Hard to believe, but true......this is the final day of 2011! I must admit, that in spite of the many changes that occurred, it was truly a wonderful year! So much so, in fact, that I really want to hold on to it another day, another week, etc. When I look back and compare it to the ending of 2009 and 2010, I am reminded how difficult those years were with Lee's illness and subsequent lung transplant. We were both grateful to close those years and looked forward to the new ones approaching.
20ll has been kind to us. Sure, we have a few more wrinkles, and we sometimes have a few more aches and pains. The usually easy tasks have become a bit more time-consuming, and the strength and endurances are waning. Even though there have been the unwelcome frailities of aging, we have had a very good year. We have seen Lee's strength returning and it has indeed been a joy to return to some of the old familiar routines of our lives. What a joy to have been able to celebrate another Christmas with our families! We were blessed with our children and grandchildren for both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. In addition, we had some celebrations with other family members and with our friends. We felt as though we had stepped back in time to that period in our lives when all was well.
How priviledged we are to live in the twenty-first century that has advanced in medical care to the point of providing second chances at life. Lee and I realize that had we been living in the late twentieth century, our lives would be quite different. There would have been no chance for a lung transplant. He would have been diagnosed as terminal and that would have been the end of his life as he knew it.
We welcome this New Year with renewed spirit and a determined fortitude to keep Lee strong and healthy. We will do everthing in our power to make his lung transplant a success. Along with that, Lee has a "bucket list", and most of this is centered around being with his family and friends. He has made a committment to "Lifeshares of the Carolinas". He wants to volunteer to speak publicly on behalf of organ donors. It was his wish this Christmas to forego gifts from his family and accept donations to the Lifeshares program. He was delighted to find that all his children and others honored his request.
May each of you have the Happiest of New Year's for 2012!
More Later....................Brenda
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Days before Christmas
Three days before Christmas
and all through this house,
The only sound stirring is Lee,
asleep on the couch.
Casseroles in the freezer,
the coconut cake too,
I'm enjoying catch-up on the
computer with you.
The gifts are all wrapped in
silver and white,
Hidden downstairs
til Christmas Eve night.
Eve of the 25th, we will
celebrate the night before.
Then they will leave
for their own night of yore.
Christmas day brings more,
as we open the doors,
fling open the ovens for
Lasagne galore.
The children will play
shooting pool downstairs,
while parents and we
celebrate as adults
upstairs.
All will be merry, and
gratefully so
For this is Christmas!
From Christ whom we know.
and all through this house,
The only sound stirring is Lee,
asleep on the couch.
Casseroles in the freezer,
the coconut cake too,
I'm enjoying catch-up on the
computer with you.
The gifts are all wrapped in
silver and white,
Hidden downstairs
til Christmas Eve night.
Eve of the 25th, we will
celebrate the night before.
Then they will leave
for their own night of yore.
Christmas day brings more,
as we open the doors,
fling open the ovens for
Lasagne galore.
The children will play
shooting pool downstairs,
while parents and we
celebrate as adults
upstairs.
All will be merry, and
gratefully so
For this is Christmas!
From Christ whom we know.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Christmas 2011
Greetings!
It is with joy and peace that we welcome this wonderful season of the year!
Our spirit of hope continues to be our beacon of light as we face each day. We have become accustomed to the dictates of Lee's schedule. It now feels comfortable, and we are grateful for the closeness of Duke as we travel to Durham for those necessary clinic visits regularly. There have been some extras for Lee this past year. He had cataract surgery in the Spring and prostate surgery in July. Unfortunately, in August he did get the dreaded report of rejection. After four days in the hospital with special treatment, we returned home and he was rejection-free until recently. A mild stage of rejection has been treated here at home and we are optimistic that it has been controlled.
On a bright note, he is feeling quite well, and is gaining his strength. He is very independent, and now finds time to do some work that he enjoys. He is loyal to his work-out sessions at the rehab center and is reaping the rewards of his hard work.
I completed my book in July, and it was published late last Summer through Publish America. I consider it one of my greatest achievements as a tribute to Lee. It is my desire that it may help someone along the way who may be facing either an organ transplant or the decision to become an organ donor. I named it "Now We Have Hope", because that is what we have.
