SwedishMama

Pity Party

2012-01-16T09:56:00.002-05:00

I am hosting a Pity Party, all are welcome, altho' I know few will attend. Every once in awhile it is necessary, then you move forward.

First off, Dwight is doing quite well. It seems the antibiotic did its job, he is pretty much back to his normal. He is going to a new pain management Doctor on Friday. We are praying they can get him on a better management than he is on now. Someone at the nursing home, who doesn't see him to discuss his pain, keeps changing his drug program.

My self pity list:

1) I have been using Dwight's desktop PC since mine got sick, but his has limited hard drive and keeps yelling at me.

2) In the fall the dryer quit. Just stopped being helpful. You can faintly hear the heating element come on, but no tumbling is happening. Took the back off the dryer, the belt is intact and there is no fuse. Just a no go show boat. Not an overly big deal, I just hung some clothes line in the basement, dug out the clothespins, a fan and hang the clothes.

3) Just before Christmas my blue tooth printer decided to go off line. And of course the CD ROM is no where to be found to reload in the PC and get the printer to do its job. Gr-r-r

4) This morning I tried to run the dishwasher, it is very full of very dirty dishes. It is (was) a good dishwasher, a Maytag, you don't have to rinse your dishes dishwasher. It has been moved four times and still ran well, mostly. It is at least eighteen years old. Sometimes the door won't shut tight, it gets caught on the counter top. It was installed by Dwight in the wheelchair and an elderly gentleman from down the street so a couple hiccups are acceptable. Till this morning, the door wouldn't close tight--at all. As I tried the usual tricks the door removed itself partially from the dishwasher and now will not close or open completely. Just kinda hanging there. I truly appreciate the knowledge God gave someone to invent the dishwasher, and I am one who greatly enjoys that blessing. Guess it is time to shop. From somewhere where they install without spending a fortune . Guess I keep hanging my laundry for now.

I could list many other of life's challenges, but those are the ones that are causing me frustration today.

Thanks for attending my party, there is still coffee in pot, nice and hot--it works fine. Want a cup?

Getting Better

2012-01-09T11:09:00.004-05:00

Thursday they changed Dwight's antibiotic and we started seeing improvements. He has been given this antibiotic by IV twice a day and by Sunday afternoon he was definitely better.

He had both Doctors visit him again on Friday, both presenting their opposite ideas to him. At this point neither will be used.

Dwight had several visitors from Church yesterday afternoon which served to put him in a great mood. I am not sure I can say the same about the Steeler's loss in the evening tho'.

It is planned for Dwight to return to Mill Run this afternoon. The IV antibiotic will be administered as a shot there.

I thank the Lord for his recovery from this round and to all of you who prayed for us, we really appreciate it and know it helps. This round has really wore me out, would love a couple normal days, but I know better.

Now to finish getting the Christmas decoartions taken care of......

What to do?

2012-01-05T12:10:00.002-05:00

I can not honestly say I am seeing any improvements in Dwight. He is alittle more awake, but not totally understanding what is being said to him. It could be that the board spectrum meds just aren't doing much because he is resistant to them, or it could be that he is just so bad.

One Doctor has suggest one extreme that I don't believe Dwight could handle, and is a kinda like locking the barn door after the horse is stolen. Another Doctor suggest something totally in the opposite direction. They can't be further apart. I just don't know what to do. I have prayed with no answer. I have searched the scripture and felt like I was studying a math book when it is a history test I am going to take. I have prayed some more. Mostly, "God this is your man, your servant. You know better than any Doctor what is going on and what needs done. Please show us your will." And I wait, we all wait. It is hard on all of us: wife, children, in-law children and grandchildren, and extended family. My Mom worries so and wants to be here.

They finally got a result from the urine culture this AM and will start on a new antibiotic. We will see. How much more must my dear husband suffer? I love him so and miss the 'real Dwight'.

God, please, show us what is your Will.

At the Hospital Again

2012-01-03T10:55:00.002-05:00

When I spoke with Dwight Monday morning I knew we having a problem. I hoped I was wrong, but about 12:30, in the middle of making mac n cheese from scratch, I got the dreaded call. Off to ER, all the classic symptoms of a bad infection. Only they didn't tell me his urine was mostly blood.

He didn't arrive until after 1:30. And it turned into a mostly waiting day. He didn't leave for a room till 1:30 in the morning. They did a chest X-ray, was the same spots they always see and declared pneumonia. A CAT scan and lots of blood work. The scan did show a serious problem, but no one worked on it till this morning in dialysis. Not something a dialysis RN does, but did, thank you.

Several DRs in, waiting on cultures to grow on the blood work, Dwight was given a general antibiotic in the ER. He continues to sleep, not eating or drinking anything. Another waiting game....

I have received several posts on Facebook of people praying, We thank all of you.

Flattery will get you what?

2011-12-21T10:01:00.003-05:00

It was very crowded as Karin, the kids and I walked and enjoyed the lights at the Zoo, cold too. Isaiah and I walked together, as Karin, Isaac and Esther-Faith led the way. As we walked Isaiah told me that not only did I not look my age I didn't act it. Smiling in the dark, I felt like telling him that his Christmas present was already ordered and on its way. Then he landed a homeroom, he told me that he didn't know any Grammies (how many does he know?) that not only own an Iphone, but know how to use it as well or as much as I do.

Many he does need another gift.....

As Christmas approaches, Dwight continues the much same. His pain is more intense as he now has more joint issues but continues on the same amount of pain meds, which aren't giving him enough relief. With all the room changes he has had this year he is back in the same room as he was in last Thanksgiving and Christmas.

We know God is in control, even when we don't even come close to understanding. One day Dwight will be healed and pain free, in the mean time we praise God for His love and Salvation and strive to serve Him as He requests.

I am thankful I was able to get Dwight a Kindle and the NIV Bible loaded on it so he can continue to read God's word. He also has a favorite author and I have bought him several of her novels.

Merry, blessed CHRISTmas to all. The gift of redemption, born in a stable, is truly the reason for our celebrations.

Ramblings

2011-11-26T11:11:00.002-05:00

For the few of you who regularly check my blog--and have found nothing lately--I apologize. My brain and ambition have also been missing some what lately. I know there are 'definitions' and lots of advice on curing/handling it. I know them, I counselled them, so I don't need them repeated to me. Thanks anyhow. It just is where I am now, but I don't intend on staying there. Life and stress can do that to you sometimes. And for those of you who know well, you know I am not just sitting in my stupor, but things are still getting done. Sometimes I get more done in a day than a person who is at their norm. Pity party over. Thanks for reading and not responding to it.

Dwight continues at the Care Center (AKA Nursing home). He is moved regularly it seems to different rooms, often to the confusion of family and friends who can't keep up. He has been in three different rooms in the last month. He is currently in room 121, a private room, although we are not, nor are we going to pay for a private room. He is not there at our request but because of the remodeling to 'old' rooms now that the new wing is open. The heavy push, verbally to move Dwight to another nursing home ended when Dwight and I continually insisted on a written request to move him. (When and why in writing please.) It seems we stirred something up. He was told he can stay. BUT not in a private room. That is out of my pay scale. I would like back all the time I spent going to many different nursing homes, making phone calls, and actually starting the paperwork. Not to mention the stress on both of us and the kids.

While in the first of three rooms Dwight was carrying a fever, after much requesting they ran a culture on his urine and found two UTI's. Yes, two. One related to MRSA. Took two more days to start antibiotics. After a week of antibiotics there were to test again, but it keep being put off. Now there is another complication. More waiting. And while waiting, he is really missing seeing the grandchildren, who aren't allowed in with the contagious infection. Not seeing family on BIG holidays is hard on anyone.

There is always fun stuff happening when you are a grandparent. Esther Faith has declared that I am her friend, a high honor indeed. Aurora declared (and is upset) that I am not old enough to have white hair mixed in with my blonde. Isaiah has decided that I don't like him as much as the rest because he isn't as cute as them. (Doesn't being very handsome, kind, loving and bringing me Tim Horton's count for anything.....?) And the other two, what fun to watch them interact, they are such great friends and share their own special jokes and laughter.

And speaking of Tim Horton's....so love that I was 'carded' (Golden Buckeye card) to get the senior discount. Sweet, naive boy thought I was 38. :).

I had a great trip home to New York and celebrated my 60th birthday (again) with my family there. Enjoyed so seeing everyone. There just wasn't enough time to converse with everyone, I need to head up again for some more time with every one. We even has snow for me, loved it. Can't have my birthday (Oct 29) without snow.

Now we are mostly caught up. My sewing/embroidery machine and lots of projects are calling me.....

WOW---Thanks.

2011-10-17T21:42:00.002-04:00

The cards came and came. All the way to Sunday, Oct 9th. Number one hundred sixteen. 116. WOW. And thanks to all, all, all the wonderful people who helped make this a great birthday for Dwight.

Dwight received cards from family, including my sister who never, NEVER, sends cards. From friends of our family. From our group at church, some have never meet Dwight because the inability to get regular rides on Sundays. But still they choose to wish him a great, blessed day. From a group in Cincinnati who regularly prays for Dwight. Friends from College. And lots of silly cards from a web group our son belongs to. Not counted in the total are wishes received by email and on facebook.

WOW

And back to the tough stuff. There have been comments made for several months about Dwight needing to leave Mill Run. But no pressure, till a couple weeks ago. Now it is time to get a new place for Dwight. I have visited four. Called more. I really liked one place, but they say they don't have an air bed for him. Really, the beds are ordered by the doctor for the resident. Rented and brought in. Really. Wish people would be honest.

Wasn't impressed by a couple others. Gave Dwight info on the fourth, but he prayed about it felt it wasn't the right one. A couple of the phone calls stated no room. Grr. Praying for guidance, want Dwight in a home where he will be well taken care of and where he can be a witness.

Several people took pictures, I am waiting for them to share with me so I can share with you.....

Birthday Surprises

2011-09-19T17:05:00.006-04:00

The surprises I planned for Dwight happened and then some. He has received, as of Monday, 90 cards. And his birthday is Tuesday...more to come. Some of the girls from the nursing home made him a card and got him some balloons. All of the children and grandchildren were able to come for lunch: one of Dwight's favorites--KFC, supplemented with pies, cake for the staff and more balloons.

And then Dwight turned the tables on us. He actually planned, with his two favorite aids, to get into his wheelchair and join us in the little 'cafe' for lunch and dessert. We adults were hoping he would succeed, but the grandchildren had no idea. The expressions on their faces were 'priceless'. I'm not sure who was prouder, Dwight or the aids who convinced him to go for it when he doubted himself.

Thankfully, our son-in-law (who shares his birthday), had his ever present camera and got some great shots, including:

And Dwight would like to add:

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of those who sent cards and words of encouragement to make my birthday so extra special. I was overwhelmed at that number old and 'new' friends whose cards filled to over flowing every bulletin board we could find. Thanks again so very much, love Dwight.

Wheelchair

2011-09-11T14:44:00.002-04:00

Because Dwight was in the hospital in July he qualified for physical therapy for a few weeks. On one of the last days before they signed off on therapy they taught the aids how to get him into his wheelchair. He has now been in his chair three times and an aid wheeled him around a little. He even moved about twenty feet by himself. He will only be put in his chair when he asks, and if there are three aids available to assist. I am hoping he asks 2 or 3 times a week. It has been 13 months since he last sat in his chair.

The aids who are aware of the card shower for Dwight's birthday come in and count his cards with a sly smile. He still hasn't asked why he is getting cards from people who wouldn't normally know it was his birthday. I hope he can get up next Sunday and join his kids and grand kids for KFC lunch in the little cafe near his room.

Today we are fighting a fever, hopefully just a reaction to the flu shot he got on Thursday.

Extreme news--good and bad

2011-08-26T15:02:00.002-04:00

Dwight's pain continues to an issue. Everytime he is in and out of the hospital the meds are adjusted and readjusted. At times he is barely comfortable. During the first visit to the new pain Dr, he seemed to be listening (sometimes mostly to himself and all he does in his free time) and said he would get the meds back to where they need to be. But the scripts weren't quite right.

Then back in the hospital with them looking at old med charts and using them and sending him back the Mill Run with those orders, except for a decrease in his baclafin, because it could damage his kidneys. (Which are already damaged?!?!???)

This week Dwight had a 2nd visit with the pain doctor, who did not inquire how things were, just started cutting one drug in half and increasing another, one that make Dwight drowsy. Dwight started to ask why, and couldn't they leave the one alone, as it was working most of the time. Doc said no, Dwight attempted to engage him in dialogue to understand his plan and the Doctor snapped his laptop shut, stood up and stated, "We are done here." and walked out of the room. Not sure what we will do next, we are examining some options.

Good news: while Dwight continues simple physicial therapy in his room, sitting on the bed edge and arm strengthing, his goal is his wheelchair.

Last week a few techs where shown how to get him in and out of his wheelchiar with the lift. Two got it, two were bored.

Today they got him in his chair and wheeled him to the therapy room where he did a few exercises and back to his room. Of course Dwight gave a happy hello to everyone he passed.

He is quite excited and hopeful.

Want to cry---or scream..

2011-08-07T22:38:00.002-04:00

When the remnants of Ike came through three years ago our home suffered some damage, as did many others in the area. Finding repair men was quite a challenge. Dwight did find one gentleman that he was confident would take good care of our needs. (Of course Dwight would rather have been able to do it himself).

Instead of the man Dwight talked to, he sent his wanta be son in law. As it has turned out, he really didn't know as much as he needed to. Too many things have shown that, including the repeated flood in my kitchen.

Twice in as many weeks we had a strong storm come in from the north. A combination of an unsealed door frame and either full gutter or unbalanced gutter resulted with a water fall into my kitchen. Water was literally spraying out of the top of the door jam, shooting out into the room. A bucket placed under it had 7" of water in it, plus all the rest loading the towels on the floor. So glad I got home shortly before it started.

In the basement it was running down the north wall, the worst near where the door is. Plus several other spots. So very frustrating.

We have talked about a roof over the porch, which if installed correctly, may help with some of it. I will need to seal over the door tomorrow, somehow, I asked the neighbor if I could borrow a ladder.....hate to seal the moisture in, would wait till Wednesday but it is to rain again.

Dwight: another infection sent him to the ER on Tuesday, two 'bugs', ones he hasn't had before. Back to Mill Run Thursday after dialysis. He has five days of IV antibiotics to fight it. He does have a new room mate. We were able to get a live church service on the Internet this morning, which we enjoyed.

Celebrated (late) Karin's birthday this morning and Jackson's kid birthday party his afternoon. Fun.

Thanks for letting me stew.

No, you did not....

2011-08-01T22:56:00.002-04:00

I have loved cats since before my rememberer started working. My family always has had cats. On the farm there were lots of barn cats, in the spring more kittens than you wanted to count. And by autumn there were way less. Dad would sent a spray of the freshest milk out from under a cow straight into the mouth of the smartest cats. There was always warm, foamy milk poured into the pan for the 'family'. (We called it the cat pan, but it was for food and milk--not the same definition we use today.)

