I let myself sleep as much as needed last night - I'm so overdrawn on spoons it's scary. I am trying to pace myself, but it's got to get done...and K can't do it all. Once we're done moving, I'm going to be doing very little for a few days.
Larry and I decided that I should go early to Riverview today, so I could watch one of Larry's rehab sessions.
First they fitted Larry with a special splint, to help prevent problems down the road with his left hand.
Rehab was pretty cool. I just watched, and made bad jokes. His Rehab lady had him working on patterns and then worked with his left hand. He's doing so well, and has only been there a week! He was moving his hand across a table and back again!! His therapist said he was doing very very well, and had made great progress this week.
I know he's not going to have such huge gains every week, but this is encouraging.
Other than that, we just chatted and watched some baseball.
I got the new apartment keys today, and we did the walk-through. Not much wrong, except a lot of dust from the painters... well, they're going to shampoo the carpets this weekend! WOOT!
Signed the lease and headed home.
It just got real :D
Friday, February 28, 2014
Thursday February 27, 2014
Today was a busy day for me - I spent it changing my address everywhere. I also put the mail forward on so we don't miss anyone.
I took another load of stuff to the Salvation Army today - and I still have one more to go!
Working on packing up the kitchen stuff. We're getting down to the wire now - three sleeps! I'm sooooo ready to go, but not fully packed :P
I did one smart thing - I booked the cats a "condo" for Monday so they don't get as stressed out as last time we moved. They're also only about 3 minutes from the new place. They're too old for drama :P
Visited with Larry, and he was a little down. He got his 4-point cane, and ....nothing changed other than he walks now. Still needs his "transfer" belt and sling, and someone to assist for safety. I said to him "you were hoping it would be an all better, magical cane, right?" he nodded. He was also feeling a bit frustrated with himself - he's having trouble with patterns and drawing a clock.
I gently reminded him that he had a large stroke only 5 weeks ago...and to give himself some slack. It's going to take time to recover. He was doing better after that.
We listened to the Jets game, at least until the end of the third period. Larry was getting tired, so I went home. Got to listen to the shoot out :D YAY JETS!
I took another load of stuff to the Salvation Army today - and I still have one more to go!
Working on packing up the kitchen stuff. We're getting down to the wire now - three sleeps! I'm sooooo ready to go, but not fully packed :P
I did one smart thing - I booked the cats a "condo" for Monday so they don't get as stressed out as last time we moved. They're also only about 3 minutes from the new place. They're too old for drama :P
Visited with Larry, and he was a little down. He got his 4-point cane, and ....nothing changed other than he walks now. Still needs his "transfer" belt and sling, and someone to assist for safety. I said to him "you were hoping it would be an all better, magical cane, right?" he nodded. He was also feeling a bit frustrated with himself - he's having trouble with patterns and drawing a clock.
I gently reminded him that he had a large stroke only 5 weeks ago...and to give himself some slack. It's going to take time to recover. He was doing better after that.
We listened to the Jets game, at least until the end of the third period. Larry was getting tired, so I went home. Got to listen to the shoot out :D YAY JETS!
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Wednesday February 26, 2014
What a busy busy day and I didn't leave the house until 5pm.
The buyer for the washer/dryer came at noon and paid for them, and they're going to send someone Monday to pick them up :) YAY!
Spent most of the day sorting and packing. I took a load of stuff to the Salvation Army today, and I'll probably have another by Saturday. I know I could donate to others, but the Salvation Army has a thrift store right close.
Larry is doing well - he's getting more mobile, and he's getting his directions down. Since he was directionally challenged before the stroke... I'm pretty happy with how he's doing.
not much new on the arm front, but they're doing a lot of work with it - so I'm hoping to see a bit of progress soon. Larry's settling in to his room, and the routine is working for him too.
That's all for today :)
The buyer for the washer/dryer came at noon and paid for them, and they're going to send someone Monday to pick them up :) YAY!
Spent most of the day sorting and packing. I took a load of stuff to the Salvation Army today, and I'll probably have another by Saturday. I know I could donate to others, but the Salvation Army has a thrift store right close.
Larry is doing well - he's getting more mobile, and he's getting his directions down. Since he was directionally challenged before the stroke... I'm pretty happy with how he's doing.
not much new on the arm front, but they're doing a lot of work with it - so I'm hoping to see a bit of progress soon. Larry's settling in to his room, and the routine is working for him too.
That's all for today :)
Tuesday February 25th
Blech. That's all I can say about my sleep last night... what little there was of it!
I started the day out with a quick dr. appt to get my prescriptions refilled, and had a short chat with my dr.
He's also Larry's family doctor, even though he's never met Larry. He agreed to take Larry as a patient the day Larry had his stroke... but, Dr. S is looking forward to meeting Larry :D
Headed back home, and started the monumental task of packing... where do I start? EEEK! We move on MONDAY! 6 days from now! AAAAAAHHHH! *breathe in breathe out*
We'll be ready.
I hired movers, because there is NO WAY this can be done by me and family. It just won't work. I also spent some time today getting the address changes and mail forwarding set up.
It was a crazy day - and to be honest, you'd never know how much I did. The place looks like a bomb went off - stuff everywhere as I decide whether I'm keeping or donating it.
Spent some time with Larry today - he's doing so well! They found him a better wheelchair, so he's mobile! :D YAY! He was showing me around the facility - it was nice. He's settling in, and had a good sleep last night. That makes all the difference! Until we move, I'll be spending a little less time at Riverview, but once moved.. I can make it there longer.
Best news of the day though ... we have to sell our washer/dryer. There's no where to put it, and we're not planning to move for a while (ha, said that before!) so I posted them on Kijiji. I sold them in 15 minutes! *happy dance*
I started the day out with a quick dr. appt to get my prescriptions refilled, and had a short chat with my dr.
He's also Larry's family doctor, even though he's never met Larry. He agreed to take Larry as a patient the day Larry had his stroke... but, Dr. S is looking forward to meeting Larry :D
Headed back home, and started the monumental task of packing... where do I start? EEEK! We move on MONDAY! 6 days from now! AAAAAAHHHH! *breathe in breathe out*
We'll be ready.
I hired movers, because there is NO WAY this can be done by me and family. It just won't work. I also spent some time today getting the address changes and mail forwarding set up.
It was a crazy day - and to be honest, you'd never know how much I did. The place looks like a bomb went off - stuff everywhere as I decide whether I'm keeping or donating it.
Spent some time with Larry today - he's doing so well! They found him a better wheelchair, so he's mobile! :D YAY! He was showing me around the facility - it was nice. He's settling in, and had a good sleep last night. That makes all the difference! Until we move, I'll be spending a little less time at Riverview, but once moved.. I can make it there longer.
Best news of the day though ... we have to sell our washer/dryer. There's no where to put it, and we're not planning to move for a while (ha, said that before!) so I posted them on Kijiji. I sold them in 15 minutes! *happy dance*
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Monday February 24, 2014 - moving day for Larry
I got bunch of phone calls today from moving companies - now to pick one. So far, all have been about the same price range, but one had 4-5 hours with three guys...that seems a bit steep to me. I just hope the don't quote low and then go long :(
I then got a text from Larry telling me the rumour is that he was heading to Riverview today!
http://www.riverviewhealthcentre.com/
whoa! that would be good... and then it was confirmed by the nurses. He was scheduled to head out at 1:00pm so I headed out to the hospital early.
Poor Larry - he was very nervous and neither one of us knew what to expect. I drove down after they had him loaded up for transport.
Got to Riverview and it's a very nice place. Larry has his own room, and own bathroom. While it's a hospital type bed, it's very comfortable. Larry had a power snooze after intake. :)
They didn't have a walker for him, because they want to do their own assessment, so he's using a wheelchair for tonight. He's not great with them - he has trouble getting it moving. He's coming along...but hopefully he doesn't have to use it too much/long.
Larry was not all that happy though - he felt like he'd been tossed into the deep end without warning. I did my best to help him out, but sometimes you just need your brother. Thanks Mike! You have NO idea how much you helped Larry over this crisis today.
Visiting hours are any time there, but most of Larry's days are going to be busy. Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy as well as meals and other things. It looks like most of the time I'll be heading there in the evening, which is okay. The nurses let us know that they try to get everyone as independent as possible - but please don't get upset if you can't do it. Call for help after you've tried is the motto.
Now, to pack like a demon...in between doctor appointments, etc. :D
I then got a text from Larry telling me the rumour is that he was heading to Riverview today!
http://www.riverviewhealthcentre.com/
whoa! that would be good... and then it was confirmed by the nurses. He was scheduled to head out at 1:00pm so I headed out to the hospital early.
Poor Larry - he was very nervous and neither one of us knew what to expect. I drove down after they had him loaded up for transport.
Got to Riverview and it's a very nice place. Larry has his own room, and own bathroom. While it's a hospital type bed, it's very comfortable. Larry had a power snooze after intake. :)
They didn't have a walker for him, because they want to do their own assessment, so he's using a wheelchair for tonight. He's not great with them - he has trouble getting it moving. He's coming along...but hopefully he doesn't have to use it too much/long.
Larry was not all that happy though - he felt like he'd been tossed into the deep end without warning. I did my best to help him out, but sometimes you just need your brother. Thanks Mike! You have NO idea how much you helped Larry over this crisis today.
Visiting hours are any time there, but most of Larry's days are going to be busy. Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy as well as meals and other things. It looks like most of the time I'll be heading there in the evening, which is okay. The nurses let us know that they try to get everyone as independent as possible - but please don't get upset if you can't do it. Call for help after you've tried is the motto.
Now, to pack like a demon...in between doctor appointments, etc. :D
Monday, February 24, 2014
Sunday February 23, 2014
Happy 16 year Anniversary :D Today is the day Larry and I met in person for the first time, in 1998 :D
Today.... was a very good day.
First, Canada won the gold medal at the Olympics :D woot!
Second, I got confirmation today that we got the apartment on Corydon! WOOT! It's a March 1st...we'll be busy, but we'll make it.
Third, Larry had a good day today! He was smiling with both sides of his face this morning.