In February, we welcomed our great grandchild, Easton Lee Spencer, to our family. He is the son of grand-daughter, Laura (Kanipe) Spencer. All of our grandchildren range in ages from six to twenty-five. Two of the older ones are married. We now have two college graduates, one in college, one employed,, and the others are in elementary, midfdle, and high school. Two of our adult children and one grandchild are actively pursuing their post-graduate degrees.
Lee and I continue to be amazed at his good fortune to have received his gift of life. We know, that because of his gift, we will be allowed yet another Christmas with our families, friends, and others. Please join us as we once again lift up our voices in praise for the blessings of Christ, and the promise of hope for all.
Blessings to all of you this Christmas,
Brenda and Lee
It is with joy and peace that we welcome this wonderful season of the year!
Our spirit of hope continues to be our beacon of light as we face each day. We have become accustomed to the dictates of Lee's schedule. It now feels comfortable, and we are grateful for the closeness of Duke as we travel to Durham for those necessary clinic visits regularly. There have been some extras for Lee this past year. He had cataract surgery in the Spring and prostate surgery in July. Unfortunately, in August he did get the dreaded report of rejection. After four days in the hospital with special treatment, we returned home and he was rejection-free until recently. A mild stage of rejection has been treated here at home and we are optimistic that it has been controlled.
On a bright note, he is feeling quite well, and is gaining his strength. He is very independent, and now finds time to do some work that he enjoys. He is loyal to his work-out sessions at the rehab center and is reaping the rewards of his hard work.
I completed my book in July, and it was published late last Summer through Publish America. I consider it one of my greatest achievements as a tribute to Lee. It is my desire that it may help someone along the way who may be facing either an organ transplant or the decision to become an organ donor. I named it "Now We Have Hope", because that is what we have.
In February, we welcomed our great grandchild, Easton Lee Spencer, to our family. He is the son of grand-daughter, Laura (Kanipe) Spencer. All of our grandchildren range in ages from six to twenty-five. Two of the older ones are married. We now have two college graduates, one in college, one employed,, and the others are in elementary, midfdle, and high school. Two of our adult children and one grandchild are actively pursuing their post-graduate degrees.
Lee and I continue to be amazed at his good fortune to have received his gift of life. We know, that because of his gift, we will be allowed yet another Christmas with our families, friends, and others. Please join us as we once again lift up our voices in praise for the blessings of Christ, and the promise of hope for all.
Blessings to all of you this Christmas,
Brenda and Lee
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Heavy Hearts
It was yesterday that we attended the funeral of our dear friend, Robert Morrell. His passing was filled with ambivilent feelings for Lee and me. We were saddened to lose him, but relieved, that he is finally freed from the very sick body that had become his prison since last Spring. The celebration of his life, in his church that he loved, was filled to capacity with the multitude of friends who loved him. Even though he had written a request for a simple ceremony, it was a grand tribute to our friend. He had asked for a choir, and said he would understand if they could not get enough on a week-day because of working responsibilities. Therefore, he said, let the congregation sing one song.....his favorite...."It is well with my soul." Not to be.....the choir was filled...no empty seats there! And did they sing!.......It was the most beautiful rendition of his song ever to be sung in that church! A choir of angels sang yesterday for Robert. Grandaughter, Sarah Ann, sang for her grandfather, and her brother, Chris, read "taps". Emotionally, it was a challenge, but these two brave children wanted to give this last gift to their grandfather whom they loved so much.
Robert had made his final wishes known in regards to funeral, etc. and he had listed the names of pallbearers. Lee was humbled to be one of those honored.
Yes, Robert is no longer with us, but as we were reminded yesterday, in the sharing of many memorable stories during our time with him, his legacy will not be forgotten. His quiet spirit with strong determination for giving his very best in everything he did, will remain a shining example for all who knew him. He and his wife, Carole, will always be our dear friends, and we will never forget those wonderful Sundays with our "Sunday Lunch Buddies."
