Happy Thanksgiving!
God is good!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Wednesday
As we approach Thanksgiving day we are mindful of many days of thanksgiving this year.
As Charlotte and I headed south to Dumas to be with her family, we stopped in to see Mom and Dad. Cindy and Mike had been up to see them but had left before we got there. Nancy and Madeline will share Thanksgiving dinner with them today and Suzanne and her clan will be up tomorrow for the day. I return on Friday to clean up the aftermath of Black Friday.
Both Mom and Dad seem to be adjusting well to their new place and have used the warm days we have had recently to take brief strolls outside around the apartment and to sit on the patio. Chanetta has gone home for the holidays and the Visiting Angels have returned to assist during her absence.
All of us want to express our thanksgivings to all of you once again and to wish you and your families a blessed holiday season as God continues to bestow His grace and love on us.
God is good!
As Charlotte and I headed south to Dumas to be with her family, we stopped in to see Mom and Dad. Cindy and Mike had been up to see them but had left before we got there. Nancy and Madeline will share Thanksgiving dinner with them today and Suzanne and her clan will be up tomorrow for the day. I return on Friday to clean up the aftermath of Black Friday.
Both Mom and Dad seem to be adjusting well to their new place and have used the warm days we have had recently to take brief strolls outside around the apartment and to sit on the patio. Chanetta has gone home for the holidays and the Visiting Angels have returned to assist during her absence.
All of us want to express our thanksgivings to all of you once again and to wish you and your families a blessed holiday season as God continues to bestow His grace and love on us.
God is good!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Friday
A good friend posted this video on her Facebook page.
I thought it worth sharing.
Thanks Carie Beth!
Failure doesn't phase You, worry doesn't win,
Loss doesn't leave You afraid to start again,
Our sin doesn't shock You, our shame doesn't shame You at all.
Mistakes do not move You, terror doesn't tame,
Death doesn't doom You to life in the grave,
Our struggling doesn't scare You, our secrets don't surprise You at all.
There is nothing above You, there is nothing beyond You,
There is nothing that you can't do...
There is no one beside You, there is no one that's like You,
There is nothing that You can't do...
Whatever will come, we'll rise above,
You fail us not, You fail us not.
No matter the war, our hope is secure,
You fail us not, You fail us not.
You fail us not...
Hatred doesn't hide You, evil doesn't ail,
Despair can't disguise You and tell You that You've failed,
Our doubt doesn't daunt You, our darkness won't defeat You at all.
You're bigger than the battle, You're bigger than the battle
You are bigger than the battle has ever been.
“Fail Us Not” was written by and performed by the band 1000 Generations. This worship song is their incredulous response to a heavenly Father whose love is undiminished by our “un-loveliness” and whose faithfulness can transform us into the people he envisions us to be.
We believe that hope is viral.
failusnot.com
This is a place where you are invited to watch real stories and be encouraged, to share your thoughts, and to post your own tale of God's goodness to you.
God is good.
I thought it worth sharing.
Thanks Carie Beth!
Fail Us Not from Steven Potaczek on Vimeo.
Failure doesn't phase You, worry doesn't win,
Loss doesn't leave You afraid to start again,
Our sin doesn't shock You, our shame doesn't shame You at all.
Mistakes do not move You, terror doesn't tame,
Death doesn't doom You to life in the grave,
Our struggling doesn't scare You, our secrets don't surprise You at all.
There is nothing above You, there is nothing beyond You,
There is nothing that you can't do...
There is no one beside You, there is no one that's like You,
There is nothing that You can't do...
Whatever will come, we'll rise above,
You fail us not, You fail us not.
No matter the war, our hope is secure,
You fail us not, You fail us not.
You fail us not...
Hatred doesn't hide You, evil doesn't ail,
Despair can't disguise You and tell You that You've failed,
Our doubt doesn't daunt You, our darkness won't defeat You at all.
You're bigger than the battle, You're bigger than the battle
You are bigger than the battle has ever been.
“Fail Us Not” was written by and performed by the band 1000 Generations. This worship song is their incredulous response to a heavenly Father whose love is undiminished by our “un-loveliness” and whose faithfulness can transform us into the people he envisions us to be.
We believe that hope is viral.
failusnot.com
This is a place where you are invited to watch real stories and be encouraged, to share your thoughts, and to post your own tale of God's goodness to you.
God is good.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Thursday
Briefly, Mom and Dad are doing fine. Dad has bounced back from his recent episode and sounded great today. Mom is ready to join the Internet community, so we are shopping for the right computer for their needs. I don't know if I can get her to take over this blog, but I am going to try. I just hope she doesn't read all I have been reporting over the last few months.
God is good.
Now an update on Tom Logue from Ray Higgins.,
From: Ray Higgins
Subject: Tom Logue health update
Dear current & former CBFAR Coordinating Council members,
I have Tom Logue’s permission to tell you about his recent medical diagnosis.
He has been diagnosed with cancer in his lungs.
He told me that there is no treatment/cure for it.
At this time he is not in any pain, and, in his upbeat voice, he said, “I’m taking it a day at a time.”
If you would like to drop Tom a note or card, his address is:
1506 Parham Pointe, #11C
Little Rock, AR 72204.
Thanks for your prayers for him, his daughter Louise, who lives here in LR, and his son Tim in North Carolina.
Ray
Ray Higgins, Ph.D., Coordinator
Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Arkansas
1504 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive
Little Rock, AR 72202
501.223.8586 (office)
501.224.9474 (fax)
www.cbfar.org
Tom, we are praying for you.
We owe you immeasurable gratitude for your faithful gallantry in championing the causes of Christ our Savior. God's accomplishment through you His servant, is a legacy we can only hope to strive toward. Most of all, thank you for teaching us about how to love each other and be bold in expressing that love.
You are a treasure.
May God hold you in His lap and immerse you in His loving care.
He is good!
God is good.
Now an update on Tom Logue from Ray Higgins.,
From: Ray Higgins
Subject: Tom Logue health update
Dear current & former CBFAR Coordinating Council members,
I have Tom Logue’s permission to tell you about his recent medical diagnosis.
He has been diagnosed with cancer in his lungs.
He told me that there is no treatment/cure for it.
At this time he is not in any pain, and, in his upbeat voice, he said, “I’m taking it a day at a time.”
If you would like to drop Tom a note or card, his address is:
1506 Parham Pointe, #11C
Little Rock, AR 72204.
Thanks for your prayers for him, his daughter Louise, who lives here in LR, and his son Tim in North Carolina.
Ray
Ray Higgins, Ph.D., Coordinator
Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Arkansas
1504 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive
Little Rock, AR 72202
501.223.8586 (office)
501.224.9474 (fax)
www.cbfar.org
Tom, we are praying for you.
We owe you immeasurable gratitude for your faithful gallantry in championing the causes of Christ our Savior. God's accomplishment through you His servant, is a legacy we can only hope to strive toward. Most of all, thank you for teaching us about how to love each other and be bold in expressing that love.
You are a treasure.
May God hold you in His lap and immerse you in His loving care.
He is good!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Monday
Dad slept very well last night after eating his egg sandwich and is doing much better today. He was dreading getting a shower when he woke up but he managed it with ease and had a good breakfast. He is not listing to port this morning and is back to a normal routine. He was lucid and speaking normally and was able to relate the events in the ER from last night.
It appears that this was another episode precipitated by NPH.
Thank you for your continued prayer.
God is good.
It appears that this was another episode precipitated by NPH.
Thank you for your continued prayer.
God is good.
Sunday/Monday
Lethargy and thick tongued speech have cropped up on occasion over the past few weeks. There has not been a pattern or specific precedent for this condition nor has it persisted longer than twelve to eighteen hours or been accompanied by other symptoms.
Sunday, Dad had a less than normal prelude to the day and indications of idiosyncratic behavior persisted for the most of the day. Two of his granddaughters, Hali and Kakki came up for the Razorback game and stopped by to see Mom and Dad. Mom said that Dad was less than communicative. He may have spoken one or two senteces during their entire visit.
Around eight p.m., Charlotte called and said that Mom had called 911 because Dad's BP was high and his pulse was elevated and he was very weak. Chanetta didn't think that she could get him into the van by herself. He was also having difficulty with his balance.
I left work and met them at the hospital. Dad looked tired and his eyes were matted and he seemed groggy. He was responsive and was able to relate relevant facts about his birth date and social security number to the admitting nurse but I could tell all was not "normal". They ran all the customary test and gave him a cat scan.
At 10:30 I sent Mom and Chanetta home because it was going to be a couple of hours before any results would be available. I went home to change clothes and eat a bite and came back around 12. Dad had been sleeping even through the din of beeps of machines, emergency room radios and a baby crying in the next room. He woke up when I came in and asked a few questions and went back to sleep. About 12:30, the doctor came in and said that they were going to get him up to walk around a bit. I told her that he needed a walker and a gait belt at best. She said that they were not permitted in the ER so I told her that she better have a couple of strong nurses at his side or they would be picking him up off the floor. I had tried to explain his NPH to them (I guess they didn't read his chart from his previous stay in the hospital) and that it was probably the reason for most of his symptoms. She said that she would get another nurse to assist. I asked her if they were going to keep him over night and she said that all of his baseline numbers were good and that he would be going home. I told her that I would have to go get his gait belt, clothes, wheelchair and suitable transportation.
I woke Mom up and gathered all the needed paraphernalia and headed back to transport him home. I got him dressed and with the help of an aide got him into the van and we headed home. Mom and Chanetta were waiting and Dad said that he was hungry. The transfers to and from the van were labored and Dad could not seem to sit up straight in the wheelchair. Chanetta made him an egg sandwich while I tried to get him in a more upright position. He couldn't seem to right himself. Chanetta indicated that he had had trouble with his balance all day. Hopefully he will be able to get some sleep and he will regain his normal demeanor tomorrow.
We will try to get him in to see his PCP as soon as possible and develop a new strategy for the future in the event this type of episode continues to occur.
We are praying for guidance and strength as we go forward.
God is good.
Sunday, Dad had a less than normal prelude to the day and indications of idiosyncratic behavior persisted for the most of the day. Two of his granddaughters, Hali and Kakki came up for the Razorback game and stopped by to see Mom and Dad. Mom said that Dad was less than communicative. He may have spoken one or two senteces during their entire visit.
Around eight p.m., Charlotte called and said that Mom had called 911 because Dad's BP was high and his pulse was elevated and he was very weak. Chanetta didn't think that she could get him into the van by herself. He was also having difficulty with his balance.
I left work and met them at the hospital. Dad looked tired and his eyes were matted and he seemed groggy. He was responsive and was able to relate relevant facts about his birth date and social security number to the admitting nurse but I could tell all was not "normal". They ran all the customary test and gave him a cat scan.
At 10:30 I sent Mom and Chanetta home because it was going to be a couple of hours before any results would be available. I went home to change clothes and eat a bite and came back around 12. Dad had been sleeping even through the din of beeps of machines, emergency room radios and a baby crying in the next room. He woke up when I came in and asked a few questions and went back to sleep. About 12:30, the doctor came in and said that they were going to get him up to walk around a bit. I told her that he needed a walker and a gait belt at best. She said that they were not permitted in the ER so I told her that she better have a couple of strong nurses at his side or they would be picking him up off the floor. I had tried to explain his NPH to them (I guess they didn't read his chart from his previous stay in the hospital) and that it was probably the reason for most of his symptoms. She said that she would get another nurse to assist. I asked her if they were going to keep him over night and she said that all of his baseline numbers were good and that he would be going home. I told her that I would have to go get his gait belt, clothes, wheelchair and suitable transportation.
I woke Mom up and gathered all the needed paraphernalia and headed back to transport him home. I got him dressed and with the help of an aide got him into the van and we headed home. Mom and Chanetta were waiting and Dad said that he was hungry. The transfers to and from the van were labored and Dad could not seem to sit up straight in the wheelchair. Chanetta made him an egg sandwich while I tried to get him in a more upright position. He couldn't seem to right himself. Chanetta indicated that he had had trouble with his balance all day. Hopefully he will be able to get some sleep and he will regain his normal demeanor tomorrow.
We will try to get him in to see his PCP as soon as possible and develop a new strategy for the future in the event this type of episode continues to occur.
We are praying for guidance and strength as we go forward.
God is good.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Tuesday
The phone rang 6 or 8 times and the voice mail picked up. I called again about an hour later and the same thing happened. I wondered if the new old phone number was really in service. I finally got an answer on my way home from work. They had gone AWOL!
A re-naissance of sorts today. For the first time since "The Move", Mom and Dad took a road trip together somewhere other than a medical facility. Chanetta took them to their house on Zion and let the make off with some "stuff" that they "needed". For the last umpteen years we have struggled with what to get them for Christmas or birthdays that would be something other than a dust collector or trivial gadget or clothes that might be worn on occasion. After today, I know what to get them for Christmas. I won't say it here because my siblings will beat me to it. Needless to say they enjoyed the outing and the homecoming.
God is good.
Shifting gears a bit.
Most of you know Tom Logue and the array of diverse tribulation and anguish he and his family have endured over many years, including the latest tragedy with the death of his son John this year.