..and walking well with his walker, and talking very clearly.... it was a BIG leap forward today. I'm sure tomorrow will be a quiet day, with a bunch of resting. This is a good thing :D
Today, for the first time, Larry walked from his room to the day room. Woohooo Larry! Go baby go! He was also showing how much he can move his left arm... it's coming along wonderfully. I'm really hoping we hear about when rehab will be...he's definitely ready to go there.
Today.... was a very good day.
First, Canada won the gold medal at the Olympics :D woot!
Second, I got confirmation today that we got the apartment on Corydon! WOOT! It's a March 1st...we'll be busy, but we'll make it.
Third, Larry had a good day today! He was smiling with both sides of his face this morning.
..and walking well with his walker, and talking very clearly.... it was a BIG leap forward today. I'm sure tomorrow will be a quiet day, with a bunch of resting. This is a good thing :D
Today, for the first time, Larry walked from his room to the day room. Woohooo Larry! Go baby go! He was also showing how much he can move his left arm... it's coming along wonderfully. I'm really hoping we hear about when rehab will be...he's definitely ready to go there.
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Saturday February 22, 2014
I must apologize to you Larry - it's my fault you got all confused and thought today was the gold medal game. Sorry baby!
Today I woke up to my phone ringing at about 8:45 and it was Larry! I answered the phone, and he said "Mike's not here, I've been sitting waiting for him"...oh dear. I told him it was Saturday, and the game wasn't until tomorrow! He laughed and cried at the same time, saying "I'm such an idiot". No way baby! You're NOT an idiot - it's the effects of the stroke.
He went back to bed until his dad got there. I,too, fell back to sleep for a few hours. I was just heading to the shower when Larry texted me a few times, and then suggested I head to the hospital to chat with dad. worked for me, so I showered quick and off I went. I grabbed a coffee on the way up to the room.
Chatted with dad a bit, and he told me that Larry worked on the pattern creating game and was doing better. I'm pretty happy about that because it gave him a really hard time last week. Progress!!! I told him how much the damage deposit was, and he said he'd help. *whew* What I didn't know at the time was that we were going to need an extra 650 or so to secure the apartment. I think we can scrape that up, but if you could think good thoughts...that would be great!
Larry was still in his jammies when I got there, and he explained that his whole routine was off kilter because of the mix up. His dad left, and the occupational therapist came in. She got Larry up and walking for a bit - he did great! When he was taking off his sling, we both noticed his left shoulder moving. It's coming along... still a lot of work, but...it's a start!
I got Larry to snooze for a bit, because he was just exhausted. While he was doing that, Mike asked me to confirm that it was okay for Mike to go at 6am to the hospital to watch the game with Larry. :D
I also asked if I could take Larry for a shower. The nurse and the care aide were fine with that, but warned me I might get a bit soaked...so if I wanted to get naked too, that was okay. I'm sure I blushed crimson.. :O
We managed to get Larry his shower, and my socks were completely soaked. I will spare any other details :P
Supper in the day room with a few games of 31 thrown in there. I really need a card holder that is about the height if a business card holder, and about a foot long. Anyone know of a place to get that?
Larry was just about asleep when I left...needs to get a good one tonight so he can root for Canada tomorrow morning :D
Today I woke up to my phone ringing at about 8:45 and it was Larry! I answered the phone, and he said "Mike's not here, I've been sitting waiting for him"...oh dear. I told him it was Saturday, and the game wasn't until tomorrow! He laughed and cried at the same time, saying "I'm such an idiot". No way baby! You're NOT an idiot - it's the effects of the stroke.
He went back to bed until his dad got there. I,too, fell back to sleep for a few hours. I was just heading to the shower when Larry texted me a few times, and then suggested I head to the hospital to chat with dad. worked for me, so I showered quick and off I went. I grabbed a coffee on the way up to the room.
Chatted with dad a bit, and he told me that Larry worked on the pattern creating game and was doing better. I'm pretty happy about that because it gave him a really hard time last week. Progress!!! I told him how much the damage deposit was, and he said he'd help. *whew* What I didn't know at the time was that we were going to need an extra 650 or so to secure the apartment. I think we can scrape that up, but if you could think good thoughts...that would be great!
Larry was still in his jammies when I got there, and he explained that his whole routine was off kilter because of the mix up. His dad left, and the occupational therapist came in. She got Larry up and walking for a bit - he did great! When he was taking off his sling, we both noticed his left shoulder moving. It's coming along... still a lot of work, but...it's a start!
I got Larry to snooze for a bit, because he was just exhausted. While he was doing that, Mike asked me to confirm that it was okay for Mike to go at 6am to the hospital to watch the game with Larry. :D
I also asked if I could take Larry for a shower. The nurse and the care aide were fine with that, but warned me I might get a bit soaked...so if I wanted to get naked too, that was okay. I'm sure I blushed crimson.. :O
We managed to get Larry his shower, and my socks were completely soaked. I will spare any other details :P
Supper in the day room with a few games of 31 thrown in there. I really need a card holder that is about the height if a business card holder, and about a foot long. Anyone know of a place to get that?
Larry was just about asleep when I left...needs to get a good one tonight so he can root for Canada tomorrow morning :D
Friday, February 21, 2014
Friday February 21, 2014
Okay folks - we need a miracle.
Since, sadly, our credit is worse than crap these days due to my illness and Larry's job loss in 2009 (yep, 2009!) we may not be able to get the apartment I want. I'm waiting to hear back.
*talks to the higher power* I will take every thing you can give me, and I will over come it...but please, a small break would be nice!!!
Maybe I'll win the $50million tonight....oooo... ;)
Not much going on with Larry - he was sound asleep when I got there, so I let him snooze for a while. He woke up on his own, and down to the day room we went. He had supper, and played some solitaire. He's really coming along with remembering the left side now...
His physiotherapist had a student, and she said to the student that Larry is the poster child for stroke recovery. He's doing so well with the left side. He's walking pretty well. With his left arm, he can resist consciously now, and I can see his shoulder move/hold still when he's doing things. It's coming along... not as fast as he wants it, but we're all thrilled at how he's doing.
The x-ray was negative for any damage, so we're just making sure it's supported.
Larry's left foot has been bothering him, so the doctor took a look. While there's a bit of edema, he's going to give Larry an antibiotic to make sure there's no infection there.
We're just waiting for Riverview rehab to find a spot.... soon, we think. I'm thinking next week... *crosses fingers*
It looks like Mike is heading to the hospital for 6am on Sunday for the men's gold medal final... GO CANADA GO! :D
I had a dentist appointment again today for some minor fillings - no freezing needed! They used a "sandblaster" to get the cavities out. While I have a mouth full of grit, I didn't have any pain or panic in the chair! Those who know me know this is big :D
Since, sadly, our credit is worse than crap these days due to my illness and Larry's job loss in 2009 (yep, 2009!) we may not be able to get the apartment I want. I'm waiting to hear back.
*talks to the higher power* I will take every thing you can give me, and I will over come it...but please, a small break would be nice!!!
Maybe I'll win the $50million tonight....oooo... ;)
Not much going on with Larry - he was sound asleep when I got there, so I let him snooze for a while. He woke up on his own, and down to the day room we went. He had supper, and played some solitaire. He's really coming along with remembering the left side now...
His physiotherapist had a student, and she said to the student that Larry is the poster child for stroke recovery. He's doing so well with the left side. He's walking pretty well. With his left arm, he can resist consciously now, and I can see his shoulder move/hold still when he's doing things. It's coming along... not as fast as he wants it, but we're all thrilled at how he's doing.
The x-ray was negative for any damage, so we're just making sure it's supported.
Larry's left foot has been bothering him, so the doctor took a look. While there's a bit of edema, he's going to give Larry an antibiotic to make sure there's no infection there.
We're just waiting for Riverview rehab to find a spot.... soon, we think. I'm thinking next week... *crosses fingers*
It looks like Mike is heading to the hospital for 6am on Sunday for the men's gold medal final... GO CANADA GO! :D
I had a dentist appointment again today for some minor fillings - no freezing needed! They used a "sandblaster" to get the cavities out. While I have a mouth full of grit, I didn't have any pain or panic in the chair! Those who know me know this is big :D
Thursday February 20, 2014
Grrr.... call me back apartment manager! I need to know if I have a place to live! I have started packing now... stuff we're not using, etc.
I had a dentist appointment for a cleaning, and then off to hospy I went. I got to the hospital in time to see the end of the Gold medal game for Canada vs US in Women's hockey. :D WOOHOO! And Jennifer Jones got gold in curling :D It was a good day.
Larry had a good night, and nurseK let me know that she'd talked to her manager.
He's working with physio and using a cane now! WOW! he's walking much better, and he's remembering his left side more and more. Larry also had an x-ray today to make sure his LEFT shoulder is okay - he's been complaining of a lot of pain in it...while I don't celebrate his pain...I do celebrate that he can feel it!
I also talked to the nurse, and she talked with the doctor...Larry's on "REAL FOOD" now! No more minced stuff...
I had a dentist appointment for a cleaning, and then off to hospy I went. I got to the hospital in time to see the end of the Gold medal game for Canada vs US in Women's hockey. :D WOOHOO! And Jennifer Jones got gold in curling :D It was a good day.
Larry had a good night, and nurseK let me know that she'd talked to her manager.
He's working with physio and using a cane now! WOW! he's walking much better, and he's remembering his left side more and more. Larry also had an x-ray today to make sure his LEFT shoulder is okay - he's been complaining of a lot of pain in it...while I don't celebrate his pain...I do celebrate that he can feel it!
I also talked to the nurse, and she talked with the doctor...Larry's on "REAL FOOD" now! No more minced stuff...
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Wednesday February 19, 2014 and it's time to talk to the nurses...
Today was another fairly quiet day. I was later getting there because I was on the phone with our wireless company, arguing about the price of the phone. When I told them I was on the verge of returning all the phones and saying "here's your phones back. Cancel my contract" they finally agreed to match the price. *sigh*
I got there and Larry wasn't in his bed, or in the wheelchair... and then, the bathroom door opened. He looked so guilty, because he's not supposed to go by himself yet. It's just to easy for him to fall! So, I asked him why - and he said that he didn't want to bother anyone.... hmmm...