As we go about our busy days in preparation for the holidays, we will remember the Morrell family and their first Christmas without their beloved Robert. We will cherish the time we have with each other and try very hard to forget the fatigue that comes with all the activity that somehow manages to alter the true meaning of this time of the year. We will see each event as an opportunity to share a little time with those we love, and will be reminded that we only hold that time for a moment.
More Later...............................Brenda
Robert had made his final wishes known in regards to funeral, etc. and he had listed the names of pallbearers. Lee was humbled to be one of those honored.
Yes, Robert is no longer with us, but as we were reminded yesterday, in the sharing of many memorable stories during our time with him, his legacy will not be forgotten. His quiet spirit with strong determination for giving his very best in everything he did, will remain a shining example for all who knew him. He and his wife, Carole, will always be our dear friends, and we will never forget those wonderful Sundays with our "Sunday Lunch Buddies."
As we go about our busy days in preparation for the holidays, we will remember the Morrell family and their first Christmas without their beloved Robert. We will cherish the time we have with each other and try very hard to forget the fatigue that comes with all the activity that somehow manages to alter the true meaning of this time of the year. We will see each event as an opportunity to share a little time with those we love, and will be reminded that we only hold that time for a moment.
More Later...............................Brenda
Sunday, December 4, 2011
An Old New Look
I hope you enjoy the new photo on the blog.......My daughter, Julia and I decided on a Winter scene. We will post some more updated photos as we go along.
This picture was made on a snowy day in the Winter of 2008. Grandaddy Lee is taking nine year old grandaughter ,Lillie, through the pasture to search for a good sledding area. Grandson John joined them shortly after this photo was taken by Lillie's older sister, Michaela. I love this picture so much that I asked my daughter to paint it. It now adorns one of the walls in a bedroom. Lee was so strong and healthy at that time. He was also young enough at heart to enjoy sledding with some of his grandchildren. The older grandchildren and his sons have many fond memories of days of sledding down the hill in front of our house.
More Later......................Brenda
This picture was made on a snowy day in the Winter of 2008. Grandaddy Lee is taking nine year old grandaughter ,Lillie, through the pasture to search for a good sledding area. Grandson John joined them shortly after this photo was taken by Lillie's older sister, Michaela. I love this picture so much that I asked my daughter to paint it. It now adorns one of the walls in a bedroom. Lee was so strong and healthy at that time. He was also young enough at heart to enjoy sledding with some of his grandchildren. The older grandchildren and his sons have many fond memories of days of sledding down the hill in front of our house.
More Later......................Brenda
Test Results
Sunday Morning.....December 4th! So much to do and so little time to do it before Christmas. I love this time of the year, and Lee and I always look forward to seeing our families, and sharing the many joys during this special season of our Christian celebration of the birthday of Christ. Unfortunately, we have to try very hard to arrange time for extra activities; I suppose, because we are burdoned with so many other committments.
Even though the clinic day last week was one of the better ones, we were given the bad news on Friday. Lee is in rejection again. His type of rejection involves the smaller respiratory pathways, which is apparently the most difficult type to control. There is also the suspicion from the doctors that Lee may be having non-symptomatic reflux. They are desperately trying to find the reason for the repeated rejection and the on and off again repeated infections. So it is, that we will begin on Monday of next week a regime with Home Health for some more Solu -medrol I.V's, Step down prednisone from high doses, and double his anti-rejection pills ( prednisone and myfortic ) on a continuing basis. In addition to this, we must schedule another two-day visit to Durham ASAP for another reflux test. We will know this date on Monday. It will be sometime between the 12, 14, or after Christmas, such as 26, 27, or 28. He is also to return to Duke for another bronchoscopy on January 30. In between all of this........if his reflux test is positive, he will be scheduled for a stomach wrap ASAP. That will require 5-7 days in the hospital!
There, you have it. Now you understand why time is of the essence for us right now. Unfortunately, I am having to rest my knee. I suspect another torn meniscus, since I have done this twice before. I do not have time for orthopedic visit, nor MRI, nor whatever.....so am treating it with rest (no stairs), ice, and Ibupropen. From past experience, this will work as long as I avoid stairs and too much standing, lifting, etc. Right now, we are just planning on taking this holiday season a day at a time, and not trying to include all that we usually do. We have become accustomed to our lives quickly changing within a 24-hour period.