Tom is in need of our prayer again tonight for a new physical challenge facing him. He spoke with Dad last night and at the time described the diagnosis as cancer. When I talked with him tonight he said that the doctor told him today that it was not as dire a condition as first thought, and that he might have to live a little longer.
He could not be specific because I assume he has had to absorb a lot of information over the last few days and could not be definitive as to the diagnosis. He wanted to refer me to Louise but she was not there when I called.
I asked if I could share this with people that loved him and wanted to pray for him, and he joked that it would be okay if I could find anybody. He said that he knew people had been praying for his sanity for many years. He was greatful for the call and appreciated the concern.
However you pray tonight, remember Tom, Tim and Louise.
God is good!
A re-naissance of sorts today. For the first time since "The Move", Mom and Dad took a road trip together somewhere other than a medical facility. Chanetta took them to their house on Zion and let the make off with some "stuff" that they "needed". For the last umpteen years we have struggled with what to get them for Christmas or birthdays that would be something other than a dust collector or trivial gadget or clothes that might be worn on occasion. After today, I know what to get them for Christmas. I won't say it here because my siblings will beat me to it. Needless to say they enjoyed the outing and the homecoming.
God is good.
Shifting gears a bit.
Most of you know Tom Logue and the array of diverse tribulation and anguish he and his family have endured over many years, including the latest tragedy with the death of his son John this year.
Tom is in need of our prayer again tonight for a new physical challenge facing him. He spoke with Dad last night and at the time described the diagnosis as cancer. When I talked with him tonight he said that the doctor told him today that it was not as dire a condition as first thought, and that he might have to live a little longer.
He could not be specific because I assume he has had to absorb a lot of information over the last few days and could not be definitive as to the diagnosis. He wanted to refer me to Louise but she was not there when I called.
I asked if I could share this with people that loved him and wanted to pray for him, and he joked that it would be okay if I could find anybody. He said that he knew people had been praying for his sanity for many years. He was greatful for the call and appreciated the concern.
However you pray tonight, remember Tom, Tim and Louise.
God is good!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Wednesday November 4
Mom and Dad are settling into their new place. Most all the little fixes have been fixed and they got their old land line number installed today, the phone book is correct again!
Yesterday I took Mom to run some errands. She did very well. She walked all over Wal-Mart using the cart as her cane. She only has 3 more in home PT sessions left. Her recovery has been remarkable. The next issue she faces is the sleep study to address her apnea. I guess we will do this in January. She has been sleeping with oxygen since she got home from Health South which seems to keep her O2 level up and helps some with sleep.
Dad really feels more secure with the new bathroom arrangement. There are multiple grab bars in and out of the shower. Today was a beautiful day after all the cool wet weeks we have had. Dad made the best of it by sitting out on the small terrace and taking a vitamin D bath. After getting the phone installed, Dad made several calls to friends and family.
We have been so blessed by so many this year, and continue to be overwhelmed by the generosity and compassion of friends, neighbors, and people who were once strangers.
God is good.
Yesterday I took Mom to run some errands. She did very well. She walked all over Wal-Mart using the cart as her cane. She only has 3 more in home PT sessions left. Her recovery has been remarkable. The next issue she faces is the sleep study to address her apnea. I guess we will do this in January. She has been sleeping with oxygen since she got home from Health South which seems to keep her O2 level up and helps some with sleep.
Dad really feels more secure with the new bathroom arrangement. There are multiple grab bars in and out of the shower. Today was a beautiful day after all the cool wet weeks we have had. Dad made the best of it by sitting out on the small terrace and taking a vitamin D bath. After getting the phone installed, Dad made several calls to friends and family.
We have been so blessed by so many this year, and continue to be overwhelmed by the generosity and compassion of friends, neighbors, and people who were once strangers.
God is good.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Wednesday October 28
Hello everyone, if there are any of you still checking this blog.
It has been a while since I have had the time or inclination to update Mom and Dad's situation. Since it has been so long I will try to give you a synopsis of history since last blog.
Mom has made great progress and is now able to use a cane instead of a walker. She still uses the walker but uses the cane quite a bit. She is still getting in home PT and is doing very well.
Dad has plateaued again. He is still able to use the walker with a spotter but is very unstable.
Dad's nurse took a week off to go home and was honored at UAPB's homecoming last week.
We have used a local elder care company to stay with Mom and Dad during her absence. Change of caregiver is somewhat unsettling but we have had some good folks come in and have done great work. We have been fortunate to have the same assistants during the week and weekends and avoided a carousel of new helpers everyday. Two of the temps have been fascinated with Dad's autobiography. They have spent down time reading his document.
FYI...........
MOM AND DAD HAVE MOVED TO A NEW APARTMENT AS OF TODAY.
They have moved to The Links of Fayetteville off of Weddington.
A good friend has renovated an apartment to be more accessible to Dad's needs. He has a bathroom that includes a taller toilet and a shower that is accessible to a wheelchair. Grab bars everywhere and it is back in Fayetteville. So it is closer to Nancy and me. Hopefully we can get their old phone number again so there won't be any lost calls. I will let you know when the line is active at the new address. I am not sure what the address is yet but will update within the next couple of days. Hopefully they will be settled now for a while. I am also working on getting Mom connected to the web...email may be in the near future.
Thanks for you continued prayer and concern, they enjoy getting your cards and letters.
God is good!
It has been a while since I have had the time or inclination to update Mom and Dad's situation. Since it has been so long I will try to give you a synopsis of history since last blog.
Mom has made great progress and is now able to use a cane instead of a walker. She still uses the walker but uses the cane quite a bit. She is still getting in home PT and is doing very well.
Dad has plateaued again. He is still able to use the walker with a spotter but is very unstable.
Dad's nurse took a week off to go home and was honored at UAPB's homecoming last week.
We have used a local elder care company to stay with Mom and Dad during her absence. Change of caregiver is somewhat unsettling but we have had some good folks come in and have done great work. We have been fortunate to have the same assistants during the week and weekends and avoided a carousel of new helpers everyday. Two of the temps have been fascinated with Dad's autobiography. They have spent down time reading his document.
FYI...........
MOM AND DAD HAVE MOVED TO A NEW APARTMENT AS OF TODAY.
They have moved to The Links of Fayetteville off of Weddington.
A good friend has renovated an apartment to be more accessible to Dad's needs. He has a bathroom that includes a taller toilet and a shower that is accessible to a wheelchair. Grab bars everywhere and it is back in Fayetteville. So it is closer to Nancy and me. Hopefully we can get their old phone number again so there won't be any lost calls. I will let you know when the line is active at the new address. I am not sure what the address is yet but will update within the next couple of days. Hopefully they will be settled now for a while. I am also working on getting Mom connected to the web...email may be in the near future.
Thanks for you continued prayer and concern, they enjoy getting your cards and letters.
God is good!
Friday, September 25, 2009
Friday
I took Mom to the PCP today. She was hard to keep up with. She is really getting around well, maybe too well. She did get winded by the time we got to the second floor waiting room. We got there 15 minutes early and got in 20 minutes late. Mom had her questions at the ready and the PCP took her off 3 medications and altered another. I could tell he was not happy about the surgeon prescribing an antibiotic as a precautionary treatment. Hopefully the changes will make Mom feel better and less nauseated.
Dad continues to work hard on his exercise program but his legs are not responding and he is losing muscle mass. It is very discouraging especially to him. Chanetta takes him on daily walks but has a wheelchair at the ready. Otherwise he looks healthy and his heart is still in sinus rhythm. His short term memory is suffering more than in the past and he repeats stories more often but engaged in conversation on current events, he is still sharp and lucid.
Cindy and Mike are here and after driving around a while, finally found Mill Creek. They are not the first to get acquainted with Springdale trying to find 126 Rhodes Ave.
God is good.
Dad continues to work hard on his exercise program but his legs are not responding and he is losing muscle mass. It is very discouraging especially to him. Chanetta takes him on daily walks but has a wheelchair at the ready. Otherwise he looks healthy and his heart is still in sinus rhythm. His short term memory is suffering more than in the past and he repeats stories more often but engaged in conversation on current events, he is still sharp and lucid.
Cindy and Mike are here and after driving around a while, finally found Mill Creek. They are not the first to get acquainted with Springdale trying to find 126 Rhodes Ave.
God is good.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Wednesday
Mom was packed and ready when I went to pick her up on Sunday. Jamie drove her to Mill Creek while I had the 15 prescriptions filled. Nancy and Madeline dropped in, and Charlotte and Rachel picked up Chanetta (Dad's nurse) in Pine Bluff on their way back from Dumas, so by 8pm the apartment was hummin. It is amazing to me how instant the change in their countenance and energy level once out of the institutional setting. Even in the new and unfamiliar environs of the apartment, it quickly became a family retreat with Mom and Dad back together again.
Mom went to see the surgeon today to get the staples removed. He xrayed her hip and told her that all but one of the hip restrictions were lifted. She can sleep on her side again and do anything that doesn't hurt. She will have to have the wound dressed everyday until it completely heals and he gave her another antibiotic as a precaution. We see her GP on Friday. Mom has PT, a nurse, and an aide coming in 3 or 4 times a week.
Chanetta is getting the place organized and setting up a routine for Dad so he doesn't feel left out. She treated them to purple hull peas and cornbread today (I didn't get the okra to them on time maybe tomorrow).
I think Cindy and Mike are planning to come this weekend I don't know if they are coming to see Mom and Dad or to ride in the Bikes Blues and BBQ parade.
Charlotte's Mom continues to have health issues and the distance apart makes it difficult and stressful. We would appreciate your prayer for her.
I appreciate your patience and faithfulness in checking the blog. I apologize for not being diligent in making daily entries. I will try to do better.
Thanks to all who continue to call and send cards, as well as your devotion to intercession on our behalf. God continues to bless us through the valley of affliction.
God is good.
Mom went to see the surgeon today to get the staples removed. He xrayed her hip and told her that all but one of the hip restrictions were lifted. She can sleep on her side again and do anything that doesn't hurt. She will have to have the wound dressed everyday until it completely heals and he gave her another antibiotic as a precaution. We see her GP on Friday. Mom has PT, a nurse, and an aide coming in 3 or 4 times a week.
Chanetta is getting the place organized and setting up a routine for Dad so he doesn't feel left out. She treated them to purple hull peas and cornbread today (I didn't get the okra to them on time maybe tomorrow).
I think Cindy and Mike are planning to come this weekend I don't know if they are coming to see Mom and Dad or to ride in the Bikes Blues and BBQ parade.
Charlotte's Mom continues to have health issues and the distance apart makes it difficult and stressful. We would appreciate your prayer for her.
I appreciate your patience and faithfulness in checking the blog. I apologize for not being diligent in making daily entries. I will try to do better.
Thanks to all who continue to call and send cards, as well as your devotion to intercession on our behalf. God continues to bless us through the valley of affliction.
God is good.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Tuesday
Mom had a good day today and felt much better. I guess the antibiotic kicked in and she was able to do PT and OT in her room. Target date to get out of rehab is Sunday. We are hoping that the incision heals enough to allow her rejoin Dad in a non-institutional setting. They will be living in a 55 and above community apartment complex in Springdale called Mill Creek for the time being. The address is 126 Rhodes Ave. #69 Springdale, AR 72764, you can send cards and letters to this address or at their old address. We will have a land line installed tomorrow and I will pass that along when I get the number. We have also found a terrific place in Fayetteville that is totally handicapped accessible but have no vacancy at the moment. We have filled out the application and are #1 on the waiting list. This will put them within 5 minutes of both Nancy and me and only 2 minutes from the hospital. We are praying that we can move them into this apartment soon.
Dad did not sleep well last night. The adjustment without Mom around is very difficult. Mom has been Dad's anchor for so long he is adrift without her. His thoughts lean toward the worse cases. Today he called a couple of nursing facilities to inquire about admission and then made an appointment with his GP. I met Jamie and Dad at the office and Dad asked about his recommendation for a nursing facility. The GP was very gracious and told Dad about a couple of places and I told Dad I had already done the research and assured him that we were not at that point yet.
Dad's ankles are a little swollen and I asked if it was a CHF issue and the doc listened to his heart and lungs and said that his heart was in perfect rhythm and his lungs were clear. His blood pressure is perfect and he did not recommend a diuretic at this point. The swelling is due to sitting more than usual so he recommended the dreaded knee high elastic stockings in the morning and walking more. He got his Flu shot while we were there.
Charlotte and I ate dinner with Dad and Jamie tonight and I encouraged him to count his blessings instead of sheep tonight. Mom will be home soon.
We covet your prayers and friendship as we continue to adapt to life's challenges.
God is good.
Dad did not sleep well last night. The adjustment without Mom around is very difficult. Mom has been Dad's anchor for so long he is adrift without her. His thoughts lean toward the worse cases. Today he called a couple of nursing facilities to inquire about admission and then made an appointment with his GP. I met Jamie and Dad at the office and Dad asked about his recommendation for a nursing facility. The GP was very gracious and told Dad about a couple of places and I told Dad I had already done the research and assured him that we were not at that point yet.