Larry and I chatted a bit and then went to the day room. He mentioned to me that his left shoulder was hurting. I mentioned it to his nurse, and she said she'd tell the doctor.
After supper, we went back to his room. He mentioned that I had to make sure to take the chair out of the room, because the night nurse gave him a hard time about it "how can I do anything with a chair there?". And then I found out that he went to the bathroom by himself last night, because when he used his call button to get help, he didn't know that his room-mate was in the bathroom in his room. There's a "big bathroom" that he could have gone to, but she didn't take him. The nurse was supposed to come back, but she never did. Anyone who knows Larry knows that he won't call again. He'd mentioned a couple of instances where he felt...uncomfortable asking for help.
He then said that he's got a good crew tonight, so he'll certainly call for help if he needs it.
That was the final straw... I went and had a quiet conversation with his day nurse, and laid out all of my concerns.
1) There is one nurse that makes Larry feel like he's "bothering" her when he buzzes for help
2) The weekend crew does the same thing - or they just don't answer the call. Even at night, when it's quiet...they ignore calls for a long time
3) Larry's not a big fan of the urinal - he can't do it very well one handed (shush Mike) but the night crew keeps having Larry use it instead of helping him to the bathroom. So, it spills and he ends up wet - and won't call for help because he's embarrassed. So, he the wet blankets are on the floor, and he's cold.
4) Larry once woke up at 5 am with his "jammies" off sitting on the edge of his bed, and sat there cold for over 2 hours. No one looked in on him, or noticed that he wasn't in "jammies"
5) the fact that last nights nurse made him feel so uncomfortable that he risked a fall rather than call her again.
I also told her that Larry is very shy and won't call a second time if he feels like he's going to cause trouble. He didn't even want me to talk to his nurse, for fear of getting into trouble! That's NOT right, and I won't stand for it!!!
The nurse I talked to was very nice, and told me that she'll try to talk with her manager tomorrow, but there's been a death in the managers family so she may not be in. If nurseK doesn't get a chance to speak to her supervisor, she'll let me know and I can call the patient advocate on Friday.
Don't worry Larry! It's my job to help you - and help you I shall!!!!
I got there and Larry wasn't in his bed, or in the wheelchair... and then, the bathroom door opened. He looked so guilty, because he's not supposed to go by himself yet. It's just to easy for him to fall! So, I asked him why - and he said that he didn't want to bother anyone.... hmmm...
Larry and I chatted a bit and then went to the day room. He mentioned to me that his left shoulder was hurting. I mentioned it to his nurse, and she said she'd tell the doctor.
After supper, we went back to his room. He mentioned that I had to make sure to take the chair out of the room, because the night nurse gave him a hard time about it "how can I do anything with a chair there?". And then I found out that he went to the bathroom by himself last night, because when he used his call button to get help, he didn't know that his room-mate was in the bathroom in his room. There's a "big bathroom" that he could have gone to, but she didn't take him. The nurse was supposed to come back, but she never did. Anyone who knows Larry knows that he won't call again. He'd mentioned a couple of instances where he felt...uncomfortable asking for help.
He then said that he's got a good crew tonight, so he'll certainly call for help if he needs it.
That was the final straw... I went and had a quiet conversation with his day nurse, and laid out all of my concerns.
1) There is one nurse that makes Larry feel like he's "bothering" her when he buzzes for help
2) The weekend crew does the same thing - or they just don't answer the call. Even at night, when it's quiet...they ignore calls for a long time
3) Larry's not a big fan of the urinal - he can't do it very well one handed (shush Mike) but the night crew keeps having Larry use it instead of helping him to the bathroom. So, it spills and he ends up wet - and won't call for help because he's embarrassed. So, he the wet blankets are on the floor, and he's cold.
4) Larry once woke up at 5 am with his "jammies" off sitting on the edge of his bed, and sat there cold for over 2 hours. No one looked in on him, or noticed that he wasn't in "jammies"
5) the fact that last nights nurse made him feel so uncomfortable that he risked a fall rather than call her again.
I also told her that Larry is very shy and won't call a second time if he feels like he's going to cause trouble. He didn't even want me to talk to his nurse, for fear of getting into trouble! That's NOT right, and I won't stand for it!!!
The nurse I talked to was very nice, and told me that she'll try to talk with her manager tomorrow, but there's been a death in the managers family so she may not be in. If nurseK doesn't get a chance to speak to her supervisor, she'll let me know and I can call the patient advocate on Friday.
Don't worry Larry! It's my job to help you - and help you I shall!!!!
Tuesday February 18, 2014
Maybe I will start using funny titles... at least people would read this :P
Ah well...it's more for Larry when he gets out of rehab anyway :D
Another quiet day today - physio and some movement of his left arm. it's slowly coming along - he's got more feeling in it every day.
On the apartment front, we got a call from the resident manager. There's an apartment in the unit available April 1, 2014. But...it's got different carpet and is painted in shades of white... and she wanted to know if that was okay!
I called her back, and said "Unless it's fluorescent green, I really don't care. and if it was ...I'd paint :P"
So...now we wait to see if we're approved for it.
Ah well...it's more for Larry when he gets out of rehab anyway :D
Another quiet day today - physio and some movement of his left arm. it's slowly coming along - he's got more feeling in it every day.
On the apartment front, we got a call from the resident manager. There's an apartment in the unit available April 1, 2014. But...it's got different carpet and is painted in shades of white... and she wanted to know if that was okay!
I called her back, and said "Unless it's fluorescent green, I really don't care. and if it was ...I'd paint :P"
So...now we wait to see if we're approved for it.
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Monday February 17, 2014
We've been back in Winnipeg for almost 7 years now...and I still forget that the grocery stores close early on holidays :P
Today was a good day. Larry was pretty chipper when I got there, and we watched some of the olympics. Larry had a nap, which is a good thing, and then we went to the day room for supper and solitaire. He's getting better at it.
There's definitely movement in that left arm..he was showing me yesterday how much! WOOOHOOO! He's determined, I'll give you that :)
Not much else to report...it was a long weekend, so no physio or other visits. Might get more information tomorrow.
Today was a good day. Larry was pretty chipper when I got there, and we watched some of the olympics. Larry had a nap, which is a good thing, and then we went to the day room for supper and solitaire. He's getting better at it.
There's definitely movement in that left arm..he was showing me yesterday how much! WOOOHOOO! He's determined, I'll give you that :)
Not much else to report...it was a long weekend, so no physio or other visits. Might get more information tomorrow.
Monday, February 17, 2014
Sunday February 16, 2014
Looked at another apartment today. WOW! It's a bit smaller than the other one, but much more usable space :)
I applied for it...think "please get it" thoughts, would you? And think "windfall" LOL I will need a bit to move. *sigh*
Not much on the Larry front today - more walking and a bit more movement in the left arm. He's getting a bit frustrated and bored. I hope he gets a rehab spot soon!
I applied for it...think "please get it" thoughts, would you? And think "windfall" LOL I will need a bit to move. *sigh*
Not much on the Larry front today - more walking and a bit more movement in the left arm. He's getting a bit frustrated and bored. I hope he gets a rehab spot soon!
Saturday, February 15, 2014
Saturday February 15, 2014
Today was a very quiet day.
Both Larry and I were tired, so I just sat quietly and he rested for most of the day.
We did walk to the bathroom (him using a walker), which was a success :)
He's getting a bit more strength in the left arm - he can resist quite well. No movement yet, but it's a start.
Both Larry and I were tired, so I just sat quietly and he rested for most of the day.
We did walk to the bathroom (him using a walker), which was a success :)
He's getting a bit more strength in the left arm - he can resist quite well. No movement yet, but it's a start.
Friday, February 14, 2014
Friday February 14, 2014
Happy Valentines Day!
Larry and I had cheesecake to celebrate ;) It was very nice
I looked at an apartment today - WOW! It was big, it was new, and it was gorgeous. I loved it. Only problem...they don't know yet if one will be available April 1st. I'm thinking, unless I find an awesome one, this is where we'll end up. It's alllll the way across the city from where we are now, but ...you've got to do what you've got to do.
I also gave our official notice *gulp* Now I really have to start packing and find a place! Good thoughts would be appreciated :)
Larry was having a bit of a down day today - just getting frustrated. He really would like his left arm to start working...I did remind him it's only been 3 weeks, and he's come so far already! I also told him it's okay to be frustrated. He doesn't have to be strong all the time...it's going to be hard work.
He is able to walk now...slowly, and with help, but he's getting there!! No more bedpans! WOOT!
Larry and I had cheesecake to celebrate ;) It was very nice
I looked at an apartment today - WOW! It was big, it was new, and it was gorgeous. I loved it. Only problem...they don't know yet if one will be available April 1st. I'm thinking, unless I find an awesome one, this is where we'll end up. It's alllll the way across the city from where we are now, but ...you've got to do what you've got to do.
I also gave our official notice *gulp* Now I really have to start packing and find a place! Good thoughts would be appreciated :)
Larry was having a bit of a down day today - just getting frustrated. He really would like his left arm to start working...I did remind him it's only been 3 weeks, and he's come so far already! I also told him it's okay to be frustrated. He doesn't have to be strong all the time...it's going to be hard work.
He is able to walk now...slowly, and with help, but he's getting there!! No more bedpans! WOOT!
Thursday February 13, 2014
Today is my little sisters birthday. Happy Birthday Thea!!!! :D
I got to the hospital just as Larry's dad was leaving. I mentioned we're going to have to chat about how the hell I'm going to move...and where :P
I'm really hoping the apartment tomorrow is a good one! I've got a couple other leads, but man it's tiring looking for a place ....
Larry had some good news for me today!
1) He was walking up and down the hall! WOOT WOOT!
2) He's been accepted to the Rehab Program at Riverview. However, there's a few folks ahead of him, so he'll be in hospital for another week or two. The rehab program is 6-8 weeks, so I'll be able to find a good apartment.