Good news is that Lee feels good. The only noticeable symptom he has of rejection is a persistant, dry cough. That is what makes rejection so difficult to deal with. The symptoms are silent, however, they are serious and deadly when the rejection causes pneumonia. Even with that, the clues are only obvious when they are seriously ill. We have learned not to look for the "normal" signs and symptoms of an illness ( fever, chills, aches), because these only happen during the more chronic or desperately ill phase.
I will keep you posted on how things are going......we ask for you prayers for our patience, perserverance and renewed health and strength.
More Later.........................................Brenda
Even though the clinic day last week was one of the better ones, we were given the bad news on Friday. Lee is in rejection again. His type of rejection involves the smaller respiratory pathways, which is apparently the most difficult type to control. There is also the suspicion from the doctors that Lee may be having non-symptomatic reflux. They are desperately trying to find the reason for the repeated rejection and the on and off again repeated infections. So it is, that we will begin on Monday of next week a regime with Home Health for some more Solu -medrol I.V's, Step down prednisone from high doses, and double his anti-rejection pills ( prednisone and myfortic ) on a continuing basis. In addition to this, we must schedule another two-day visit to Durham ASAP for another reflux test. We will know this date on Monday. It will be sometime between the 12, 14, or after Christmas, such as 26, 27, or 28. He is also to return to Duke for another bronchoscopy on January 30. In between all of this........if his reflux test is positive, he will be scheduled for a stomach wrap ASAP. That will require 5-7 days in the hospital!
There, you have it. Now you understand why time is of the essence for us right now. Unfortunately, I am having to rest my knee. I suspect another torn meniscus, since I have done this twice before. I do not have time for orthopedic visit, nor MRI, nor whatever.....so am treating it with rest (no stairs), ice, and Ibupropen. From past experience, this will work as long as I avoid stairs and too much standing, lifting, etc. Right now, we are just planning on taking this holiday season a day at a time, and not trying to include all that we usually do. We have become accustomed to our lives quickly changing within a 24-hour period.
Good news is that Lee feels good. The only noticeable symptom he has of rejection is a persistant, dry cough. That is what makes rejection so difficult to deal with. The symptoms are silent, however, they are serious and deadly when the rejection causes pneumonia. Even with that, the clues are only obvious when they are seriously ill. We have learned not to look for the "normal" signs and symptoms of an illness ( fever, chills, aches), because these only happen during the more chronic or desperately ill phase.
I will keep you posted on how things are going......we ask for you prayers for our patience, perserverance and renewed health and strength.
More Later.........................................Brenda
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Clinic 101
We are becoming so accustomed to clinic days, that we often find ourselves acting as guides to others. For example, one lady was trying to find her way from the waiting room in the pulmonary area to the x-ray dept. I overheard Lee explain that she needed to go to the first "intersection", turn left, and it is down the hallway about midway! I couldn't help but smile at his comparison of the intersected hallways to "intersection". Of course, he was correct, it just sounded odd.
Sometimes I think maybe I need to write a book on grocery shopping 101. I was explaining to Lee last week that it has been occurring with relative frequency, that I am singled out by another shopper, as to the choice of certain products! During these past few months I have been asked (by complete strangers ) about the best brand of coffee, best type of creamer for coffee, orange juice selection and a host of other groceries. All I have to do is linger over the pot roasts, read the label on greek yogurt and suddenly I must appear to be THE authority on each particular product. Maybe I should apply for my picture on certain products for endorsement. After all, who was Betty Crocker anyway?!
Enough of that. Back to Lee......today was a much better day at the clinic. We were fortunate to talk to the doctor and the person administering the sedative prior to the bronchoscopy. I am happy to report that so far Lee has had no untoward side effects. He was awake and alert within the hour, no chills, no fever, and we were able to go to the cafeteria at Northgate Mall for dinner tonight. We are back in the cozy and warm condo, and are looking forward to that delicious chocolate pie from Betsy while we enjoy a Christmas movie on the Hallmark chanel.
