Scary day at dialysis today. I crashed.
Here is what happened as best I can remember and type. (Still having problems with left arm and hand.)
When the tech 'stuck' me with the needles for the procedure, she had difficulty getting the venous needle to pull blood. After some twisting of the needle and relocating it, she got some 'action.' But there seem to bee a recirculation problem. The blood was pale, then bright, then dark, then almost black. All signs of a problem.
About an hour later some iron was administered to me in the IV. About 10 minutes later, I started having major problems:
blood pressure dropped very low, left arm began turning red and swelling, left hand and fingers swelled up and started tingling. My temperature dropped to 93 degrees and my vision became blurred.
The nurses and techs tried a lot of things to get my BP up. I don't know what all they did. I know they put my chair back so I was almost head to the floor and feet to the ceiling. They gave me oxygen. They called the doctor and reported my condition to him about every 15 minutes. They pumped saline solution into me. They took me off the machine. They stayed with me taking vital signs on a regular schedule. They were wonderful.
We tried to call Joann....no answer....she was in a meeting.
I knew that Susan was on her way to Las Vegas. So I told them to call Chris.....no answer....I didn't know he was with Susan.
So they called Wes......he texted Joann that it was an emergency.
After I was stabilized, Joann brought me back to The Summit where the nurses are checking my vitals regularly. As long as they remain stable, I just need to rest. If they worsen, I'll go to the ER.
That all happened this morning. It's now 3:45 pm. My vitals were checked at 3:00 and deemed to be fine. But my arm and hand are still swollen and fingers are tingly. I'm ready for this to be over!!!!!!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Salsa: Sauce or Dance?
Tonight was The Summit’s Annual Salsa Fest. It’s an event to raise funds for The Alzheimer’s Association.
Many pictures were taken, but I haven’t seen any of them yet. You’ll just have to imagine the scenes as I write about them.
The festival was held outside in the parking lot between our building and the Skilled Nursing Facility. There were tents over tables where people could eat a fajita dinner. There were tables filled with bowls of salsa and chips for a judging contest. There was a DJ playing salsa music. There was a professional dance couple teaching the residents how to do the salsa. There were tables of silent auction items to be given to the highest bidder. There were numerous raffle items donated by local merchants.
This all occurred between 6 and 8 pm. There were a lot of residents attending and many family members joined us. Susan, my older daughter, stopped by and enjoyed the ambiance for a while. But she got there too late to see me in the Conga Line. Seriously, I was dancing to the music. Who would have thought that I would ever do that again? I guess it was a carry-over from my exercise time today.
This afternoon I went down to the ‘gym’ and worked out on the NuStep as I try to do on the days I don’t have dialysis. I took my CD player and earphones and worked out to The Beatles’ music. The time really goes by so quickly when The Fab Four are ‘serenading’ me!!!
Well, that’s enough for tonight. I’ve got to go shower and get ready for my ‘new’ dialysis drill tomorrow. Only two hours and 45 minutes on the machine. Yea!!!!
Feel free to join me in prayer thanking God for this new blessing and asking that my kidneys continue to heal.
God Bless You All.
Many pictures were taken, but I haven’t seen any of them yet. You’ll just have to imagine the scenes as I write about them.
The festival was held outside in the parking lot between our building and the Skilled Nursing Facility. There were tents over tables where people could eat a fajita dinner. There were tables filled with bowls of salsa and chips for a judging contest. There was a DJ playing salsa music. There was a professional dance couple teaching the residents how to do the salsa. There were tables of silent auction items to be given to the highest bidder. There were numerous raffle items donated by local merchants.
This all occurred between 6 and 8 pm. There were a lot of residents attending and many family members joined us. Susan, my older daughter, stopped by and enjoyed the ambiance for a while. But she got there too late to see me in the Conga Line. Seriously, I was dancing to the music. Who would have thought that I would ever do that again? I guess it was a carry-over from my exercise time today.
This afternoon I went down to the ‘gym’ and worked out on the NuStep as I try to do on the days I don’t have dialysis. I took my CD player and earphones and worked out to The Beatles’ music. The time really goes by so quickly when The Fab Four are ‘serenading’ me!!!
Well, that’s enough for tonight. I’ve got to go shower and get ready for my ‘new’ dialysis drill tomorrow. Only two hours and 45 minutes on the machine. Yea!!!!
Feel free to join me in prayer thanking God for this new blessing and asking that my kidneys continue to heal.
God Bless You All.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Weather Report: Rain Outside, SONshine Inside
It’s been raining off and on for several days. We’ve needed it and the grass is as green as you could ever dream for it to be. The weathermen say that this is the second soggiest September in weather history. But as Joy Behar would say, “Who cares?”
Today was a good dialysis day filled with a little hope. Last Monday some lab tests were run on my urine and blood. I was told today that the lab reports indicate that …… sit down ….. my kidneys may be starting to ‘come back.’ My ‘numbers’ were the best they have been in a year. So they are going to continue to monitor my blood weekly and my urine every 3 months.
As a result of this report, the kidney doctor has ordered my time on the machine to be reduced. I started out on the machine four hours. Beginning Friday, I will only be on the machine for two hours and 45 minutes. Only someone who has been on dialysis or chemo, realizes what a present this is.
I am cautiously optimistic because, this is just a trial period. My kidneys may not react favorably to the shortened time on the machine and I may have to go back on the machine for a longer time. But for the time being I am praising God for this small ray of hope.
I love the people at the clinic so much. Once ‘the word’ got out that my time had been reduced, the nurses and techs each came up to me individually to congratulate me. They all seemed as happy as I was. I guess they don’t get a chance to celebrate often because so few patients improve.
All I know is that I diligently take my meds and supplements, exercise when I can, and try to eat wisely. I am working so hard to beat this kidney failure.
I have to give credit and thanks where it is due. The nurses were saying ‘This is amazing.’ I said, “Not to me. I’ve got prayer warriors all over this country praying for this and more.” To God be the Glory!
The nutritionist told me that there is only one other patient who is on the machine for two hours and 45 minutes. So I am the second one out of 120 patients. I feel so blessed.