We played some solitaire in the day room again - he's really coming along. The final good thing - we configured his phone, and he's able to text. He was quite happy about that!
That's it for today....
I got to the hospital just as Larry's dad was leaving. I mentioned we're going to have to chat about how the hell I'm going to move...and where :P
I'm really hoping the apartment tomorrow is a good one! I've got a couple other leads, but man it's tiring looking for a place ....
Larry had some good news for me today!
1) He was walking up and down the hall! WOOT WOOT!
2) He's been accepted to the Rehab Program at Riverview. However, there's a few folks ahead of him, so he'll be in hospital for another week or two. The rehab program is 6-8 weeks, so I'll be able to find a good apartment.
We played some solitaire in the day room again - he's really coming along. The final good thing - we configured his phone, and he's able to text. He was quite happy about that!
That's it for today....
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Wednesday Feb 12, 2014
Yes, I know I could put witty stuff in the title, but ...I'm too freaking tired :P
Today I went to the hospital about 1:30, and Larry was having some therapy in his room. Working on getting that left leg strong! He's doing pretty good.
Then he told me that stroke rehab thinks he'd be a good candidate, but the person who saw him needed to speak to her superior. WOOHOO!
He's taking steps in physiotherapy, and is doing great in the sitting on the edge of the bed, etc.
He told me he woke up sitting on the side of his bed today...he must have had to use the washroom and wasn't quite awake when he sat up...but that's AWESOME! He's doing so good.
Best part - he's getting some muscle control in his upper left arm... he can resist when people move his arm. I'm so happy!
Larry had supper in the day room today, and he played some solitaire. He's getting better at remembering to scan all the way to the left.
All in all - a good day.
On the apartment front - ugh. Not much out there that's any good, and part of it is the bed I have. Looks like I may have to get a queen....*sigh*
Today I went to the hospital about 1:30, and Larry was having some therapy in his room. Working on getting that left leg strong! He's doing pretty good.
Then he told me that stroke rehab thinks he'd be a good candidate, but the person who saw him needed to speak to her superior. WOOHOO!
He's taking steps in physiotherapy, and is doing great in the sitting on the edge of the bed, etc.
He told me he woke up sitting on the side of his bed today...he must have had to use the washroom and wasn't quite awake when he sat up...but that's AWESOME! He's doing so good.
Best part - he's getting some muscle control in his upper left arm... he can resist when people move his arm. I'm so happy!
Larry had supper in the day room today, and he played some solitaire. He's getting better at remembering to scan all the way to the left.
All in all - a good day.
On the apartment front - ugh. Not much out there that's any good, and part of it is the bed I have. Looks like I may have to get a queen....*sigh*
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Tuesday February 11, 2014
What a day!
I had my own testing today, to see if my surgery in September did what we wanted it to do. I don't get results until March, so cross your fingers for me :D
Now, for rest of the day. I went to look at an apartment today...and while it was ...okay, the master bedroom was 9x12, with electric heat. Which means there was one usable wall. It was tooooo small. *sigh* Back to the drawing board...I know I'll find the perfect spot.
I made it to the hospital about 4pm, and Larry was pretty alert. All smooshed in the bed, but alert. We straightened him out, and then we hit on the bright idea to sit on the edge of the bed. It worked great - he sat for about 10 minutes, and really tried to remember to sit upright.
Around 7 pm we got him ready for bed - which meant changing from sweat pants to "jammies" (okay, hospital gown...but jammies sounds better!) He sat on the edge of the bed, and then we thought...why not stand up to remove the sweat pants? Well - it worked! he was able to stand for the minute that it took to remove them :D he's making great progress.
The best part...
*screams from the rooftops*
LARRY MOVED HIS LEFT ARM TONIGHT!!!
Not much, but he consciously moved it. :D
I had my own testing today, to see if my surgery in September did what we wanted it to do. I don't get results until March, so cross your fingers for me :D
Now, for rest of the day. I went to look at an apartment today...and while it was ...okay, the master bedroom was 9x12, with electric heat. Which means there was one usable wall. It was tooooo small. *sigh* Back to the drawing board...I know I'll find the perfect spot.
I made it to the hospital about 4pm, and Larry was pretty alert. All smooshed in the bed, but alert. We straightened him out, and then we hit on the bright idea to sit on the edge of the bed. It worked great - he sat for about 10 minutes, and really tried to remember to sit upright.
Around 7 pm we got him ready for bed - which meant changing from sweat pants to "jammies" (okay, hospital gown...but jammies sounds better!) He sat on the edge of the bed, and then we thought...why not stand up to remove the sweat pants? Well - it worked! he was able to stand for the minute that it took to remove them :D he's making great progress.
The best part...
*screams from the rooftops*
LARRY MOVED HIS LEFT ARM TONIGHT!!!
Not much, but he consciously moved it. :D
Monday, February 10, 2014
Monday February 10, 2014
Today was a busy day :)
I went to the hospital about 12:30 today because I had to leave early for a massage in the evening. I did my usual watch the ground in case it moves walking in, and went to the elevators. I saw Dr. Li and he asked how Larry was doing, and then I looked behind him...and there were Larry and his dad!
I guess they had been downstairs getting some sun, and I missed them. :P we went back to the spot in the sun for a while, and chatted. I started working on Larry keeping his head up, because it's hard on the neck to be slumped over.
We went back up to the room about 1ish, and Larry needed to use the facilities, so the nurses took him to the "big washroom". Basically, it's got lots of bars and room for a wheelchair in it. While he was doing that, his physiotherapist Karen came up. We chatted a bit, and she let me know that Larry's strength is better this week than last week. YAY!
She then grabbed a set of pedals (think stationary bike) for Larry to try out. Once he got his feet onto the pedals, he did great! You could see he was using his left leg to propel them around...which is awesome! he did a few minutes of that, and then we just sat in the hall for a bit, because the Occupational Therapist was coming up.
She came by about 1:45ish, and we went to the physiotherapy room. She had Larry work with his left hand - starting with taking his right and feeling from the shoulder down to his hand. She then did "polishing" exercises. He put his left hand down, covered it with his right and then "polished" the table going around the outside of it. He also did exercises for moving things to his left, using his right hand. Finally, she worked on "core" exercises to help strengthen him for getting dressed, etc. She mentioned that he's got a bit of muscle movement in his left hand, which is encouraging. I'm hoping he gets at least partial use of it back. Okay, I'm hoping for full use...but partial will be okay too!
It was now after 3pm, and Larry was getting tired. We trundled back to his room, with only one wrong turn :) He did 99% of the navigating. Then he wanted to have a rest, so back to bed he went.
They actually had him sitting on the side of the bed! Woohoo Larry! You're getting there :D His progress has been pretty great, considering that Friday's seizure could have been a major setback.
I went to the hospital about 12:30 today because I had to leave early for a massage in the evening. I did my usual watch the ground in case it moves walking in, and went to the elevators. I saw Dr. Li and he asked how Larry was doing, and then I looked behind him...and there were Larry and his dad!
I guess they had been downstairs getting some sun, and I missed them. :P we went back to the spot in the sun for a while, and chatted. I started working on Larry keeping his head up, because it's hard on the neck to be slumped over.
We went back up to the room about 1ish, and Larry needed to use the facilities, so the nurses took him to the "big washroom". Basically, it's got lots of bars and room for a wheelchair in it. While he was doing that, his physiotherapist Karen came up. We chatted a bit, and she let me know that Larry's strength is better this week than last week. YAY!
She then grabbed a set of pedals (think stationary bike) for Larry to try out. Once he got his feet onto the pedals, he did great! You could see he was using his left leg to propel them around...which is awesome! he did a few minutes of that, and then we just sat in the hall for a bit, because the Occupational Therapist was coming up.
She came by about 1:45ish, and we went to the physiotherapy room. She had Larry work with his left hand - starting with taking his right and feeling from the shoulder down to his hand. She then did "polishing" exercises. He put his left hand down, covered it with his right and then "polished" the table going around the outside of it. He also did exercises for moving things to his left, using his right hand. Finally, she worked on "core" exercises to help strengthen him for getting dressed, etc. She mentioned that he's got a bit of muscle movement in his left hand, which is encouraging. I'm hoping he gets at least partial use of it back. Okay, I'm hoping for full use...but partial will be okay too!
It was now after 3pm, and Larry was getting tired. We trundled back to his room, with only one wrong turn :) He did 99% of the navigating. Then he wanted to have a rest, so back to bed he went.
They actually had him sitting on the side of the bed! Woohoo Larry! You're getting there :D His progress has been pretty great, considering that Friday's seizure could have been a major setback.
Sunday, February 9, 2014
Sunday February 9, 2014
Until Larry is well enough to start either blogging or dictating posts to me, this is all from my perspective.
--------------------------------
I went to the hospital later today, and Larry was sound asleep. So, I sat outside in a chair for a bit. :) Larry's neighbour kept calling the nurses, but didn't wake Larry up so I was okay with that.
Mike came by, and Larry was still so sound asleep that neither of us could bear to wake him up. So Mike and I visited for a bit and he mentioned that Larry got a turkey sandwich today for lunch. Larry was pretty happy about that! LOL
The doctor came down the hall, and let us know that Larry is back on track - the seizure didn't set him back far at all. He also mentioned that Larry would be in rehab for about a month to 6 weeks. I'm okay with this - gives me time to find a place, pack and move! With help, of course....
After a bit of chatting about Mike's work, he had to go. He did get to say a few words to Larry, but Larry was so tired he fell right back to sleep.
I finally woke Larry up around 4:30, mainly because supper was going to be coming soon and it takes him time to wake up these days.
Supper was nice today - he got something with some flavour. Chicken teriyaki :D
We just watched curling, and chatted a bit. Larry may have been tired, but he looked pretty good. He's moving a bit better, and he said that he doesn't feel as "hopeless" today. I told him it's okay to feel hopeless, and to feel like giving up - but you can't. He nodded, and I feel hope for all of us!