Dad's ankles are a little swollen and I asked if it was a CHF issue and the doc listened to his heart and lungs and said that his heart was in perfect rhythm and his lungs were clear. His blood pressure is perfect and he did not recommend a diuretic at this point. The swelling is due to sitting more than usual so he recommended the dreaded knee high elastic stockings in the morning and walking more. He got his Flu shot while we were there.
Charlotte and I ate dinner with Dad and Jamie tonight and I encouraged him to count his blessings instead of sheep tonight. Mom will be home soon.
We covet your prayers and friendship as we continue to adapt to life's challenges.
God is good.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Monday 9/14
Mom and Dad had a great weekend. Dad was able to attend Frank and Joy Huckaba's 50th anniversary celebration and visit with several long time friends. I will try to catch up on the where's and what fors some time this week.
From Nancy:
Just got a call from Health South. Doctor examined Mom this morning and found that her hip was swollen. They are taking precautions and transporting her to Wash Regional at 2:30 pm today for a venus doppler to make sure that she does not have a blood clot in her hip. They also did labs this morning and discovered that mom has VRE in her urine. They are treating that with antibiotics but she is now in "isolation" like Dad was. You have to put on gowns and gloves to visit her.
I dropped by to see Mom and Dad was there along with Jamie III. She looked a little down and the mood was low. Dad was holding her hand sans gloves so he is breaking the isolation rules. Probably the best medicine though. Hope he doesn't get VRE again.
Pray for them in this latest set back.
God is good.
From Nancy:
Just got a call from Health South. Doctor examined Mom this morning and found that her hip was swollen. They are taking precautions and transporting her to Wash Regional at 2:30 pm today for a venus doppler to make sure that she does not have a blood clot in her hip. They also did labs this morning and discovered that mom has VRE in her urine. They are treating that with antibiotics but she is now in "isolation" like Dad was. You have to put on gowns and gloves to visit her.
I dropped by to see Mom and Dad was there along with Jamie III. She looked a little down and the mood was low. Dad was holding her hand sans gloves so he is breaking the isolation rules. Probably the best medicine though. Hope he doesn't get VRE again.
Pray for them in this latest set back.
God is good.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Thursday
Short answer, twice as long as a girl on her first date.
I have been trying to carve out some time to give yall a detailed update but running 3 households and 1 hospital ward has worn me out. Work was a relief!
Mom is improving each day and I think Dad has met his match in his 24/7 nurse.
We make another move this weekend to new environment...hope they can make do for a while. I happened across a perfect true handicapped accessible apartment today but there are none available at the moment. We are next in line on the waiting list.
Thanks to all of my siblings again and for all of your prayers and well wishes.
God is good.
I have been trying to carve out some time to give yall a detailed update but running 3 households and 1 hospital ward has worn me out. Work was a relief!
Mom is improving each day and I think Dad has met his match in his 24/7 nurse.
We make another move this weekend to new environment...hope they can make do for a while. I happened across a perfect true handicapped accessible apartment today but there are none available at the moment. We are next in line on the waiting list.
Thanks to all of my siblings again and for all of your prayers and well wishes.
God is good.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Monday (Laborious Day)
How long does it take for an 86 year old man to get ready for a date?
Stay tuned...I am so tired right now I can't wright good.
God is good.
Stay tuned...I am so tired right now I can't wright good.
God is good.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Saturday 9/5
Short update because I have to get back to the homestead.
Mom had to have a unit of blood yesterday (Hemoglobin low). Waited and waited, in the mean time could not do any PT or OT, blood arrived at 9PM and it took until 4 AM for the transfusion to be complete. Dad did not want to disturb her yesterday so we did not get to see her. We went by briefly this after noon and will go back this evening.
Dad is having a very difficult time dealing with the changes that we are trying to arrange. Please pray for his peace of mind.
Thanks for your emails, comments and prayers.
God is good.
Mom had to have a unit of blood yesterday (Hemoglobin low). Waited and waited, in the mean time could not do any PT or OT, blood arrived at 9PM and it took until 4 AM for the transfusion to be complete. Dad did not want to disturb her yesterday so we did not get to see her. We went by briefly this after noon and will go back this evening.
Dad is having a very difficult time dealing with the changes that we are trying to arrange. Please pray for his peace of mind.
Thanks for your emails, comments and prayers.
God is good.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Thursday 9/3
We are glad to get out of WRMC today and into HealthSouth Rehab. Our experience with this "facility" was even worse this time around. The only chart that everybody reads is the one with $$$$$ signs on it. My advice for anyone who has to go there is make sure you have someone with you 24/7 for your own safety. Shame on the administrators and the pressure they put on those who have to follow their money grubbing policies.
Tirade over. Mom had a good transfer and has already walked a couple of times. She said that the pain is less each time and it is getting easier for her. I had a long talk with the admitting doctor to emphasize some points up front so that hopefully Mom won't have to go through what Dad did. I think she will do well and won't have to be there longer than two weeks at the most.
I have been staying with Dad this week and have not had access to the internet so Nancy let me escape for a few minutes to check email and update you.
We are looking into several options for the future for Mom and Dad and have some good leads. Please pray for us as we try to keep the highest quality of life and that they will be able to adapt. We hope to get them (Dad) into a senior wheelchair accessible apartment this weekend. We have a 24/7 aide coming to stay with Dad next week and if things work out maybe indefinitely. Pray for her as well as Mom and Dad.
It seems that I am paying for the sins of all my siblings (just kidding girls not kidding Jamie). I had taken Dad to the doc this afternoon and was taking him to see Mom in her new digs and was about to pull into a parking space when a pick-up with a big trailer hitch back into us on the rear passenger side and jammed the sliding door so that I couldn't open it to get Dad's wheelchair out. I managed to take a piece off the door stop and can at least get the door open and shut. Normally I would have come unglued but with everything else going on it just seemed humorous and trivial.
I better get back to the country and relieve Nancy, who by the way brought us shrimp and steak with all the fixins tonight for dinner. Thanks Nan.
Thanks for all the expressed and unexpressed prayer and concern once again. We cherish all of you!
God is good.
Tirade over. Mom had a good transfer and has already walked a couple of times. She said that the pain is less each time and it is getting easier for her. I had a long talk with the admitting doctor to emphasize some points up front so that hopefully Mom won't have to go through what Dad did. I think she will do well and won't have to be there longer than two weeks at the most.
I have been staying with Dad this week and have not had access to the internet so Nancy let me escape for a few minutes to check email and update you.
We are looking into several options for the future for Mom and Dad and have some good leads. Please pray for us as we try to keep the highest quality of life and that they will be able to adapt. We hope to get them (Dad) into a senior wheelchair accessible apartment this weekend. We have a 24/7 aide coming to stay with Dad next week and if things work out maybe indefinitely. Pray for her as well as Mom and Dad.
It seems that I am paying for the sins of all my siblings (just kidding girls not kidding Jamie). I had taken Dad to the doc this afternoon and was taking him to see Mom in her new digs and was about to pull into a parking space when a pick-up with a big trailer hitch back into us on the rear passenger side and jammed the sliding door so that I couldn't open it to get Dad's wheelchair out. I managed to take a piece off the door stop and can at least get the door open and shut. Normally I would have come unglued but with everything else going on it just seemed humorous and trivial.
I better get back to the country and relieve Nancy, who by the way brought us shrimp and steak with all the fixins tonight for dinner. Thanks Nan.
Thanks for all the expressed and unexpressed prayer and concern once again. We cherish all of you!
God is good.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Tuesday 9/1
Mom stood and took a couple of steps to the chair yesterday. Lot of pain but the more she does it the better it will get. Her arthritic knee is more painful than the hip.
I am about to go by the hospital on my way to stay with Dad for the rest of the week.
Jamie has been staying with him the past 3 days but needs to get back to NLR.
Continue to pray for them and all of us as we deal with quality of life issues. We are looking into a live in aide which will be quite an adjustment for all.
A few pics from the weekend.
God is good.
I am about to go by the hospital on my way to stay with Dad for the rest of the week.
Jamie has been staying with him the past 3 days but needs to get back to NLR.
Continue to pray for them and all of us as we deal with quality of life issues. We are looking into a live in aide which will be quite an adjustment for all.
A few pics from the weekend.
God is good.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Sunday August 30
Mom's surgery went well and she is back in her room. The surgeon said that as far as the hip is concerned, she could walk out of the hospital today. She will see the re-hab doctor tomorrow and determine if she goes to re-hab for a couple of days or goes straight home. Thanks to all who have called and visited and for all the prayer support.
Dad is doing okay. He said that he got a fair amount of sleep last night. We hope to get him to the hospital for a short visit this evening.
Continue to pray for us as we make decisions on how to proceed with their future care.
God is good.
Dad is doing okay. He said that he got a fair amount of sleep last night. We hope to get him to the hospital for a short visit this evening.
Continue to pray for us as we make decisions on how to proceed with their future care.
God is good.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Saturday August 29
A brief note to let you know that Mom fell this morning trying to help Dad out of bed and broke the neck of her right femur just below the ball. The socket seems to be in good shape, so tomorrow at 8 am she will have a partial hip replacement. The prognosis is good in that the doctor says that this type of hip replacement is not invasive and usually requires a short re-hab and less pain than others. We are hoping that he is correct and Mom's surgery is as advertised.
I stayed with Dad today while Nancy went with Mom to the hospital. Both are holding it together fairly well but obviously uncertain about the future as we all are. My time with Dad today convinced me that Mom cannot take care of him by herself. Dad is not getting any stronger despite the daily exercise regimen he does religiously. He has to have back-up at this point with everything he does. Just keeping up with medication is a full time job. He spent a good part of the morning trying to find facilities that could take care of him and mother. My siblings will be here tomorrow and hopefully we can have some candid conversations about how to proceed.
We covet your prayers in both Mom and Dad's condition and our decisions to be made.
God is good.
I stayed with Dad today while Nancy went with Mom to the hospital. Both are holding it together fairly well but obviously uncertain about the future as we all are. My time with Dad today convinced me that Mom cannot take care of him by herself. Dad is not getting any stronger despite the daily exercise regimen he does religiously. He has to have back-up at this point with everything he does. Just keeping up with medication is a full time job. He spent a good part of the morning trying to find facilities that could take care of him and mother. My siblings will be here tomorrow and hopefully we can have some candid conversations about how to proceed.
We covet your prayers in both Mom and Dad's condition and our decisions to be made.
God is good.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Friday July 27
It has been a while since the last update. I have received several inquiries recently about Dad's progress so I will try to fill in the gaps. Dad had his last in home therapy session about 3 weeks ago. He has been reluctant to go into an out patient program because he doesn't think that they will able to do anything for him that he can't do himself at home. He is convinced that his NPH is inhibiting muscle development and that he has peaked on muscle tone. I am trying to encourage him to utilize the outpatient program for staying engaged and for other benefits such as balance and techniques that can help stay independent. Before the last PT left, she suggested that Dad be fitted with some orthotics for his shoes. She thinks that it will help with his balance and irregular gate. He should receive them soon.
Dad went to the cardiologist yesterday and got a glowing report. The echocardiogram did not show anything unexpected and he took Dad off of some of his medication. He is still in normal rhythm and has not been in A-Fib for months. The doc did hedged his rep by saying that any number of things could occur or re-occur at any time but he dismissed Dad for 3 months. Dad sounded upbeat...maybe now is a good time to suggest rehab again.
Dad continues to work hard and is faithful to the exercise program left by all the therapists. He entertains a few guests each week and has been checking on friends and family by phone. Several of his siblings are dealing with their own health issues currently and he tries to stay in contact with them. Nancy and I keep him up to date in between calls from FaceBook posts. Our son Nathan has been in Europe since late June but has been good to call Mom and Dad to keep them posted on his most excellent adventure. Skype is a wonderful application. His class work is over now so he is on his way to France, Switzerland, and Italy before he returns in August.
We continue to thank God for his love and faithfulness to our needs and trust in His providence. Our prayers are lifted daily for those friends and family who are facing life's challenges and continue to covet your prayers for Mom and Dad.
God is good.
Dad went to the cardiologist yesterday and got a glowing report. The echocardiogram did not show anything unexpected and he took Dad off of some of his medication. He is still in normal rhythm and has not been in A-Fib for months. The doc did hedged his rep by saying that any number of things could occur or re-occur at any time but he dismissed Dad for 3 months. Dad sounded upbeat...maybe now is a good time to suggest rehab again.
Dad continues to work hard and is faithful to the exercise program left by all the therapists. He entertains a few guests each week and has been checking on friends and family by phone. Several of his siblings are dealing with their own health issues currently and he tries to stay in contact with them. Nancy and I keep him up to date in between calls from FaceBook posts. Our son Nathan has been in Europe since late June but has been good to call Mom and Dad to keep them posted on his most excellent adventure. Skype is a wonderful application. His class work is over now so he is on his way to France, Switzerland, and Italy before he returns in August.
We continue to thank God for his love and faithfulness to our needs and trust in His providence. Our prayers are lifted daily for those friends and family who are facing life's challenges and continue to covet your prayers for Mom and Dad.