Thanks to all of you for your prayers. Please keep them coming. We’ve won another battle (maybe) but we haven’t won the war yet.
God Bless You.
Today was a good dialysis day filled with a little hope. Last Monday some lab tests were run on my urine and blood. I was told today that the lab reports indicate that …… sit down ….. my kidneys may be starting to ‘come back.’ My ‘numbers’ were the best they have been in a year. So they are going to continue to monitor my blood weekly and my urine every 3 months.
As a result of this report, the kidney doctor has ordered my time on the machine to be reduced. I started out on the machine four hours. Beginning Friday, I will only be on the machine for two hours and 45 minutes. Only someone who has been on dialysis or chemo, realizes what a present this is.
I am cautiously optimistic because, this is just a trial period. My kidneys may not react favorably to the shortened time on the machine and I may have to go back on the machine for a longer time. But for the time being I am praising God for this small ray of hope.
I love the people at the clinic so much. Once ‘the word’ got out that my time had been reduced, the nurses and techs each came up to me individually to congratulate me. They all seemed as happy as I was. I guess they don’t get a chance to celebrate often because so few patients improve.
All I know is that I diligently take my meds and supplements, exercise when I can, and try to eat wisely. I am working so hard to beat this kidney failure.
I have to give credit and thanks where it is due. The nurses were saying ‘This is amazing.’ I said, “Not to me. I’ve got prayer warriors all over this country praying for this and more.” To God be the Glory!
The nutritionist told me that there is only one other patient who is on the machine for two hours and 45 minutes. So I am the second one out of 120 patients. I feel so blessed.
Thanks to all of you for your prayers. Please keep them coming. We’ve won another battle (maybe) but we haven’t won the war yet.
God Bless You.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Ch..ch...ch...changes!!!
Have you enjoyed your break from my ramblings? Well, it was due to many changes in my life.
There is so much to write about that I don't know where to begin.
This is not going to be a lengthy entry tonight because it is late. But I did want to let you know that all is well with me and the long absence from writing is not due to health problems. I'm doing fine with the exception of still needing dialysis.
One of the changes referred to above involves my dialysis schedule. I now go on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. This new schedule gives me free weekends and also enables my daughters to have a complete weekend break since they don't have to provide my Saturday transportation.
Another change is my living quarters. I have moved from a small second floor apartment to a larger one on the third (top) floor. I tell everyone here that I now live in the Penthouse. The other residents here like that phrase and are now using it, too. Many of them giggle when they say they live in the penthouse. I think it's because it reminds them of a naughty magazine. Just wait till Halloween...I'll dress as a Playboy Bunny!!! That'll get them talking ...... again!!!
Last week was Assisted Living Week and the activities reminded me of School Spirit Weeks. I'll try to remember to post some pictures later.
Another change is my email address. It took me a while to get to writing on this blog again because I was having trouble accessing it due to my email change.
I'm through for tonight's entry. My new address is 1915 Lohmans Crossing Road, Apt. #320, Lakeway, TX 78734. My new email address is bgrumme1@austin.rr.com.
Let me hear from you sometime. And if you have time lift up a little prayer that my kidneys will start to clean my blood again so that I can stop this dialysis routine.
I love you all.
Bonnie
There is so much to write about that I don't know where to begin.
This is not going to be a lengthy entry tonight because it is late. But I did want to let you know that all is well with me and the long absence from writing is not due to health problems. I'm doing fine with the exception of still needing dialysis.
One of the changes referred to above involves my dialysis schedule. I now go on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. This new schedule gives me free weekends and also enables my daughters to have a complete weekend break since they don't have to provide my Saturday transportation.
Another change is my living quarters. I have moved from a small second floor apartment to a larger one on the third (top) floor. I tell everyone here that I now live in the Penthouse. The other residents here like that phrase and are now using it, too. Many of them giggle when they say they live in the penthouse. I think it's because it reminds them of a naughty magazine. Just wait till Halloween...I'll dress as a Playboy Bunny!!! That'll get them talking ...... again!!!
Last week was Assisted Living Week and the activities reminded me of School Spirit Weeks. I'll try to remember to post some pictures later.
Another change is my email address. It took me a while to get to writing on this blog again because I was having trouble accessing it due to my email change.
I'm through for tonight's entry. My new address is 1915 Lohmans Crossing Road, Apt. #320, Lakeway, TX 78734. My new email address is bgrumme1@austin.rr.com.
Let me hear from you sometime. And if you have time lift up a little prayer that my kidneys will start to clean my blood again so that I can stop this dialysis routine.
I love you all.
Bonnie
Monday, August 9, 2010
Another Birthday
Yes, I am a year older as I write this. Yesterday was the big day! Today I am still celebrating. I think I deserve an extended Birthday. After all many (including doctors) weren't sure I would live to see another birthday. Well, they didn't know me nor My God. Together we (me and God) showed them!!!!!
Bear with me as I share with you my Birthday celebrations.
The first mention of my birthday came Friday. (My actual birthday was Sunday.) Friday morning a knock on my apartment door and there was a director standing with a gorgeous floral arrangement. Pictures of it are posted on my Facebook pages. (I haven't been here long enough to figure how to post photos on this blog. That will come when I have more time to learn and experiment.) It looked like a huge frozen strawberry daiquiri with starlight daisies, pink roses and purple orchids in the 'bowl'. They were from my daughters, their husbands, and my four grandchildren. Susan had them delivered Friday because floral deliveries are not usually made on Sundays and she knew that I would be at dialysis on Saturday.
Saturday morning one of my dining partners gave me a lovely card and a package of pens. (Not sure of the significance of the gift, but it's the thought....) Later that day a card from my sister arrived in the mail. She cheated!!!! We had agreed years ago to stop 'celebrating' birthdays with anything more than a card. But she decided that this was such a special birthday for me (because I had lived to have it) that she had to send a gift. And she knew just what to send .... a gift card to Steinmart. Thank you, Debbie. I love you!