I also sat for a while in the chapel today. Anyone who knows me knows that I'm more spiritual than religious, but it was so peaceful there. I just sat and meditated for a while. I did ask for help for Larry (because if I ask for me, you'll hear the laughter around the world!). we'll see what happens :)
--------------------------------
I went to the hospital later today, and Larry was sound asleep. So, I sat outside in a chair for a bit. :) Larry's neighbour kept calling the nurses, but didn't wake Larry up so I was okay with that.
Mike came by, and Larry was still so sound asleep that neither of us could bear to wake him up. So Mike and I visited for a bit and he mentioned that Larry got a turkey sandwich today for lunch. Larry was pretty happy about that! LOL
The doctor came down the hall, and let us know that Larry is back on track - the seizure didn't set him back far at all. He also mentioned that Larry would be in rehab for about a month to 6 weeks. I'm okay with this - gives me time to find a place, pack and move! With help, of course....
After a bit of chatting about Mike's work, he had to go. He did get to say a few words to Larry, but Larry was so tired he fell right back to sleep.
I finally woke Larry up around 4:30, mainly because supper was going to be coming soon and it takes him time to wake up these days.
Supper was nice today - he got something with some flavour. Chicken teriyaki :D
We just watched curling, and chatted a bit. Larry may have been tired, but he looked pretty good. He's moving a bit better, and he said that he doesn't feel as "hopeless" today. I told him it's okay to feel hopeless, and to feel like giving up - but you can't. He nodded, and I feel hope for all of us!
I also sat for a while in the chapel today. Anyone who knows me knows that I'm more spiritual than religious, but it was so peaceful there. I just sat and meditated for a while. I did ask for help for Larry (because if I ask for me, you'll hear the laughter around the world!). we'll see what happens :)
Saturday February 8, 2014
Until Larry is well enough to start either blogging or dictating posts to me, this is all from my perspective.
---------------------------------
Not much going on today. I watched the Jets game at 1pm, and it was a pretty good game. They managed to get it to overtime, and lost in a shoot out. What a boring way to end games. ah, well.
Mike let me know that Larry was afraid of having another seizure, and that he didn't realize he was on medication to prevent them. Mike made sure Larry was aware of it.
I went to the hospital at 4, and ran into L. Larry was using the washroom, so we had a chat in the hall. I let him know that I'm looking at an apartment on Tuesday, and might need some help with the damage deposit/pet deposit. He nodded, and I'm going to take it that he's able to help.
Larry and I just chilled out until it was time to go home for me. We chatted a bit, and he looked pretty good.
Larry's new neighbour is a jerk and loud. He pays his taxes and dammit, needs to be in the hospital cause he's sick. blech. He also keeps using the phone and talking to everyone and their uncle. Luckily - he doesn't talk to us much. I'd probably tell him to shut up. *sigh*
---------------------------------
Not much going on today. I watched the Jets game at 1pm, and it was a pretty good game. They managed to get it to overtime, and lost in a shoot out. What a boring way to end games. ah, well.
Mike let me know that Larry was afraid of having another seizure, and that he didn't realize he was on medication to prevent them. Mike made sure Larry was aware of it.
I went to the hospital at 4, and ran into L. Larry was using the washroom, so we had a chat in the hall. I let him know that I'm looking at an apartment on Tuesday, and might need some help with the damage deposit/pet deposit. He nodded, and I'm going to take it that he's able to help.
Larry and I just chilled out until it was time to go home for me. We chatted a bit, and he looked pretty good.
Larry's new neighbour is a jerk and loud. He pays his taxes and dammit, needs to be in the hospital cause he's sick. blech. He also keeps using the phone and talking to everyone and their uncle. Luckily - he doesn't talk to us much. I'd probably tell him to shut up. *sigh*
Saturday, February 8, 2014
Friday February 7, 2014 ...or the second scariest day of my life!
Until Larry is well enough to start either blogging or dictating posts to me, this is all from my perspective.
---------------------------------
Today started out pretty good - I took the cat to the vet for her shots, and came home. After that, I went to the hospital to see Larry, as always.
He was a bit tired, but was telling me about his morning. He had a bit of physiotherapy in the room, working on a pivot transfer from bed to wheelchair. He even got to go to the bathroom today!
He was trundling around in his wheelchair using his feet, and his dad was helping him when he got stuck. :)
We also found out that Larry's room-mate had just been diagnosed with MRSA and was going to be going to an isolation room.
Mike came by about 3:30 or so, and visited until about 4:20ish. Larry and I were just chilling in his room, watching a bit of TV before supper when one of the scariest things I have ever seen started happening.
Warning: this is a bit scary, but Larry is fine!
I noticed Larry's left hand twitching a bit, and thought it may have been a muscle spasm from when they took blood. Then it started twitching a bit more, as well as his left leg.
I called the nurse, and she took a look. She said she was going to take his vitals and let the doctor know. She had not been gone 10 seconds when Larry started really twitching, and having a bit of trouble breathing. I rang the call bell, and caught someone as they were going past the room. She took one look and called the nurses in.
By this time, Larry's whole left side was jerking back and forth, and I realized he was having a seizure! He was getting scared, and I told him to look at me, and breathe with me. It was going okay, and the nurse came in. This was about 30 seconds or so after I had called someone.
Then Larry's right arm started to spasm, and the whole left side of his face pulled to the right (it was like someone had tape on it and was pulling) and his whole body was jerking back and forth. I realized he couldn't breathe, and the nurse went running out of the room. I went to his side and told him "You're having a seizure, breathe in..breathe out"
Then the room went a little nuts, tables flying around and them trying to get me out of the room.
I left the room just as the seizure ended, and Larry collapsed into the bed. His face was grey, and I heard someone say "code blue" and "start CPR".
By this time, I was in the hallway and could only listen. They made me sit down - I guess my face was grey too! They offered me a drink, and I said "only if it's fortified". I was listening to the room.. I heard "bag him" and then the ICU people came out of the elevator and into the room.
The doctor came out and asked me what happened, and I told him. He asked how long the seizure was, and I said "I think 1-2 minutes".
A nurse quickly came out and said "he's breathing, and we've got his blood pressure back".
Then Mike and Lorie came out of the elevator. I was so glad to see them! Poor Mike...I keep calling him with "OMG, Bro, I need you!".
Once they were with me, I had a bit of a freak out...which I know I'm entitled to, but ...*sigh* I remember blubbering "If the end of all this is losing Larry, just do it now. Don't destroy me in the process". Ghoulish, but it's how I feel.
After a bit, the doctor came out and explained what had happened. Basically, when there's a large area of stroke damage like Larry has, it can cause a "short circuit" in the brain. Best case - it's just a seizure. Worst case, another stroke.
They FINALLY let us in (maybe 10 minutes) to see Larry. He was absolutely exhausted, and was having trouble speaking - which they warned us about. They said it could take up to 24 hours to recover from the seizure. He couldn't really move his left leg either. I didn't let it worry me - just was going to be there for him.
The nurse put up a bag of meds on his IV, called "dylantin", which is a seizure prevention medication. They also let us know that Larry would be getting a CT as soon as possible.
After about an hour, which Larry rested and recovered a bit, the doctor came in again. Asked Larry some questions, and had Larry move his legs, etc. We noticed that he could move his left leg a bit, and was starting to understand what we were saying.
Lorie convinced me to go find something to eat, and we went down to the little place on the main floor of the hospital. She bought me dinner (THANK YOU!). Once Larry is better, I'm going to have to buy them dinner :D
While we were doing that, they came and took Larry for his CT scan. And Mike gave me such a look of gratitude - Larry had to pee and needed help, and we came back in the nick of time. LMAO.
Mike and Lorie went home not long after that, and I just tried to stay out of the way of the nurses and the cleaning crew. They had to wipe down everything in the room, and I sanitized Larry's hands, just in case.
I wandered down the hall towards the day room, noticed that the curling score was pretty close, and then wandered back to the nurses station. I asked them to keep a close eye on him for me, and they said they would.
After the room was cleaned up, the doctor came in. With good news! His CT from today looked the same as the CT from Feb 3! NO new damage! So - it was just the short circuit. They had him on meds to prevent another one, and I could relax a bit.
Larry had his nightly meds and some more dylantin, and was finally settling down to sleep.
It was time for me to go home.
I haven't had the meltdown from this event yet... that will be later or tomorrow.
---------------------------------
Today started out pretty good - I took the cat to the vet for her shots, and came home. After that, I went to the hospital to see Larry, as always.
He was a bit tired, but was telling me about his morning. He had a bit of physiotherapy in the room, working on a pivot transfer from bed to wheelchair. He even got to go to the bathroom today!
He was trundling around in his wheelchair using his feet, and his dad was helping him when he got stuck. :)
We also found out that Larry's room-mate had just been diagnosed with MRSA and was going to be going to an isolation room.
Mike came by about 3:30 or so, and visited until about 4:20ish. Larry and I were just chilling in his room, watching a bit of TV before supper when one of the scariest things I have ever seen started happening.
Warning: this is a bit scary, but Larry is fine!
I noticed Larry's left hand twitching a bit, and thought it may have been a muscle spasm from when they took blood. Then it started twitching a bit more, as well as his left leg.
I called the nurse, and she took a look. She said she was going to take his vitals and let the doctor know. She had not been gone 10 seconds when Larry started really twitching, and having a bit of trouble breathing. I rang the call bell, and caught someone as they were going past the room. She took one look and called the nurses in.
By this time, Larry's whole left side was jerking back and forth, and I realized he was having a seizure! He was getting scared, and I told him to look at me, and breathe with me. It was going okay, and the nurse came in. This was about 30 seconds or so after I had called someone.
Then Larry's right arm started to spasm, and the whole left side of his face pulled to the right (it was like someone had tape on it and was pulling) and his whole body was jerking back and forth. I realized he couldn't breathe, and the nurse went running out of the room. I went to his side and told him "You're having a seizure, breathe in..breathe out"
Then the room went a little nuts, tables flying around and them trying to get me out of the room.
I left the room just as the seizure ended, and Larry collapsed into the bed. His face was grey, and I heard someone say "code blue" and "start CPR".