My favorite is grey. I think because we had a wild momma cat that you couldn't get within 20 feet of. Every spring she produced 2 or 3 grey kittens who never made it to adulthood. Until the last year of her life, she had two dark grey kittens, all grey, just like her. I finally was able to get to them one day while she was away. One definitely was going to be wild like her. The other, a little girl, seemed to enjoy being held and loved. When they were about two months old momma went hunting and never returned, a few day later the wild one disappeared also. The little girl allowed some loving and stayed around but didn't make it through the winter. She snuggled a warm cow and forgot to move....

I have had a few more grey cats since, three were very special, loving pets. And now I have another that is doing all he can to be added to the list. He definitely does not like being left alone. The empty nest is not to his liking. He will sit in the other room and protest. Like I am going to go to him, really...trot your little self to me.

Tonight we had some loving, a snack, some in your face while you try to read, and some yowling. Then, after another round of protest from the kitchen he ran straight into the bathroom, onto the toilet seat and..............

............drank from the toilet.

Seriously--I thought that was a dog trick.

He has water in the gravity water dish, water in another dish, but evidently, only the freshest will do for him.

Home Alone, I thought

2011-07-19T12:16:00.003-04:00

With Kristen on a teen mission trip and the grandchildren staying with their cousins and aunt and uncle, I thought I'd have a quiet week alone. Sewing, embroidering, watching a movie or two, sleeping in. Thought...

Not accounting for two very spoiled, very inquisitive kittens. No, my plans did not include them--at least not their determination for things to continue as they are accustomed to.

The first day was fine, they are used to their humans being gone for several hours at a time. But in the middle of the night they discovered a new toy, by their definition a new toy. I didn't agree when I found it in the morning. I keep my embroidery threads in plastic storage containers that stack and lock (mostly) together. Having brought my machine down into the AC for the week, of course supplies followed. And so did curiosity. First the storage units were towers to sit on, but when jumping down from them they came open. Guess I shouldn't have placed them on a chair. Quite a noise, quite a mess. Thankfully only two came open, must have been enough, one of them was all small spools. They had been happily played with, the colors well mixed.

After 48 hours of only me they are very determined to receive the necessary petting they require for good health--but I only have two hands and there are others things I like to do, as much as I love kittens. They don't want it while I am watching TV, perferring when am at the machine.

Snookzie either likes his baths, or likes sleeping bathtubs. He now takes his afternoon nap in the tub, but I must make sure the curtain isn't totally shut, he makes quite a racket trying to get out. Especially at 3 in the morning.

It is nice having the company for the most part..... And they are pretty.

Busy days

2011-06-30T23:13:00.002-04:00

Much has happened in the past couple weeks. Dwight had a very nice Father's Day, enjoying his children and grandchildren.

Dwight is still on strong antibiotics for a few more days, administered at the end of dialysis. He slowly has come back to almost normal numbers on his levels, a couple are not in acceptable range, one because one of his meds were not given to him while in the hospital. The other because of his poor appetite.

A super highlight was the promotion of our wonderful son in law to Sargent with the Ohio State Patrol. Trooper Henn is now patrolling the roadways around Marysville. See Karin's blog for an excellent sharing of the day and their lives now.

Unfortunately we now have fewer pets, including our beloved dog. Health issues and age took their toll. I continually find myself thinking I need to let the dog out, or feed her, or drop her a sample of human food. DeAnna was a wonderful dog and leaves us all sad.

God is good, and His blessings are greatly appreciated by this wife, mother, grandmother and friend of a few special ladies.

Surprised

2011-06-18T21:17:00.003-04:00

After waiting out the thunderstorm at the Care Center (as noted by Jackson, the sign says Care Center, not nursing home, so hence forth....) I received a phone call from a JoAnn employee. She told me a good looking man had a delivery for me, where was I? At Speedway taking care of my hungry van.

Diane asked the man to deliver to my home but he refused. And she refused to tell me what it was, only that they would return in the AM.

While helping a customer this morning, a gentleman approached with an arrangement of cut, lilac colored flowers. From my husband, expressing his love for me and thanking me for loving him. Wow. Beautiful. It seems he partnered with our daughters to arrange this surprise for me . Thanks, thanks and thanks.

Visiting this evening he seems more his old self, only mellowed, more gentle, more patient, more thankful. I like all that, but am mostly thankful to still have his smile, to hold his hand, to look into his baby blues, and to kiss him good night.

He has already received several 'Happy Father's Day' greetings, including a balloon from the activities department of the Care Center. He couldn't go to the Father's Day Gala so they brought him and his room mate each a balloon.

Happy Father's Day to all the Dad's stopping by my blog; you are great.

Better, way better.

2011-06-16T23:48:00.003-04:00

Dwight better. I was very surprised when he called me after dialysis. By himself. Yesterday he couldn't hold the phone, let alone use it.

He said that about an hour into dialysis he started to feel better. About 2 hours in and allot of things cleared up. He remembers some from yesterday, but not all.

He came back to Mill Run apologizing to everyone.

It was the missing dialysis, the poison in his blood. At the hospital he went four days without and then two days because the nursing home wanted to get him back on their schedule. Bad choice.

But he is mostly back to where he was. I notice little things that aren't right, and he has a fever, again, so we will be watching him closely.

But we are so thankful to the Lord.

I have more to share, but my eyes won't stay open.

Not good

2011-06-16T12:45:00.002-04:00

Our life with Dwight continues to resemble a day at an amusement park. But we aren't amused. The roller coaster, the tilt a whirl, and a lot of other crazy rides .

Monday Dwight continued to be confused and his conversation often confused (an amused) us. They did put the ports in and he had his first dialysis in four days. We hoped to see an improvement, but did not.

Tuesday he was very tired and informed me that God was ready for him to come home. Also the Doctors decided he was ready to go back to Mill Run. He saw angels he saw in the room and wait for them to take him to heaven. He told me he wouldn't see another shift change, done at 7 AM and 7 PM. The transfer van came at 5:30, and...

At the nursing home my sweet husband was the worst mentally I have ever seen him. Something definitely happened on the ride. Dwight says he died and they gave him an IV and revived him. He was given no IV. He was just very tired and confused, very confused. He ate very little. He insisted the south won the war. He wanted almost everything taken off his bed table. He was making a flag on it. I am calling it instant dementia.

It was a challenging evening for our family and the Mill Run staff.

If possible, yesterday (Wednesday) was worse. An new drug has been added to calm him when agitated.

Thank you for your continued interest and prayers, they are certainly giving our family added strength. Please hold the grandchildren up in prayer, they so want their grandfather to get better and come home.

Up and Down and Up

2011-06-12T10:56:00.003-04:00

Friday and Saturday we continued on a downward spiral. Saturday the Doctors and nurses were quite concerned, to the point of quizzing Dwight (and I) on his DNR. I left for lunch, a nap and off to work not knowing if I would get a phone call of bad news.

The Doctors decided Dwight was sleeping too much because of the pain meds he is on. Also the baclifin, that he has been on for years. They lowered and stopped some of them. A Doctor from his family practice noticed that he hadn't had one of the IV antibiotics since Wednesday and wrote orders for it and another one that he has had in the past.

This morning he is conversing, not quite normal, but understanding our questions and giving good answers, slowly. They are going to replace the dialysis ports tomorrow and do dialysis. Maybe, maybe.....back to Mill Run soon.

I am not going to count any of it as a 'for sure'. I would love it to happen, but I know my husbands health is still percarious and will take one day, one hour at a time. Dwight belongs to the Lord and we both are at peace with whatever the Lord chooses for us.

Thursday

2011-06-09T20:35:00.002-04:00

I know many of you are checking often for reports on my wonderful husband, and I don't want to let you down. I am writing this with tears clouding my vision. The news is not the best, although there may be good news I am just not realizing yet.

Sunday morning and afternoon were definitely our high spots. Nothing short of a miracle. Even Dwight's Doctor was surprised to find him alive. And he was very much our 'Dwight'. He visited very clearly with Doctors, nurses, two Pastors, all of our family that visited.

Monday he seemed a little down from Sunday, but he had dialysis and that always tires him. Tuesday there were more Doctor's visits than he can remember. Wednesday he had dialysis again and they removed the ports from his chest. The plan is to replace them Monday. Yes, that means four days without dialysis. They will be monitoring his blood very closely.

What is it? Still not totally sure. The infectious disease Doctor isn't convinced on the pneumonia. There is no pinpoint name, just a bad infection. With the ports out (possibly the source of the infection) they hope to 'purify' his blood. More wait and see.

Last night all our children and grandchildren wanted to visit him. He said no, he didn't want them to see him like he was. I am sorry I honored that request because I found him in a worse state today. Much more repeating himself, loss of muscle control (jerking) and dozing off. I let the families know they could come for a short visit. He had two visits from family and I must say he did perk up when the kids were there.

Several of you have expressed concern for me, I do appreciate that. I am more tired than normal, I guess that is how my body/mind copes. I am trying not to let it depress me and am trusting God to do His will. God does have a reason for this, for all of our family. I am praying for each of my children and grandchildren to discover what God is teaching us through this. For all of us to understand God loves us and Papa loves us, no matter how much we don't like this.

So happy to know I have friends who are hanging in with us in support and prayers.

I am typing this outside in the cool breeze of the evening. My flowers look beautiful and fireflies are flitting around in the yard. A few birds are singing their good night song. Our maples have grown and are casting their shadow from the street light. Thank you, Tim, for not listening to me (this time) and creating this little oasis outside my back door.

I am blessed.

A name--kinda

2011-06-07T14:07:00.002-04:00

Not all cultures are finished growing, but the dozen or so Doctors pretty much agree on what Dwight's body is playing host to this time:

Pneumonia;

a different, nameless kind. #1) it isn't affecting his lungs. No fluid on the lungs, no problems breathing. The spot they found on his lung is not related to it at all. #2) it isn't from any conventional sources of pneumonia. It is probably from the port/catheter they use for his dialysis. They are going to remove the port/catheter, and not replace it for 7 days.

All this is so odd sounding I asked Dwight to repeat it.

Twice.

Same all three times.

Will any of this change? Maybe.

Will I be surprised? No, and I am sure you won't be either.

Monday -- some changes

2011-06-06T19:36:00.002-04:00

Ups and downs. Such has been our life the last 14 months, and the last 60 hours.

Last evening I was not happy with the lack of muscle control I was seeing, nor with Dwight's poor conversation skills. I continued to 'nag' about his IV antibiotics. Finally the nurse checked his chart, and checked, and discovered that the orders written by our Dr at the discharge from ICU weren't in the computer, so drugs had not been delivered. So she said, but Dwight had already had some of his meds, I really think she was having difficulty reading the chart. She was scrolling up and down the chart repeatedly.

This morning, when I called to say good morning Dwight's words were, "I'm in trouble here." Then he dropped the phone. I quickly made coffee, feed the dog, and got presentable. As I was driving I called again, repeatedly, only getting a busy signal. I called the 8th floor desk and was told that Dwight was in dialysis, altho he wasn't supposed to go till 11:00. Back home to more coffee, kittens and a nap.

I have noticed that he responds better to one of the 2 antibiotics than the other.

Doctors and consults all afternoon and still no pinpointed cause or causes.
An new wrinkle, now they want to do an ultrasound of his legs, with dye. A very big NO-NO. Dye is very bad for kidneys.

Supper was very light for Dwight and now he is winding down. Ready for some boring TV and his evening nap. I remember my Dad's excuse for his after supper nap, "So I can sleep better when I go to bed."

We were really hoping that the infection would be identified by now, correct treatment started and return to Mill Run in the near future. But we are waiting.......

So thankful for much better nurses and PSA than last month.

Dwight's 3 AM conversation

2011-06-05T13:07:00.009-04:00

This is Dwight's story.

And while he doesn't remember a lot of what happened. And he doesn't remember anything from when his pressures were so low. And he doesn't quite remember the order that things happened. He does have some very pointed and vivid memories. Very vivid.

This is one of those memories.

These are his words.

At about quarter 'til three this morning, I woke up. And I knew that I was approaching a moment of decision. So, I began to pray. I told the Lord that I'm ready to go. You know, Lord, that I have served you well; I have followed your will, and I'm ready to go.

On the other hand, I would like to stay. So, I'm ready to go, and I'm ready to stay. But on the other hand. I would prefer to stay. I would love the chance to love my wife in person for a much longer time than I have. I want to kiss her for a long, long time.

And I want to love my children. Much longer and much better than I have.

And you know, I dearly love my grandchildren. And how I would love to mentor them and teach them some of the tricks of the trade I've learned over the years and give them a head start on a career or just a hobby. And I want to hug my little girls. To hear about all their most recent toys for a long, long, long time.

So Lord, I prefer to stay. If you would grant me my wish, I would be a very grateful man. And I promise to do all of those things to the best of my ability. But if you want me to come home, I'm okay with that, too. It's your choice Lord. You know my wishes, but it is your choice.

According to Dwight, that took about 15 minutes to pray. And around 3 a.m., he started to sweat profusely. And for about the next hour, the nurses and physican care assistants were in his room. By 4 a.m., the fever had broken and I was on the road to recovery.

Dwight said, "So apparently the Lord granted me my desires. And I am here. Back again. Borrowing Susie's blog to thank you for your prayers. For me and for my family."

ICC

2011-06-04T17:55:00.002-04:00

Interesting typing in plastic gloves, am sure I will made plenty of typos.

In the ER Dwight's BP and heart rate went quite low, he also was unresponsive. the Dr, who will remain nameless (altho I could call him a few names, including a couple Danish not nice words I know)--decided he needed a drug to stop all Dwight's pain meds from working. Before I could say, excuse me, what are you doing, it was in him.

I can not tell you the horrors we experienced as he instantly went in drug withdraw and full body intensive pain. It was so bad that all the ER personnel came gawking. In the intensive pain and screaming, Dwight managed to pull out the IV they needed to administer more pain meds.

It has been a rough time. We are in ICC. The above mentioned drug has wore off and the pain meds, plus more, are back on line. His BP and heart rate are again low, dangerously low. The same Dr suggested the drug again, it is probably a good thing he was on the other side of the bed and other people were in the room. (I had told at least three times we would NEVER do that to him again.)

We are waiting for the antibiotics to kick in. As it stands right now, it is not the best situation. We are trusting the Lord for healing. We understand that not all healing is on this side of glory. God is our Lord, we are committed to His will and are thankful for His love for us.

Thanks, again to all who care and pray.

ER Again

2011-06-04T08:17:00.002-04:00

Rejoicing as Dwight gave me the news Thursday that he is allowed to start getting into his wheelchair a few times a week for half hour at a time. He was quite excited about that.

Then this morning I was woke from my sleep in morning by a nurse from Mill Run saying Dwight was off to ER, again. Low respristory rate, high fever, plus all the other signs of another infection.