Sunday my name was posted on the elevator as the Birthday Resident of the Day. I received birthday cards and wishes all day. The 'congregation' sang "Happy Birthday" to me during church service. Then came lunch. When I approached my chair, I saw a Fiesta Crown on it. For those of you who are not familiar with Mexican traditions, I'll describe it. It's a halo shaped headpiece of brightly colored crepe paper flowers and long streamers of the same colors hanging down the back. I was to wear it all day indicating that I was the 'Birthday Girl.' Also, my table was littered with confetti.
As we were eating one of the directors and the kitchen staff came out into the dining hall and announced that it was my birthday. They led everyone in singing "Happy Birthday" again. They brought me a colorful gift bag. It contained a book, a journal, a pen, a little bucket filled with Hershey chocolates and a card signed by many of the residents. Then, Jermaine, the best chef in Texas, came out carrying a piece of cake with a lit candle on it. I was to make a wish, blow out the flame, then eat the special cake. It was a tiramisu cake. Yummy!!!
I had already made plans with my family to have my birthday dinner Monday night, so I went to the dining hall for dinner and my birthday celebration continued. There on my table was the largest Aloe Vera plant I have ever seen in a beautiful glass container decorated with a beautiful seashell. The dining room manager had her husband dig it up out of her yard for me. I told her that she didn't have to give me the biggest one in her yard. She said, "Oh, I didn't. That is one of my babies." (Well, it looked BIG to me. But I forgot that everything is bigger in Texas!!!)
I have to add here that I continued to receive birthday greetings on Facebook and via email all day. It was so much fun hearing from my former students, former parents of students, former co-workers, high school friends, college friends, sorority sisters, friends of my daughters, relatives, and maybe even a former mailman. Oops!
One of my former tablemates who is now living in the Skilled Nursing Center next door had her daughter wheel (she's in a wheelchair) her over to bring me a vase of fresh flowers. How sweet! Ruth and I have always had a special bond. I just wish she could improve as much as I have, but Parkinson's is a terrible illness which robs people of so much. Ruth refuses to let it rob her of her dignity. She is so strong.
Today (Monday) brought more birthday celebration. Katie stopped by for a sweet visit. She brought me an absolutely beautiful bouquet of yellow roses, daisies, and sunflowers. We walked down to the lobby for some fresh lemonade and back to my apartment to continue our chat until Joann, Haley, and Hayden arrived. They came to pick me up to go to their house to 'chill' until dinnertime.
It was fun, to 'hang' with the Brewzoo and to have a nice visit with Joe, my former husband. He had brought the boys back from 'Camp Paw Paw.' We watched a slide show of photos taken while they visited in Tennessee. They had so many experiences ranging from dressing in Civil War uniforms at Shiloh to catching dozens of fish at Reelfoot Lake.
Haley baked and decorated a Birthday Cake for me. She is quite the little cook. She loves to cook and is quite an artist. So you can imagine that it was the best birthday cake ever!!!!
We then packed into two vehicles and met Susan, Chris, Katie, and Denny at Chili's for my family birthday dinner. The centerpiece was the cake Haley had baked earlier in the day. I had the sirloin which was very good!
OK, I've told you just about everything about my birthday. I think. I'm sure that I have forgotten something. But at this age, it's excusable. After all I am a whole year older and what a year it has been. The best part is that I have made it!!! Thank you, Jesus!
Bear with me as I share with you my Birthday celebrations.
The first mention of my birthday came Friday. (My actual birthday was Sunday.) Friday morning a knock on my apartment door and there was a director standing with a gorgeous floral arrangement. Pictures of it are posted on my Facebook pages. (I haven't been here long enough to figure how to post photos on this blog. That will come when I have more time to learn and experiment.) It looked like a huge frozen strawberry daiquiri with starlight daisies, pink roses and purple orchids in the 'bowl'. They were from my daughters, their husbands, and my four grandchildren. Susan had them delivered Friday because floral deliveries are not usually made on Sundays and she knew that I would be at dialysis on Saturday.
Saturday morning one of my dining partners gave me a lovely card and a package of pens. (Not sure of the significance of the gift, but it's the thought....) Later that day a card from my sister arrived in the mail. She cheated!!!! We had agreed years ago to stop 'celebrating' birthdays with anything more than a card. But she decided that this was such a special birthday for me (because I had lived to have it) that she had to send a gift. And she knew just what to send .... a gift card to Steinmart. Thank you, Debbie. I love you!
Sunday my name was posted on the elevator as the Birthday Resident of the Day. I received birthday cards and wishes all day. The 'congregation' sang "Happy Birthday" to me during church service. Then came lunch. When I approached my chair, I saw a Fiesta Crown on it. For those of you who are not familiar with Mexican traditions, I'll describe it. It's a halo shaped headpiece of brightly colored crepe paper flowers and long streamers of the same colors hanging down the back. I was to wear it all day indicating that I was the 'Birthday Girl.' Also, my table was littered with confetti.
As we were eating one of the directors and the kitchen staff came out into the dining hall and announced that it was my birthday. They led everyone in singing "Happy Birthday" again. They brought me a colorful gift bag. It contained a book, a journal, a pen, a little bucket filled with Hershey chocolates and a card signed by many of the residents. Then, Jermaine, the best chef in Texas, came out carrying a piece of cake with a lit candle on it. I was to make a wish, blow out the flame, then eat the special cake. It was a tiramisu cake. Yummy!!!
I had already made plans with my family to have my birthday dinner Monday night, so I went to the dining hall for dinner and my birthday celebration continued. There on my table was the largest Aloe Vera plant I have ever seen in a beautiful glass container decorated with a beautiful seashell. The dining room manager had her husband dig it up out of her yard for me. I told her that she didn't have to give me the biggest one in her yard. She said, "Oh, I didn't. That is one of my babies." (Well, it looked BIG to me. But I forgot that everything is bigger in Texas!!!)
I have to add here that I continued to receive birthday greetings on Facebook and via email all day. It was so much fun hearing from my former students, former parents of students, former co-workers, high school friends, college friends, sorority sisters, friends of my daughters, relatives, and maybe even a former mailman. Oops!