God is good.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Saturday
I talked to Tim and Tom briefly this evening. Tom has been staying with Louise while they have been making funeral arrangements. He is obviously very emotional. Dad also was able to reach him and they shared a brief conversation. I offered to take Dad to LR tomorrow or Monday but he thinks it will just take too much out of him. Continue to pray for the Logues.
Below is an email forwarded to me from Rita Spillyards from Ray Higgins to the CBF email list...Thanks Rita and Ray.
Dear friends of Tom Logue,
Thank you for your prayers and for the ways you have reached out to Tom and his family since his son’s death.
Arrangements regarding John Logue’s service are as follows:
Visitation at Roller Chenal Funeral Home (13801 Chenal Pkwy, Little Rock 72211; 501.224.8300), Sunday, June 28 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Funeral service at Lakeshore Drive Baptist Church (21 Lakeshore Drive, Little Rock 72204, just across from the west side of the UALR campus off of S. University), Monday, June 29 at 10 a.m.
Burial following the service at Forest Hills Memorial Park.
Tom’s home address is: 1506 Parham Pointe #11C, Little Rock, AR 72204.
You may read John’s obituary below or go to: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
John William Logue
February 20, 1958 - June 25, 2009
John William Logue, 51 of Little Rock, passed from this life on Thursday, June 25, 2009. He was born February 20, 1958 in Little Rock, Arkansas to Dr. Tom Logue and Ethel Garrott Logue.
As a young boy growing up, he was devoted to his brother, Tommy, who had Muscular Dystrophy. He spent many hours playing chess, and other games and racing his brother in the wheelchair. In his extended family, he was always thought of as the most helpful and caring one.
John’s sensitivity and kindness showed in his lifelong love of animals.
Whenever possible, John owned a pet and cherished each one in a very special way.
When John lived in Memphis, Tennessee, he owned and ran a successful business, Curb Décor,(a decorative curbing landscape service.)
John was a client of GAIN, Inc., (Greater Assistance to those In Need). His family acknowledges gratitude to his case manager, Eugene Meyer.
He is survived by his father, Dr. Tom Logue, and his sister, Louise Logue, both of Little Rock; his brother Tim Logue and Gina Baratta of Hillsborough, North Carolina; a niece, Amy Buckley and husband, Robert of Little Rock; and his beloved cat, Mystic.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 29, 2009 at Lakeshore Drive Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park. Visitation will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., Sunday, June 28, 2009 at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, (501-224-8300) 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to GAIN(Greater Assistance to those In Need), 712 West 3rd Street, Little Rock, AR 72201; or Lakeshore Drive Baptist Church, 21 Lakeshore Drive, Little Rock, AR 72204; or Arkansas CARE for Animals, 5516 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock, AR 72207.
Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes/chenal.
God’s peace,
Ray
Ray Higgins, Ph.D., Coordinator
Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Arkansas
God is good.
Below is an email forwarded to me from Rita Spillyards from Ray Higgins to the CBF email list...Thanks Rita and Ray.
Dear friends of Tom Logue,
Thank you for your prayers and for the ways you have reached out to Tom and his family since his son’s death.
Arrangements regarding John Logue’s service are as follows:
Visitation at Roller Chenal Funeral Home (13801 Chenal Pkwy, Little Rock 72211; 501.224.8300), Sunday, June 28 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Funeral service at Lakeshore Drive Baptist Church (21 Lakeshore Drive, Little Rock 72204, just across from the west side of the UALR campus off of S. University), Monday, June 29 at 10 a.m.
Burial following the service at Forest Hills Memorial Park.
Tom’s home address is: 1506 Parham Pointe #11C, Little Rock, AR 72204.
You may read John’s obituary below or go to: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com.
John William Logue
February 20, 1958 - June 25, 2009
John William Logue, 51 of Little Rock, passed from this life on Thursday, June 25, 2009. He was born February 20, 1958 in Little Rock, Arkansas to Dr. Tom Logue and Ethel Garrott Logue.
As a young boy growing up, he was devoted to his brother, Tommy, who had Muscular Dystrophy. He spent many hours playing chess, and other games and racing his brother in the wheelchair. In his extended family, he was always thought of as the most helpful and caring one.
John’s sensitivity and kindness showed in his lifelong love of animals.
Whenever possible, John owned a pet and cherished each one in a very special way.
When John lived in Memphis, Tennessee, he owned and ran a successful business, Curb Décor,(a decorative curbing landscape service.)
John was a client of GAIN, Inc., (Greater Assistance to those In Need). His family acknowledges gratitude to his case manager, Eugene Meyer.
He is survived by his father, Dr. Tom Logue, and his sister, Louise Logue, both of Little Rock; his brother Tim Logue and Gina Baratta of Hillsborough, North Carolina; a niece, Amy Buckley and husband, Robert of Little Rock; and his beloved cat, Mystic.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 29, 2009 at Lakeshore Drive Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Forest Hills Memorial Park. Visitation will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m., Sunday, June 28, 2009 at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, (501-224-8300) 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to GAIN(Greater Assistance to those In Need), 712 West 3rd Street, Little Rock, AR 72201; or Lakeshore Drive Baptist Church, 21 Lakeshore Drive, Little Rock, AR 72204; or Arkansas CARE for Animals, 5516 Kavanaugh Blvd., Little Rock, AR 72207.
Online guestbook www.rollerfuneralhomes/chenal.
God’s peace,
Ray
Ray Higgins, Ph.D., Coordinator
Cooperative Baptist Fellowship of Arkansas
God is good.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Friday Sad News
Dad called this morning to let me know that John Logue, Tom's youngest, was shot and killed yesterday evening at his home. An article was published in today's Arkansas Democrat Gazette (Little Rock addition), but it is very sketchy.I think Tom was out of the state maybe in California and I am not sure if he is back in Little Rock yet.
Pray for Tom, Louise, Tim and their family.
God is good.
Pray for Tom, Louise, Tim and their family.
God is good.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Friday
Quick update.
Dad is continuing to work hard on his exercise regimen although he is having his doubts that it is making much of a difference in gaining and retaining strength. He is going back to his fixation with his NPH condition. I explained that it is important for him to do the exercise no matter what because even if he can't walk with the mall walkers he needs the cardio workout.
I think he may be right to some extent, especially in his left leg because of the neurology involved which causes some atrophy in that leg, but I also believe that since his breakthrough around Easter, the progress has been and will be very incremental yet assured.
I think the PT is starting to lean toward recommending out patient care at Health South. Dad doesn't think much of this idea but I think it would be beneficial because they can help him with balance and technique as well as strength. We shall see.
Update on our friend that had bypass surgery on Tuesday. After a gloomy two days, Bill started to make small gains and started moving in a positive direction. His heart is fully functioning which means the surgery went very well. The remaining challenge is to get the lungs to follow suit. His oxygen level is 100% but he is receiving assistance from PEEP (positive end-expiratory pressure) and a ventilator. PEEP is basically a CPAP on steroids only the air keeps his lungs open instead of his trachea. They keep him sedated while on PEEP because it is very uncomfortable. They will see if they can wean him from both tomorrow. As with every procedure both of theses carry risks and Bill continues to need our prayer and God's hand. Thank you for your prayer for these children of God whom you do not even know. I assure you that as with Dad's experience, your support is perceived, recognized and appreciated.
God is good!
Dad is continuing to work hard on his exercise regimen although he is having his doubts that it is making much of a difference in gaining and retaining strength. He is going back to his fixation with his NPH condition. I explained that it is important for him to do the exercise no matter what because even if he can't walk with the mall walkers he needs the cardio workout.
I think he may be right to some extent, especially in his left leg because of the neurology involved which causes some atrophy in that leg, but I also believe that since his breakthrough around Easter, the progress has been and will be very incremental yet assured.
I think the PT is starting to lean toward recommending out patient care at Health South. Dad doesn't think much of this idea but I think it would be beneficial because they can help him with balance and technique as well as strength. We shall see.
Update on our friend that had bypass surgery on Tuesday. After a gloomy two days, Bill started to make small gains and started moving in a positive direction. His heart is fully functioning which means the surgery went very well. The remaining challenge is to get the lungs to follow suit. His oxygen level is 100% but he is receiving assistance from PEEP (positive end-expiratory pressure) and a ventilator. PEEP is basically a CPAP on steroids only the air keeps his lungs open instead of his trachea. They keep him sedated while on PEEP because it is very uncomfortable. They will see if they can wean him from both tomorrow. As with every procedure both of theses carry risks and Bill continues to need our prayer and God's hand. Thank you for your prayer for these children of God whom you do not even know. I assure you that as with Dad's experience, your support is perceived, recognized and appreciated.
God is good!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Wednesday
Hello everyone, I am departing from my normal updates today to ask a special favor from each of you who have been so faithful in your prayer and support for Dad.
A friend of Mom and Dad's and Rolling Hills Baptist Church member had quad bypass surgery yesterday and had a myocardial infarction (heart attack) after surgery. He also has some pulmonary issues and is on a ventilator and IABP (intraaortic balloon pump)to assist with breathing and heart efficiency.
He is struggling and the outlook is not promising, but we serve and he has served a very big God who overlooks our weaknesses and is faithful to us through all of life's challenges. I have witnessed God's intervention in large and small ways and will trust in His providence in all things.
I ask that all of you pray for Bill and LaWanda tonight, that He will draw them close to His side and extend His loving touch and meet their needs.
God is good!
A friend of Mom and Dad's and Rolling Hills Baptist Church member had quad bypass surgery yesterday and had a myocardial infarction (heart attack) after surgery. He also has some pulmonary issues and is on a ventilator and IABP (intraaortic balloon pump)to assist with breathing and heart efficiency.
He is struggling and the outlook is not promising, but we serve and he has served a very big God who overlooks our weaknesses and is faithful to us through all of life's challenges. I have witnessed God's intervention in large and small ways and will trust in His providence in all things.
I ask that all of you pray for Bill and LaWanda tonight, that He will draw them close to His side and extend His loving touch and meet their needs.
God is good!
Monday, June 15, 2009
Monday
Last week Dad had a couple of different PTs come in and add to his exercise regimen. Each PT seems to have a favorite set of exercises. Since Dad implements everything during days that he is on his own, he tends to over do it and has trouble getting up or walking after doing sets on his legs. He is now alternating days in which he exercises these exercises.
Mom has started to get back into some of the social events and meetings she has put on hold for the last 6 months. She makes Dad swear that he will not try to do anything silly while she is gone and to stay off the phone for long periods of time so she can check on him.
Dad is still in normal sinus rhythm and looks great. While it seems like progress has slowed down some, rebuilding muscle tone will just take time. As Dad puts it, "Getting old is not for wimps".
We continue to covet your prayer and cards and letters.
God is good!
Mom has started to get back into some of the social events and meetings she has put on hold for the last 6 months. She makes Dad swear that he will not try to do anything silly while she is gone and to stay off the phone for long periods of time so she can check on him.
Dad is still in normal sinus rhythm and looks great. While it seems like progress has slowed down some, rebuilding muscle tone will just take time. As Dad puts it, "Getting old is not for wimps".
We continue to covet your prayer and cards and letters.
God is good!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Wednesday
Dad has a new PT and was afraid that she would not keep up where Dameon left off, but after the first session with her he thinks she may be tougher. She took him for a hike around the house, did some elastic band exercise and then put him on the cardio-glide which works both arms and legs. He said that he really felt the burn in his upper thighs. He continues to make progress in strength and balance. He looks good. His color and energy levels are back to pre-surgery. We are very thankful.
Home grown therapy...
Suzanne and her bunch were here for a short time last week and Cindy and her bunch came today. Adalynn surprised me this morning for my birthday so Mom and Dad have had a houseful of activity over the past week. The great grands kept everyone entertained with singing and dancing.
God is good!
Home grown therapy...
Suzanne and her bunch were here for a short time last week and Cindy and her bunch came today. Adalynn surprised me this morning for my birthday so Mom and Dad have had a houseful of activity over the past week. The great grands kept everyone entertained with singing and dancing.
God is good!
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Saturday
Checked in with Mom and Dad yesterday and did a little yard work. Dad did 3 laps around the homestead in the morning, about 1k feet. He said that it really seems to help his all around strength when he get in a good walk. So when I dropped by today we went for another spin around the yard. He did really well starting out but started to let the walker get too far out in front of him as we went along. I think he may have been going a little faster than he needed to. Technique is more important than speed. At any rate it got his blood pumping and lungs a thumping.
Some of the Conway bunch are supposed to visit on Monday so that will be a good diversion for them.
Hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day.
God is good!
Some of the Conway bunch are supposed to visit on Monday so that will be a good diversion for them.
Hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day.
God is good!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Wednesday
I dropped by during Dad's PT session yesterday to clarify future sessions and found it bitter sweet. Dad still has 3 weeks left on this latest eval and will probably get another extension as long as he is making progress or if a doctor recommends further PT. The bitter pill is that Dad's PT, Dameon, has resigned from WRMC HHC to take a position closer to his home in Rogers. He will have 3 or 4 more sessions with Dad before a new PT takes over. Dameon has been a large part of Dad's recovery and we hate to see him go.