That call woke Kristen and Aurora, who were also enjoying a sleep in morning. Then I woke Karin from her sleep in morning to tell her. Then my Mom, who always wants to know all that is going on.

So, here I sit, watching my husband sleep, with no moniters this time. And no testing, yet. At least they aren't treating him as a mental patient. They clearly listened to me. Praying the rest of the stay goes this well.

What is frustrating is that Dwight told the night nurse something was wrong (an agency nurse) and she didn't report to anyone till this morning.

Just letting my friends and family know because we have so many loving and caring family and friends.

Bitter Sweet

2011-06-02T08:41:00.002-04:00

May 26th was our 39th Anniversary.

Our second celebrated with two different address.

#38 at Grant Hospital.

#39 at Mill Run Gardens and Care Center.

Last year Dwight was very ill as a result of multiple kidney stones and all the infections attacking his health. We, his family, had unspoken questions and fears. We make it through months of successful and unsuccessful surgeries to remove the stones. The last was January 4th, 12 months after all this started. Dwight has lost at least 140 pounds and is now on dialysis three times a week. His is very weak, but has started some therapy sitting on the edge of his bed. When the bed sore is healed he can get back into his wheelchair and into the therapy room. We know it will be many months before this happens, but are excited to know it is coming. There was a point when we weren't sure....

I took the day off and got dinner from our favorite Chinese take out. Although Dwight's appetite has been poor lately he ate almost all of it. A couple days later I took our new kitten in, who loved all over him. More smiles.

I really am thankful, we could have lost my sweet husband, he was that ill. He knows God has many things for him to do yet for the Kingdom, and prays for opportunities.

Thank you to all of you who pray for him and our family. Also to those who visit, call him or send him cards. These all help lift his spirits.

Back home

2011-05-16T10:21:00.003-04:00

Although Dwight's goal is return to our Cape Cod home in west Columbus, he calls Mill Run home. He has been there, with many visits to the hospital interspersed, since last March.

After our adventure this weekend at Grant, he started the new week at Mill Run. He arrived mid afternoon Sunday and had to go through all the admittance procedures, again.

I was enjoying Isaac's 11th year celebration while Dwight was being transferred. We had all enjoyed a wonderful meal and conversation around the antique oak table that at one time celebrated birthdays at Dwight's parents house, then in our large dining room in Leetonia, and now continues on at the Hennhouse. The younger four cousins were at the kids table, lively, non stop conversation going on there to the point that none of them finished their meal. It was fun to observe, the boys had their own conversation, and the girls theirs, both unaware of the other conversation.

Just as plates were being cleared away Dwight called in a panic. The hospital had sent the old prescription list back (the same one we had to fight with them to get updated at Grant). And then, a nursing home Doctor, who has never seen Dwight, looked at it and decided that his pain meds and one other drug were too high and halved them. Why, oh why, do those in the medical profession make their decision on only what they see right in front of them and not look at the whole picture(aka history)? I am sounding like a broken record. (For those of you old enough to remember what happened with a badly scratched record, I am sure you are smiling!)

I really wanted to watch Isaac open his gifts, but I am well aware of my husbands need for me to be with him and help fight these battles. In his room were three Mill Run employees, 2 nurses and one of our favorite aids, in her last year of study to be a nurse. The one nurse was in charge (I had not meet her before), she was going to follow the drug orders, they were fine with her. I demanded to see them, I immediately recognized they were the OLD ones, with multiple hand written changes. I calmly explained her what was what, including getting the right paper work from Grant ASAP. Also that this was not Dwight's nursing home Doctor and I wanted them to follow the orders written by his nursing home Doctor, including calling her if necessary. It took about an hour, two cups of coffee, chocolate (both for me), alittle nagging and things were back to normal. I must say the aid was a great encourager to Dwight and I.

Several residents welcomed me back, saying they missed me. Not quite sure how to interpret that as a couple of them have dementia.

Things are not dull, ordinary or uneventful in the Shirey family and all branches thereof.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ISAAC. MY FAVORITE: 11 year old, middle grandson and Isaac.

Two days--few answers.

2011-05-14T22:09:00.003-04:00

I can not begin to express the extreme frustrations of the last two days. When the Nursing Home call and said they needed to send Dwight to the hospital I never dreamt the fight we would have with hospital staff.

I knew immediately, from the description of Dwight's behavior, that he had another infection. My fear was, and still is, that there are more kidney stones.

But, because of his difficulty speaking in clear sentences, they treated him as if he was off his rocker. I understand that alot of what they did is standard for cases as this, but really, please listen to the spouse, or whoever that knows them best. I told them many times that this is normal for him when he has a bad infection. I really felt like getting a tape recorder and just hitting play, rewind, play, rewind, play......

After about an hour & a half (during which they did a head CAT scan, I am sure all his marbles are still there, and chest xray) they took a urine sample, one of the tests clearly showed a UTI. The other had to culture for 48 hours. They gave him two antibiotics by IV. Then they did another CAT scan, we were told it was of his abdominal region. We found out yesterday (Friday) that it was a chest CAT, with dye, looking for blood clots that could be breaking loose and causing his speech problems. When the kidney Doctor discovered the use of dye he was not happy, dye is hard on dialysis patients.

I, in turn, was again not happy that they continued to treat Dwight's symptoms as if he had a stroke or some other brain damage. Just treat the infection so the infection doesn't cause more damage. It was several months before we (the family) saw the effects of the infection from a year ago have less and less influence in Dwight's thinking. He is pretty much back to 'good ole Papa D'.

I was forced to confront a nurse who was being condescending to Dwight's situation and my requests. She would cut me off and let me know whatever I had to say was worthless and they would handle everything as they saw fit. It was not all sweetness, but she needed to know that we have a bigger picture than her little chart and her judgements. An air mattress (which Dwight must have, and has had at this hospital before--it is in the records and can be looked up) was ordered and delivered within two hours. And she became a person and treated me as one. We stilled had a couple small battles, especially when she tried to interpret a Doctors orders her way, going as far as to get a house doctor to write the orders her way (after all, what the kidney doctor wanted didn't make sense to her).. I insisted they do as prescribed. The first doctor was called---and followed.

At this point is seems Dwight as a rare bladder infection that needs an antibiotic by IV every 48 hours. Other tests, cultures are 'growing' and we didn't hear what the kidney CAT scan showed.

They did do dialysis today, and the tech/Dr did not use his fistula, said it is a very sloppy one. The people at his regular dialysis are very happy with it. His ports only worked for about 3 hours and they want to replace them, but did not do so today. I don't understand why some professionals think they are they only ones that can do a good job and criticise others in their own field.

Dwight is clear minded again and just wants to go back to Mill Run. I hope they can so Monday.

Thanks to all who have prayed for Dwight and who have inquired about him.
God is answering your prayers, and we are praying for blessings for your compassion to us.

Surprises--Good and Bad

2011-05-12T09:49:00.000-04:00

Saturday (before Mother's Day) I took Jackson and Aurora shopping. First to Bath and Body to get a couple of things to spoil myself. Then off to the nursery.

So much to look at, so very much. Both children enjoyed all the beauty. Trying to find something for the kids to get their mother was proving interesting as both had their own ideas, until we found a yellow rose bush. We carefully checked each one for the best one. Kristen was very surprised. And happy.

Surprise #1) they decided that Kiki and Mimi needed flowers also and they carefully examined the pansy baskets and bought us each one. Pansies are one of my favorites.

Surprise #2) as we were enjoying an early lunch there was a loud knock at the front door--there stood my grinning son with two beautiful hanging baskets for me. Thought he wasn't coming, but he loves surprising me and he can't stand missing mother's day. We spent a couple hours trimming my trees, they look like a pro did them!

Surprise #3) All three of my children and all five grandchildren visited me at work.

Surprise #4) A couple of weeks ago I brought a praying mantis cocoon in the house (in a bug jar). Yesterday I discovered hundreds of tiny, mantis in the jar. We let them go on my beautiful lilac bush last evening. When we checked on them this morning they had grown and were already changing from a dull brown to a light green.

Surprise #5) Jackson, who doesn't like bugs on him, let one walk all over his hand, with pleasure. Kristen has pictures.

Surprise #6) I am composing this in an ER room at Grant. Last evening my sweetheart was very tired, this morning the Nursing home was not happy with Dwight's inability to answer simple questions, so...here we are. Waiting for test results.

Oh...and number 4 and a frown.

2011-05-05T09:43:00.002-04:00

My dear husband often has times of forgetfulness. An unfortunate result of the massive infection. I try to remember (like to think he shared some of his forgetfulness with me, he has always been like that. If any of you believe that is why I forget things you will definitely move up my list of favorite people.) Any how, I have several prompt questions I try to ask him each day so I am aware of all that is going on, including phone calls and visits.

# 4) Earlier this week he told me, "Oh, I started therapy last week." Really, last week?!?!?!

At this point, his therapy is relearning to sit on the edge of the bed. It is slow, as he gets dizzy and needs to learn to balance himself. He also is flexing his arm and shoulder muscles in the sitting posistion. He has new pain from that. The therapist is quite happy, stating he is quite motivated. We all know that.

The wound care Dr will closely watch his wound. If it appears it is slowing, or reversing the healing process the sitting time, and/or frequency will be reduced.

Frown: My dear children have been planning a nice Mother's Day celebration, including a surprise visit from Sam. But unfortunately I have to work all weekend, including 10-7 on Sunday (the end of a seven day stretch). Sam has decided not to come since he would hardly see me. Aurora is quite bummed about that, as I am sure the rest of grandkids are, they love their Uncle Sam and visits with him.

Think I will go buy myself a nice hanging basket for Dwight to give me....

Good News---1, 2, 3

2011-05-03T23:28:00.002-04:00

1)--Dwight's wound care Dr may be good, but he is definitely lacking in good bedside manners. He has a very black and white personality, with 'the glass is half full' thrown in for good message. So, altho he does a good job with Dwight's wound, he rarely gives encouragement--only commands--often unreasonable commands. Until last time, Dwight has been doing all he can to keep unnecessary pressure off the wound--and it is working. Dr Woundcare says it is shrinking, and could be healed in six months.

2)--Dwight has had two failed fistulas placed in his left arm. Finally a Dr did vein mapping and a third one was put in. Today, two weeks ahead of schedule, they started using it with success. They can only use it for one direction of the dialysis for two weeks, but it was successful for all four hours today.

3)--Saturday, Tim & Karin, Tim parents, Dot & Bruce, Kristen and her friend Derek and all five children attacked the wheelchair ramp. They totally striped the deck off and did reconstruction on the landing outside the kitchen door, enlarging it to measurements Dwight requested for easier turning around to get into the house. There is new deck plywood from top to bottom and the bottom has an improved foundation. Sunday the Henn's returned and worked on the down spouts and clean up. It is wonderful. How can I ever say enough thanks to all of them? Karin took tons of pictures has posted some of them on her blog: hennhouse.blogspot.com. Check them out. (Now it needs to stop raining so the basement dries out and the wood dries enough to paint it. Anyone have an idea when that will be?)

Modern Wonders

2011-04-28T22:34:00.003-04:00

Having celebrated my half century birthday (and then some), I have seen alot of wonderful technical inventions. At the time of my birth computers had been invented but even at the time of my high school graduation they were still so new that only a few select colleges offered courses in computer education. (And to think I turned down the opportunity to go to one....)

Now we have so many wonderful devices. I sit here with my net book on my lap, my smart phone beside me, watching my flat screen TV. I can blog, send email and comment on face book. Wonderful inventions God has blessed us with enabling us to instantly communicate with friends and to be reunited with people we have lost touch with. People who where important parts of our life, but the years removed our connections.

Today such a reunion took place. I opened my email and found a questionable email. The subject was 'praying for you'. The email address was one I had never seen before. Since I have gotten 'spam' emails responding to my blogs in the past I thought this was another--it sure had the earmarks. I debated with myself, not wanting to get a virus or an email with content I really didn't want to read. I opened it, am thankful I did. It was from a young lady Dwight and I knew in the late 70's, a dear friend of the Shirey family. She now follows our blogs and prays for us daily. What a blessing.

Sittin' and Snoozin'

2011-04-28T18:48:00.002-04:00

Dwight is not overly happy with his new room. Everyone coming in through the main entrance into the long term care wing must walk straight towards his room to turn the corner. He feels he is observed by most. Also there are two offices just across from his room so there is alot of 9-5 traffic there. But he has a window again, and it over looks the parking lot. Of course nothing is as nice as his own room at home.

The evening news is on, with buzz about the bad weather and some wedding taking place tomorrow. Dwight and his roommate are sleeping through it all. Not sure how, both have air mattress with less than quiet pumps. And his roommate has a trac and breathing machine. Add Dwight's TV with the news and Ernie's radio playing country music and too many commercials. My body would like to join them but the noise is too much for me. Just wish I could sleep when I settle into my comfy bed at night, laying awake 2-3 hours is crazy.

Spring is so welcome-less rain and storms would be good, but the flowers, tree breaking forth with fresh leaves and pears blossoms is great. I have a wonderful crop of violets--many shades of violet, whites and white with violet freckles. The bleeding hearts are in full bloom and last falls pansies are beautiful. The lily of the valley look like they will produce a great crop of fragrant flowers. Can't wait.

Time to kiss Dwight awake and go let the dog out, eleven hours is a long bladder hold. And fuzzy kittens to hold. One still needs a home....

Two Steps Forward, Two Steps Backward

2011-04-13T09:25:00.002-04:00

Not sure if I have the count right, could be two forward, three back. Or one forward, two back, or one and one. Just seems that we are not gaining any ground this week.

Dialysis went fine last week. Yesterday (Monday) he only got one good hour then everything stopped. After putting something into the dialysis port that is supposed to open up the internal blockage there was no success. One out of four hours, after two days off. Not good.

So it is off today, Wednesday, to have have the ports replaced, again. Therefore his wound care Dr visit is postponed till next Wednesday.

The fistula is growing well in Dwight's upper left arm and may be able to be used in early May. Good news.

Step back, although is Spring, normally Dwight is able to handle his pain better Spring and Summer. But his mattress has been changed and is not overly comfortable and he has had to have his pain meds increased. To rent the mattress he was using is almost $400 a month and is not covered, it would be out of pocket. We are trying to find out purchase cost, but haven't gotten a response yet. It has to be handled by the nursing home, and I don't think it is a priority to them. Hopefully we will hear soon.

Dwight is enjoying the spring flowers I have been able to take in. Also, Friday Isaac and I took in the kittens and he fell head over heels in love with one the fluffy grey one. I was told that that little sweetheart was to stay with us and visit him often. So, I now have another beautiful grey kitten. Named him Snookzie. He is a real sweetie, sleeping with me as I type.

Stitches Out

2011-04-01T13:52:00.002-04:00

Finally, after a couple postponements, Dwight had the stitches removed from his vein surgery on his arm. It went much smoother and way less painful than the nurses had told him it would be because of the delay.