One of my former tablemates who is now living in the Skilled Nursing Center next door had her daughter wheel (she's in a wheelchair) her over to bring me a vase of fresh flowers. How sweet! Ruth and I have always had a special bond. I just wish she could improve as much as I have, but Parkinson's is a terrible illness which robs people of so much. Ruth refuses to let it rob her of her dignity. She is so strong.
Today (Monday) brought more birthday celebration. Katie stopped by for a sweet visit. She brought me an absolutely beautiful bouquet of yellow roses, daisies, and sunflowers. We walked down to the lobby for some fresh lemonade and back to my apartment to continue our chat until Joann, Haley, and Hayden arrived. They came to pick me up to go to their house to 'chill' until dinnertime.
It was fun, to 'hang' with the Brewzoo and to have a nice visit with Joe, my former husband. He had brought the boys back from 'Camp Paw Paw.' We watched a slide show of photos taken while they visited in Tennessee. They had so many experiences ranging from dressing in Civil War uniforms at Shiloh to catching dozens of fish at Reelfoot Lake.
Haley baked and decorated a Birthday Cake for me. She is quite the little cook. She loves to cook and is quite an artist. So you can imagine that it was the best birthday cake ever!!!!
We then packed into two vehicles and met Susan, Chris, Katie, and Denny at Chili's for my family birthday dinner. The centerpiece was the cake Haley had baked earlier in the day. I had the sirloin which was very good!
OK, I've told you just about everything about my birthday. I think. I'm sure that I have forgotten something. But at this age, it's excusable. After all I am a whole year older and what a year it has been. The best part is that I have made it!!! Thank you, Jesus!
Friday, August 6, 2010
Progress
So much is happening in my life that I don't know where to start.
Each day seems to bring another blessing.
My lab reports continue to be good. I have to admit that the most recent report (Thursday) indicated that I need to eat just a little more protein. The dialysis nutritionist told me to tell my family to take me to a steak dinner. True!
She also told me that it would be OK to have an occasional glass of wine. (Hic!)
My Physical Therapist informed me that I have met all my goals and am going to be discharged from Physical Therapy next Wednesday. I can still go to the gym and work out on a daily basis (when I'm not in dialysis) and I plan to do so. I'm so use to exercising now and actually enjoy it.
Today was the hottest day of the year. The temps got up to 102F. So what was I doing at 10:00 AM? I was doing PT and my therapist had me walk up the high incline across the parking lot from our building. I had done it once before with her, but that was with my 4-wheel walker. Today I had to do it with a single footed cane. Well, friends, I did it, heat and all!!!!
My therapist also said that I could begin walking short distances in the building without a cane. Yep, I'm now walking totally unassisted. Praise God. One year ago, I could barely sit up in a bed. It was a small miracle for me to wiggle my toes.
Your prayers, my family's constant support, and God's love brought on this miracle recovery. There was no way I was going to quit or give up, y'all wouldn't let me!!! Thanks, Everyone!!!
I got a new haircut today. I feel so youthful looking (except for the fact that my hair is white as new fallen snow.) Photos of it are on my Facebook status.
This morning I received a martini delivered to my door. Well, not exactly. It was a flower arrangement in a huge martini shaped vase. My family had sent it as an early Birthday gift. Pictures of it are also on my Facebook status. The arrangement was comprised of pink roses, pink and rose daisies, and purple orchids. It is absolutely beautiful.
Katie and I had another lunch 'date' Wednesday. We went to the Magnolia Grill. It is a typical college hang-out not too far from the UT campus. Great food, good prices, and fun atmosphere.
I got two surprise phone calls today, one from my nephew, Michael. I love talking to him. He reminds me so much of his dad. Mike is a 'hot shot' with Charles Schwab in Indianapolis and a father of three sons. I am so proud of the man he has become.
The other call was from my dear friend, Becky. She has a daughter here in Austin and visits me when she is in town staying with Amy and Howard. But today she took some time away from a church trip to Nashville to call me. She, like so many of my retired friends, seems to be busier now than she was as a principal. I admire all the work she does out of the goodness of her heart. Becky is a sweet gentle woman and a dear, dear friend.
Well, that's about all the news for now and the hour is getting late. I have to settle down and get ready for another dialysis day tomorrow.
Sweet dreams, Everyone, and May God Be With You this weekend.
Each day seems to bring another blessing.
My lab reports continue to be good. I have to admit that the most recent report (Thursday) indicated that I need to eat just a little more protein. The dialysis nutritionist told me to tell my family to take me to a steak dinner. True!
She also told me that it would be OK to have an occasional glass of wine. (Hic!)
My Physical Therapist informed me that I have met all my goals and am going to be discharged from Physical Therapy next Wednesday. I can still go to the gym and work out on a daily basis (when I'm not in dialysis) and I plan to do so. I'm so use to exercising now and actually enjoy it.
Today was the hottest day of the year. The temps got up to 102F. So what was I doing at 10:00 AM? I was doing PT and my therapist had me walk up the high incline across the parking lot from our building. I had done it once before with her, but that was with my 4-wheel walker. Today I had to do it with a single footed cane. Well, friends, I did it, heat and all!!!!
My therapist also said that I could begin walking short distances in the building without a cane. Yep, I'm now walking totally unassisted. Praise God. One year ago, I could barely sit up in a bed. It was a small miracle for me to wiggle my toes.
Your prayers, my family's constant support, and God's love brought on this miracle recovery. There was no way I was going to quit or give up, y'all wouldn't let me!!! Thanks, Everyone!!!
I got a new haircut today. I feel so youthful looking (except for the fact that my hair is white as new fallen snow.) Photos of it are on my Facebook status.
This morning I received a martini delivered to my door. Well, not exactly. It was a flower arrangement in a huge martini shaped vase. My family had sent it as an early Birthday gift. Pictures of it are also on my Facebook status. The arrangement was comprised of pink roses, pink and rose daisies, and purple orchids. It is absolutely beautiful.
Katie and I had another lunch 'date' Wednesday. We went to the Magnolia Grill. It is a typical college hang-out not too far from the UT campus. Great food, good prices, and fun atmosphere.
