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| My mom (Louise) & nephew (Josh) up in the wheelchair: 3/4/12 |
Over the course of the two weeks since that post, my mom has been doing really well. We've been working with in-house PT (physical therapy) learning to transfer from couch (bed) to the wheelchair. At first, it was a nightmare. She gets really scared and then becomes dead weight, so it was rather hard trying to safely move her into the chair. Now? She's been gaining confidence and strength, so the transfers are happening once a day.
I've learned a GREAT deal about being a nurse. I may not have my license, but I can take care of any patient. Ha! I can check blood sugar, blood pressure (with the pump and stetacope), change wound dressings, give spongbaths, work a bed-pan, wash hair with a soup pot and pitcher, disperse medications, etc. It's pretty amazing all of the work I've done.... and all the knowledge I've gained from this. 1) I had to remove my mom's catheter. It was causing problems with her bladder, so the nurse (via phone conversation) walked me through removing the catheter. That was such a trip!!!! 2) learning to be an encouragement. I always take the high road when it comes to emotions, but lately I've had to be the one to step in and say all of the right things... at the right time. I've definitely learned how to be a better person throughout all of this.
We took her out of the house to the doctor last week. The car transfer was scary, but we managed; and the report from the wound specialist was encouraging. She's definitely on the right path! We're hoping within the next month she'll be able to get her prothesis fittings started. What a day it will be to see her up and walking again. I cannot wait!
I'm still trying to read and blog. It's hard for me to find the time, however, I do get a little reading in here-and-there.
Again, I thank you all for you encouragement and kindness. This time has been tough, but you guys always manage to put a smile on my face. Thank you!
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i'm so happy to read this. I know first hand how helping a loved one can be terrific, tiring and stressful. You can be proud of yourself
ReplyDeletebest wishes to you and your mother
all the best
You are a saint. Your Mom is so lucky to have a loving family. Blessings to all of you!
ReplyDeleteYou absolutely are a saint. I'm going through some health stuff with my mom, too, and I thought it was pretty serious, but I don't feel comfortable talking about it with everyone, and although it's serious, it's not to the extreme that you're dealing with. Your mother is so fortunate that you are able to take such good care of her. Not everyone can or will be that willing to help when it's needed. My best wishes to her and hugs to you. You are someone to be admired. :)
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to hear that your mom is doing better. And, she is so lucky to have you. So many people would've put her in a home at this point, but it sounds like you're doing everything! I really admire you for that. I'm glad that it's been a great learning experience for you as well. I hope she continues to recover and will soon be up and around on her new prosthesis.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad your mom is doing better! And you are doing an amazing job. I'm keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers and hope you continue doing so well. All the best!
ReplyDeleteI just came upon this post and I am so moved by what you're doing for your mom, and how much you're going through together. I so admire the loving and life-affirming decision you've made to step in. Sending good thoughts and prayers in your direction.
ReplyDelete