Monday, December 21, 2009

The Good and the Bad

Sometimes your best day can be your worst day. That was the case for Mom today. Her physical therapist came in this morning and worked with her. By the end of the session he was able to help her stand and move her to a chair. She sat in the chair for about a half hour. She was so excited about this accomplishment. She also took her first bites of food in six days--two bites of oatmeal for breakfast, a couple of spoonfuls of soup for lunch, and drank half of a small milkshake for dinner. Mom was having difficulty getting air into her lungs. There was also crackling in her lungs. The pulmonary specialist came in to listen to her lungs to determine a course of action. He ordered a CT scan. There was fluid filling her lungs. The pulmonary specialist drained a liter of her right lung. This provided a huge relief and Mom was able to take deep breathes which led to taking her off the oxygen during the day. The epidural was also removed from her back which is good news since she was developing a bed sore where the epidural was positioned into her back. Dr. Lo (she is Dr. Soisson's associate; she also assisted in Mom's surgery) came by and was extremely pleased with Mom's progress. She sat in the chair on more time. About 5:30 pm she went down hill fast. The pain was severe. Mom looked me in the eyes with tears and said she was beyond the 10 pain indicator. She was running a fever, clammy, sweaty, hot and cold. She very restless. Mom is going to experience the good and the bad but we know each day is a miracle. Mosiah 8:18 (The Book of Mormon) Thus God has provided a means that man, through faith, might work mighty miracles....

3 comments:

  1. Chris I remember that the broth in the hospital tasted like Thanks giving dinner!!even though it was no salt and no taste!! it was good. I'm glad you are eating again. One thing i learned was not to wait for the pain to get to ten!! start asking for pain meds at 5 and by the time you get them it's not at a 10. don't try to handle the pain! that can come later when you are stronger, you can't get well if you are fighting pain. let your body heal. i remember good minutes and bad hours, but remember your family and the love you feel inside and rely on the strength of our Savior who loves you so much!!!I pray daily for you and pray that you will recgonize the blessings that come every minute to you and your family. Be a good girl Chris!! i love you so much and understand exactly what you are going through. sending love and prayers your way, Dianne Holgate

    ReplyDelete
  2. Chris,
    Just wanted to let you know that you are always in my thoughts and prayers. Continue to get stronger. I'm glad your are making small strides. I know it's hard to be patient when you don't feel good, but just remember that we all miss and love you. Take care of yourself and continue to fight. Julie Wood

    ReplyDelete
  3. Dear Chris, Ivan and I were in the temple today, and I found myself thinking of you and the good discussions we had when we were supposed to be having an interview. I was thinking of your cheerful smile, and also that you were not very patient about what you might have to go through with your breast cancer treatments. It looke like you're going to learn some patience anyway. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. The beginning of this new year seems like a bright spot for you to focus upon - good things ahead. Hugs from us. Annette Waddoups

    ReplyDelete