I got two surprise phone calls today, one from my nephew, Michael. I love talking to him. He reminds me so much of his dad. Mike is a 'hot shot' with Charles Schwab in Indianapolis and a father of three sons. I am so proud of the man he has become.
The other call was from my dear friend, Becky. She has a daughter here in Austin and visits me when she is in town staying with Amy and Howard. But today she took some time away from a church trip to Nashville to call me. She, like so many of my retired friends, seems to be busier now than she was as a principal. I admire all the work she does out of the goodness of her heart. Becky is a sweet gentle woman and a dear, dear friend.
Well, that's about all the news for now and the hour is getting late. I have to settle down and get ready for another dialysis day tomorrow.
Sweet dreams, Everyone, and May God Be With You this weekend.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
AUGUST IS HERE!!!
By the sounds of the weather reports, August has entered as expected ... HOT!
That isn't going to slow me down. I have much to do and can't let a little thing like heat stop me.
I am trying to copy all the posts to my CaringBridge website so I can relate to them when I get my book in full gear. This is a website that my granddaughter, Katie, started when I first became ill last summer. Susan, Joann, Katie, and Chris all entered posts almost daily. It was at a time that I couldn't do much communicating and apparently from the posts I've read, I wasn't at my best in communication. Go figure! I was once known as quite the talker (still am by some), quite the writer, quite the speaker. But a couple of 'little things' (MRSA and Meningitis) have tried to stop my communication skills. Sorry fellows, you didn't stop me, you just slowed me down. But I've found my bootstraps and am pulling myself up, slowly but surely.
I am constantly amazed as I read the posts my family have made. It is truly a sad story and has brought me to near tears as I read what all they have gone through in supporting me as I recovered. I am so grateful that they have kept this and a handwritten journal (which I've yet to read). I had no idea how bad my illness really was. I remember some of the pain and frustration, but not nearly all of it. Thank You, Jesus.
Fortunately, I no longer have pain except occasionally in dialysis treatment. However, I do still get frustrated by my limitations. But now the frustrations give me reason to try harder to overcome my limitations. Above all, I have learned patience and humility. Now that's hard for a Type A personality, believe me.
Enough said for this entry. Let's all try to enjoy August. It may be a warm month, but come January, we'll be missing it.
Blessings to all who read this.
That isn't going to slow me down. I have much to do and can't let a little thing like heat stop me.
I am trying to copy all the posts to my CaringBridge website so I can relate to them when I get my book in full gear. This is a website that my granddaughter, Katie, started when I first became ill last summer. Susan, Joann, Katie, and Chris all entered posts almost daily. It was at a time that I couldn't do much communicating and apparently from the posts I've read, I wasn't at my best in communication. Go figure! I was once known as quite the talker (still am by some), quite the writer, quite the speaker. But a couple of 'little things' (MRSA and Meningitis) have tried to stop my communication skills. Sorry fellows, you didn't stop me, you just slowed me down. But I've found my bootstraps and am pulling myself up, slowly but surely.
I am constantly amazed as I read the posts my family have made. It is truly a sad story and has brought me to near tears as I read what all they have gone through in supporting me as I recovered. I am so grateful that they have kept this and a handwritten journal (which I've yet to read). I had no idea how bad my illness really was. I remember some of the pain and frustration, but not nearly all of it. Thank You, Jesus.
Fortunately, I no longer have pain except occasionally in dialysis treatment. However, I do still get frustrated by my limitations. But now the frustrations give me reason to try harder to overcome my limitations. Above all, I have learned patience and humility. Now that's hard for a Type A personality, believe me.
Enough said for this entry. Let's all try to enjoy August. It may be a warm month, but come January, we'll be missing it.
Blessings to all who read this.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Human Road Map
There are many scars on my body as a result of my recent illness. Big scars, little scars, wide scars, narrow scars, short scars, long scars, scars on my arms from multiple blood tests, dialysis sticks, creations of fistulas, and IVs. I have scars on my neck and chest from permanent ports and scars on my spine from cervical drainage of abscesses and repair of the damage done to my lower spine by the diseases. There are probably other scars that I haven't found yet.
The scars on my arms are very noticeable and often bring on questions or comments from friends. I just tell them that I am a Human Road Map. The scars lead to the Miracles that God has performed in my life.
The scars on my arms are very noticeable and often bring on questions or comments from friends. I just tell them that I am a Human Road Map. The scars lead to the Miracles that God has performed in my life.
Adequacy
I hear the word 'adequacy' and relate it to being 'adequate.' That is something I always thought was not a good thing. I remember hearing the phrase 'adequate, at best.' It was used to describe a job which was not done well. No one wanted to be told that they or the job they did was adequate.
However, (you knew that there had to be a 'however', didn't you?) I learned a new definition for adequacy. When our blood is drawn for lab tests, it is measured for adequacy.
The Nurse Practitioner visited each dialysis patient yesterday to discuss our most recent lab results. She told me that my adequacy was the best she has seen in recent weeks. She said that she had reviewed the reports of over 100 patients and my report was by far the best. (How about that? I'm at the top of the class?) I asked her what did that mean. She said that 'adequacy' is the measurement of the degree of the cleansing of toxins from the blood. That is the job of our kidneys, but when one has kidney failure, a dialysis machine has to do the job. I'm hoping that my results are good because my own kidneys may be 'kicking in.'
I used to pray for my kidneys to 'rejuvenate', then after months on dialysis, I gave up hope and prayed for a transplant. But Susan and Joann told me that the kidney doctor had told them that he was hoping that the use of a fistula would help my kidneys 'return.' He said that he wasn't going to consider this to be permanent kidney failure until I had used the fistula for six months. I started using it June 6th. So I have some time to go before I 'give up.'
Those of you who have worked with me know that I don't give up easily. I tend to thrive with challenges. So I'm praying for my kidneys to start to work again. You are welcome to board this prayer train with me.
God bless you all.
However, (you knew that there had to be a 'however', didn't you?) I learned a new definition for adequacy. When our blood is drawn for lab tests, it is measured for adequacy.