They listened to vein and are very pleased. His Dr at dialysis will keep an eye on it and he may not need to go back to the Dr. That would be one less (two really) trip by transport!!!!

Everything else seems to just running on an even keel. We pray for it to continue. The bedsore continues to heal, bringing physical therapy closer. Physical therapy will be long and hard, but Dwight is determined.

Dwight's roommate left last week, hopefully he has been reunited with his wife and is feeling better at his daughters home.

Dwight is really enjoying his Kindle, he is so happy he can read the Scriptures again. He also watches alot of DVDs on his portable DVD player. I just ordered him two more seasons of one his favorite TV programs. And of course, NCIS reruns are on all the time.

the continuing story

2011-03-14T13:17:00.002-04:00

Last Monday morning at 5:00 AM Dwight was loaded in the transport vehicle and set off to Doctors Hospital to spend some time in surgery with Dr Brightwell. His check in was scheduled for 6 AM. He arrived at 5:40, surgery was at 8. All went well, Dr Brightwell thinks that the 'Third time is the charm' and we (Dwight) will have a good, usable vein for dialysis. It will be several weeks of healing before we know for sure. Dwight really likes Dr Brightwell and I have heard from others that he is the best. Praying so.

Dwight had been on a very, very strong antibiotic for an infection. It affected his sugar levels, causing them to go quite low. He went several days without insulin shots and extra bags of candy. He seems to be returning to normal. Also he back on blood thinners so his blood is not clodding in the dialysis machine and he is getting a full four hours of dialysis.

The new treatment they are using on his bedsore is being successful, so good to have good reports. Dwight (and the five grand kids) are quite anxious for all this to be done with and for Dwight to return to our little Cape Cod on Demorest.

I am hoping to have a work day one Saturday in April and fix the ramp and a few other things around our home. (Maybe the 30th--anyone free and willing to join me?)

Thanks to all of you who continue to inquire about and pray for my sweet husband.

Good Deed Rewarded

2011-03-12T23:30:00.002-05:00

If you recall, I talked a very pretty cat out of a tree last November. Because of her beauty and friendliness we were sure she belonged to someone. We watched for fliers on the telephone poles, missing cat ads in the paper, or sad little boys at our door--any or all wanting their sweet cat back. None of the above turned out to be the right answer. The right answer being: You are the proud owner of an unfixed female cat.

Early in January our cat Velvet, began accepting suitors. Quite a few, large Tom cats whom we had never seen appeared at our doorstep. Both door steps, and Velvet was quite happy to entertain them.

Nine weeks have passed and we have reaped the results of the seed sowing. Wednesday, when Kristen and the kids arrived home, Velvet insisted that Kristen follow her, and introduced her to two little balls of fur under the bed. (Aurora was not pleased at all,our dear cat Velvet had blood on herself, Aurora retreated to chair and stayed there till her Mother put her to bed). We were alittle disappointed, we had hoped for more than two babies. (One was grey with white markings and the other white with grey spots, very interesting spots--pictures will follow in a week or so.)

At the call the morning alarm we discovered that we now had a very pretty black kitten with white marks. Smiles all around. AND, "may I hold one, please?" ringing in our ears.

When I returned home Thursday evening I thought maybe there would be another, but no, just the three lovely babies with their tiny, squeaky meows. Of course I held each one, telling them how pretty and welcome they were. My cold and I headed off for a fitful night of sleep.

Friday morning, without my glasses, I stopped to say good morning, half groggy I thought I was seeing double, glasses on, I still was seeing double, really... light on. Yes there are two grey babies, more than 24 hours later we had an increase. Four little darlings in the cat box.

And a lot of, "may I hold a kitten?" May I check on the kittens?" May I pet a kitten?" "Why aren't their eyes open?" "Why are their nails so sharp?" Going to be a fun 6-8 weeks. Can't wait for Esther Faith, Issac and Isaiah to come over and see them too!!!!

Good News Update

2011-03-06T15:50:00.002-05:00

Dwight visited the wound care Dr this past week, receiving a very good report. His bed sore that has been very bad is finally making continual healing. The Dr and staff were very happy. They have used several different treatments, something or 'somethings', are working.

Also, it seems that the latest UTI has finally responded the third antibiotic. This is double good, the UTI is gone and the low blood sugar levels are going away. Now I will have to stop giving Dwight so much candy, altho it has been a literal life saver a couple times.

Monday morning the vein Dr will preform surgery to create a permanent spot to do dialysis. Praying this work after two failed surgeries.

Also praying that this nasty cold that has knocked me for a loop doesn't hit Dwight. He has had so many shots that he should be OK.

Also, if you haven't checked my kids blogs lately I invite you to do so...

New Room--New Doctor--Good News Promise

2011-02-22T13:06:00.003-05:00

I wish I could tell all of you faithful readers that Dwight is happy in his new room but....

His room mate is a grouchy, hard of hearing, anti social 86 year old man. He seems to resent having to share a room. We try to be tolerate of his lack of manners and cold shoulder. He has cared for his wife for years, she suffers with dementia. He recently fell and his daughter and son-in-law moved her to Indianapolis with them and will be taking him also, when he is released. (One nurse told me it couldn't happen soon enough) It has to be very hard to lose your wife and soon your home. We just wish he wouldn't play the AMC movie channel and old war movies so loud that a headache is your new, daily friend. And turn the heat down, please. I did buy Dwight earplugs and he said they help. Dwight has attempted to witness to his room mate, but he doesn't want to have any type of a conversation.

Into Dwight's former, private room across the hall, they moved in a who woman has experienced some type of brain injury and often yells, yesterday for nine hours. And they can't shut her door when she is acting out. She is on an IV feeding. Don't know what all is going on but don't envy the aids and nurses caring for her. Or her.

Dwight has visited a new Doctor who is doing 'vein mapping' on both of his arms. He has found a good prospect on the left upper arm and several good ones on the right arm. The Doctor will be studying them more fully and they attempting a new fistula soon. If it is successful then the dialysis can be done through it and no more ports.

The Doctor is at Doctors Hospital. Dwight was happy to be in 'home territory' and was very happy with the 'mapping' ultrasound done in Doctor's. We are praying this works.

Our son Sam was down for the weekend and spent many hours with his Dad, much to Dwight's delight. They both did something they have done together for decades--put the NASCAR race on and took a nap(s). Good medicine.

Overheard Update..

2011-02-14T14:36:00.002-05:00

Remember playing the game 'gossip' as a child? Where a statement was whispered ear to ear around a circle, coming out at the end much different than when it started?

That game is similar to what happened Saturday to Dwight. The part he heard and the part were told were parts of the truth. What buzzed around the nursing home on Sunday was the game part. And was it ever the game part. We heard quite abit after I got there in the morning. Most of it only half or less correct. Then the social worker came in. (She only works Mon-Fri, so....????) She informed us that Dwight needs to go back into a semi private room. The one right across the hall that had been emptied for the new construction. It is open now, for awhile. The person that is moving into his room demanded to be removed from her room because, altho it is a large private room now, it is being changed into a semi private room this week and she refuses to room with anyone. (Not sure if it is her or her children making the demands)

Dwight is to be out of his room and in the new one by Thursday. He asked that they do it while he is at dialysis since his bed needs semi disassembled and reassembled.

A plus to the new room is that he can observe the construction out the window--AND--the WiFi is quite strong in that room (nothing in the current room). He will now be able to have my netbook and watch Church services again. And he will be able to Sykpe. God is in control, and provides surprises. Don't know how long it will be before that room is up for reconstruction, but it is where God wants him now.

Thank God for Your faithfulness. And Your patience with our worry.

And thank you, God's children, who joined us in prayer.

Overheard...

2011-02-12T21:35:00.002-05:00

Being a normally 'glass half empty' person, I shouldn't be surprised that our joy and praise of Dwight's healing was a followed by an attack by Satan.

When Dwight returns from dialysis he is normally alittle down both mentally and physically. This is not unusual for dialysis patients. Today he attempted to get comfy in his bed just before supper. And try to convince himself he wanted to eat. He noticed a couple walking by his room, and walking by his room and walking by his room. Very closely timed, slow passes. Then he overhears raised voices...

It seems this couple was ready to move a loved one into his room. They said they had been promised two weeks ago that they could have room 121 today. At that point the conversation was removed from his hearing. Of course no staff person even acknowledged that something was going on... but an unusual number did stop in just to talk for a few minutes. One, whispered, "you will be out of this room by Thursday." Period. Nothing more. If this is true, it explains why the social worker has been in asking Dwight where he was moving to. It doesn't explain why the social worker hasn't been 'free' to talk to Dwight and I when I am able to come.

Dwight's already lack of appetite flew out the window. All he ate was ice cream and ice tea. Didn't even take his dialysis medicine. He really didn't want me to leave, and before I had my coat zipped he told me he missed me already. He asked me to come and sit with him in the morning instead of going to Church.

All of my dear friends who pray, please pray for his spirits and for our wisdom. And if we need find another home, clear guidance on the right one for Dwight and his needs.

Good News

2011-02-11T19:27:00.003-05:00

Never sure what the day is going bring...good news....less than good news....bad news.

Some mornings when I call my sweetheart to say Good Morning he sounds so down, sometimes slightly confused, sometimes (my favorite) his normal chipper self that makes everyone smile. Amount of sleep, pain, fever and boredom all effect him.

In the late fall we were told that Dwight had MRSA in the huge bed sore. Red warning signs appeared on his door, yellow gowns were worn by the staff in his room. Those of us visiting used extra amounts of hand sanitizer. Grandkids and children didn't visit for a couple weeks---till we were told that real danger is only to those working directly on the wound. But then Dwight was moved from the semi private room to a private room. My dear social husband. But we have handled it,all the tough parts. We made it through birthdays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years and The Super Bowl. With the Lord's help we made it. The prayers of many, many people added to our daily prayers and trust in the LORD is how we handled it.

Today he was told he is MRSA free. Red signs gone. The special cart full of special equipment gone. Not sure if (or when) he is going back into a semi private room.

The social worker has been in a couple of times asking where he is going, home or to another nursing home. We didn't know that was an option, we had asked in July that he be put on the waiting list for a long term care room. Still trying to figure that out, Dwight is far from being strong enough to come home. Our home is not set up for caring for him until he again can do alot of things for himself. And it is not our choice for him to go anywhere else, he is happy there. The social worker doesn't seem to have any appointment slots available when I can come (and when Dwight isn't on dialysis)to discuss this with her.

But the infection (in the ports used for dialysis and accompanied by a fever) Dwight has been battling (and is still on antibiotics for) is going away, and did I mention...?

The MRSA is gone!!!! Praise the Lord.

Steeleer Fan

2011-01-18T22:30:00.001-05:00

Things have been pretty much routine. Dialysis three times a week, wound care at least one a month, usually two times. The wound is finally healing, when it is healed, then therapy can start.

January 5th they finally took out the second stint that they were not able to get out the first week of November. Yes it took that long to reschedule.

There have been some issue with the Foley tube plugging up, so I guess he is still making kidney stones or some real close cousins. I demanded that they get orders to flush it when needed, or daily. It took 9 hours for them to get an order this last time. Six of those hours Dwight spent with stomach pain because his bladder was full and over full. The nurses couldn't do anything about it without Doctor written orders. Finally they came, orders to flush as needed, up to three times. Then what..?

Dwight is very glad that he is missing most of the weather. He is wheeled out under a canopy and unloaded under a canopy. He snuggles into his Steeler fleece and wears a grey cap with a Buckeye O on it, his toes are toasty in his red fleece slippers. He is well dressed and sporting his teams! He does get a few 'remarks' from those who do not appreciate the great team from Pittsburgh.

We are thankful that there have been no major problems of late. They need to replace the dialysis port tomorrow.

It is hard to believe that it was a year ago that I noticed something was wrong in addition to new back ache Dwight had. If only one of the Doctors we contacted (and saw) about this had taken it seriously....

....my compter wouldn't let me post yesterday. And we have a new problem. Dwight's port for dialysis wouldn't work yesterday. Nor would the spot in his arm, so he had no dialysis. Today, Wednesday, they are replacing the ports. No dialysis till Thursday. Dwight was alittle down, just weary of it all.

He still is a good kisser!! Love that guy.

Christmas

2011-01-04T09:11:00.003-05:00

When the children were children and we lived in Leetonia our Family had very specific traditions that we followed without fail every Christmas season. Although traditions, and following them, are not the reason for the season, they do glue it all together and add to the anticipation of the season.

But life brings changes. We managed to maintain our traditions with slight adjustments as first we started pastoring 45 minutes from home. With the Church responsibilities only a few adjustments where needed. We barely noticed. The children started graduating from high school, a few more adjustments. We moved to Warren, a few more. Nothing major, the large ceramic tree--a gift from new friends when we moved to Leetonia--still came out the day after Thanksgiving. Cookie making began full force, lots of good eating, parties and gifting from our baking fun.
St Lucia day was never missed. December 13th was a very special, busy day at the Shirey's.

But then more changes, Dwight in a wheelchair. The year that happened our traditions fell by the wayside. The next Christmas, 2003, we were back in Leetonia with a For Sale sign in our front yard. We were able to regain some of our traditions, altho alot of things were packed in boxes awaiting our move to a yet unpurchased home in Columbus.

But Christmas 2004 found us nicely settled in a cute Cape Cod home and traditions all in place. And our number of grandchildren grew from one when we moved here to 5 by our second anniversary in our new home.

We have had wonderful Christmas times with our laughing, loving family. And our traditions continued intact with slight adjustments.

Till this year. My dear husband began showing signs of something being off kilter about the same time Esther Faith entered Children's Hospital for a 21 day stay. Dwight's problem was not properly diagnosed and he hasn't been home since Easter.

Traditions almost completely fell apart. None of us celebrated St Lucia day. I didn't bake a single cookie. Because now 2 of the grandchildren live here my daughter gently encouraged me to decorate. Once I got going I regained some Christmas spirit. I even made new window valances and fleece throws to coordinate so the living room is festive.

But Christmas Eve, our traditional gift opening time was very different. Dwight is still in a nursing home. All week he had been very down, so down he wasn't sure he wanted to see anyone. But we prayed and prevailed. I took in one gift for each person to open from Papa and Mimi. We laughed, smiled,hugged and loved, pretending this was normal. Dwight read the Christmas story with his usual dramatic flair from his new Kindle. We had family prayer and opened our gifts. Excitement filled the room as all grandkids and children loved their gifts. Our son missed all the fun, work kept him late and he didn't get to Columbus until we were eating at Karin and Tim's. We did make him open his gift from Mom and Dad there---a Michigan blanket, he loved the blanket and all the ribbing he got from his OSU loving family.

Tradition--changed, family love--the same.

Some people...

2010-12-21T08:59:00.005-05:00

Called my dear husband to say good morning only to discover him very discouraged.

Today is the three year anniversary of his brother's going home to glory. Calvin was only fifty, he left us too early.

