I have to say it's been one heck of a week. I'm learning a lot about patience and strength. Thank goodness my sister is a nurse and has a handle on the health care system a little better than I do. I can keep going when I'm tired, but my thought process may slow down a bit. Thank goodness for coffee!
As I mentioned last week Papa had a fall when he went camping. What we did not know - he did some additional damage. Of course, everyone in the hospital and us were so concerned about his head and ribs that nothing else was checked because he never complained. Papa has a high tolerance for pain so when he says pain is 5 level for us mere mortals it is more like a 9. Well, Friday papa got lightheaded and was alert enough to back himself into a corner so he would not hit his head. As he went down, his legs collapsed and he felt his knee twist/snap. Luckily, he was at home and actually had on the "alert" button so he was able to call for help. I met him at the hospital as it's close to the nursing home. The funny part of this is that he said to me, this "alert" button really works, I think it just paid for itself! We have argued over this button off and on for some time.
Turns out he fractured the Tibial Plateau on his left knee and there is some damage to his right knee. The doctor said this bruise is not from today, papa said no it's from my fall last week. He has been walking on it for a week using his cane and started home physical therapy for some weakness in the left leg. Of course, no one has seen his knees as he is a very modest man. So now he is immobile for at least six weeks (as there will be no surgery needed) and will be headed to a rehabilitation center. We are hoping to use the facility where mema is so they can be close together.
All papa thought about in the ER was mema. He kept asking me what I told her as I had to leave before dinner. Also, he said, I'll be here in the ER for a while (it was packed) so you can go visit with mema. I said, mema is fine and safe, I'll stay here for a while. I have to say the love and concern papa has for mema is amazingly beautiful to me.
When you have someone in a nursing home, many times, the staff becomes like a family with good and bad eggs. In our case, over the past two years, not only do they look after mema, they keep an eye on papa as well. Just like a family sometimes it's time to leave the nest and this week we lost three staff members as they move forward to begin nursing school. I am so proud of these young people as they are on their own and trying to achieve their dreams. They will all make excellent nurses as I see their dedication and devotion to patients. hope to see and hear from them along the way. So with heartfelt thanks and a boatload of hugs I wish Caitlin, Michele, and Jessica good luck as they begin school this coming week.
I also wanted to wish my niece good luck as she completes her driving test this morning. I know she is a good driver as I've been with her. I can't believe she is 16 and getting this awesome responsibility. I do hope she takes it seriously as there are so many crazy people out there.
I finished two books this week. 1. "DEFENDING JACOB" by William Landay. It's a book about family, the law, and secrets. Very well written with a surprising twist at the end. 2. "WHAT IF GOD WROTE YOUR BUCKET LIST?" by Jay Payleitner. I came across this book when I went to pick up a prescription. Provided some very good things to contemplate and practice.
I am going to leave it here for today. I have to get to the hospital and nursing home. I hope you have a good week. Take care. Chat soon. Marie
"When adversity strikes, that's when you have to be the most calm. Take a step back, stay strong, stay grounded and press on. " LL Cool J
"Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will." Mahatma Gandi
"You have power over your mind - not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength." Marcus Aurelius