The Nurse Practitioner visited each dialysis patient yesterday to discuss our most recent lab results. She told me that my adequacy was the best she has seen in recent weeks. She said that she had reviewed the reports of over 100 patients and my report was by far the best. (How about that? I'm at the top of the class?) I asked her what did that mean. She said that 'adequacy' is the measurement of the degree of the cleansing of toxins from the blood. That is the job of our kidneys, but when one has kidney failure, a dialysis machine has to do the job. I'm hoping that my results are good because my own kidneys may be 'kicking in.'
I used to pray for my kidneys to 'rejuvenate', then after months on dialysis, I gave up hope and prayed for a transplant. But Susan and Joann told me that the kidney doctor had told them that he was hoping that the use of a fistula would help my kidneys 'return.' He said that he wasn't going to consider this to be permanent kidney failure until I had used the fistula for six months. I started using it June 6th. So I have some time to go before I 'give up.'
Those of you who have worked with me know that I don't give up easily. I tend to thrive with challenges. So I'm praying for my kidneys to start to work again. You are welcome to board this prayer train with me.
God bless you all.
A Broken Mold
I think they 'broke the mold' when they created Texas men.
My experience of living in Texas has exposed me to some truly courteous men. The two gentlemen who share a table with me and some other ladies in the dining room are so courteous and thoughtful all the time. Yes, occasionally they can get a little cranky about the service and quality of food but they HAVE lived over eight decades and have earned that right. Yet they always stand until all the ladies at the table are seated, check to be sure everyone is served what they ordered, and seem to be truly interested in the conversation.
I went shopping at Target with my granddaughter, Katie, and her boyfriend, Denny, this afternoon. I had already been to the doctor for a follow-up visit, had my 90 minute physical therapy session, and eaten lunch, and I was a little tired by the time we reached the store. So I got one of the motorized carts for my shopping.
As I approached the check-out line, a male customer approached me and offered to empty my basket onto the moving counter. I politely declined because I am a very independent woman!!! (I really need to learn to let a man wait on me.) But wasn't that nice of him? That has never happened to me before.
The chivalry did not stop there. After checking out, I 'drove' the cart to its original parking spot near Aisle One, grabbed my cane and headed for the exit. With that another gentleman in a red Target vest approached me and told me that I could 'drive' the cart to the car and he would return it to the store. Again, I politely declined the offer and walked my independent self to the car. Katie and Denny carried my bags and we were parked in a nearby handicap space.
So there you have it, Texas gentlemen are among the most courteous I've met. Or is there the slightest chance that perhaps now that I'm healthy and skinny again, men are beginning to notice me and may possibly be 'hitting on me?' Nah, I don't think so!!!
My experience of living in Texas has exposed me to some truly courteous men. The two gentlemen who share a table with me and some other ladies in the dining room are so courteous and thoughtful all the time. Yes, occasionally they can get a little cranky about the service and quality of food but they HAVE lived over eight decades and have earned that right. Yet they always stand until all the ladies at the table are seated, check to be sure everyone is served what they ordered, and seem to be truly interested in the conversation.
I went shopping at Target with my granddaughter, Katie, and her boyfriend, Denny, this afternoon. I had already been to the doctor for a follow-up visit, had my 90 minute physical therapy session, and eaten lunch, and I was a little tired by the time we reached the store. So I got one of the motorized carts for my shopping.
As I approached the check-out line, a male customer approached me and offered to empty my basket onto the moving counter. I politely declined because I am a very independent woman!!! (I really need to learn to let a man wait on me.) But wasn't that nice of him? That has never happened to me before.
The chivalry did not stop there. After checking out, I 'drove' the cart to its original parking spot near Aisle One, grabbed my cane and headed for the exit. With that another gentleman in a red Target vest approached me and told me that I could 'drive' the cart to the car and he would return it to the store. Again, I politely declined the offer and walked my independent self to the car. Katie and Denny carried my bags and we were parked in a nearby handicap space.
So there you have it, Texas gentlemen are among the most courteous I've met. Or is there the slightest chance that perhaps now that I'm healthy and skinny again, men are beginning to notice me and may possibly be 'hitting on me?' Nah, I don't think so!!!
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
The Good, The Bad and The Not So Ugly
Much has happened in the past three days.
It seems that I get busier with each passing day. Each day is filled with some good, some bad and some of neither.
GOOD:
Monday, I donated several games to the Therapy Department and to the Activity Room. Also, my permanent port was removed by my cardio-vascular surgeon.
Tuesday, the kidney doctor confirmed that less time on the dialysis machine did not mean that my kidneys were not being adequately cleaned (My family had expressed concern about my time being cut from four hours to three and a half hours) and she also told me to stop one of my blood pressure medications (I have been taking up to six BP pills a day. Now I take only five maximum.)
Today, I went out with The Lunch Bunch to eat at The Hill Country Pasta House. Great lunch and good company. I got an opportunity to know one of the residents a little better. Her name is Virginia (Ginny) and she was born in Illinois, grew up in Ohio, went to college in NYC where she met her husband who was in The Navy. They moved around so much that she has now lived in 19 states. I'm not even sure that I have traveled to that many states!!
After lunch, I returned to my apartment and made six necklaces. Within 30 minutes of finishing them, I had sold three. I've got quite a little business going here. Truth be known, making jewelry is such good therapy for me. I like having something to do with my hands while watching TV. I get a special feeling when I see someone wearing some of my products. I don't have to advertise. Word of mouth is doing the marketing job for me.
BAD
Monday, brought some big summer electrical storms but no damage that I know of. I did learn that the air conditioning at my house has gone out and needs serious repair. Although the unit and parts are under warranty, the labor may be in the 'four figure' range.
Tuesday, dialysis treatment brought on nausea once again, but not for long and not as strong. When the needles were pulled, the arterial line tried to 'bleed out', but I caught it early and I didn't lose too much blood. I also learned yesterday that the local clinic (with dialysis treatment) that was being planned for less than a mile from here has been 'ditched' and will not be finished. (Another economy casualty.)