Add that to what a nurse callously told him yesterday and I guess he should be discouraged. She told him his bed sore will never heal and that he is a long term patient. Don't think it was her place to tell him, or that he should have been told without us being with him when he was told. And we should have been told if this in deed fact and not just her opinion.

Sometimes I just don't know how to encourage him. I love him dearly and try to keep his spirits up.

Friday he had a visit from Dr Paul and Ruth. We have known Ruth for many years and she recalled many happy memories. As our friend Gigi says, as we age these memories grow fonder. Along with a goody bag, Dr Paul and Ruth gave him two of the best gifts ever, smiles and prayer. Thanks.

A Sweet Date

2010-12-18T10:29:00.002-05:00

Esther Faith's discharge was taking wa-a-a-a-ay longer than anticipated and Isaac was home alone....till his Mimi snagged him for a date. A sweet date.

I had called it and informed him that we were going on a date. But 10 year olds haven't got the total picture of dating--so after the order was placed at Tim Horton's it was my wallet that was used (along with my last Lincoln) to acquire our sweet treats. (the Tim Horton lady felt sorry me and gave a senior citizen discount--still not used to that).

We found a not so cozy seat and shared our drinks and timbits. Isaac tried the candy cane cocoa and declared it worthy of a return visit to Tim Horton's.

We talked school, secrets, and the wonderful features of our cell phones. He decided he needed to make sure everything was okay on mine and used half the battery feeding the frogs that live inside my phone.

Being a Grandmother racks in the top five best things in the world.

Here we go again, again

2010-12-16T11:18:00.002-05:00

Yesterday Dwight went to wound care. We thought he was healing ok, slowly, some parts slower than others, but healing. We were told this by the nurses. We all want it to be faster, but it is what it is.

But the wound care Dr doesn't think so. "Horrid, just horrid." He admitted there is some progress, but some is much worse. So bad he wanted to admit Dwight to the hospital. But Dwight refused. He really does not want to go to the hospital. Am not sure what they would do there, other than IV antibiotic. I asked for a copy of the Doctors report but the night nurse couldn't find where the day nurse put it. We are waiting the results of a culture they took.

Then this morning Karin let us know they were taking Esther Faith to the ER. She has been vomiting all night. Waiting again...

I am glad I had my blue day earlier this week, this wouldn't be a good day for it. Am thankful for the beautiful snow, will be even more thankful if the road crews are doing a good job. Our street is plowed, but it is always one of the first, often better than RT 270!!!

Had Mr & Mrs cardinal at the window feeder this morning. So love watching the birds. And the cats watching the birds!!! Can't yell at them for sitting on the table with such temptation inches away.

Thank you in advance for all who will be praying.

Proverbs 14:13

2010-12-14T10:43:00.001-05:00

Laughter can conceal a heavy heart,
but when the laughter ends, the grief remains.

This verse is how I awoke this morning. I am determined not the let the imps of hell win, I realize and acknowledge the greatness and goodness of God to the world, my family and myself. And that satan is a lair.

It is just my battery is almost dead and my charger is on super slow. But with God and His word I will be victorious.

Psalms 42:5,6a

Why am I discouraged?
...Why is my heart so sad?
I will put my hope in God!
...I will praise him again--
..my Savior and my God!

Miracle

2010-12-11T23:02:00.003-05:00

Wednesday morning an aid entered Dwight's room to waken him for breakfast. What she saw shocked her and she ran--literally--to get a nurse--who also was very concerned. Dwight's catheter tubes for his dialysis had removed themselves overnight and were laying beside him on his bed.

Unfortunately, someone at the Nursing Home did not keep their concern to them self and Dwight became quite anxious, as I am sure any of us would. He called me, not sure what was going on, but very nervous. I called with a nurse friend, who explained the possible fatal result of the self removal. But, she asked, "Is he breathing? Then he is fine." (Possible results--as the tubes exited the body, air could have entered the void and then travel to the heart and causing death. Or at the exit of tubes, if it didn't close, he could have bleed to death.) But neither happened because God is in control and still has things for Dwight to do.

I called Dwight back, talked with him, prayed with him. God is faithful and Dwight felt His peace. I did not share what my friend had told me. Figured he had enough anxious thoughts for one day. He had an appointment in the afternoon, and new, longer tubes put in.(They had had trouble with those two week old tubes.)

BUT, Thursday, when Dwight went to dialysis all the workers there seemed to know about it and proceeded to tell Dwight how 'lucky' he was and what could have happened. Of course Dwight used it as an opportunity to share God with everyone in return.

Romans 8:28 And we know that causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to His purpose for them.

Dwight may be in a nursing room, unable to get into his wheelchair, needing nurses and aids to help him with almost everything. His kidneys may not be working and he needs to rely on machines to clean his blood. But he is still loving God and serving Him, anywhere and everywhere He can. I thank God for my husband and his willingness to be God's man every chance he gets.

Another Fun Day

2010-12-09T00:07:00.003-05:00

Wednesday morning, when the aid entered Dwight's room to wake him for his morning pain pills she found something she had never seen before. The catheter tubes for his dialysis were laying on the bed beside him. They had removed themselves in the night. Not sure how, or why. Guess they just didn't like Dwight.

She went flying out of the room to find a nurse, who was extremely concerned. In fact it caused such a stir that the night nurse talked to me quite awhile as I was leaving tonight.
Although, they didn't tell Dwight, this could have been a very serious situation. But God had other plans.

All this caused great anxiety in Dwight, who called me to help him calm down, altho' he was quite calm when he told me. We talked awhile, and prayed together. I called my nurse friend who reassured me that since they were out with no bleeding, etc, we should be thankful.

Dwight went and had new tubes inserted, he is alot of extra pain, and still slightly shaken, but ready to go off to dialysis tomorrow. Hopefully, with new tubes dialysis will be uneventful. Tuesday the tubes were partially blocked and needed opened and the machine kept setting off the alarms, resulting in a shortened dialysis. We like it best when things run smoothly.

Holding Pattern

2010-12-01T08:46:00.002-05:00

Things seem to be pretty much in a routine now. There are some little ups and downs, but nothing big right now. Dialysis is on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, with adjustments made for holiday weeks. The bedsore is slowly healing with the aid of a wound vac and a couple of nurses who really care and know how to change it.

Unfortunately, yesterday, (Tuesday) Dwight was unable to have dialysis because the ports where plugged, again, it has only been two weeks since they were replaced. He goes this afternoon to have them replaced and then, time permitting, he will have dialysis.

Last week they did minor surgery on his left arm, again. The surgery in the wrist didn't grow large enough to use so now they are trying to create one near the elbow. They had to cut quite deep into his bicep to find a usable artery. He was told they have never dug that deep before. He did have huge muscles from working so hard. Of course, this continues to keep him from physcial therapy.

Dwight is handling most of this very well, altho' there are times he is very down, especially when the pain and loneliness get overwhelming. The cards and phone calls he receives are a great encouragement.

My granddaughter Aurora and I are quite excited to see the snow, but I can guarantee that my husband will have a very strong opposite reaction. Don't you love how different spouses are????

Again, thank you to all of you who are so caring and praying. Your prayers give us the added strength we need.

Play Date Cancelled

2010-11-21T22:24:00.002-05:00

I have put off all summer and fall scheduling a date for family and friends to come and help me remove and replace parts of the ramp that have gotten bad. Partly I forgot because of the lack of rain we have had. Whenever it rains the wood swells and the de-lamination is more obvious.

But I put it off too long it seems. First we have Kristen spraining her ankle and calf, and now Tim has decided to get a set of crutches with the multiple breaks in his foot. I had hoped they would be my main labor, but.... (I had hoped Karin would be the chief kid entertainer and food preparer.)

If we had done it in warmer weather I would have equipped the grandchidren with paintbrushes and paint, what fun we have missed. And I am sure plenty of photos.

Spring is coming. We will just have to be extra careful shoveling snow this winter on the bad parts.

"Don't put off till tomorrow what you can do today...."

Cat Whisperer

2010-11-16T10:47:00.002-05:00

Yesterday Dwight had a procedure in the Dr office that was only 50% successful. He now needs to go to the Hospital for the second half. Not happy. He was rather discouraged at this and wanted me to spend extra time with him.

I went home to let the dog out and fix a light supper for myself. Kristen and the kids stopped in for a couple minutes. As I was waving good bye to them I noticed something in the tree across the alley. A cat, a stuck in the tree cat. Being the cat lover I am I couldn't just walk away. I talked to her while I appraised the situation. The solution appeared to be either a get a ladder or leave her there.

I decided to talk her down. The kids watched from the van, Jackson offered the suggestion we call the fire department. He mom explained that only happens in stories and small towns.

It didn't take long to get her with in reach. Showing her to the kids in the van, Aurora announced we should keep her. The thought had already played in my mind. I had never seen her around, and she definitely is a house cat. She is on trial. I have offered the open door a couple times, but she just backed way--as in 'no way.'

She has made three enemies. None of our other 'girls' have shown her any welcome. Quite the opposite. But she does know her way around a house, including the kitchen counter, as we discovered this morning. The cat door to basement is now locked.

We will see....

In the mean time, names are being tried out...

Pictures later, I think I better check out what that noise was in the basement.

Kids say...

2010-11-16T10:32:00.002-05:00

A week ago Friday, after Kristen and Aurora took a tumble down the stairs, Aurora had a rough night. Kicking and crying in her sleep. Of course she couldn't get into bed with Mother, so...in she crawled with Mimi.

The next night I worked till nine, then stopped to see Dwight. Aurora had informed her Mother she needed to see me before she went to bed. Kristen assured her I would check in on her before I went to bed myself. Aurora also informed her that if needed, she would get in bed with Mimi and not hurt Mommy's leg.

As promised, I checked on both Jackson and Aurora and went to sleep. I awoke about an hour later from the sensation of someone staring at me. There, just inches from my face was a little, almost five year old face. I took her in. Rubbed her back, asking her several questions as to why she needed to be in bed with me. All were answered, 'no'. Finally, with true teenage tone, she stated, "I just don't want to talk about it." Nuff said, I worked real hard at not laughing.

In the morning, after much giggling, I asked, "Why did you get into bed with Mimi?"

"Because I wanted too."

We did have a discussion on staying in your own bed.

A Note from Dwight

2010-11-11T21:26:00.002-05:00

Dear Friends and Family,

Susie's blog has been hijacked. The hijacker is well known to most of you. But to the few who may not know, Susie's current hijacker is little ole me, Susie's husband, Dwight. It has been a long time since I have had a chance to talk to most of you, so I thought I would bring you a personal update just to let you know I am still here.

Life for me has settled into an uneasy routine. My hopes and plans , tho' , are constantly being changed by things beyond my control Dr visits, dialysis, severe pain constantly interrupt my attempts at physical therapy and therefore going home. I am given no idea when I can I do so.

I would like to say “thank you” to all of the good people who have sent cards, written notes of encouragement, called on the phone, and even visited. Especially, those who have taken the time to pray for me and to speak my name before the heavenly Father. I can tell when there are those who are praying especially hard for me during difficult times. I desperately need for you to keep praying for me.
I find myself praying for you as well and seeking God's help for the needs you share with me. Isn't God's family amazing!

Many thanks to Susie her help getting this onto her blog(even typing it up for me on her little purple net book!) Unfortunately I do not have access to either computers or the internet. Just another reason to get well and go home..........

Thanks again for all your concern and care,
signed---the Hijacker

New Room

2010-11-09T09:02:00.002-05:00

Friday Dwight was moved to a private room. We were given two different reasons. 1) they have two people coming in and need his double room (note--the room is still empty!) 2) it is because of him having MRSA. Really? He has had it for how many months?, and now he needs to be in a single room? Somethings just don't make sense.

His new room is in the same wing, just further down the hall. Room 121. It has a much nicer view. He was nervous about the move and is still settling in. A few things still need adjusted for his comfort. It is impossible for him to reach the dresser top and his goody basket. Will have to see what we can do.

Dwight was put into his wheelchair so he could supervise the move. Somehow,in the move, one of the air hoses on the bed was bumped loose. I was not able to get in to see Dwight Friday because of Kristen's tumble down the stairs and her visit to the ER, so I was unaware of the deflated section. When I got in Saturday evening, I noticed the top quarter of the bed was flat. Dwight said he was told they couldn't do anything about it. I could feel the loose hose in the side of the bed, it was blowing nice hot air. But I could find no hose free to connect it to. I went after an aid, usually a very helpful one, but she said--'I don't know' and was gone. Not for help, but for a break and a smoke. Never came back. Sunday, a new nurse (new to Dwight) saw his blight and was on the phone with the bed rental company. They gave her instructions on fixing it. She could not and called them back and told them to get in there immediately--that no patient should have to put with that discomfort until they could conveniently fit it into their schedule. Fixed bed. Nurse given an award!!!

Monday Dwight had his third set of ex-rays taken in a week on his kidneys. The Dr isn't sure how many stints he has put in them. (?????) Two ex rays were taken with a portable ex ray machine at the nursing home by a portable tech--he didn't do a good job so Dwight was taken to the hospital for them. The transport drivers stayed right with him and would not budge until the techs had read them and assured them they had good pictures.

The Steelers won last night. The kids called. There are no current low pressures. The sun is shining. So Dwight is happy today.

Angels Watchin' Over Me

2010-11-03T23:44:00.002-04:00

I normally drive 'slightly' over the speed limit. The middle, or far left lane are where you will find me, except for exiting.

As normal, I was buzzing along, on my way to work, in the far left lane on 270, just after the Hillard exit. I notice movement in my left mirror. There shouldn't be movement in my left mirror.

But I did. A car was sliding along, at a high rate of speed on it's top. It flew down into the median, through the super strong fence that is 'supposed' to stop cars from going into opposing traffic. Up onto the shoulder of the south bound traffic. At the speed it was going it should have gone right into the traffic, but it stopped on the shoulder as if someone had put out their hand and stopped it. Or an angel.

It all happened so fast. I have no idea what caused the car to go out of control. Why it came towards me and then went into the median or why it stopped without causing more destruction. But God does and I thank Him. And pray for the driver and any others that may have been in the car.

The Computer Ate It

2010-11-01T11:59:00.002-04:00

I know several of you have checked for my lasted update only to find none. Well, there was one, several paragraphs long. I was just winding down when my computer ate it. My cute little purple net book--just ate it. It seems some update had been downloaded (without my permission) and then installed and oh, lets see, yes we need to restart. But don't tell the human you are going to do so. Seeing as it was almost midnight and I was running on empty I simply closed the offending object and found my pillow.

And I have been very occupied since. My family has filled my days with fun and activity. Check Karin's blog for her score of pictures and well written documentary of Friday and Saturday. (hennhoouse.blogspot.com)

As to Dwight. It was another of those, 'this can't be happening' weeks. Pain increased due to record making low pressure and the storms that went with it. Then the news that his fuscial (sp?) is not growing and a new one needs built. He was on the stretcher to go to said appointment when the nursing home got the call it was cancelled. He was actually on his was down the hall. It is rescheduled for this week. He was only able to get into his wheelchair one day. Friday, he called me come eat lunch with him sitting up, but Karin and my two granddaughters had whisked me off to a birthday lunch and I missed it, but had fun and great food. Maybe this week.