There will be a few medication adjustments for Lee, in case he is moderately rejecting again. Increase the prednisone and the other anti-rejection drug. We will get the results from the biopsy on Tuesday or Wednesday and then will know for sure if he is trying to reject again. Balancing the drugs is like balancing equations.......trial and error until it finally works!
We will be glad to be heading home tomorrow................................
More Later.....................................Brenda
Sometimes I think maybe I need to write a book on grocery shopping 101. I was explaining to Lee last week that it has been occurring with relative frequency, that I am singled out by another shopper, as to the choice of certain products! During these past few months I have been asked (by complete strangers ) about the best brand of coffee, best type of creamer for coffee, orange juice selection and a host of other groceries. All I have to do is linger over the pot roasts, read the label on greek yogurt and suddenly I must appear to be THE authority on each particular product. Maybe I should apply for my picture on certain products for endorsement. After all, who was Betty Crocker anyway?!
Enough of that. Back to Lee......today was a much better day at the clinic. We were fortunate to talk to the doctor and the person administering the sedative prior to the bronchoscopy. I am happy to report that so far Lee has had no untoward side effects. He was awake and alert within the hour, no chills, no fever, and we were able to go to the cafeteria at Northgate Mall for dinner tonight. We are back in the cozy and warm condo, and are looking forward to that delicious chocolate pie from Betsy while we enjoy a Christmas movie on the Hallmark chanel.
There will be a few medication adjustments for Lee, in case he is moderately rejecting again. Increase the prednisone and the other anti-rejection drug. We will get the results from the biopsy on Tuesday or Wednesday and then will know for sure if he is trying to reject again. Balancing the drugs is like balancing equations.......trial and error until it finally works!
We will be glad to be heading home tomorrow................................
More Later.....................................Brenda
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Durham
We are back in Durham, ready for routine tests for Lee tomorrow. We have accomplished many things today. We were up early this morning, packed and were able to leave our home by 9:00. Lee drove all the way to Raleigh, where we had a lovely "early Christmas" lunch with Dennis and Betsy. The food was spectacular (as usual) and Betsy made a wonderful chocolate pie! She even sent some home with us. It was so good to be able to spend the afternoon with them and enjoy some 3D t.v.
We checked in to the Duke Towers around 4:00, unloaded the car and Lee relaxed, while I visited some other acquaintences I had met when we were here last year. They happen to be staying in the condo we occupied for so long and we are next door.....actually, this one is a bit nicer! The bath has been redone and is complete with new fixtures. Around 5:00, we used the shuttle to go to the hospital to visit Wayne and Betty Lafon. Wayne had his lung transplant in May of 2010 , and recently had surgery for an abdominal aortic aneurysm. He is recovering from that major surgical procedure and should be able to go home in the near future. Betty looks great, as usual, and always a joy to be with. We enjoyed a short visit and left via shuttle, who dropped us off for dinner at Tripps. When we were finished, we called the shuttle and were back at the condo by 7:30.
Lee is relaxing (dozing) on the sofa while watching a Christmas program.....??Frosty????........He must really be tired! Actually, we are both tired enough to bed down now at 8:30. Probably a good idea, since Lee must be NPO past midnight, and at the clinic by 8:00 in the morning. He will have a bronchoscopy around 10:00. We are hoping for little or no complications this time. If all goes well, we will be able to return home Thursday.
I'll let you know how the tests turn out.......meanwhile, keep us in your thoughts and prayers. So good to have you there to talk to from time to time. Thanks.
More Later..........................................Brenda
We checked in to the Duke Towers around 4:00, unloaded the car and Lee relaxed, while I visited some other acquaintences I had met when we were here last year. They happen to be staying in the condo we occupied for so long and we are next door.....actually, this one is a bit nicer! The bath has been redone and is complete with new fixtures. Around 5:00, we used the shuttle to go to the hospital to visit Wayne and Betty Lafon. Wayne had his lung transplant in May of 2010 , and recently had surgery for an abdominal aortic aneurysm. He is recovering from that major surgical procedure and should be able to go home in the near future. Betty looks great, as usual, and always a joy to be with. We enjoyed a short visit and left via shuttle, who dropped us off for dinner at Tripps. When we were finished, we called the shuttle and were back at the condo by 7:30.