I met Celine, Dad's aide, who will in all probability be ending her time with Dad soon. I got the feeling that she was melancholy about leaving. She said that she was in no hurry to stop coming and enjoyed the visits with Mom and Dad.
I am not sure what angels look like, but I think we have met a few or it may be that God is sending in some new folks to get a dose of Jamie and Beverly therapy?!
God is good!
I met Celine, Dad's aide, who will in all probability be ending her time with Dad soon. I got the feeling that she was melancholy about leaving. She said that she was in no hurry to stop coming and enjoyed the visits with Mom and Dad.
I am not sure what angels look like, but I think we have met a few or it may be that God is sending in some new folks to get a dose of Jamie and Beverly therapy?!
God is good!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Monday
Dad got a good report from the cardiologist today. Jamie III came up for the day and accompanied them. I have not got a full report because Charlotte and I have not been feeling well the past couple of days and did not want to infect Mom and Dad, so I will give you what I have and fill in the blanks tomorrow.
Dad's blood pressure was 120/70 and he is normal sinus rhythm. His chest xray looks good and has not changed for the past 2 months. The cardiologist now thinks that the shadow that has been there from the beginning may be scar tissue of some kind instead of BOOP. We may need to get another opinion from a different pulmonologist group. If Dad stays in sinus rhythm for the next 3 check ups, he will be weaned from coumadin. I thought Dad's color was much better on Sunday and he has increased his walking and exercise regimen.
Dad has PT tomorrow and we have a few questions for him. Dad understood that he only has 3 sessions left of PT. It was my understanding that he was cleared for up to 60 days more as long as he is making progress and has not plateaued, so we have to find out what is going on. The aide is definitely gone after next week as well.
Dad is supposed to have a highfaluting confab with some high and holy rollers from Little Rock tomorrow after lunch. Tom Logue may be one of them. We may need EKGs and blood pressure cuffs ready for two. I hope there is no scar comparing!
We are very grateful that Dad is doing so well and pray that he continues to improve. Thank you for continuing to pray and express you well wishes and faithfulness checking the blog even though I have been lax in updating.
God is good and continues bless.
I ask that you remember Dad's sister Doris Rittelmeyer in the passing of her husband Milton. Uncle Milton and aunt Doris had 10 children so you can imagine the stories and memories that will be shared in Mobile this week. We send our love to all of you.
Dad's blood pressure was 120/70 and he is normal sinus rhythm. His chest xray looks good and has not changed for the past 2 months. The cardiologist now thinks that the shadow that has been there from the beginning may be scar tissue of some kind instead of BOOP. We may need to get another opinion from a different pulmonologist group. If Dad stays in sinus rhythm for the next 3 check ups, he will be weaned from coumadin. I thought Dad's color was much better on Sunday and he has increased his walking and exercise regimen.
Dad has PT tomorrow and we have a few questions for him. Dad understood that he only has 3 sessions left of PT. It was my understanding that he was cleared for up to 60 days more as long as he is making progress and has not plateaued, so we have to find out what is going on. The aide is definitely gone after next week as well.
Dad is supposed to have a highfaluting confab with some high and holy rollers from Little Rock tomorrow after lunch. Tom Logue may be one of them. We may need EKGs and blood pressure cuffs ready for two. I hope there is no scar comparing!
We are very grateful that Dad is doing so well and pray that he continues to improve. Thank you for continuing to pray and express you well wishes and faithfulness checking the blog even though I have been lax in updating.
God is good and continues bless.
I ask that you remember Dad's sister Doris Rittelmeyer in the passing of her husband Milton. Uncle Milton and aunt Doris had 10 children so you can imagine the stories and memories that will be shared in Mobile this week. We send our love to all of you.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Thursday
Dropped by to mow the lawn and do some light housekeeping today and the PT was there. He had put Dad through some new paces. He is working on his ankle strength and flexibility as well as balance and leg strength. Dad had related that he and Mom were coming to our house for Mother's Day lunch and so Dameon quizzed me about the steps at our house. We only have two short steps but the entry is wide and there are no hand holds. So Dameon got Dad up and made him use his cane to go in and out of the door. They practiced using only the cane and no other hand holds. It made Mom and Dad very nervous, but he negotiated the steps, a little shaky, but fine. We will still use the walker or wheel chair Sunday. I really appreciate how Dameon pushes the envelope and practices situational therapy.
Jamie III came up for the day and brought lunch, so I delegated the light housekeeping to him while I mowed the lawn. We have had so much rain that water was standing in low lying areas but since we are supposed have 3 more days of rain I decided to get it done while the sun was shining. Since Mom had all this good help, she decided to take advantage and get out of the house for and hour or so.
I am saddened that I won't be able to share Mother's Day lunch with everyone, especially Mom, because I have to work, but I have to take a moment to say how blessed we Jones kids have been and are to have such a shining example of Christ in our mother.
The scripture says;
Exod.20
[12] "Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which the LORD your God gives you.
I say that we are honored to have a mother like Beverly. We love you Mom!
Happy Mother's Day to all!
God is good!
Jamie III came up for the day and brought lunch, so I delegated the light housekeeping to him while I mowed the lawn. We have had so much rain that water was standing in low lying areas but since we are supposed have 3 more days of rain I decided to get it done while the sun was shining. Since Mom had all this good help, she decided to take advantage and get out of the house for and hour or so.
I am saddened that I won't be able to share Mother's Day lunch with everyone, especially Mom, because I have to work, but I have to take a moment to say how blessed we Jones kids have been and are to have such a shining example of Christ in our mother.
The scripture says;
Exod.20
[12] "Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land which the LORD your God gives you.
I say that we are honored to have a mother like Beverly. We love you Mom!
Happy Mother's Day to all!
God is good!
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Thursday
Blood test and chest xray...check
Got to the first appointment with 60 seconds to spare...check
Didn't raise blood pressure enough...dang it!
Doc said he didn't need to see Dad for 60 days...check
Got to the 2nd appointment early...check
Didn't raise BP though....dang it!
NP (didn't rate a pulmonologist) said that slight improvement in BOOP...check
Didn't lower steroid dose though...dang it!
Need another xray in 30 days...check
Other than Dad worrying about getting there on time, the doctors appts. went well. Low BP is only concern, but the meds he is taking that may be causing it are more beneficial to his heart in other ways so we will just keep an eye out on BP.
God is good!
Got to the first appointment with 60 seconds to spare...check
Didn't raise blood pressure enough...dang it!
Doc said he didn't need to see Dad for 60 days...check
Got to the 2nd appointment early...check
Didn't raise BP though....dang it!
NP (didn't rate a pulmonologist) said that slight improvement in BOOP...check
Didn't lower steroid dose though...dang it!
Need another xray in 30 days...check
Other than Dad worrying about getting there on time, the doctors appts. went well. Low BP is only concern, but the meds he is taking that may be causing it are more beneficial to his heart in other ways so we will just keep an eye out on BP.
God is good!
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Wednesday
Yesterday morning, Dad had a little trouble getting out of bed. He did a little rocking to get to the side of the bed and up and off the "springy" mattress. This may have triggered a bout of Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). This is nothing new for Dad. He has had episodes of varying length for several years. He took a half a tablet of meclizine and did the canalith repositioning procedure and was able to walk to the recliner in the den. He was drowsy most of the day from the meclizine but the vertigo dissipated. They didn't have any appointments for the day so it was just a lazy rest day.
Today the vertigo is gone and Dad feels much better. I went out to let Mom go the grocery store and ran into the PT who was doing his final paperwork before next weeks Medicare evaluation. He assured us that Dad would get another 60 days of PT and OT. It will probably go from 3 days a week to 2 but that is good news.
Dad's PT consisted of a full lap on the drive way around the house. They were on their way for a second lap and it started to sprinkle so they came back inside. I am sure that the aim was to get Dad used to uneven terrain and work on balance.
We had a good visit while Mom was at the grocery store. We go for our monthly doctor visits tomorrow. We are hoping for some med reduction.
God is good!
Today the vertigo is gone and Dad feels much better. I went out to let Mom go the grocery store and ran into the PT who was doing his final paperwork before next weeks Medicare evaluation. He assured us that Dad would get another 60 days of PT and OT. It will probably go from 3 days a week to 2 but that is good news.
Dad's PT consisted of a full lap on the drive way around the house. They were on their way for a second lap and it started to sprinkle so they came back inside. I am sure that the aim was to get Dad used to uneven terrain and work on balance.
We had a good visit while Mom was at the grocery store. We go for our monthly doctor visits tomorrow. We are hoping for some med reduction.
God is good!
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Saturday
It has been a good week for Mom and Dad. I really believe that some thresholds have been crossed and barring any set backs the next 30 to 60 days may be pivotal in regaining Independence. We are nearing the end of the first evaluation period for Medicare coverage for in home care. We are hoping and will be pushing for another 30 days of OT and PT.
The home health staff is dwindling. The nurse dismissed Dad, no need for her to continue coming. His OT has moved to Oregon and has not been replaced yet. He still has the aide and PT coming but the aide may be on her way out if Dad continues to improve.
Our gratitude is on going and fails to fill the debt that we owe to you and our Father.
A special thanks and prayer request for Mom and Dad's long time neighbors, the Childress family. Leslie extended the back door landing to make it easier for Dad to get in and out of the house. It has made a huge difference. However, his wife Betty was in a car accident this week and broke her neck. I think she got to come home this weekend but will have a long recovery. We ask for your prayers for them today.
God is good!
The home health staff is dwindling. The nurse dismissed Dad, no need for her to continue coming. His OT has moved to Oregon and has not been replaced yet. He still has the aide and PT coming but the aide may be on her way out if Dad continues to improve.
Our gratitude is on going and fails to fill the debt that we owe to you and our Father.
A special thanks and prayer request for Mom and Dad's long time neighbors, the Childress family. Leslie extended the back door landing to make it easier for Dad to get in and out of the house. It has made a huge difference. However, his wife Betty was in a car accident this week and broke her neck. I think she got to come home this weekend but will have a long recovery. We ask for your prayers for them today.
God is good!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Thursday
This is a short clip of our Easter Feast.
Our granddaughter Adalynn will make the introductions.
Our granddaughter Adalynn will make the introductions.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Wednesday
It is a flamboyant day! After the ice disaster and cold rains and winds we finally have had a beautiful spring day. The azaleas and dogwood are flashing their blooms in the sunlight in a splendiforous array of colors! It would be a great day for a hike, so Dad and Dameon (PT) went for a walk around the house! I am elated. I was thinking before I dropped by that by hook or crook I was going to get him outside sometime this weekend.
I have been praying for a significant breakthrough in Dad's therapy, confident that at some point if would happen, but reticent in the knowledge that it would be a long time for any appreciable advancement would be recorded. While I was visiting, Dad got up to go to the bathroom, I was slack jawed. I can no longer call it a transfer from the chair to the walker, he got up and walked, not shuffled, walked to the bathroom. He still has some balance issues and will always need a walker or cane, but I can not believe how much stronger and confident he is since Easter. His decline was exponential and I hope that we have come to that point in recovery. If he can continue progress as he has in the last week, I don't think it will be long before we will be able to see the summit of this mountain he has had to climb. I told him how impressed I was and how proud I was of him, and Mom said holding in a tear, that she said that she thought he had turned a corner and for the first time she had hope. Wow...if that doesn't churn your gut, nothing will.
Mom said that she thinks the change in the inhaler had made a huge difference in his breathing. She said that they have even missed a treatment here and there with the albuterol and have not seen any adverse effects. I checked his pulse and listened to his heart with a stethoscope to see if I could tell if he might be in sinus rhythm, but in my civilian opinion, he is still in a-fib. We hope that when we see the doctor again that he may get the steroid reduced again. If we can get him off some of this medication, his progress may speed up even more.
Dad is so faithful in doing extra work both in PT and OT. He is taking over some of the daily chores such as putting on his socks and shoes. His right hand is still weak and not as coordinated as it should be, but he is constantly working on the exercise regimen laid out by the OT. The more he can do for himself the less Mom has to do.
Dad is starting to read more and make a lot of phone calls which is another indicator that he is returning to more normalcy.
I am grateful to God for His faithfulness to Mom and Dad and all of us. Mom and Dad still have so much to offer this kingdom on earth and I feel privileged to be an observer of God's creative genius at work!
God is good!
I have been praying for a significant breakthrough in Dad's therapy, confident that at some point if would happen, but reticent in the knowledge that it would be a long time for any appreciable advancement would be recorded. While I was visiting, Dad got up to go to the bathroom, I was slack jawed. I can no longer call it a transfer from the chair to the walker, he got up and walked, not shuffled, walked to the bathroom. He still has some balance issues and will always need a walker or cane, but I can not believe how much stronger and confident he is since Easter. His decline was exponential and I hope that we have come to that point in recovery. If he can continue progress as he has in the last week, I don't think it will be long before we will be able to see the summit of this mountain he has had to climb. I told him how impressed I was and how proud I was of him, and Mom said holding in a tear, that she said that she thought he had turned a corner and for the first time she had hope. Wow...if that doesn't churn your gut, nothing will.