Dwight had a wonderful day Sunday. Sam had come down Saturday for our Family Dinner and then spend all Sunday afternoon and evening with Dwight, reading him more from the book he (Sam) wrote. Kristen and the kids stopped in on the way to Jackson's soccer game. Later Karin, Tim and their three stopped in at supper time. So he had all three Children and all five Grandkids visit, hug and love on him. He is one happy Dad, Granddad.

He also received several cards/notes this week.

These are the things (and his love for the LORD) that keep him going and encouraged. Thanks to everyone.

No Wheels

2010-10-21T22:42:00.003-04:00

After all the high hopes of last week, this week let the air out of our balloon.

Monday two people called off work from Dwight's unit at Mill Run so he didn't get into his wheelchair and didn't get his 'Run' in the halls. Tuesday was dialysis, which tires Dwight. Wednesday off to a Dr and then the start of a new treatment, so no wheelchair Wednesday.

And then today--Unbelievable--off to an appointment at 7:30 AM. An hour of waiting on a stretcher in the hall for the Doctor to come in. The Dr just makes small talk, so Dwight asks--'why am I here?' to which the Dr says, 'I don't know, let me find out.' For real. He had no reason.

Back to Mill Run for breakfast at 10:30 and then off to dialysis.

Tomorrow is an appointment to have the ports replaced for dialysis, so it looks like the wheelchair will sit another day. Needless to say Dwight is disappointed about this after the progress last week.

Hopefully, this is just a short set back and he will be wheeling around again next week. Soon he will be out and about, making friends and bringing smiles to faces.

If you would like to send him a card:

Room 111
Mill Run Gardens and Care Center
3399 Mill Run
Hillard, Oh 43026

Cruisin'

2010-10-14T16:27:00.002-04:00

Yesterday they got Dwight up into his wheelchair, but this time it wasn't just to sit and eat his lunch and talk with his neighbor. No, they added his foot rests and off he went. Down the hall (past the rooms of all the little old ladies that always stop and say hi to him!!). And then off and down another hall. And back......for three hours.

Needless to say he was very tired and feel asleep right after supper.

His roommate took pictures, but he can't text so I have no pictures. But Dwight is very happy. I must admit, this is the first time I have really felt like things are looking up, very looking up! I better start get things moved around for his homecoming.

Starting Physical Therapy

2010-10-11T14:56:00.002-04:00

They started Dwight on physical therapy last Wednesday. Basically just sitting up: they swing his legs off the side of the bed and have him sit up. Both days he was light headed and dizzy. He is hoping to get into his wheelchair soon and maybe even to the physical therapy room.

I ask all of you who pray to help me pray for Dwight to be approved for Medicaid. I applied in June and the only thing I have heard is a request for some more paper work which I faxed them. 12 times. Just making sure....

I have called and left voice messages--(he doesn't answer his phone). I have faxed inquires numerous times. The nursing home says they have attempted to get a hold of him.

It is very important that we be approved. We owe huge amounts to hospitals, doctors, transport and now the nursing home bill came for Sept. Oct--$25,000. I am afraid we are going to have to bring him home. But we have neither the equipment nor expertise to care for him. The transport bill needs some paid on it or we may lose it, and we haven't gotten a bill for dialysis yet for the past three months..

WE REALLY NEED APPROVAL OF MEDICAID!!!!!!

Thank you to all who will be praying with our family for this important issue.

Lesson in cookie eating

2010-10-10T17:09:00.003-04:00

Thursday Aurora stayed home with me so she go play with Esther Faith after school. In the mean time we had a great time, including her reminding me she was allowed to have cookies. Give several choices, she demanded fudge stripe. She then taught me the correct way to eat them. They were followed with Swedish Kid Coffee (half milk, half coffee and sugar) I do believe she enjoyed her coffee break.

end of day

2010-09-28T22:34:00.002-04:00

I kissed Dwight as they wheeled him out of room 945. Pastor Tim and I rode with him to the third floor and to radiology. I went to the waiting room and Pastor Tim left for another hospital. (Do we truly appreciate that Man of God? He is super!)

I waited and waited. I asked two different people to check on the pre-surgery progress. Was assured they would let me know. Seemed like too long a wait, when I faintly heard my name paged, with a request to call a phone number. And of course, I had no cell service. Finding a phone I could use I called and was hung up on. Called again and no answer. So I went to the surgery waiting room, once there my phone worked. It seems Dwight was lying in OR, out cold, and had not been given the consent form to sign and they needed my OK. Hm-m-mm-m??????????????

The Doctor consult was not what I wanted to hear. We had been told that there were 3 stones in the left kidney, they only found and took out 2, "but some could have clustered"..... "Oh, and there is one 7mm in the right kidney. Maybe it will come out when the stints are taken out next week."

Dwight is quite tired, running a fever, and will have to have dialysis again tomorrow. The dialysis port was used for his IV and some meds so it didn't work right for his dialysis today. He will, therefore, spent another day at Grant. He had hoped to go back to Mill Run tomorrow.

Thanks to all who check my ramblings, care and pray. I (we) appreciate it more than we can tell you.

Last Surgery?

2010-09-27T22:02:00.002-04:00

Dwight returned to Grant Hospital this afternoon. Scheduled return.

Surgery tomorrow morning to remove three kidney stones from the left kidney. The kidney they supposedly removed all the stones from in June.

Aurora and I went to visit Papa after supper. She was all smiles as she walked in, waiting for him to realize she was there. And of course, his smile was huge. They had quite a conversion about spiders, including her rendition of her Mother's screaming when she sees a spider.

We were not happy to see a nurse struggle to find a vein to get an IV going. It was the third attempt since he got there. It seems they either run into scar tissue and can't get through, or when they do get through the vein fails. There were ready to try again when Dwight stopped them. He told them he had something he needed to. He called Aurora to him and prayed with her so we could leave. Many times the nurses/aids/Doctors either ignore the prayer and continue with what they want to do or leave the room. These two nurses just stepped back and respected Papa with one of his grandkids.

Yesterday we were able to have worship with Karin, Tim, Isaiah, Isaac and Esther Faith. It is great to watch the young ones as they are learning about God and His wonderful work. The Henn Kids each colored him a picture for Papa's room -- each clearly exposing their special feeling for Papa.

We are very blest to have five wonderful grandkids, and their wonderful parents.

Happy Birthday--Good and Bad

2010-09-21T22:46:00.003-04:00

Things have been going along fairly calm. We have been in a routine. Dwight has dialysis Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Any Dr appointments are on off days. Because my schedule has me working mostly to close(9 PM), I stop and see Dwight on my way home, staying till 11 or 11:30 PM. Routine.

Physical Therapy is to start soon. In fact, today. Strength building exercises that he can do in his bed.

Monday was Dwight's and Tim's birthday. Sunday evening we all gathered in Dwight's room for cake, ice cream, singing and laughing. Oh, and a lot of pictures. Visit Karin's blog for some great shots by Tim.

We all enjoyed the night, some eating too much. Isaiah volunteered to eat, finish anything we didn't want. Dwight thought he had eaten to much, as he didn't feel well about 10:00. As it turned out he was sick all night, including a fever of 102.8. At 8:00 AM his nurse decided they couldn't take care of him and scheduled him a trip to the ER. Gr-r-r.

At the ER it seemed to take way-y-y-y too-o-oo-o long to decide he has a bladder infection. but it seems they had reserved a bed for him for overnight. We weren't told it by his Primary Dr, just told that they wanted to be able to give him an IV if the fever came back. Dwight refused. An RN called the Nursing Home and led them to believe he was very sick.....that he shouldn't leave the hospital. Double Gr-r-r-r

But Dwight returned to Mill Run with a RX to fight the infection. Made it to dialysis today and started physical therapy. Usually he has little appetite after dialysis, but he did eat some tonight.

We are praying, and asking for prayer, that the infection will be gone by Monday so he can have the surgery on the left kidney on Tuesday as planned. With NO upsets.

Great Visit

2010-09-14T22:33:00.003-04:00

Dwight's sister-in-law lives 1200 miles away. In Salt Lake City. Utah. Way too far away for weekly visits. Or monthly visits. Or holiday visits. Just too far away.

But we have had three visits.

(Side note: Dwight's brother, Calvin moved to Utah after their Dad went home to Glory. Meet and married a wonderful woman, Lynette. They, and Lynette's son, Zach made a wonderful family ans were greatly enjoying life. They had plans dor a trip to Ohio to meet us all when Calvin got very sick and joined his parents in Glory. Lynette kept their plans and visited us the next April. It was the first we meet our out west family--and they are definitely family).

This weekend Lynette, Zach and their friend Kim flew out to Pittsburgh to visit Kim family in Johnstown, to cheer the Steelers to victory (face paint and all). Then a trip to see us in Columbus.
Complete with Steeler gifts.

We paid a visit to Dwight. Lynette pulled out a bag and handed Dwight a stack of old books, not any old books. But song books, chorus books and a camp meeting song book that all have "Ralph C. Shirey" hand written in the upper right corner of the cover.

Dwight slowly went through each book, stopping often to read or sing a line, a verse, or an entire song. Was hard to hold in the emotions: Dwight was singing again. Memories of Mom Shirey playing the piano (that was a Christmas gift one year from Dad), while Dad, Dwight and Calvin sang in harmony--harmony that is unique to family voices. Lots of memories. Including the new one made Monday night.

Tears, smiles, hugs, prayer together and more hugs. What a great day. What great visit.

Moving?

2010-09-10T10:57:00.002-04:00

Wednesday I stopped on my way to work to leave Dwight a few things and see how his arm was feeling.

He had a visitor. Why is it that when people get a title they get an attitude of self-importance and a condensing air? Just asking..

I could sense immediately that Dwight was upset, very upset. He wasn't necessarily showing it, but after 38 years of marriage you do tend to pick up on things. It seems, that on Sunday, September 12th, Dwight's 100 days of stay, paid for (and co-paid for) are up. And they have a waiting list of people who want in for long care. And Dwight (I) need to start looking for another home to take him. Oh, he can stay till the 27th, when he goes to hospital for his next kidney surgery. What? I just walked by 6 rooms-6 double rooms with only one person in them. Waiting list, empty beds? And that was only one hall.

Since I walked into the middle of the conversation, and Dwight was upset I wasn't sure I understood it all. I am not sure 'she' did either. She keep referring to another person who was 'off today." And we need to get answers from her. I informed them that we were still waiting to hear from the gentleman about Dwight's application for Medicaid. Waiting, waiting, calling--leaving messages, over and over, faxing that we are waiting, over and over and still waiting....

And, put Dwight on their waiting list. He has been here, doesn't want to leave till it is time to return to our home.

Yesterday (Thursday) someone stopped in Dwight's room and told him that he can stay four more months, if needed. Then it would be month by month, if necessary. Not sure whose tree was rattled, but--------------

PRAISE THE LORD!!! He hears and answers prayer.

Same old, same old--and something new

2010-09-09T09:56:00.002-04:00

Things have been pretty much the same for Dwight. Dialysis three times a week. Reruns and some new shows on USA. Farscape on the DVD player. An occasional call or visit. Mostly just lying in bed because they still won't start physical therapy because of the bed sore.

I don't know how he stands it, I sure won't. I would want to be reading or sewing. We won't even discuss how much he has missed getting to the wood shop this summer. And reading...that is pretty much lost to him. With his glasses missing (in a nurses drawer) for three months his eyes really suffered. He can't even wear his regular glasses now, he wears his reading glasses for everything. Sure wish he could get an eye exam and get new glasses. Maybe sometime in the next years. He does get several woodworking magazines--he does enjoy the pictures! I will save most of them.

Yesterday, (Wednesday) he had a permanent pic line installed in his left arm for dialysis. They gave him a nerve block and his arm was pretty much useless the rest of the day. Was humorous when I would forget and hand him a magazine to look at a picture and he couldn't hold it. Didn't stop him from enjoying his meals, including pie for lunch yesterday.

He has a regular prayer list and special requests I bring to him. Altho he can't read God's word, he does pray daily for many people.

Surgery Date

2010-09-02T14:40:00.002-04:00

Hurry up and wait. Dr Brown really wants to get this done so Dwight can get busy getting back to normal.

BUT the first open date they have is September 28th. No, it has nothing to do with our asking that the surgery not be September 13th. The 28th is simply the earliest they have.

But, if they have a cancelation they will call and let us know. Is it okay to say 'Gr-r-r-r'?

More Surgery

2010-09-01T13:50:00.003-04:00

Dwight had a visit with Dr Brown. We were hoping for a great report. What we got was me being taken to the office. Dr Brown's office, where he showed me the cat scan of Dwight's kidneys. There are at least three stones still in the left kidney. One large. And another surgery in about three weeks. Hopefully Dr Brown will be able to put a tube into the left kidney (through the back) and remove the stones.

We asked if they would schedule it after September 13 when Dwight's sister in law is flying in from Salt Lake City to see him. (And the Steeler's!!!)

Our family is praying VERY HARD that everything will go just fine--normal--no surprises, set backs, etc. If we can get that done, and his bed sores healed we can hit physical therapy real hard-----and then maybe home. Maybe the kidneys will resume their job and we can say good bye to diayalsis.

Beam me up, Scottie

2010-08-27T12:57:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I made a quilting supply run to Harbour Freight. Really can't give the salespeople,(no change that to clerks), working any high marks for service. They were neither friendly nor willing to be helpful. They were supposed to be holding three packages of carpet cutting blades for my friend Buff. They were not, nor did they have any idea where I might find them. Finally one reluctantly helped me. Informing her that I wanted the three for my friend and the other two for me, she gave a cold look, stated that there are two blades in each pack and put two back on the wall. Really, was she deciding for me how many I wanted to buy? Or just avoiding reordering? Of course you know whose line I chose to get in when I purchased all five packages....

After work I stopped to visit my sweet husband and found a cute PT Cruiser in the Mill Run parking lot. Buff decided that she wanted to get her Harbour Freight merchandise from an frequent shopper of Harbour Freight, so she and her little dog joined me in visiting Dwight. Had a great visit, and her little dog was no small part of it. He joined Dwight on the bed and settled in for some loving from the dog lover himself. Dwight and Buff enjoyed each other also, not to leave her out. And she did get her blades.

Oh, the dog--Scottie, white welsh terrier. Little dog, big lover, loud barker.

Wish I had taken a picture--just need Tim around more.

Trips--too many

2010-08-20T12:05:00.003-04:00

I have held off posting hoping to give a different update than the one I am giving. (Alright, I have been busy with busyness also).

Dwight has been going to dialysis three times a week. Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, leaving at 11:00 AM and returning just in time for supper. Long, boring days. I wanted to try and get him an Ipad. He refused, but Kristen and I entered a couple of drawings for one anyhow. Dwight says they have nice flat screen TVs at each station.