By this time, I was in the hallway and could only listen. They made me sit down - I guess my face was grey too! They offered me a drink, and I said "only if it's fortified". I was listening to the room.. I heard "bag him" and then the ICU people came out of the elevator and into the room.
The doctor came out and asked me what happened, and I told him. He asked how long the seizure was, and I said "I think 1-2 minutes".
A nurse quickly came out and said "he's breathing, and we've got his blood pressure back".
Then Mike and Lorie came out of the elevator. I was so glad to see them! Poor Mike...I keep calling him with "OMG, Bro, I need you!".
Once they were with me, I had a bit of a freak out...which I know I'm entitled to, but ...*sigh* I remember blubbering "If the end of all this is losing Larry, just do it now. Don't destroy me in the process". Ghoulish, but it's how I feel.
After a bit, the doctor came out and explained what had happened. Basically, when there's a large area of stroke damage like Larry has, it can cause a "short circuit" in the brain. Best case - it's just a seizure. Worst case, another stroke.
They FINALLY let us in (maybe 10 minutes) to see Larry. He was absolutely exhausted, and was having trouble speaking - which they warned us about. They said it could take up to 24 hours to recover from the seizure. He couldn't really move his left leg either. I didn't let it worry me - just was going to be there for him.
The nurse put up a bag of meds on his IV, called "dylantin", which is a seizure prevention medication. They also let us know that Larry would be getting a CT as soon as possible.
After about an hour, which Larry rested and recovered a bit, the doctor came in again. Asked Larry some questions, and had Larry move his legs, etc. We noticed that he could move his left leg a bit, and was starting to understand what we were saying.
Lorie convinced me to go find something to eat, and we went down to the little place on the main floor of the hospital. She bought me dinner (THANK YOU!). Once Larry is better, I'm going to have to buy them dinner :D
While we were doing that, they came and took Larry for his CT scan. And Mike gave me such a look of gratitude - Larry had to pee and needed help, and we came back in the nick of time. LMAO.
Mike and Lorie went home not long after that, and I just tried to stay out of the way of the nurses and the cleaning crew. They had to wipe down everything in the room, and I sanitized Larry's hands, just in case.
I wandered down the hall towards the day room, noticed that the curling score was pretty close, and then wandered back to the nurses station. I asked them to keep a close eye on him for me, and they said they would.
After the room was cleaned up, the doctor came in. With good news! His CT from today looked the same as the CT from Feb 3! NO new damage! So - it was just the short circuit. They had him on meds to prevent another one, and I could relax a bit.
Larry had his nightly meds and some more dylantin, and was finally settling down to sleep.
It was time for me to go home.
I haven't had the meltdown from this event yet... that will be later or tomorrow.
Thursday, February 6, 2014
Thursday February 6, 2014
Until Larry is well enough to start either blogging or dictating posts to me, this is all from my perspective.
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I really need to start sleeping at night - this insomnia is getting old! Once I have a plan of action, I'll do better.
I checked the Standard Life claim page, and they've already got the claim set up. Not much happening in it yet, but ..it's started. *whew*
Today was a bit of a rest day for me - I didn't go to the hospital until about 4:30. K had a few things that needed to be done, and I needed the down time.
When I got there, Larry was very glad to see me. He said the best part of the day is when I get there. :) He'd been having a down day, which is perfectly OK! I told him it's okay to be mad, sad, angry, frustrated...whatever. All of his feelings are valid! I really need to find out about counseling - we're going to need it.
Larry is working on getting from the bed to a chair/wheelchair. Once he gets that going, the hospital will contact the rehab assessment people.
He told me that last night something happened with his left arm. He's not sure if it was stuck, or had a muscle spasm, but it hurt a lot. I will ask tomorrow if it was charted or not.
It was a very quiet day today...nothing major happening. Well, other than being moved!
The charge nurse? came in and said that she's got good news and bad news for us. The good news is that Larry is no longer an acute patient. Larry immediately said "what, I'm ugly now?" LOL
The bad news - they needed the "bed" he was in for someone in emergency that was acute. So - off to the 5th floor we went. The room is set up opposite to where he was, and that makes it very difficult. All of the space is on the left - which isn't working for him. I mentioned to the nurses about that, and they're going to see what they can do. I hope they can just move him from "bed 1" to "bed 2" in the room - that would work great!
---------------------------------
I really need to start sleeping at night - this insomnia is getting old! Once I have a plan of action, I'll do better.
I checked the Standard Life claim page, and they've already got the claim set up. Not much happening in it yet, but ..it's started. *whew*
Today was a bit of a rest day for me - I didn't go to the hospital until about 4:30. K had a few things that needed to be done, and I needed the down time.
When I got there, Larry was very glad to see me. He said the best part of the day is when I get there. :) He'd been having a down day, which is perfectly OK! I told him it's okay to be mad, sad, angry, frustrated...whatever. All of his feelings are valid! I really need to find out about counseling - we're going to need it.
Larry is working on getting from the bed to a chair/wheelchair. Once he gets that going, the hospital will contact the rehab assessment people.
He told me that last night something happened with his left arm. He's not sure if it was stuck, or had a muscle spasm, but it hurt a lot. I will ask tomorrow if it was charted or not.
It was a very quiet day today...nothing major happening. Well, other than being moved!
The charge nurse? came in and said that she's got good news and bad news for us. The good news is that Larry is no longer an acute patient. Larry immediately said "what, I'm ugly now?" LOL
The bad news - they needed the "bed" he was in for someone in emergency that was acute. So - off to the 5th floor we went. The room is set up opposite to where he was, and that makes it very difficult. All of the space is on the left - which isn't working for him. I mentioned to the nurses about that, and they're going to see what they can do. I hope they can just move him from "bed 1" to "bed 2" in the room - that would work great!
Wednesday February 5,2014
Until Larry is well enough to start either blogging or dictating posts to me, this is all from my perspective.
---------------------------------
today was a strange day for me it took me awhile to wake up and then I got a little bit distracted with other things.
I contacted Standard Life and found out that I had to fax the disability information to them. I looked up the number and started looking for a fax machine. I contacted Staples and they told me it was a dollar per page have they lost their minds????? then I wised up and went to the coop office and got them to fax it.
well I was doing this Donna called to let me know how Larry was doing.unfortunately I missed the call but listened to it later. I finally got to the hospital around two. Larry was sound asleep with his headphones on. I wish I could have gotten a picture. I grabbed a chair and sat down. Larry woke up about a half hour later.
He told me how the lovely speech/swallow lady came by and tried him on toast again. He was more successful and can now eat regular veggies and fruit, as long as they are soft. Yay!!!
The physiotherapist came in and had Larry tell me about what he did today. They are trying to get him at least a little bit independently moving...from bed to wheelchair to start with. Larry was also standing up today...needed a chair to help him, but its pretty awesome. They are going to work on walking tomorrow.
It was a pretty quiet evening. Mike came to visit for a while too. The only down side is that Larry is a bit dehydrated,so they started an IV again. I think that Larry hasn't been drinking as many fluids because urinating is a bit of a pain. I'm allowed to nag him now :-)
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today was a strange day for me it took me awhile to wake up and then I got a little bit distracted with other things.
I contacted Standard Life and found out that I had to fax the disability information to them. I looked up the number and started looking for a fax machine. I contacted Staples and they told me it was a dollar per page have they lost their minds????? then I wised up and went to the coop office and got them to fax it.
well I was doing this Donna called to let me know how Larry was doing.unfortunately I missed the call but listened to it later. I finally got to the hospital around two. Larry was sound asleep with his headphones on. I wish I could have gotten a picture. I grabbed a chair and sat down. Larry woke up about a half hour later.
He told me how the lovely speech/swallow lady came by and tried him on toast again. He was more successful and can now eat regular veggies and fruit, as long as they are soft. Yay!!!
The physiotherapist came in and had Larry tell me about what he did today. They are trying to get him at least a little bit independently moving...from bed to wheelchair to start with. Larry was also standing up today...needed a chair to help him, but its pretty awesome. They are going to work on walking tomorrow.
It was a pretty quiet evening. Mike came to visit for a while too. The only down side is that Larry is a bit dehydrated,so they started an IV again. I think that Larry hasn't been drinking as many fluids because urinating is a bit of a pain. I'm allowed to nag him now :-)
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Tuesday February 4, 2014
Until Larry is well enough to start either blogging or dictating posts to me, this is all from my perspective.
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Blech. Today did not start out well - I woke up about 5:30am with a wicked migraine headache. Took my meds and went back to bed...until 11:30am! Eep...guess I needed the sleep.
L called a few minutes later to let me know that he was heading out, but Larry was pretty tired and was going to have a nap - so I might as well wait a bit before heading to the hospital. Works for me - as long as Larry isn't left all day by himself, a bit of time alone isn't bad either.
So, K and I chilled out, and then I gave him a lift to his friends place.
Got to the hospital, got my weekly parking pass, and off to visit Larry I went. It took me a few minutes to see him because the physiotherapist was there working with him. She told me that Larry was doing pretty well, and they were working him a bit harder to get his strength up :) Yay!
Larry showed me how good he's getting with moving his left leg, and let me know that he'd been "abducted" last night. LOL They took him for a CT scan later in the evening, to see how his brain looked. I, of course, said "they found nothing, right?" Mike also used that joke. heeheehee nothing if not consistent.
Larry had a lot of visitors today - his cousin Ken and his daughter Rebecca came up for a while, Mike visited after that, and then other cousins came up...Judy and J..something. I admit it - I'm awful with names. Sorry! Finally D came up. :) It's so good that so many are coming to visit - gives Larry company!
The occupational therapist came in as well, and told us that Larry has some left sided neglect (which we knew) and the best way to work on that is make him work on using the left side. So - stand on the left when we talk, have the TV on the left side, etc.
She also gave him some puzzles and tips on how to read. It will help him get his coordination back.