Today, it's almost 9:00 pm. and I can't think of anything bad in my life today. However, two of my neighbors suffered bad falls yesterday. I absolutely hate to see that happen. One thinks that he just got dizzy when he came inside from the porch and stumbled as he entered the door. He cut his knee and really banged it and his ribs, but no broken bones. The other told me that she was going from her living room to the bathroom and simply 'blacked out' and landed on the floor. She stayed in bed all day. My PT tells me of all the things to do to avoid falls. I see people not doing those things all the time. I hope I never forget her warnings and advice.
NOT SO UGLY
Monday
We have pencils and menus at our place settings in the dining room. The pencils are the little short ones that you find at golf courses. They are always just ugly little nubs and difficult to use. So being the problem solver that I am, I took my battery powered pencil sharpener to the dining room and went around to every table and sharpened every pencil. Somebody's got to do it. Why not me?
Tuesday, I removed the dressing from my incision from where the surgeon removed my port. After seeing the port after it was removed, I expected to see quite a large incision. But much to my surprise I, found a very small incision. There may not be a noticeable scar after all. Not that it matters to me. After last summer I have so many scars in so many places on my body that I could pass as a page in an Atlas. I just consider my body, scars and all, as a road map to God's miracles in my life.
Today
The only thing that I can think of that might fit in this category for today is the extra weight I may have gained from eating lunch off site today. But most of it will be pulled tomorrow at dialysis, I'm sure.
Well, friends, I've written enough for tonight. So I'll just say "Sleep well and God Bless You".
It seems that I get busier with each passing day. Each day is filled with some good, some bad and some of neither.
GOOD:
Monday, I donated several games to the Therapy Department and to the Activity Room. Also, my permanent port was removed by my cardio-vascular surgeon.
Tuesday, the kidney doctor confirmed that less time on the dialysis machine did not mean that my kidneys were not being adequately cleaned (My family had expressed concern about my time being cut from four hours to three and a half hours) and she also told me to stop one of my blood pressure medications (I have been taking up to six BP pills a day. Now I take only five maximum.)
Today, I went out with The Lunch Bunch to eat at The Hill Country Pasta House. Great lunch and good company. I got an opportunity to know one of the residents a little better. Her name is Virginia (Ginny) and she was born in Illinois, grew up in Ohio, went to college in NYC where she met her husband who was in The Navy. They moved around so much that she has now lived in 19 states. I'm not even sure that I have traveled to that many states!!
After lunch, I returned to my apartment and made six necklaces. Within 30 minutes of finishing them, I had sold three. I've got quite a little business going here. Truth be known, making jewelry is such good therapy for me. I like having something to do with my hands while watching TV. I get a special feeling when I see someone wearing some of my products. I don't have to advertise. Word of mouth is doing the marketing job for me.
BAD
Monday, brought some big summer electrical storms but no damage that I know of. I did learn that the air conditioning at my house has gone out and needs serious repair. Although the unit and parts are under warranty, the labor may be in the 'four figure' range.
Tuesday, dialysis treatment brought on nausea once again, but not for long and not as strong. When the needles were pulled, the arterial line tried to 'bleed out', but I caught it early and I didn't lose too much blood. I also learned yesterday that the local clinic (with dialysis treatment) that was being planned for less than a mile from here has been 'ditched' and will not be finished. (Another economy casualty.)
Today, it's almost 9:00 pm. and I can't think of anything bad in my life today. However, two of my neighbors suffered bad falls yesterday. I absolutely hate to see that happen. One thinks that he just got dizzy when he came inside from the porch and stumbled as he entered the door. He cut his knee and really banged it and his ribs, but no broken bones. The other told me that she was going from her living room to the bathroom and simply 'blacked out' and landed on the floor. She stayed in bed all day. My PT tells me of all the things to do to avoid falls. I see people not doing those things all the time. I hope I never forget her warnings and advice.
NOT SO UGLY
Monday
We have pencils and menus at our place settings in the dining room. The pencils are the little short ones that you find at golf courses. They are always just ugly little nubs and difficult to use. So being the problem solver that I am, I took my battery powered pencil sharpener to the dining room and went around to every table and sharpened every pencil. Somebody's got to do it. Why not me?
Tuesday, I removed the dressing from my incision from where the surgeon removed my port. After seeing the port after it was removed, I expected to see quite a large incision. But much to my surprise I, found a very small incision. There may not be a noticeable scar after all. Not that it matters to me. After last summer I have so many scars in so many places on my body that I could pass as a page in an Atlas. I just consider my body, scars and all, as a road map to God's miracles in my life.
Today
The only thing that I can think of that might fit in this category for today is the extra weight I may have gained from eating lunch off site today. But most of it will be pulled tomorrow at dialysis, I'm sure.
Well, friends, I've written enough for tonight. So I'll just say "Sleep well and God Bless You".
Monday, July 26, 2010
Out, Out, Darn Port
Another milestone today ... my 'permanent' port was removed. So much for permanence. For the first time in over a year I no longer have foreign objects in my body. I am free of wires and tubes.
Susan said, "Mom, you are free at last." She is so right. I am free of those obnoxious tubes and wires protruding from my body. I am free to take a full body shower. (No more standing at the basin washing up as far as possible, then washing down as far as possible, then washing 'possible.' I am free to put more than my toes in Susan and Chris' pool and hot tub. (Time to get a bikini wax!) I am free to roll over in bed without my 'call button' cord catching in the tubes and wires. Free to wear a shoulder seat belt properly instead of tucking it under my arm. Yes, indeed, I am free at last!
Tomorrow is another dialysis day. I will close for now so I can go to bed and sleep without tubes and wires attached to my body for the first time since July 6, 2009.
God Bless You All
Susan said, "Mom, you are free at last." She is so right. I am free of those obnoxious tubes and wires protruding from my body. I am free to take a full body shower. (No more standing at the basin washing up as far as possible, then washing down as far as possible, then washing 'possible.' I am free to put more than my toes in Susan and Chris' pool and hot tub. (Time to get a bikini wax!) I am free to roll over in bed without my 'call button' cord catching in the tubes and wires. Free to wear a shoulder seat belt properly instead of tucking it under my arm. Yes, indeed, I am free at last!