The last labs returned with his creatinene(misspelled) level very down, much nearer to normal than it has been for a couple of years. His BUN level was very, very much improved. His kidney output has increased greatly. So 24 hour test of his urine was taken.

Dialysis will continue. His kidneys, although there is great output, the actual function is only at 3%. Needless to say he was very disappointed with this news.

We are still praying for his kidneys to remember their job. A new test will be taken in a few weeks.

He still hasn't started physical therapy. The incision is not healed. Soon....

Dwight is very grateful for his visits from Pastor Tim Swanson. They have been a wonderful blessing and encouragement. Pastor Tim served Dwight communion last week and Dwight felt a deep touch from the LORD.

This week Dwight began to disciple a young lady in her desire to share the LORD. God can use us anywhere, even if we don't pick the location.

God is good....All the time.

Speed Read

2010-08-20T09:14:00.002-04:00

If you speed read, you MUST go back and slow read if it important info...

In June I received an email about a Birthday party my graduating class is holding for everyone from our class. (Most are hitting a very BIG number this year)

I 'speed read' it; noted the date. Talked it over with my hubby, worried about all his issues. Requested,and got off the two days necessary to make the trip up and back. Gave myself a talk about not speed driving--least not the whole trip. But you do have to 'go with the flow.'

Then, as the day grew closer, and I realized Dwight is pretty stable, I dug back through the emails, found and printed it. And 'slow read' it...and found the line I missed. "Send check of $$ to .....by July 31 for the buffet" Which, off course, I didn't do. That last week of July was surgery week. Week of 'is it going to work this time?'

So....it doesn't pay to speed read, you don't get to eat with your high school friends if you do.

-------

Post on Dwight later this morning.

2010-08-14T07:17:00.004-04:00

Back to Mill Run

2010-08-10T15:39:00.002-04:00

Dwight had dialysis three times last week at Grant Hospital. He says it is very boring. One of the kidney Doctors told him that we would know in about 2 weeks if it has jump started his kidneys. We all are praying this is the case. Dwight does seem more tired from this, altho we were told that was possible. He has been nauseated allot, but no can give us an exact cause. I hope it goes away soon so that he can start eating a better diet. And not sure losing any more weight would be good for him either. It is at least 130 pounds.

Yesterday at supper time they moved him back to Mill Run. He missed supper, but didn't mind, but also missed some meds due to the transfer.

He is in room 111A. Cell 614-214-5288. Double checking on his room #. He will be leaving for dialysis Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Once his incision is healed we believe he will be in Physical and Occupational Therapy. Because the MRSA is localized in the bed sore, I hope it doesn't hold him back.

Last Saturday we read scripture, he sang several praise choruses and we had a good time of prayer.

Decision made...

2010-08-05T09:39:00.003-04:00

Dwight was able to eat an apple yesterday afternoon and a full, but boring, supper yesterday. He was in good spirits when I visited in the evening.

We both are aware of the many prayers being brought to the throne on his behalf. We know they are being answered. We are grateful and realize we don't even know alot the people praying. God is good and His people are obedient. We do pray for God to bless these brothers and sisters in the Lord. It would be fun to know what states people are from, also their names.

This morning the Doctor came in confused. Dwight is better, but his numbers are worse. He just doesn't understand it. So a decision has been made. A port will be put in today, if done by 2:00 PM he will have his first dialysis today. The Doctor did admit that it is possible for the kidneys to get back on track!!!! They are also looking a dialysis center closer to his nursing home.

Guess he won't make it to the wood shop this summer.

Will he or won't he?

2010-08-04T09:12:00.002-04:00

Dwight's kidney function has been decreasing everyday for the last week. Dangerously decreasing so that he is unable to eat and is nauseous. We were told that if the levels went down again last night he would start kidney dialysis today.

As is the norm in the medical field you get told different things from different people. One told us that one or two treatments may jump start the kidneys. Another said, no, once you start you are on it for life. Who is right?

Dwight's results from last night are that he is leveling off. So they are not starting today, but are waiting another day to see how the next results are. But his kidneys are only operating at 10%, so I don't understand why they aren't doing anything.

Dwight was also told that he may be returning to Mill Run in a day or two. There they will be testing his blood every two or three days. Not sure I am comfortable with any of this.

Pastor Tim visited him yesterday and they had a great discussion. That is so good on many levels. I played him the Jeremy Camp song last night and he was very blessed.

We are hoping the MRSA continues to improve so that others are comfortable with visiting him. I am thankful it is not a very dangerous strain of MRSA.

I received a love gift from a dear friend yesterday that is another reminder that in all of this God is walking with us, and is in control.

Is There No End?

2010-08-02T12:15:00.005-04:00

Dwight's surgery was a success. He was tired and slept alot, but everything appeared to be going just fine. Even with the blood transfusion to build up his red blood count. We were just waiting for the drain tube in the incision to be removed and for clearance from all Doctors -- then back to the nursing room to start rehab.

But....

Saturday night Dwight was told he has MRSA in his bed sore. There goes Sunday visits and snuggles with the grandchildren.

Saturday night and Sunday night the night nurse decides not to wake Dwight up for his midnight pain meds. Meds he HAS TO HAVE to handle the 24/7 pain. It is a written order, every night at midnight. Every night, wake him up--give him his meds. Always, till this nurse decides not to...needless to say Dwight has suffered. This morning he let them know his thoughts on that. I am sure it won't happen again.

They haven't been giving him his colace(seems they thought they had a better plan, one that has already been tried and failed)--till Dr Sams steps in and insist on it, but now he is five days behind and suffering for it.

This morning he is told he has to have a kidney x-ray, it seems his kidney function is decreasing. It was ok before. If it doesn't improve in 48 hours....

Test results: kidneys just are not returning to full function after this last invasion. And they have a yeast infection. Is there no end?

It is remarkable how he handles all this. Only with the grace and strength of God.

We are still looking up. God is in control, even if we totally do not understand.

Success

2010-07-27T17:46:00.002-04:00

Finally, after many attempts, the surgery to open Dwight's right kidney is a success. They removed the scar tissue, (that they couldn't laser through), and reattached it to ureter. We have drainage. Dwight will be so happy to have the tube removed from his back. On to physical therapy is about two weeks.

Dr G says there are still chucks in his left kidney that will need to be removed. No time frame or procedure plan. Maybe an incision. We will have to wait and see.

I am so thankful for all the people how have prayed, called sent cards, called and the hugs.

Info correction

2010-07-26T13:37:00.002-04:00

Dwight called just as the kids and I ever getting to the van to visit. At Jackson's insistence--it is his Birthday #7 and he had to open his gift from Papa with Papa. But....

Dwight was being taken to Grant right that minute. Seems the Dr had ordered him there a day early, altho NO One knew. Not even the hospital when he got there. He isn't in the room he was told,but in a different one. We still don't know why he is there early.

And Jackson didn't get to open his gift with Papa. How disappointing.
And frustrating.

surgery

2010-07-26T09:44:00.002-04:00

Dwight's surgery is tomorrow. We got the word from the nurse at Mill Run, not from the Doctor's office. Grr-r-r-r.

The surgery is scheduled for 2:45, we realize they always run late. They are picking Dwight up at 11:45 to have him there for his 12:45 check in appointment.

Dwight is anxious and spent much time in prayer during the night. The Lord impressed on him that he should anointed with oil today or tomorrow. It may have to be done in proxity.

Dwight would also feel better if he knew there was concentrated prayer for him. I realize I can not organize a prayer meeting this quick, but I do ask that all that can if you would say an extra prayer for him sometime this afternoon or evening -- and if you would let one of us know.

Dwight's room phone is 614-527-7147 if you would like to pray with him on the phone. We both would appreciate it.

Thanks in advance.

Sad News

2010-07-23T21:13:00.003-04:00

Things have been going along fairly predictable. Long, mostly boring days for Dwight. Mostly in bed, occasionally sitting up at the edge of the bed for an hour or so. No new infections. A few visitors. A phone call now and then from someone besides me. And an occasional card.

We had a meeting with the Social Worker who said Dwight wasn't making any progress in physical therapy. (How could he with a drain tube in his back and a pic line in his arm?!?!?!?!!??). Basically, if he didn't a bed sore, medicare would kick him out. Thankful for a bedsore???

He got a new roommate early in July. Bill. Nice guy, celebrated his 75th Birthday at a family picnic with all of his extended family. He and they had a great time. He came back to Mill Run tired, but happy. Bill's son and two daughters that live in the area visited him daily. Bill seemed to doing fine till about a week ago. Each day he slept more and seemed more out of it.

Wednesday, in the early morning hours Bill took a real bad turn for the worst. His family was called in with the message: could be hours, could be days. Dwight was moved out of the room into the room across the hall so that they could have privacy. We prayed that the third daughter would make it into town, she did. Bill passed this morning. We didn't realize how much we had come to like this family. We truly feel their pain. Many hugs were exchanged. One of the daughters has said she will be back to visit Dwight. (The same one who brings him treats!!!)

Dwight had attempted to witness to Bill. Only God knows the results. This is the fourth time we know of that God has given Dwight an opportunity to be used of Him in the life of others during the last month.

Dwight's new roommate is a fellow Christian. A WWII vet, fought at Bunker Hill, as did Dwight's father. Wow!

Dwight's surgery is still scheduled for Tuesday. We are praying hard that nothing causes any problems. I ask all who read this to join us in prayer for final success in Dwight's kidney health---and then physical therapy.

Thanks.

Should we be surprised?

2010-07-15T23:11:00.001-04:00

We have thought, basically were told while Dwight was at Grant, that Dwight's surgery would be next Tuesday, the 20th.

Today Dwight as asked a couple questions about getting ready for it, the nurse didn't have answers and called the Dr. His surgery isn't till the 27th. But we weren't called, they weren't called; just don't understand this. Dwight didn't tell me till I was at work so I couldn't call....

On a happy note, Dwight has had visitors at lunch time twice this week. Visitors, cards and phone calls are always welcome.

I am so thankful that he continues to be in good spirits, this is going on so long.

Holding Pattern

2010-07-14T11:39:00.002-04:00

Things have been fairly normal for Dwight at Mill Run since his return Friday--after the family invasion that is. He still smiles real big when he recalls it.

Normal is mostly boring. Lying in his bed. Sitting in his bed. Eating three meals. (he really likes most of their food, even getting extras at times.) Watching news. Watching reruns. Watching the birds at the bird feeder, if his blinds are open. Waiting for me to stop in on my way home from work. Normal. Mostly boring.

Till yesterday. They weighted him, he has lost another 5 pounds. They washed his hair, it has been way, way too long since the last time. Three hours in his wheelchair, a lot of that in therapy, arm exercises. Kristen cutting his hair. Short. Too short for me, but he likes it. A very busy day for a guy who is normally bored.

Today he had more excitement. The lawn mowing crew was careless and knocked over several shepherds hooks with bird feeds on them. He was one of them, but his hit the window. The screen is tore up but the window isn't broke. PTL. I had purchased a new shepherds hood, it is still here. Guess it goes over to him tonight.

Hope the rest of the day is better.

His surgery is scheduled for next Tuesday, the 20th. Praying for no hiccups.

Day Off

2010-07-09T22:29:00.002-04:00

Today was my day off. After arguing with myself, I decided to just sit and watch a movie. An old movie. An old, old movie.

This month we have a free channel: Retroplex. It plays old, old movies. Black and white. Early John Wayne. Etc. This morning it was a movie about Annie Oakley, my earliest childhood heroine, outside my family. It was a very good, old, black and white movie. The action scenes were interesting, as they are in all old movies. I was really enjoying it, in spite of dozen of questions from the 10 year old and almost 7 year old grandsons. They decided it was a good movie: guns, horses, Indians, old trains, bull wrestling, etc. Aurora was quietly playing with her favorite red Dodge monster truck and empty thread spools. (They make road edges...)

Then the call came. Dwight was being taken to the ER. His tube had broken and come out sometime in the morning. So much for sitting. I rushed to do all necessary to leave for who knew how long. Aurora was beside me step by step helping.

I then noticed the boys sitting together in Papa's big blue chair. Praying. For Papa being nervous. For an easy surgery. And who knows what all--just themselves and God.

But they were praying, first one and then the other. "Where two or three agree in prayer..."

I hate to say it, but the whole day was worth it to see those two exercise their growing faith.

It was a long, nerve racking day, about five hours at the hospital, but it ended good. A new tube inserted, altho it took two trys. He was back at Mill Run in time for supper.

Tim, Karin, Kristen and all five grandkids went to Build A Bear. I even went along--and I don't like Malls. We stopped in to see Dwight on the way home. Happy Papa. He was the happiest I have seen him in a long time. His smile, seeing all of us was the best and biggest we have had since all this started.

We thank God, once again for His faithful control and care of us.

Can you believe it?

2010-07-06T14:33:00.003-04:00

Surgery was scheduled for noon. I made up a lunch of snack/finger foods for the grandchildren and headed to the hospital early enough to visit Dwight in his room before they wheeled him off.

Dwight was very happy to see us, and of course the kids had big smiles for their Papa. Shortly after we got there (and broke out the food) two Doctors from Dwight's kidney practice came in asking lots of questions about the surgery. I refrained from reminding them that there is a patient chart they can read. And that it is his kidneys that are having issues--they really should know some of this.

Then in walked Dr Brown and a resident. Wish you could have seen Jackson and normally shy Aurora, all smiles and "hi Dr Brown". You would think they were best friends.

I knew this wasn't just a last minute visit. Dr Brown explained that he had had a call from the infectious disease Dr and they had decided that it was best not to do the surgery at this time because of the current infections.( I counted five he mentioned, three in the blood). They are not sure of the cause of them, and will be running more tests to pinpoint them better. A pic line will be put in, and IV antibiotics will be administered. And he will be going back to Mill Run Care Center tomorrow for about two weeks. That is the earliest the two Doctors can tag team again.

Dwight's emotions were pretty well contained, I thought, but on the way home Jackson told me that Papa was disappointed. When everyone left Dwight said he wanted to pray, Jackson immediately went over and joined hands with Papa. A nurse came in, saw them and quietly left.

I am so happy that Issac and Jackson have such a close connection with their grandfather. It is a true blessing.

And on it goes.....

Really?!?!? More?!?!?!!??

2010-07-04T23:03:00.002-04:00

Both daughters and their families were able to get a visit in with their Dad and Papa today. Not sure who enjoyed it more, the Papa or the Grand kids. Karin told me later that Dwight kept dozing off during their visit, more than normal. When I tried to call him to let him know I was on my way he slept thru the phone ringing. And the tech had to wake him to order his supper, which he hardly ate.

He kept dozing off. Conversation is a challenge, he has trouble answering. Finally they took a blood oxygen reading and it was 86. It has been a constant activity since. Oxygen, EKG, more blood work, two Doctors, a call to Dr Sams (his family Dr). A chest x ray is ordered. Blood work from Saturday came back, another infection. Now we are waiting for transport to come and move him to step down, where he will be watched more.