I also chatted with the doctor again today, and he let me know that Larry's CT looked "okay". No bleeding going on right now, so they started aspirin today. If all goes well, they'll be starting the blood thinners in a few days. He said it's looking good, but warned there may be set backs. It was a nice reality check - but I'm also really really hoping that we don't have one. Doc also told me that Larry will be in the hospital proper for a while longer - his blood pressure is not coming down the way they'd like. They can't drop it fast, because that's not good either. He mentioned that stubborn is good - but not for blood pressure :P
All in all a pretty quiet day. I decided to treat myself to some won ton soup for supper. It was pretty good :D
---------------------------------
Blech. Today did not start out well - I woke up about 5:30am with a wicked migraine headache. Took my meds and went back to bed...until 11:30am! Eep...guess I needed the sleep.
L called a few minutes later to let me know that he was heading out, but Larry was pretty tired and was going to have a nap - so I might as well wait a bit before heading to the hospital. Works for me - as long as Larry isn't left all day by himself, a bit of time alone isn't bad either.
So, K and I chilled out, and then I gave him a lift to his friends place.
Got to the hospital, got my weekly parking pass, and off to visit Larry I went. It took me a few minutes to see him because the physiotherapist was there working with him. She told me that Larry was doing pretty well, and they were working him a bit harder to get his strength up :) Yay!
Larry showed me how good he's getting with moving his left leg, and let me know that he'd been "abducted" last night. LOL They took him for a CT scan later in the evening, to see how his brain looked. I, of course, said "they found nothing, right?" Mike also used that joke. heeheehee nothing if not consistent.
Larry had a lot of visitors today - his cousin Ken and his daughter Rebecca came up for a while, Mike visited after that, and then other cousins came up...Judy and J..something. I admit it - I'm awful with names. Sorry! Finally D came up. :) It's so good that so many are coming to visit - gives Larry company!
The occupational therapist came in as well, and told us that Larry has some left sided neglect (which we knew) and the best way to work on that is make him work on using the left side. So - stand on the left when we talk, have the TV on the left side, etc.
She also gave him some puzzles and tips on how to read. It will help him get his coordination back.
I also chatted with the doctor again today, and he let me know that Larry's CT looked "okay". No bleeding going on right now, so they started aspirin today. If all goes well, they'll be starting the blood thinners in a few days. He said it's looking good, but warned there may be set backs. It was a nice reality check - but I'm also really really hoping that we don't have one. Doc also told me that Larry will be in the hospital proper for a while longer - his blood pressure is not coming down the way they'd like. They can't drop it fast, because that's not good either. He mentioned that stubborn is good - but not for blood pressure :P
All in all a pretty quiet day. I decided to treat myself to some won ton soup for supper. It was pretty good :D
Monday, February 3, 2014
Monday February 3, 2014
Until Larry is well enough to start either blogging or dictating posts to me, this is all from my perspective.
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Today I got up early to go in to try and catch the doctor on rounds, to get a bit of a game plan. It didn't work - they were around very early today. So, I left a note at the nurses station that I'd like to talk to the doctor.
I also asked about my paperwork for Larry's insurance company, and was given it back. I then put it down and promptly forgot about it.
I finally found Larry in the day room, and we chatted for a bit. He wanted to head back to his room, so we did. We sat there and chatted for a bit, and he told me that he actually took a few steps today in physiotherapy! WOOT! I found out a bit later it was about 6 feet...which is pretty dang good.
L came in and was pretty surprised to see me, as I'm usually there later in the day. We then checked the paperwork, which was NOT filled out...and L was NOT happy. He took it to the desk and asked if they could please fill it in. We're not impatient, but it's been over a week already.
After L left, Mike and a couple of Larry's coworkers came by. It was also the time when he was having some therapy, so they went and got coffee while they waited. It was a nice visit, and I tried to stay out of the way because I knew I'd be there all afternoon.
A bit later the doctor came by and I asked if they had any idea of what was going to happen. I don't think they realized that, while I'm not a doctor, I'm not stupid either. LOL Ah well. Anyway, she explained to me that the rehab place won't take people until they're fairly ambulatory/self sufficient and while Larry is doing well, he's not quite there yet. They're going to see how he does this week, and probably have them out Friday or early next week. Fine by me! And of course, things can always change. They won't let him go until he's stable and on blood thinners, which is not until Thursday.
They let me know that it was a pretty big area affected by the stroke, so it's going to take a lot of work and patience. It also means we're probably going to have to move. *sigh* More on that as it happens.
Dr. Li came by as well, and told us that Larry had been transferred to his care. Fine by me :) He also advised that Larry has something called "left side neglect". Basically that means he "forgets" he's got a left side, because of the stroke. His eyes see things, but the brain doesn't quite register that they are there. Think "forget me" spell :P
You can overcome that, and having things like the TV on the left side will help.
-----------------------------------
Today I got up early to go in to try and catch the doctor on rounds, to get a bit of a game plan. It didn't work - they were around very early today. So, I left a note at the nurses station that I'd like to talk to the doctor.
I also asked about my paperwork for Larry's insurance company, and was given it back. I then put it down and promptly forgot about it.
I finally found Larry in the day room, and we chatted for a bit. He wanted to head back to his room, so we did. We sat there and chatted for a bit, and he told me that he actually took a few steps today in physiotherapy! WOOT! I found out a bit later it was about 6 feet...which is pretty dang good.
L came in and was pretty surprised to see me, as I'm usually there later in the day. We then checked the paperwork, which was NOT filled out...and L was NOT happy. He took it to the desk and asked if they could please fill it in. We're not impatient, but it's been over a week already.
After L left, Mike and a couple of Larry's coworkers came by. It was also the time when he was having some therapy, so they went and got coffee while they waited. It was a nice visit, and I tried to stay out of the way because I knew I'd be there all afternoon.
A bit later the doctor came by and I asked if they had any idea of what was going to happen. I don't think they realized that, while I'm not a doctor, I'm not stupid either. LOL Ah well. Anyway, she explained to me that the rehab place won't take people until they're fairly ambulatory/self sufficient and while Larry is doing well, he's not quite there yet. They're going to see how he does this week, and probably have them out Friday or early next week. Fine by me! And of course, things can always change. They won't let him go until he's stable and on blood thinners, which is not until Thursday.
They let me know that it was a pretty big area affected by the stroke, so it's going to take a lot of work and patience. It also means we're probably going to have to move. *sigh* More on that as it happens.
Dr. Li came by as well, and told us that Larry had been transferred to his care. Fine by me :) He also advised that Larry has something called "left side neglect". Basically that means he "forgets" he's got a left side, because of the stroke. His eyes see things, but the brain doesn't quite register that they are there. Think "forget me" spell :P
You can overcome that, and having things like the TV on the left side will help.
Sunday, February 2, 2014
Sunday February 2, 2014
Until Larry is well enough to start either blogging or dictating posts to me, this is all from my perspective.
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Today is Super Bowl Sunday! and Groundhog Day :)
When I told Larry it was Groundhog Day today he laughed and said "that was a good movie" :P
The Winnipeg Jets played at noon today, so I didn't go to the hospital until later in the afternoon. I watched the game, and it was pretty good! Winnipeg won (woohoo!) and are now 8-2 under the new coach. Hmm... still coincidence? I haven't a clue... but Larry says no - Noel had lost the players, and Maurice has found them.
I made chocolate chip banana bread today and just chilled out. It was nice. I needed the bit of a break, because I've used up all of my spoons for February... *sigh*
If you're not sure what I mean, read here
http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/wpress/articles/written-by-christine/the-spoon-theory/
While I don't have Lupus, I do have a disability that prevents me from doing much more than go to the hospital and come home. I only have about 10 spoons a day... :( Thank goodness K has been helping a lot! Not that there is a ton to do, but having him take out the garbage helps me soooo much.
Winnipeg Willow predicted an early spring, but Punxsutawney Phil predicted 6 more weeks of winter. Hmmm.... conflicting groundhogs! Whatever shall we do?! Yes, I know that Feb 2 is exactly 6 weeks from March 21 :P Still fun....
Went to the hospital at about 4:30 today, and Larry was up and in his Seahawks Jersey :) He told me that a doctor had walked by in a Seahawks jersey, and said that security may not allow Bronco's jerseys into the place. So when Mike came in about 45 mins later, Larry asked "how did you get past security?" LOL Pretty funny.
What wasn't funny was the actual Super Bowl. When the very first play from scrimmage is a safety, you feel it's a sign of things to come. And it was. The Broncos were shut out for 3 of 4 quarters of the game, and lost 43-8. Peyton just couldn't find his receivers... the ones he found were wearing Seahawks jerseys. I must apologize to Mike... I took a bit of pleasure in his Broncos losing... mainly because Larry was going for the Seahawks. Mike may or may not talk to me the next time we see each other.....
Not much going on in the recovery front - other than Larry was in a real chair today, and can consciously move his left foot/leg now. I'm really hoping that soon he can stand either on his own or with help, so he can get out of bed to the washroom. (eeewww....bedpans!) We also broke a "rule" today... his slurpee was melting, so I stuck a straw in it. *gasp* He's not supposed to use a straw because of the left side paralysis...but I figured with two people there to watch, he'd be okay. Amazing how such a little thing makes such a difference....
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Today is Super Bowl Sunday! and Groundhog Day :)
When I told Larry it was Groundhog Day today he laughed and said "that was a good movie" :P
The Winnipeg Jets played at noon today, so I didn't go to the hospital until later in the afternoon. I watched the game, and it was pretty good! Winnipeg won (woohoo!) and are now 8-2 under the new coach. Hmm... still coincidence? I haven't a clue... but Larry says no - Noel had lost the players, and Maurice has found them.
I made chocolate chip banana bread today and just chilled out. It was nice. I needed the bit of a break, because I've used up all of my spoons for February... *sigh*
If you're not sure what I mean, read here
http://www.butyoudontlooksick.com/wpress/articles/written-by-christine/the-spoon-theory/
While I don't have Lupus, I do have a disability that prevents me from doing much more than go to the hospital and come home. I only have about 10 spoons a day... :( Thank goodness K has been helping a lot! Not that there is a ton to do, but having him take out the garbage helps me soooo much.