Mom said that she thinks the change in the inhaler had made a huge difference in his breathing. She said that they have even missed a treatment here and there with the albuterol and have not seen any adverse effects. I checked his pulse and listened to his heart with a stethoscope to see if I could tell if he might be in sinus rhythm, but in my civilian opinion, he is still in a-fib. We hope that when we see the doctor again that he may get the steroid reduced again. If we can get him off some of this medication, his progress may speed up even more.
Dad is so faithful in doing extra work both in PT and OT. He is taking over some of the daily chores such as putting on his socks and shoes. His right hand is still weak and not as coordinated as it should be, but he is constantly working on the exercise regimen laid out by the OT. The more he can do for himself the less Mom has to do.
Dad is starting to read more and make a lot of phone calls which is another indicator that he is returning to more normalcy.
I am grateful to God for His faithfulness to Mom and Dad and all of us. Mom and Dad still have so much to offer this kingdom on earth and I feel privileged to be an observer of God's creative genius at work!
God is good!
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Saturday
Well I have been remiss in updating the blog lately and I apologize. There has not been much new to report and my work schedule has changed and I have had trouble getting into a routine. Every time I start feeling sorry for myself about changes at work, I remember those who have experienced an even more drastic change. You are in our prayers.
I spent some time with Dad on Friday while Mom went shopping. He is improving one muscle fiber at a time. The most noticeable change from my perspective is his demeanor and conversation. He is more animated and is back to discussing weighty issues and his favorite topic, family and friends. I don't remember if I mentioned that the doctor now thinks he had a small stroke during surgery that affected his right hand. Originally they told him that they had stretched a nerve during surgery and it had caused weakness in his hand. I relate this because his propensity and desire to write all of you is one of the casualties of this ordeal. In lieu of the writing, he has started to make phone calls between PT sessions and is trying to reach as many of you as possible. He probably will not get to everyone, but rest assured he is humbled by the on going concern, support and prayer he receives from you daily and wants you to know how much he appreciates the love you have expressed in so many ways.
Many of you including my siblings have asked me if I think Dad will get much better than he is now. I am not a prognosticator and will only say that goals are important but the journey toward those goals is life. If Mom and Dad and the rest of us can stay positive and find meaning in the journey, then the goal will find itself. Physically speaking, keeping the principle of inertia is important. A body at rest, stays at rest, a body in motion, stays in motion...come to think of it, inertia applies to the mind and soul as well!
Stay inertialized!
God is good!
I spent some time with Dad on Friday while Mom went shopping. He is improving one muscle fiber at a time. The most noticeable change from my perspective is his demeanor and conversation. He is more animated and is back to discussing weighty issues and his favorite topic, family and friends. I don't remember if I mentioned that the doctor now thinks he had a small stroke during surgery that affected his right hand. Originally they told him that they had stretched a nerve during surgery and it had caused weakness in his hand. I relate this because his propensity and desire to write all of you is one of the casualties of this ordeal. In lieu of the writing, he has started to make phone calls between PT sessions and is trying to reach as many of you as possible. He probably will not get to everyone, but rest assured he is humbled by the on going concern, support and prayer he receives from you daily and wants you to know how much he appreciates the love you have expressed in so many ways.
Many of you including my siblings have asked me if I think Dad will get much better than he is now. I am not a prognosticator and will only say that goals are important but the journey toward those goals is life. If Mom and Dad and the rest of us can stay positive and find meaning in the journey, then the goal will find itself. Physically speaking, keeping the principle of inertia is important. A body at rest, stays at rest, a body in motion, stays in motion...come to think of it, inertia applies to the mind and soul as well!
Stay inertialized!
God is good!
Monday, April 13, 2009
Sunday
Happy Easter!
It was a very rainy blustery raw Sunday morning and I spoke with Mom to see what she thought about our plans for lunch at our house. We decided that it was just too much to try to get Dad out in the weather. After church there was a break in the rain and so Nathan and I went out and got Dad loaded up and we made it to our house without getting drenched.
All local and semi local family (we missed the rest of you sibs etal.) present and accounted for. Adam, Kelsey, Adalynn, Nathan, Rachel, Jordan, Hannah, Charlotte, Nancy, Madeline and I all had a wonderful meal together. It may not have been completely heart healthy, but our Hearts were sated.
God is good!
It was a very rainy blustery raw Sunday morning and I spoke with Mom to see what she thought about our plans for lunch at our house. We decided that it was just too much to try to get Dad out in the weather. After church there was a break in the rain and so Nathan and I went out and got Dad loaded up and we made it to our house without getting drenched.
All local and semi local family (we missed the rest of you sibs etal.) present and accounted for. Adam, Kelsey, Adalynn, Nathan, Rachel, Jordan, Hannah, Charlotte, Nancy, Madeline and I all had a wonderful meal together. It may not have been completely heart healthy, but our Hearts were sated.
God is good!
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Wednesday
Dad has had a couple of good days. He has had a parade of therapists and nurses in and out suggesting this and that and performing their mandates. Mom talked to the pulmonologists nurse,(I guess he is just to busy to talk to a "dead man"). The nurse changed his inhaler prescription to eliminate the Ipratropium bromide. We will see if it has any effect on his breathing. Tonight I asked him if he could tell a difference and he said that there might be a slight change. Mom said that she thought he slept better last night.
I reminded them that the CHF that he has is not reversible and it may be that since his heart is only working at 20% efficiency that he will just have to be careful and watch his salt and fluid intake and watch for edema and other symptoms. We sure don't want to have to go back on lasix.
He looked good tonight and we had a good visit. We are hoping that this weekend will not be too stormy so that Mom and Dad can eat Easter lunch with us. We hope to have a house full.
It has been 98 days since we started this saga. A look back reminds us how far he has come. Where will we be in another 90 days? I don't know, but I enjoyed our time together today.
We are praying for my cousin Sarah's son Andrew, who is having knee surgery in Little Rock Thursday. Andrew is a student athlete at Ouachita and hurt his knee during spring practice. Hopefully it will go well and he will rehab quickly. God's speed Andrew.
God is good!
I reminded them that the CHF that he has is not reversible and it may be that since his heart is only working at 20% efficiency that he will just have to be careful and watch his salt and fluid intake and watch for edema and other symptoms. We sure don't want to have to go back on lasix.
He looked good tonight and we had a good visit. We are hoping that this weekend will not be too stormy so that Mom and Dad can eat Easter lunch with us. We hope to have a house full.
It has been 98 days since we started this saga. A look back reminds us how far he has come. Where will we be in another 90 days? I don't know, but I enjoyed our time together today.
We are praying for my cousin Sarah's son Andrew, who is having knee surgery in Little Rock Thursday. Andrew is a student athlete at Ouachita and hurt his knee during spring practice. Hopefully it will go well and he will rehab quickly. God's speed Andrew.
God is good!
Monday, April 6, 2009
Monday
Charlotte and I had a good visit with Mom and Dad Sunday afternoon. I am always glad to get the medical Q&A out of the way so we can talk about other things.
Dad exercised quite a bit yesterday and the shortness of breath is still pestering him. I have researched the symptom extensively and while there are numerous possible causes that could be probable for Dad, most have been looked at by the doctors and dismissed. We hope to get an answer on the xray today and ask some questions. Dad is using an Combivent inhaler which is supposed to relax his bronchial track for this BOOP. From what I have read it can actually do the opposite, so I want to check that out.
God is good!
Dad exercised quite a bit yesterday and the shortness of breath is still pestering him. I have researched the symptom extensively and while there are numerous possible causes that could be probable for Dad, most have been looked at by the doctors and dismissed. We hope to get an answer on the xray today and ask some questions. Dad is using an Combivent inhaler which is supposed to relax his bronchial track for this BOOP. From what I have read it can actually do the opposite, so I want to check that out.
God is good!
Saturday, April 4, 2009
Saturday
Dad has had a couple of worrisome days. Everything has been normal with the exception of some breathing problems. He has had episodes of shallow breathing. It is disconcerting especially after getting such a good report from the pulmonologist. I told Mom not to hesitate to call 911 if an episode becomes prolonged.
I mowed his lawn and came home and mowed mine. While I was mowing, Cindy called and spoke to Charlotte. She had just gotten off the phone with Dad and was concerned that he was breathing so heavily during their conversation. I called to check on him and he said that everything was the same as when I was there earlier. I suggested that he try to sit in a regular chair or the wheel chair some and to watch his salt intake. I guess we will follow up Monday if things have not changed.
God is good!
I mowed his lawn and came home and mowed mine. While I was mowing, Cindy called and spoke to Charlotte. She had just gotten off the phone with Dad and was concerned that he was breathing so heavily during their conversation. I called to check on him and he said that everything was the same as when I was there earlier. I suggested that he try to sit in a regular chair or the wheel chair some and to watch his salt intake. I guess we will follow up Monday if things have not changed.
God is good!
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Thursday
Jamie III arrived around noon bearing Mexican meatloaf and other things to nosh on. Dad said, "Now I can taste this!" Jamie said that he ate a lot.
The first appointment today was with Dad's primary care doctor. He had some lab work done and vitals checked. They discussed the weakness in his legs and the sleep aid. The PCP told Dad that the med mix he is taking may be exacerbating the lethargy and weakness at night. He suggested that he take the prescription medication around the evening meal and wait to take the sleep aid at bedtime. Overall the PCP was pleased with Dad's condition and told him he would see him in 30 days.
The pulmonologist is in the same building and just a short jump. Dad had a chest xray and waited for the Doc. I think this is the first time that Dad has seen this doctor since he prescribed the pednisone for the Boop at Regency. He told Dad that he didn't think he would see Dad again! It seems that every doctor involved with Dad's case didn't give Dad a chance of pulling through.
When I talked to Dad, he said that it made him wonder why he was still here. I told him it was to humble the Dr.s and show them that they need to be careful about prejudicial-prognosis. I guess faith vanquished their self fulfilling prophetics.
Anyway, he tapered the steroid dosage again which hopefully will have some positive consequences, both physically and emotionally. There are so many side effects associated with steroids that counter measures have to be taken to minimize the complications that can occur.
Barring any surprises from the xray, Dad got another glowing report. We shouldn't have to come back for 30 days.
I am off for a couple of days and hope to spend some time with Mom and Dad and have a frank discussion on how they feel they are fairing at home and their assessment of the home care so far.
Dad had a good day, and once again I am thankful for my sibling's help in providing all kinds of assistance.
Job.13
[1] "Lo, my eye has seen all this,
my ear has heard and understood it.
[2] What you know, I also know;
I am not inferior to you.
[3] But I would speak to the Almighty,
and I desire to argue my case with God.
[4] As for you, you whitewash with lies;
worthless physicians are you all.
[5] Oh that you would keep silent,
and it would be your wisdom!
Luke.17
[19] And he said to him, "Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well."
(for our physician friends, I am reminded that Luke was a doctor)
The first appointment today was with Dad's primary care doctor. He had some lab work done and vitals checked. They discussed the weakness in his legs and the sleep aid. The PCP told Dad that the med mix he is taking may be exacerbating the lethargy and weakness at night. He suggested that he take the prescription medication around the evening meal and wait to take the sleep aid at bedtime. Overall the PCP was pleased with Dad's condition and told him he would see him in 30 days.
The pulmonologist is in the same building and just a short jump. Dad had a chest xray and waited for the Doc. I think this is the first time that Dad has seen this doctor since he prescribed the pednisone for the Boop at Regency. He told Dad that he didn't think he would see Dad again! It seems that every doctor involved with Dad's case didn't give Dad a chance of pulling through.
When I talked to Dad, he said that it made him wonder why he was still here. I told him it was to humble the Dr.s and show them that they need to be careful about prejudicial-prognosis. I guess faith vanquished their self fulfilling prophetics.
Anyway, he tapered the steroid dosage again which hopefully will have some positive consequences, both physically and emotionally. There are so many side effects associated with steroids that counter measures have to be taken to minimize the complications that can occur.
Barring any surprises from the xray, Dad got another glowing report. We shouldn't have to come back for 30 days.
I am off for a couple of days and hope to spend some time with Mom and Dad and have a frank discussion on how they feel they are fairing at home and their assessment of the home care so far.
Dad had a good day, and once again I am thankful for my sibling's help in providing all kinds of assistance.
Job.13
[1] "Lo, my eye has seen all this,
my ear has heard and understood it.
[2] What you know, I also know;
I am not inferior to you.
[3] But I would speak to the Almighty,
and I desire to argue my case with God.
[4] As for you, you whitewash with lies;
worthless physicians are you all.
[5] Oh that you would keep silent,
and it would be your wisdom!
Luke.17
[19] And he said to him, "Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well."
(for our physician friends, I am reminded that Luke was a doctor)
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Wednesday
Tuesday 11:30 pm the phone rang, I scrambled to find the phone and the battery was dead. I located the second handset and the caller ID was Mom and Dad. "Hello?" I said in earnest, hoping that it was not the last ring before the machine picked up. Mom was on the other end of the line, "I need your help, your Dad's legs won't hold him up long enough to get him into bed and I can't wheel him to the bedroom." (Sigh of relief) "I'll be there in 5 minutes".