His nurse on the floor tonight is both the nurse and the tech, and the only one for his wing. Definitely over worked tonight.

Not sure what this means to his surgery on Tuesday. It is a real challenge for both of to leave this in God's hands. We have read a lot of scripture tonight. It has helped us keep our focus on God and surrender (again) to his sovereign will.

more later....

just got word, they are keeping on this floor and keeping a close eye on him and upping his antibiotics. PTL

ZOO

2010-07-02T11:26:00.002-04:00

As part of their vacation, Karin and Tim planned a trip to the Zoo. Their family pass includes their niece and nephew, so their child group was five strong. Tim then decided Mimi should go too. Dwight wasn't sure if it was a good idea, he was afraid Tim planned to leave me with the lions, tigers or bears. But he said for me to take a chance and go.

It was a perfect day weather wise. It was crowded, think alot of people started their weekend early. We all enjoyed ourselves. I took a few pictures, but Tim took hundreds, I am sure Karin will be posting some soon.

The girls were just the cutest thing ever, going through the entire Zoo holding hands. Forgot to get a picture of that.

And, obviously, Tim didn't leave me. As the Purple People Eater says, "I wouldn't eat you, cuz you're so tough."

The Tale Continues

2010-06-30T15:25:00.003-04:00

Surgery was set for 9:50 AM. We were here by 8:00 AM. He was taken to surgery at 11:00 AM. It was to be an hour surgery. At 1:00 PM I was called to consult with the Dr.

He thinks he got it all out of the right kidney, but there seems to be a blockage and he is calling in Dr Brown to fix it. (Oh and there might be fragments left in the left kidney.)

At 1:10 PM I signed papers and was told it would take 15 - 30 minutes to fix it. Two hours later I am having a very hard time not being anxious. (Philippians 4:6) and let God be God (Philippians 4:13). Was sitting with a sister in the Lord who told me to claim James 5:13-16.

It seems that where the stones were sitting a the base of the kidney, for some reason, it grew scar tissue. Dr Brown (and someone whose name I did not catch) tired to break through, but were unable--as is the norm with my husband, it was too tough. It will need to be removed by laser. The laser needs requested from off campus and the correct operating room reserved. He wants to do this Friday, but doesn't know if everything will work out.

I must say, Dr Brown is great.

Hope also to see his wound care Dr while he is here at Grant Hospital.

It continues

2010-06-24T23:44:00.002-04:00

Several calls to me about Dwight's procedure, even tho I have given them both his cell and room phone numbers.

I have asked, repeatedly, when they took a CAT scan or ultrasound that tells them there are 'fragments' or 'another stone' in the kidney. The answer is that two Dr's have conferred and 'think' there might be more. Also told again I should speak with the unavailable Dr.

AND, I am told, he is going back to Grant, not Riverside. And that they probably will be keeping him overnight. But they can't answer if they are taking the tube out yet.

But, yesterday, they put Dwight in his wheelchair and took him to the therapy room. He was quite happy about that. And quite shocked when he looked in the full length mirror and saw how much weight he has lost.

Then, I took his guitar, (in it's new case from Sam), in for him to see and he played for awhile. Really enjoyed that. Took a picture on my cellphone, but I don't have a patch cord for it so I can't share it with you, sorry.

If you would like to send him a card, his address is:
Room 112B
Mill Run Garden and Care Center
3399 Mill Run Hillard, OH 43026

Unbelieveable

2010-06-23T10:33:00.002-04:00

Is this a bad dream that I will wake from soon? Is there no end to all this?

Dwight has called his Urologist for four days in a row, some days twice a day, trying to get an answer as to when they are taking the tube out of the kidney. He really wants more therapy than exercise bands and sitting on the edge of the bed.

Yesterday someone from the office actually answered the phone. After some attempts to get Dwight to call back when the surgeon was in (he is booked solid with surgeries, not even near the office.) the voice on the phone informed Dwight that he was scheduled for another surgery on the 30th.

Why?

He was told there are fragments still in there. I called this morning, and after being on hold for a long time, I was told there is still a stone in there. Which is it, or both, or..I reminded them I was told they were all out, AND when did they do a CAT scan or ultrasound--he has not left the nursing home, and they don't do them there. No answer........just that the surgeon will call one of us back. But he is busy all day.

I am afraid I just don't understand what is going on. He started with this infection in January, is now the end of June!!!! Not sure which emotion is the strongest right now, I am not even going to list all I am feeling. Just want to get this done.

A Hard Father's Day

2010-06-20T10:26:00.002-04:00

Visited my husband last night after work, he held hard onto my arm, with near tears in his eyes. How he hates for me to leave. We are married, we shouldn't be apart night after night. He feels it so much harder. How many different hospitals and now a nursing home has he been in? How many different beds trying to find one that he is comfortable in? And how many different room mates, as they all left before him?

And now it is Father's Day. No dinner of his favorite foods spread across our table with grandkids laughing all around. No silly gifts and sentimental cards. Just another day waking up alone in a room away from home. Away from his wife, the love of his life. Away from his dog and cat. Away from his TV and his remote. Away from the Church Services he watches on the web and TV. Away...

No wonder he tears up and clings to my arm. How it hurts us both.

But the infection didn't win and soon he can start therapy. Soon he can begin to rebuilt the muscle strength he has lost and hopefully overcome other new challenges that have become part of his daily life. And maybe come home before summer is over.

Thank you to you who continue to pray and care.

New Grass

2010-06-17T13:45:00.004-04:00

The heat and humidity have worked their magic. The grass is growing splendidly, where it was planted. Since I let each of the grandchildren help broadcast the seed we have various thickness of new lawn growing. Bare to quite thick. But beautiful green. Need a couple days of dry to reapply, not sure when that opportunity will present itself.

We have a few corn plant up, but only a couple sunflowers. Don't know if the birds helped themselves or if the grandchildren didn't plant enough. It will be interesting to see what we get.

Growing and learning--grandkids are fun.

New Grass

2010-06-09T22:19:00.003-04:00

It has been almost two years since our pine tree uprooted in the front of the house. Last spring I purchased and Tim and Isaiah planted two maples to replace it. They have done quite well, producing wonderful color in the fall. They are still very thirsty, demanding lots of water.

But the large spot that was directly under the pine was never taken care of it. It was full of pine needles. Last year it produced a large crop of morning glories and weeds. This year we had the beginnings of a great crop of thistles from the bird seed. Definitely didn't look attractive, living in town, where everyone is fussy about their lawns.

Until Isaiah attacked it Monday. He was making progress--lots of weeds and lots of roots to break up. Then his cousins completed their chores and decided to help him instead of playing. Wow--with three boys working hard (and around a four year old girl!) they really made progress. By the time the boys needed to leave it was clear and ready for extra soil to fill in the low spots.

Tuesday Isaiah and Isaac showed up with soil, garden rake, gloves and determination. By lunch time the spot was filled, racked level and seeded with donated grass seed. Last night and this morning God provided a super soaking rain. One of the boys was sure they saw grass growing today!! We will be watching that spot with great anticipation.

Also Isaac and Aurora planted sunflowers from Uncle Sam along the fence (with a few corn seeds thrown in). And Jackson planted some ??? in the veggie raised garden. It promises to be an interesting summer in the 'growing things' at Mimi & Papa's house.

Sorry, to busy having fun (and getting sunburned) to remember take pictures.

Last Week

2010-06-02T07:31:00.006-04:00

I promised a post update last week but two things happened--#1--the computer ate my almost finished post at 11:30 at night (better than a dog excuse)--at that hour

I just couldn't get my brain convinced to a redo.

#2--a lot of life got in the way.

To sum it up:

Tuesday Dwight had the first surgery to remove the large kidney stones from the right kidney. As it turns out there is still one in there, and so is the

drain tube, a week plus later.

Which is a real hassle as it is in the back and his always laying down. They won't (or can't) use the lift to get him into his wheelchair because of it. Haven't heard any plans as to what is next--

it was a holiday weekend.

Wednesday and Thursday just kinda happened--not much exciting.

It was our anniversary, but he wasn't up to going out for

dinner and dancing

so we just sat in his room and looked at each other.

Correction, I looked, he slept.

At home, Kristen painted Dwight's study.

Friday they moved everyone from his wing on the 8th floor to another wing

so construction could begin--(but did it? it was a holiday weekend)

Just before supper two men showed up at his door to take him to

Mill Run Gardens and Care Center.

No warning, and no call to me. Gr-r-r We really like Mill Run,

but why Friday evening on a holiday weekend?

Thus far they have just done the basics.

And worried about the tube. Kristen's kids and I crashed the

Henn House for supper,

altho' the kids think it was so they could play together.

Saturday I came home and found a neighbor had

mowed my front and one side lawn.

Looks good, thanks. All my flowers are looking great.

Monday, while I was at work, Kristen and her two moved in, for awhile.

Lots of stuff to be taken care of--Kristen to unpack and me to decide what to do with Dwight's stuff from when he Pastored.

He never touched while we lived

here, but didn't want to part with it....

If you were to ask why all this is happening to Dwight and our life,

I couldn't even come close to an answer.

I know God works all things for good for those who love Him,

but I haven't rounded the corner that shows me the good yet.

Just keep putting one foot in front of the other,

asking God for strength and to hold me up when I want to crash.

I have a very good family. My mom constantly reminds me she loves me

andwishes she could help, my sisters call and say the same.

My children do all they can to help, and then some.

Even my son in law Tim--he does so much to help out.

Our neighbor, Bob, is very helpful and concerned.

Even gave me a lecture yesterday,

and offered me a beer to help me relax...

And all my family and friends who are praying and caring,

even people I have never met. It is good.

Thanks for everything, everyone.

God Can Steer a Tree

2010-05-24T16:11:00.004-04:00

It has been a long stay for Dwight. Day 55 away from home. And more to come. But I know God is in control, so does Dwight, but at times it is hard to keep our hands off and trust God. The unseen is so unseen.

Thursday, as the gap between 'now' and the surgery got smaller, Dwight's anxiousness and prayers increased. As in true Dwight style, he made sure God understood everything....

Finally, God asked, "Why can't you just trust me?"

Dw: "I do. but I am still anxious and I can't get past it."

God: "You have a good memory. Just remember what I taught you in the middle of the wind storm."

Dw: "You mean when the tree fell?"

God: "Yes, what did I teach you then?"

Dw: "You can steer a tree."

God: "When you gave me your deepest fears and anxieties of the house being crushed from the tree falling you released me to perform a miracle. Right in front of your eyes, and the eyes of your neighbors. Now, just remember that if you surrender these anxious fears to me I will be with you no matter what. I AM your GOD and you are my child. Surrender--I have everything under control."

And Dwight calmed down, and had a time of prayer and praise.

When it was time for the surgery it didn't happen because of problems with surgeries before him. I truly it was God in Control because the Dr personally came to see Dwight and they decided to do a different type of surgery that should be more successful.

God is good...

Surprised by God?!?

2010-05-19T23:41:00.002-04:00

It was a long day yesterday. But just as I was leaving last night, they gave Dwight most of his meds and something to drink. He must have fallen to sleep quickly, because he didn't call to say good night.

Today he had more Doctors visit than he could count.

Good new they are going to take the first of the kidney stones out Friday.

Bad news, they are monitoring his heart rate and it is dipping very low, both awake and asleep. They mentioned a pace maker, but the one Dr wants to wait and see how things look after the infection is finally gone. It does seem that this infection, that has been attacking him for so long, has caused alot of muscle damage.

GOD Surprise: needless to say this alot to process. We are very happy to finally be scheduled for stone removal, but the rest of the news left Dwight somewhat depressed. I spent alot of time in prayer while at work (Pray without ceasing...) And God answered my prayer. but I was surprised; and surprised that I was surprised.

I did ask. He did answer. That is what He does. Why didn't I expect Him to answer?

Love how God did it. First Sam called and they had a great conversation, and Dwight felt some better. Then the Tech came in and Dwight asked for his Bible, as she handed it to him she asked if our family was one of prayer--YES. She responded,"Now you have one more." Pointing to herself as she left the room with a tear in her eye.

What wonderful confirmation that God is in control. Thank you Sam and Danielle, for letting God use you.

God is good...

IMG_6512.JPG

2010-05-18T23:42:00.001-04:00

Click here to view these pictures larger

The Saga Continues

2010-05-18T09:07:00.003-04:00

Dwight has been told often that he was being released from Dodd Hall on the 18th. but never with an answer as to where he was going. Altho his strength is returning, he isn't able to transfer, so I am unable to care for him at home. OSU Drs said they had no directive to return him to Grant.

And the frustration continues.

Over the weekend they were evaluating him...to see what he has learned??? but still no answers.

Last night (Monday, the 17th) his nausea got worse, he got chills, and he was told his calcium level was very, very high and they were transferring him to the main hospital. Had they conferred with his Drs from Grant? NO!! Had they called his primary Dr? NO!!

But did Susie? YES!! I called his primary Dr--got her out of a conference in Kansas City (did not know, sorry). She said NO, call other Drs and get him back at Grant. He is being moved there sometime today--not sure when, but he has to go through the ER to be readmitted. That doesn't make sense, but hopefully they will get the calcium under control and remove the kidney stones so we can get real serious about him regaining his strength and coming home.

He is unable to get an electric wheelchair right now,but we will work on it.

And, hopefully he will have glasses soon, someone is working on that for him. PTL

I realize we still have a long bumpy road ahead but...

Again, thanks to all of you who care and are praying.

God is in control, even when we feel out of control. God is good...

Progress

2010-05-11T22:59:00.002-04:00

Dwight is getting daily therapy, and making slow progress, but there is progress. His body has been so beat up by the infections that he is really drained. Until the stones are removed the infection will continue--and the stones can't be removed until he is strong enough. Reminds me of the whirlpool we saw above the falls at Niagara. Around,around, and around--where is the end?

It seems there is a steady stream of Drs, different ones every day, all with different ideas and tests and meds. Now they have discovered another problem, a problem we have decided it's not something to worry about right now. And they have added another IV. And no one says where he is going, but the date to leave is still set at next Tuesday.

If you have room for another prayer request, please add our son Sam. He is dealing with a very nasty 'viral' something...please jump over to his blog and let him tell you himself.

Thanks.

A Shower

2010-05-05T22:43:00.002-04:00

Yesterday, at lunch time, when I visited Dwight he was in an electric wheelchair. He drove himself to therapy, slowly. They are going to see about getting him a chair that fits him, and hopefully our small house with small doorways. Dwight had a great therapy secession in the afternoon, doing all they asked and more. When he got back to the room they helped into a special shower chair and he finally able to shower. And wash his hair, he is blonde again. Was nice to play with his hair when I stopped in after work.

BUT, today they decided they needed more x-rays and another cat scan. And another change in his medications, resulting in him missing both morning and afternoon therapy. How frustrating. I know he is stronger, but I really had hoped for more progress, not more tests and med changes.