Winnipeg Willow predicted an early spring, but Punxsutawney Phil predicted 6 more weeks of winter. Hmmm.... conflicting groundhogs! Whatever shall we do?! Yes, I know that Feb 2 is exactly 6 weeks from March 21 :P Still fun....
Went to the hospital at about 4:30 today, and Larry was up and in his Seahawks Jersey :) He told me that a doctor had walked by in a Seahawks jersey, and said that security may not allow Bronco's jerseys into the place. So when Mike came in about 45 mins later, Larry asked "how did you get past security?" LOL Pretty funny.
What wasn't funny was the actual Super Bowl. When the very first play from scrimmage is a safety, you feel it's a sign of things to come. And it was. The Broncos were shut out for 3 of 4 quarters of the game, and lost 43-8. Peyton just couldn't find his receivers... the ones he found were wearing Seahawks jerseys. I must apologize to Mike... I took a bit of pleasure in his Broncos losing... mainly because Larry was going for the Seahawks. Mike may or may not talk to me the next time we see each other.....
Not much going on in the recovery front - other than Larry was in a real chair today, and can consciously move his left foot/leg now. I'm really hoping that soon he can stand either on his own or with help, so he can get out of bed to the washroom. (eeewww....bedpans!) We also broke a "rule" today... his slurpee was melting, so I stuck a straw in it. *gasp* He's not supposed to use a straw because of the left side paralysis...but I figured with two people there to watch, he'd be okay. Amazing how such a little thing makes such a difference....
Saturday, February 1, 2014
Saturday February 1, 2014
Until Larry is well enough to start either blogging or dictating posts to me, this is all from my perspective.
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Welcome February. You had better be better than January! Larry has said he doesn't like 2014 so far... I don't either!
A prayer or two for a lottery win would be nice LOL I have a feeling we're going to have to move. Right now we're in a co-op townhouse, but the bathroom is upstairs, and the stairs are steep.
If Larry doesn't have full mobility in his legs, no way!
I'm looking in to resources now, but if anyone has a suggestion, I'm all ears!
Today was a quiet day - Larry was still pretty tired from yesterday. However, the catheter was removed today :) That's a pretty big step too!
Larry also mentioned yesterday that he'd like me to look into getting him a Seahawks jersey for the Super Bowl. There is NO way he could know that Mike already had one for him, and was going to give it to him today.
So, around noon we were all there, and Mike first showed off his Bronco's Jersey...then put a Bronco's stuffed toy on the table. Larry promptly reached out and knocked it over. LOL
Then, Mike put on a long song and dance about how Larry was going to be so surprised to get the jersey, etc...and then he gets the text from me. It was pretty funny - but Larry loved the jersey! Put it on right away too :)
not much after this Larry went back to his room.
We just chilled out for the afternoon, pretty much. However, emotions are starting to show up for Larry. While it's tough to watch, it's a good thing! He was looking at his left hand, and crying today. I'm going to look into counselling for Larry and I - we're going to need it!
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Welcome February. You had better be better than January! Larry has said he doesn't like 2014 so far... I don't either!
A prayer or two for a lottery win would be nice LOL I have a feeling we're going to have to move. Right now we're in a co-op townhouse, but the bathroom is upstairs, and the stairs are steep.
If Larry doesn't have full mobility in his legs, no way!
I'm looking in to resources now, but if anyone has a suggestion, I'm all ears!
Today was a quiet day - Larry was still pretty tired from yesterday. However, the catheter was removed today :) That's a pretty big step too!
Larry also mentioned yesterday that he'd like me to look into getting him a Seahawks jersey for the Super Bowl. There is NO way he could know that Mike already had one for him, and was going to give it to him today.
So, around noon we were all there, and Mike first showed off his Bronco's Jersey...then put a Bronco's stuffed toy on the table. Larry promptly reached out and knocked it over. LOL
Then, Mike put on a long song and dance about how Larry was going to be so surprised to get the jersey, etc...and then he gets the text from me. It was pretty funny - but Larry loved the jersey! Put it on right away too :)
not much after this Larry went back to his room.
We just chilled out for the afternoon, pretty much. However, emotions are starting to show up for Larry. While it's tough to watch, it's a good thing! He was looking at his left hand, and crying today. I'm going to look into counselling for Larry and I - we're going to need it!
Friday January 31, 2014
Until Larry is well enough to start either blogging or dictating posts to me, this is all from my perspective.
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Today started out with a minor freak out on my part. I was sleeping in a bit when the phone rang.
I answered it, and as I said hello I realized it was the hospital calling (panic!). Luckily, it was just to tell me that Larry had a test at HSC today, and would be leaving just after noon. He probably wouldn't be back until about 3:30. Fine by me. I sent a quick text to Mike, assuming he'd tell L, and went back to sleep for a while.
About 11:00 or so I got a call from L - why didn't I tell him Larry had a test today? He was just about to leave when he was informed of Larry's test - he'd like to be in the loop. I was a bit taken aback, and didn't say much.
Then I checked my cell... to find a message back from Mike telling me to let L know.... oops! Ah well, no harm done :P
I got to the hospital just after 4, and Larry was back from his test. He looked tired, but he'd had a busy day.
He told me they had him in the actual physio room today. annndddd... drum roll please.... he was STANDING UP today! This is very very encouraging :) Not much in the left arm yet, but he can feel it...so that's a start. I also noticed that when Larry smiles, there's a little bit of movement on the left side of his mouth.
Larry also asked me to look into getting a Seahawks jersey for the Super Bowl on Sunday. There is NO way he knows that Mike has one for him already! I told him I'd talk with Mike, and take a look online and see if there's anything. I sent Mike a text just to for-warn him :P
We went to the day room today, and Larry had his supper there. Then we chatted for a bit with another couple, waiting for the Jets game to start. Larry put on a Jets jersey, and off went the game. I left after the first period, but Mike stayed there until the game was over. Larry stayed awake for the whole thing!
I know it's going to be a long road ...but we'll travel it together.
Good Bye January - you sucked eggs! Let's hope February is better.
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Today started out with a minor freak out on my part. I was sleeping in a bit when the phone rang.
I answered it, and as I said hello I realized it was the hospital calling (panic!). Luckily, it was just to tell me that Larry had a test at HSC today, and would be leaving just after noon. He probably wouldn't be back until about 3:30. Fine by me. I sent a quick text to Mike, assuming he'd tell L, and went back to sleep for a while.
About 11:00 or so I got a call from L - why didn't I tell him Larry had a test today? He was just about to leave when he was informed of Larry's test - he'd like to be in the loop. I was a bit taken aback, and didn't say much.
Then I checked my cell... to find a message back from Mike telling me to let L know.... oops! Ah well, no harm done :P
I got to the hospital just after 4, and Larry was back from his test. He looked tired, but he'd had a busy day.
He told me they had him in the actual physio room today. annndddd... drum roll please.... he was STANDING UP today! This is very very encouraging :) Not much in the left arm yet, but he can feel it...so that's a start. I also noticed that when Larry smiles, there's a little bit of movement on the left side of his mouth.
Larry also asked me to look into getting a Seahawks jersey for the Super Bowl on Sunday. There is NO way he knows that Mike has one for him already! I told him I'd talk with Mike, and take a look online and see if there's anything. I sent Mike a text just to for-warn him :P
We went to the day room today, and Larry had his supper there. Then we chatted for a bit with another couple, waiting for the Jets game to start. Larry put on a Jets jersey, and off went the game. I left after the first period, but Mike stayed there until the game was over. Larry stayed awake for the whole thing!
I know it's going to be a long road ...but we'll travel it together.
Good Bye January - you sucked eggs! Let's hope February is better.
Thursday Jan 30, 2014
Until Larry is well enough to start either blogging or dictating posts to me, this is all from my perspective.
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Today is going to be a long day. I was up until after 2am with a wicked stomach ache. It's just my body's way of saying "water and real food please!". It took a litre of water and a few tums to make it so I could sleep.
I went to the hospital and got a wonderful surprise. Larry can move his left leg! Not consistently, and not long...but he can do it!
Mike also let me know that the Jersey was in town, and ready to go for Saturday.
I had a pedicure appointment booked for tonight a long time ago, and I almost cancelled it. But, I figured I needed it done, and needed the break. Besides, Mike, D and a co-worker of Larry's were at the hospital visiting. I could leave him alone for a while. It was nice.
I was too lazy to cook tonight, so grabbed some McDonald's for K and I for supper. I also grabbed some litter and cat food for my two kittehs. They've helped keep me sane when the world goes crazy.
I also got some good news from Crysi (HRB). She and her husband are going to try to make a go of their marriage :D She had decided to leave, and right after she told him...she started second guessing herself. They had a long talk, and she realized, like Reba sings "She doesn't want to leave, she's just wondering if there's life out there". So, she's learning Dutch and going to make a go of it :D YAY! Is it wrong that I thought "cool, now I can go to Holland for a visit"? lol
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Today is going to be a long day. I was up until after 2am with a wicked stomach ache. It's just my body's way of saying "water and real food please!". It took a litre of water and a few tums to make it so I could sleep.
I went to the hospital and got a wonderful surprise. Larry can move his left leg! Not consistently, and not long...but he can do it!
Mike also let me know that the Jersey was in town, and ready to go for Saturday.
I had a pedicure appointment booked for tonight a long time ago, and I almost cancelled it. But, I figured I needed it done, and needed the break. Besides, Mike, D and a co-worker of Larry's were at the hospital visiting. I could leave him alone for a while. It was nice.
I was too lazy to cook tonight, so grabbed some McDonald's for K and I for supper. I also grabbed some litter and cat food for my two kittehs. They've helped keep me sane when the world goes crazy.
I also got some good news from Crysi (HRB). She and her husband are going to try to make a go of their marriage :D She had decided to leave, and right after she told him...she started second guessing herself. They had a long talk, and she realized, like Reba sings "She doesn't want to leave, she's just wondering if there's life out there". So, she's learning Dutch and going to make a go of it :D YAY! Is it wrong that I thought "cool, now I can go to Holland for a visit"? lol
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