Tomorrow is another dialysis day. I will close for now so I can go to bed and sleep without tubes and wires attached to my body for the first time since July 6, 2009.
God Bless You All
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Decisions
Decisions, decisions, decisions. I truly thought that my decision-making days were over when I retired. It seems to me that I have more now than ever.
I recently made another major life decision. After several days of research and many prayers, I have decided to place my house on the market (do this now or later), sort through 50+ years of memories (what to keep, donate, sell, trash), move only necessary items to a larger apartment (which apartment, what can I afford) at The Summit (what is necessary, will it fit), and sell the rest in an Estate Sale (which agency to hire).
I decided to stay at The Summit at this time for several reasons including financial (for a year now, I’ve been paying a house note, utilities, HOA fees, insurance, trash pick-up, lawn care, etc. on my house plus room and board here at The Summit and all of my medical expenses that are not covered by insurance), medical and security (there is 24 hour assistance available here), social (I became ill so soon after moving from Tennessee that I didn’t have an opportunity to make a new circle of friends, but I have a large group of friends that I have made at The Summit – albeit most of them between 5 and 30 years older than I) and emotional.
My kidney situation is the primary focus of my life. There is still an outside chance that my own kidneys may recover. It’s a very slight chance, but still a possibility. I pray for that daily. But I know that whatever happens is up to God. However, I have received so many of His miracles and truly believe that it is possible that I may get one more, my kidneys recovering. I’m doing everything I can to make it possible. I take my meds as prescribed, do my exercises as ordered, try to stay on a renal diet whenever possible, never miss a dialysis treatment and pray, pray, pray.
I have so much I want to write, but I am tired tonight. After church today Katie and I went to Starbuck’s (she has discovered coffee recently), then to the house and loaded her car with several items that I want to have here in my apartment or want to donate to the Activity Room here (games, movies, etc.) We then went to Michael’s (my happy place), Waterloo Ice House (for lunch, not ice), and HEB (grocery). After all that, we returned to The Summit and unloaded her car. She left to go ‘hang’ with Denny, her boyfriend and I came to my apartment to ‘crash.’ (Have you noticed that many words we learned in our youth mean the complete opposite for today's generation?)
Tomorrow is my ‘day of rest’ = no dialysis, no PT because my doctor appointments are usually scheduled on Mondays. Tomorrow is no exception. It’s going to be a big day for me. I am scheduled to have my ‘permanent’ port removed. This means that I’ll no longer have tubes and wires protruding from my chest. They get caught in my clothing and are very uncomfortable if I roll over on them as I sleep. I will finally be able to take a real shower and put more than my toes in Susan’s pool. Best of all, my neighbor, Mitzi, will no longer be able to call me ‘The Cow Lady’ in her cute Japanese accent. She says that my protruding tubes look like a little udder.
Well, that’s it for tonight. I guess I’ll close by saying ‘Moo’ for the last night I’ll be able to do so.
I love you all and pray for you to be blessed.
I recently made another major life decision. After several days of research and many prayers, I have decided to place my house on the market (do this now or later), sort through 50+ years of memories (what to keep, donate, sell, trash), move only necessary items to a larger apartment (which apartment, what can I afford) at The Summit (what is necessary, will it fit), and sell the rest in an Estate Sale (which agency to hire).
I decided to stay at The Summit at this time for several reasons including financial (for a year now, I’ve been paying a house note, utilities, HOA fees, insurance, trash pick-up, lawn care, etc. on my house plus room and board here at The Summit and all of my medical expenses that are not covered by insurance), medical and security (there is 24 hour assistance available here), social (I became ill so soon after moving from Tennessee that I didn’t have an opportunity to make a new circle of friends, but I have a large group of friends that I have made at The Summit – albeit most of them between 5 and 30 years older than I) and emotional.
My kidney situation is the primary focus of my life. There is still an outside chance that my own kidneys may recover. It’s a very slight chance, but still a possibility. I pray for that daily. But I know that whatever happens is up to God. However, I have received so many of His miracles and truly believe that it is possible that I may get one more, my kidneys recovering. I’m doing everything I can to make it possible. I take my meds as prescribed, do my exercises as ordered, try to stay on a renal diet whenever possible, never miss a dialysis treatment and pray, pray, pray.
I have so much I want to write, but I am tired tonight. After church today Katie and I went to Starbuck’s (she has discovered coffee recently), then to the house and loaded her car with several items that I want to have here in my apartment or want to donate to the Activity Room here (games, movies, etc.) We then went to Michael’s (my happy place), Waterloo Ice House (for lunch, not ice), and HEB (grocery). After all that, we returned to The Summit and unloaded her car. She left to go ‘hang’ with Denny, her boyfriend and I came to my apartment to ‘crash.’ (Have you noticed that many words we learned in our youth mean the complete opposite for today's generation?)
Tomorrow is my ‘day of rest’ = no dialysis, no PT because my doctor appointments are usually scheduled on Mondays. Tomorrow is no exception. It’s going to be a big day for me. I am scheduled to have my ‘permanent’ port removed. This means that I’ll no longer have tubes and wires protruding from my chest. They get caught in my clothing and are very uncomfortable if I roll over on them as I sleep. I will finally be able to take a real shower and put more than my toes in Susan’s pool. Best of all, my neighbor, Mitzi, will no longer be able to call me ‘The Cow Lady’ in her cute Japanese accent. She says that my protruding tubes look like a little udder.
Well, that’s it for tonight. I guess I’ll close by saying ‘Moo’ for the last night I’ll be able to do so.
I love you all and pray for you to be blessed.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
WELCOME
Welcome, to my first attempt at 'blogging.' This is where I plan to pick up from my CaringBridge postings. As usual I have a lot to share, however, I am not familiar with all the 'extras' here and ask your patience as I learn the ropes. I may not post here until tomorrow or later. But like The Terminator, I'll Be Back!!!!!
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