I grab the keys and head for the homestead. When I get there, I find Dad in the wheel chair sitting on the edge slumped over. He is groggy and pale. I get him to sit up and get him situated in the chair so he won't slide out into the floor and assess the situation. He told me that he had been short of breath part of the afternoon and evening but would not let Mom call me or 911. Mom said that when he tried to walk to the bedroom he just couldn't make it, his legs just wouldn't hold him up. He got to the wheel chair but Mom didn't have the strength to wheel him over the little step to the kitchen. I wheeled him to the bedroom and got him transferred to the bed. We got him undressed and with a little effort got him situated comfortably. He was asleep almost before we left the room.
I asked Mom to give me a run down of the day. He didn't have any PT or OT but did have the nurse drop by to take vitals and check the leg wound. He had exercised on his own with leg weights and had walked some. He had taken a sleeping aid about an hour before I got there along with the rest of his evening meds. He had vegetable soup for lunch and dinner with various side dishes including peanut butter crackers. I could tell this incident was wearing on Mom.
Dad was blaming the NPH for the weakness, and it may have been part of the equation, but she doesn't need to let him dictate what action she takes. She had a worried look on her face, and I feel verklempt. I told her not to let him do a self diagnosis but instead call me or 911 if she had any doubts. I suggested that she give him the sleep aid after he was in bed or just before he was ready to go to bed because he seemed very groggy to me and was not as responsive as usual. I told Mom I would be happy to stay there if she wanted me to but she said that she thought he would be fine now. I checked on him before I left and found him sleeping and breathing "normally". I went home but didn't sleep very well.
He was doing "okay" this morning and tried to cancel PT because he had the Dr. visit in the afternoon. Dameon, the PT, came anyway and was filled in about the nocturnal episode. He expressed concern that Dad wasn't getting stronger as fast as he hoped but gave Dad a workout anyway. (Dameon is proactive and I appreciate that) Dad survived and was up and ready when I got there at 2:30 to take him to the Dr. He made the walk and transfer to the van without any problem.
We got right in to see the "Dr" (actually his nurse) and she checked his leg wound and pronounced it healed. We don't have to dress it anymore or wear the support hose. I asked her to check his blood pressure and listen to his lungs after relating the incident of the previous evening. She said that everything sounded good and his BP was about perfect. She told him to be patient and that it would just take a while to regain his strength. She told him that he didn't have to come back to them any more. One down, 2 to go. He transferred to the van without any problem and we got back home without incident.
Tomorrow is round 2 with the Dr.s and Jamie III is supposed to be here to assist. I think I got the point across to call me as soon as they needed help. It is hard for them to get over thinking that I am being inconvenienced. Hopefully we are over that hump, even if the one from the den to the kitchen is still a problem.
I hope that this is just one of those daze, and that they can move past it and keep making progress. I know that assisted living is lurking in the back of their minds. It is a tight rope that we are walking, as far as what is best for both of them. My focus has shifted a little more to Mom.
Some "foolish" scipture:
Prov.11
[29] He who troubles his household will inherit wind,
and the fool will be servant to the wise.
Prov.17
[28] Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; (Opps...I am what I am)
when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.
1Cor.3
[18] Let no one deceive himself. If any one among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise.
1Cor.4
[10] We are fools for Christ's sake, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You are held in honor, but we in disrepute.
May we all be "fools for Christ"!
God is good!
I grab the keys and head for the homestead. When I get there, I find Dad in the wheel chair sitting on the edge slumped over. He is groggy and pale. I get him to sit up and get him situated in the chair so he won't slide out into the floor and assess the situation. He told me that he had been short of breath part of the afternoon and evening but would not let Mom call me or 911. Mom said that when he tried to walk to the bedroom he just couldn't make it, his legs just wouldn't hold him up. He got to the wheel chair but Mom didn't have the strength to wheel him over the little step to the kitchen. I wheeled him to the bedroom and got him transferred to the bed. We got him undressed and with a little effort got him situated comfortably. He was asleep almost before we left the room.
I asked Mom to give me a run down of the day. He didn't have any PT or OT but did have the nurse drop by to take vitals and check the leg wound. He had exercised on his own with leg weights and had walked some. He had taken a sleeping aid about an hour before I got there along with the rest of his evening meds. He had vegetable soup for lunch and dinner with various side dishes including peanut butter crackers. I could tell this incident was wearing on Mom.
Dad was blaming the NPH for the weakness, and it may have been part of the equation, but she doesn't need to let him dictate what action she takes. She had a worried look on her face, and I feel verklempt. I told her not to let him do a self diagnosis but instead call me or 911 if she had any doubts. I suggested that she give him the sleep aid after he was in bed or just before he was ready to go to bed because he seemed very groggy to me and was not as responsive as usual. I told Mom I would be happy to stay there if she wanted me to but she said that she thought he would be fine now. I checked on him before I left and found him sleeping and breathing "normally". I went home but didn't sleep very well.
He was doing "okay" this morning and tried to cancel PT because he had the Dr. visit in the afternoon. Dameon, the PT, came anyway and was filled in about the nocturnal episode. He expressed concern that Dad wasn't getting stronger as fast as he hoped but gave Dad a workout anyway. (Dameon is proactive and I appreciate that) Dad survived and was up and ready when I got there at 2:30 to take him to the Dr. He made the walk and transfer to the van without any problem.
We got right in to see the "Dr" (actually his nurse) and she checked his leg wound and pronounced it healed. We don't have to dress it anymore or wear the support hose. I asked her to check his blood pressure and listen to his lungs after relating the incident of the previous evening. She said that everything sounded good and his BP was about perfect. She told him to be patient and that it would just take a while to regain his strength. She told him that he didn't have to come back to them any more. One down, 2 to go. He transferred to the van without any problem and we got back home without incident.
Tomorrow is round 2 with the Dr.s and Jamie III is supposed to be here to assist. I think I got the point across to call me as soon as they needed help. It is hard for them to get over thinking that I am being inconvenienced. Hopefully we are over that hump, even if the one from the den to the kitchen is still a problem.
I hope that this is just one of those daze, and that they can move past it and keep making progress. I know that assisted living is lurking in the back of their minds. It is a tight rope that we are walking, as far as what is best for both of them. My focus has shifted a little more to Mom.
Some "foolish" scipture:
Prov.11
[29] He who troubles his household will inherit wind,
and the fool will be servant to the wise.
Prov.17
[28] Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; (Opps...I am what I am)
when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.
1Cor.3
[18] Let no one deceive himself. If any one among you thinks that he is wise in this age, let him become a fool that he may become wise.
1Cor.4
[10] We are fools for Christ's sake, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You are held in honor, but we in disrepute.
May we all be "fools for Christ"!
God is good!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Sunday
Life at the JJJ household has settled into a semi routine consisting mainly of eating, drinking, and pumping iron (with a nap here and there).
I have about decided that I need to start visiting at meal time because they are eating some really good stuff (stuffed cabbage aside). Nancy has brought them several meals from restaurants (Dad's less than heart healthy treat) and Jamie III and Ceal grilled filet mignon's the other night. Mom's no slouch at filling the feed bag either (never has been). He is really starting to look more and more like himself and regaining some of the lost muscle tone.
This week is doctor week again. We will see the cardiac surgeon, his PCP, pulmonologist, and maybe the cardiologist if Dad decides it's worth it. He will also have full lab work and possibly a chest xray. I will go with them on Wednesday and Jamie III is coming on Thursday. His leg has almost completely healed which means there will be one less thing his system has to devote extra attention to.
I told Dad that readership of this blog goes up when he produces a sound byte so he is supposed to be putting together some thoughts and will reluctantly go high tech since he writing to you individually is not feasible. So keep checking back, who knows, maybe he will walk the red carpet for you.
I appreciate this quote from Melody Beattie:
“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”
Day after day, your lyrics of prayer, love and concern, engorge our hearts and place a lien on our gratitude. Excuse the redundancy, but we continue to be filled with gratitude and it must be exercised. Thanks to each of you!
God is good!
I have about decided that I need to start visiting at meal time because they are eating some really good stuff (stuffed cabbage aside). Nancy has brought them several meals from restaurants (Dad's less than heart healthy treat) and Jamie III and Ceal grilled filet mignon's the other night. Mom's no slouch at filling the feed bag either (never has been). He is really starting to look more and more like himself and regaining some of the lost muscle tone.
This week is doctor week again. We will see the cardiac surgeon, his PCP, pulmonologist, and maybe the cardiologist if Dad decides it's worth it. He will also have full lab work and possibly a chest xray. I will go with them on Wednesday and Jamie III is coming on Thursday. His leg has almost completely healed which means there will be one less thing his system has to devote extra attention to.
I told Dad that readership of this blog goes up when he produces a sound byte so he is supposed to be putting together some thoughts and will reluctantly go high tech since he writing to you individually is not feasible. So keep checking back, who knows, maybe he will walk the red carpet for you.
I appreciate this quote from Melody Beattie:
“Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.”
Day after day, your lyrics of prayer, love and concern, engorge our hearts and place a lien on our gratitude. Excuse the redundancy, but we continue to be filled with gratitude and it must be exercised. Thanks to each of you!
God is good!
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Wednesday
Dad had PT today and learned how to get up off the floor in case he fell again. Shortly after the PT left and the aide came and went, Dad got to practice what he had learned (the getting up off the floor part). As presented in the video, let's hope that is not all he learned!
I told him that I had heard that speech before, so I made him take the oath on video so that all of you could hold his feet to the fire.
I had not seen Dad since Monday, and he looks like protein is agreeing with him. He is starting to fill out a bit. His face is not as gaunt and he looks like he has put on some weight.
I stayed with Dad while Mom made a drug deal down at the phly-by pharmacy. Dad had talked to some of his siblings and got caught up on the Alabama ailments. Aunt Kitty got a good report from her oncologist, Aunt Margie fell while taking her daily walk and broke her wrist, and Uncle Milton has been in the hospital with what they think is a bleeding ulcer. We send our love and prayers to them tonight.
God is good!
I told him that I had heard that speech before, so I made him take the oath on video so that all of you could hold his feet to the fire.
I had not seen Dad since Monday, and he looks like protein is agreeing with him. He is starting to fill out a bit. His face is not as gaunt and he looks like he has put on some weight.
I stayed with Dad while Mom made a drug deal down at the phly-by pharmacy. Dad had talked to some of his siblings and got caught up on the Alabama ailments. Aunt Kitty got a good report from her oncologist, Aunt Margie fell while taking her daily walk and broke her wrist, and Uncle Milton has been in the hospital with what they think is a bleeding ulcer. We send our love and prayers to them tonight.
God is good!
Monday, March 23, 2009
Monday
It has been DIY since Friday. All the Home Health folks have been AWOL. Dad has been using this unstructured time to exercise on his own and rest. He took a sleep aid Friday night and took some cat naps all day Saturday. It was cool and rainy so it was a good day for it. Nancy and Madeline brought lunch in and gave Mom a break.
I was contemplating whether to call WRMC and read the riot act to the Home Health folks who seem to have gone to the low end of 3 to 5 days and remembered a sermon by Dr. John Claypool entitled; "The World is Full of Wonders" dealing with miracles. In it is this paragraph:
"The Anglican theologian, Geddes MacGregor, has written an insightful volume entitled, He Who Lets Us Be. His contention is that God shows His affection for us as much by what He does not do as by what He does do. The book is a reflection upon Simone Weil's statement, "Creation was the moment when God ceased to be everything so that we humans could be something." All of this suggests that there may well be just as much Divine love expressed when problems are not resolved miraculously as when they are. Saint Paul came to the profound conviction that God's refusal to remove his well-known thorn in the flesh resulted in even greater blessing to his life than if it had been removed miraculously. He concluded, "When I am weak, then I am strong," indicating that his spirit was strengthened in ways that it never could have been had God intervened dramatically. (II Corinthians 12)".
I have to keep reminding myself that we have been truly blessed even through being cursed. God knows what He is doing and what He is not doing and Dad is really something!
Sunday I offered to let Mom go to church but they got up late and so we will try again next weekend. Mike and Cindy came Sunday morning and brought lunch with them. They stayed until mid afternoon today.
Dad's favorite PT came by this morning while I was there putting the tiller on the tractor and gave Dad a good workout. I asked him how he was doing and he said that he is getting stronger and just needs to continue to focus on some techniques in walking and standing and sitting. I left to till my garden while they ate lunch. Dad had a shower while I was gone and Mom left Cindy and Mike in charge while she went shopping and ran some errands. Dad looked strong albeit a little drained. The nurse and OT had not been by yet and I don't know if they made it this afternoon. Mike and Cindy were a blessing this weekend and made it home okay.
Charlotte and I are expecting Adalynn and Kelsey tomorrow so I hope we can provide some Great Grandchild therapy for a little while.
God is good!
