know, we are all thinking of you. Thanks so much for the updates.
Karen said on July 7, 2011
What a beautiful photo! I hope that you have gotten some guidance from the Hospice nurse. I think you would find great comfort from just spending the time being with your mother. If she is cognitively aware, she will take comfort from your presence, even if she cannot articulate it. From someone who went through many of these battles, I promise you that you will never regret the time spent with your mother. My heart is with you.
Trish said on July 7, 2011
I love the photos you are posting, Shandi. It sounds like you have a wonderful nurse; someone you can trust. I echo Karen’s comment that your mom knows you are there and will find comfort in that. You are in my heart. Take care.
G-J said on July 7, 2011
You are giving your mother such a gift! I have been there for each of my parents when the passed; Mom was in the hospital and Dad was in his own bed on hospice. I am glad I could be there for both of them. The hospice experience was much better and much easier on my Dad than the hospital experience was on my Dad.
I am so glad your mother got to talk to her brother.
Bette said on July 8, 2011
Shandi,
Thank you so much for keeping us up to date. I’m so glad you have support around you, as you continue to support your mom – so strongly.
Hope you’ve been able to slow down a bit.
Thinking of you all.