I was contemplating whether to call WRMC and read the riot act to the Home Health folks who seem to have gone to the low end of 3 to 5 days and remembered a sermon by Dr. John Claypool entitled; "The World is Full of Wonders" dealing with miracles. In it is this paragraph:
"The Anglican theologian, Geddes MacGregor, has written an insightful volume entitled, He Who Lets Us Be. His contention is that God shows His affection for us as much by what He does not do as by what He does do. The book is a reflection upon Simone Weil's statement, "Creation was the moment when God ceased to be everything so that we humans could be something." All of this suggests that there may well be just as much Divine love expressed when problems are not resolved miraculously as when they are. Saint Paul came to the profound conviction that God's refusal to remove his well-known thorn in the flesh resulted in even greater blessing to his life than if it had been removed miraculously. He concluded, "When I am weak, then I am strong," indicating that his spirit was strengthened in ways that it never could have been had God intervened dramatically. (II Corinthians 12)".
I have to keep reminding myself that we have been truly blessed even through being cursed. God knows what He is doing and what He is not doing and Dad is really something!
Sunday I offered to let Mom go to church but they got up late and so we will try again next weekend. Mike and Cindy came Sunday morning and brought lunch with them. They stayed until mid afternoon today.
Dad's favorite PT came by this morning while I was there putting the tiller on the tractor and gave Dad a good workout. I asked him how he was doing and he said that he is getting stronger and just needs to continue to focus on some techniques in walking and standing and sitting. I left to till my garden while they ate lunch. Dad had a shower while I was gone and Mom left Cindy and Mike in charge while she went shopping and ran some errands. Dad looked strong albeit a little drained. The nurse and OT had not been by yet and I don't know if they made it this afternoon. Mike and Cindy were a blessing this weekend and made it home okay.
Charlotte and I are expecting Adalynn and Kelsey tomorrow so I hope we can provide some Great Grandchild therapy for a little while.
God is good!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Wednesday/Thursday
I talked with Mom and Dad this afternoon. Dad slept in again today but was able to have breakfast just before the PT got there. Dad told him he didn't know how much he could do today because he sat around in doctors offices all day yesterday. The PT took it in stride and doubled up on his reps. I have not met this guy but I like him already. He went to leave and found that a clamp on his radiator had failed and so he lost all his coolant. Mom took him to Wal Mart (left Dad by himself) to get a new clamp. He was able to fix it fairly quickly. Nancy, Madeline and Nathan came by to visit just before the aide came to give Dad a shower.
Mom ran me through all the changes in medication and filled me in on what Jamie III left out. I got an update on Dad's calorie and fluid intake. When I talked to Dad, he sounded upbeat and his voice was strong.
Thursday
Dad had a break from the PT and OT today. The nurse did come by and check his vitals etc. Mom said that he has been lethargic all day. I don't know if it is the change in medication or if he is feeling a little depressed. He told me that his legs gave way again last night when he got up to use the bedside toilet. He didn't wake Mom up but somehow managed to wiggle his way back to bed. I am sure that scared him and has to have some emotional and mental effects. I made a suggestion for tonight to give him a more stable hand hold by using the wheel chair because he has been using the hand holds on the toilet and the walker which are not very stable.
I asked him if he had exercised any today and he said that he had and was trying to increase his walking. I was glad to hear that. The endorphins seem to kick in when he exercises. I asked Mom if she could tell if there was any change in his breathing or signs of edema and she said no. Everything seems to be at the same level. Hopefully he will have a good nights rest and will be ready for some good PT tomorrow.
May tomorrow bring a song of hope and faith in God's eternal plan...
Today I feel like Job, doubting and perplexed...
Job.18
[7] His strong steps are shortened and his own schemes throw him down.
[8] For he is cast into a net by his own feet, and he walks on a pitfall.
[9] A trap seizes him by the heel,a snare lays hold of him.
[10] A rope is hid for him in the ground, a trap for him in the path.
[11] Terrors frighten him on every side, and chase him at his heels.
[12] His strength is hunger-bitten, and calamity is ready for his stumbling.
May tomorrow bring a song of hope and faith in God's eternal plan...
Ps.37
[23] The steps of a man are from the LORD, and he establishes him in whose way he delights;
[24] though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the LORD is the stay of his hand.
[25] I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsake nor his children begging bread.
[31] The law of his God is in his heart; his steps do not slip.
God is good!
[24] though he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the LORD is the stay of his hand.
[25] I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsake nor his children begging bread.
[31] The law of his God is in his heart; his steps do not slip.
God is good!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Tuesday
Talked with Mom last night and got caught up on the daze doin's. They had the whole HH gang in. His favorite PT came and worked him out. After that the aide came and he got to take a shower. They had a break for lunch and then the OT and nurse came. Mom said he was tired but it was a good kind of tired.
Just talked with Jamie III about the doctor visits today. They did some blood work and have adjusted his meds again. They are tapering the steroid for his BOOP and are taking him completely off Lasix. We will just have to watch for fluid retention and other signs of congestion. Between the 2 doctors and nurses, they took Dad's BP 4 times and all of them were significantly different; as much as 15 to 20 points. So I guess you just have to drive a stake in the ground and bench mark. Jamie III says that he can tell Dad is making progress. I can tell he is getting more confident in standing and getting around, I just hope he doesn't get overconfident. He keeps mentioning that Mom ought to go to the store or church and leave him by himself, "I'll be fine". We are not there yet.
God is good!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Sunday
Hope you all had a good day of worship. After choir practice this morning the thought occurred to me that I should have arranged to stay with Dad and let Mom go to Sunday School. I will arranged that in the future.
Charlotte and I went to see the folks after lunch. I felt guilty after eating greasy pizza with my family. We were celebrating Rachel's significant other's acceptance to several law schools. He is a big Tim's Pizza fan, so we clogged our arteries and watched BB tourney's. Mom and Dad had salmon and veggies. Dad says that no matter how well seasoned, everything tastes the same. He still eats everything but is getting tired of stir fry. He is drinking a quart of water a day as well as milk, tea and coffee, so hopefully he will re-hydrate.
We listened to Andrea Bocelli sing a few numbers on the PBS fund raiser, in hopes that he would sing "Because".
Because, you come to me, With naught save love, And hold my hand and lift mine eyes above,
A wider world of hope and joy I see, Because you come to me!
Because you speak to me in accent sweet, I find the roses waking round my feet,
And I am led through tears and joy to thee, Because you speak to me!
Because God made thee mine, I'll cherish thee,
Through light and darkness through all time to be,
And pray His love may make our love divine,
Because god made thee mine!
All of us Jones kids remember this song reverberating through our home on many occasions. Dad would serenade Mom out of the blue. I think it may have been sung at their wedding. Anyway, it was on Dad's agenda for the afternoon so we listened to a concert but Bocelli never sang it. I told Dad I would find it a make him a CD.
We talked about the week ahead and made arrangements to get him to and from the doctor appointments on Tuesday. It is finally getting warmer and I hope I can get Dad outside some this week. I think I will try to rig up a way to pull him behind the lawn tractor in the wheel chair. That ought to get his blood pumping.
With spring break this week and Nathan saving all his money for his trip to Great Britain this summer, I think some extra PT may be in the offing for Dad. I really think he is doing better and gaining strength a little bit each day. One step at a time.
I will continue to add entries to the blog, but they may be intermittent from here on because the routine will be pretty much the same for a while. I will always add significant events and progress but my daily updates will either be very brief or I may go to 3 times a week. One of the most visited blog entries was Dad's video. I will try to get him to do some more sound bytes.
I have been a little overwhelmed by how many of you are reading daily or weekly. In the past 2 weeks, 135 of you have visited 898 times and viewed 1378 pages and I know my tracker is not capturing everyone. I told Dad that if that translated into 898+ prayers for him that he better get crackin and do his part in having them answered.
I cannot restate often enough how much we appreciate your prayers and are cognizant that they have been the difference in Dad's recovery much more than any medical treatment or procedure. We continue to cherish and celebrate your faithful friendship. You are all emissaries and the embodiment of our Messiah, for God has truly been with us.
God is good!
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Saturday
Nancy and I accompanied Mom and Dad to the doctor Friday. This was the first visit to his primary care physician since the hospitalization. Dad was glad to see him and they had a lot to talk about. Dad related the medical maze he had been through and the doc gave us a run down on the evolution of how hospitalist came to be and why the doctors in his clinic stopped making hospital rounds. Apparently the administrators are trying to monopolize medical care by recruiting doctors away from clinics and making life miserable for doctors who just want to hang out a shingle and maintain a loyal patient population. So he and his colleagues told the local administrator to take a flying leap.
The doc had familiarized himself with Dads file and basically told Dad that someone was looking out for him. He checked Dad out, found his BP low (which was perfect 10 minutes earlier when his nurse took it). He went through the pharm farm Dad has been cultivating and made some adjustments to his diuretic; Dad is still somewhat dehydrated. He encouraged Dad to eat as much as possible to encourage his body's attempt to repair itself...a lot remodeling is taking place all at once. He told us he would be in contact with the pulmonologist on the BOOP issue and tapering the steroid treatment. He spent about 20 minutes with us which was refreshing and made Dad feel good. Dad asked him if he really needed to see the other doctors and much to his chagrin he said yes. Just before we left, Dad told him that early on, when there was some doubt as to the outcome, there were some folks that came to his mind that he wanted to express his appreciation to for all they had done for him through the years, and he was one of them. I think the doc was touched.
We got Dad home and Nancy went to get lunch for them and I went to work. Sister Cindy was expected around 1. I had a late night and didn't get a chance to check in on them before bedtime.
Today was cockeyed for me, Friday the 13th on Saturday. By the time I had time to call Mom and Dad, Cindy had left, so I didn't even get to see her. Mom said that Dad had slept in until around 9:30 and probably would have slept longer but the weekend nurse called and wanted to come by. I asked if he had done any exercise and she said that he had done some. I reminded her to feed and water him good and she had already measured out a good quantity of water and juice for him to drink for the day. She was also making him a high protein shake to drink in between meals. I think they are getting the hang of home life again. If I can get some recipes together, I may try to get Mom some help in preparing meals. I think the care and feeding is keeping her engaged but it is a little overwhelming at this point.
I am looking forward to a day of rest tomorrow.
God is good!
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Thursday
Mom and Dad have not transitioned to DST so they are sleeping in every morning until 8:30 or 9. This compresses the routine that we were used to while in the asylums. The morning is almost over by the time Dad gets dressed, has breakfast and swallows all the pills. It is fortuitous that the home health crew has been coming late in the morning or early afternoon. They didn't expect anyone to come on days that Dad has a Dr.'s appointment, but Wednesday a nurse and an OT called and came by before noon. The nurse checked Dad out and changed the dressing on his leg and the OT did a few exercises with Dad and made some suggestions about how to handle the shower. Jamie III arrived a little after noon and had lunch with Mom and Dad.
Jamie III assisted Dad to the car and got Dad to the surgeon without any problem. I got there just as the nurse was taking vitals and checking the leg wound. It has healed up quite a bit since the last time we were there and shows no new signs of infection. The doc that did the surgery saw Dad today and basically gave Dad a pep talk, more talk than pep, and told Dad to stay patient and vigilant with the rehab. He doesn't have to go back for 3 weeks. Dad is getting used to transferring to the van from the wheel chair and it seems to get easier each time. We got home and Jamie and I did some chores and did our own assessment of the safest and most efficient way for Dad to take a shower. Nathan (pep and talk, mostly pep) came by and we sat around and shared ignorance, and put Dad to sleep. The busy routine has been cutting into his nap time.
Today, Dad had another full day of home rehab. He had a new PT come today and he worked Dad hard. He started with some exercise on the bed and Dad said he was cold. The PT said, "You won't be cold very long." Dad said,"He was right!" Dad liked this guy and asked if he could petition for him to be the lead PT during his recovery. He said that would be fine but he couldn't assure him that it would always be him. About the time he was finishing up, the aide came and took over. She was very experienced and had the shower thing figured out posthaste. The shower was good therapy. Refreshed, Dad was ready for lunch and the afternoon round with the OT and nurse. He was tired when I got there at 8 pm but he looked robust and his voice was strong and he was engaged. He had even done some extra work on his own.
He has the first appointment with his primary care doc tomorrow. This will be the first time he has seen him since the heart attack. I hope that the plethora of doctors will be winnowed down to 1 or 2. I really don't know why he needs to see the surgeon again or even the cardiologist for that matter, unless symptoms arise that would direct him there. At any rate, the choir is now a trio and there are fewer voices to listen to.
Nancy and I will accompany Mom and Dad tomorrow and Cindy will be coming for the weekend.
Dad got several cards today including, one from a boy who had heard Dad's name over and over as someone who needed prayer. He told his mother he wanted to send Dad a card to let Dad know he was praying for him. Another came from some folks who had just learned about Dad's ordeal. The cloud of witnesses continues to synthesize. God continues to be faithful in bolstering our hope and strengthening our resolve.
Ps.36
[5] Thy steadfast love, O LORD, extends to the heavens,
thy faithfulness to the clouds.
thy faithfulness to the clouds.
God is good!
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