Lee is relaxing (dozing) on the sofa while watching a Christmas program.....??Frosty????........He must really be tired! Actually, we are both tired enough to bed down now at 8:30. Probably a good idea, since Lee must be NPO past midnight, and at the clinic by 8:00 in the morning. He will have a bronchoscopy around 10:00. We are hoping for little or no complications this time. If all goes well, we will be able to return home Thursday.
I'll let you know how the tests turn out.......meanwhile, keep us in your thoughts and prayers. So good to have you there to talk to from time to time. Thanks.
More Later..........................................Brenda
Monday, November 28, 2011
Thanksgiving!
We have had a whirlwind of activities these past few days, as I am sure you have too. Isn't it wonderful to have family with you and to be able to come together on a lovely November day to celebrate Thanksgiving. There were 15 of us collectively, and would have had more, but due to obligations to other families, our numbers were slightly reduced. With seven children and nine adults, the house was alive with happy sounds of our children and grandchildren. We somehow managed to settle in one area long enough to remember those early settlers who braved the unknown to sail through dangerous waters to a strange, new land. All for freedom. We are grateful for the freedom we now have because of their strong desire to live without being persecuted. Daughter, Julia began this tradition of remembrance many years ago, and we continue to share it each year.
We enjoyed the traditional meal of Turkey, dressing, cranberries, many vegetables and of course, the pumpkin pies. Immediately following our Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday, I decided to take advantage of my good fortune, to have available at that moment, my three, strong, male family members, who needed to work off all those calories from the huge meal. As the three daughters cleaned the tables, loaded the dishwasher and begin to put away the food, I supervised the "boys" as they rearranged the living room furniture to make room for the Christmas tree. The tree was brought up from storage in the basement and assembled and placed in the reserved location in the living room that it has now occupied for the past 17 or so years.
Unfortunately, some of the pre-lit lights would not work. After a lengthy discussion between the mechanical engineer son, and the computer engineer son, it was determined that those lights were indeed, dead. I was given a demonstration on how I could check each light to determine the culprit....unfortunately, they did not have the time as each had to return to another Thanksgiving dinner in the evening. Everyone left, and we were left with a bare tree and empty house. Lee and I did the sensible thing..... we napped, and we rested the remainder of the afternoon. In fact, we rested all day Friday!
On Saturday morning, I had begun putting away all the Fall decorations, when daughter Julia burst through the back door, accompanied with her two daughters and a friend of the older daughter. With gusto, she announced that they had come to help us clear away Fall ,and begin decorating for Christmas! Of course, a light lunch for the girls would help get them on their way. After the girls finished off the rest of the turkey, vegetables and desserts from Thanksgiving, they were ready to go to work. In a flurry, they were up and down the stairs, as they removed most of the normal house decor to make room for Christmas. Lillie, age 13, along with John from next door, assumed control of the golf cart, and made many trips to collect items and transfer them to the lower level of the house. They also helped Grandaddy Lee collect trash, load it onto the truck and make a trip to the convenience site.
Within an hour or two, my front bedroom was filled with Christmas! As each carried items up from storage, they used that room as a landing site as it would enable me to have easy access to retrieve later, at a slower pace, on my own! Our attention now turned to the giant tree that stood completely naked and unadorned in the corner of the living room. It seems that two complete sets of lights refused to light. This became one of our more challenging projects........................
And so it was that yesterday, with the ingenuity of my daughter, a practical minded elementary school principle, that the problem was solved by simply adding more strands of lights. We will meet again next Saturday and decorate the tree and the remainder of the house.
Lee and I will be leaving on Tuesday for Durham. He will have another routine check-up on Wednesday with another bronchoscopy and we will return on Thursday. We are planning to visit Dennis and Betsy for lunch on Tuesday, and a friend of Lee's for lunch in Winston Salem on Thursday as we return. Lee has had a wonderful Thanksgiving and good days. He has enjoyed picking up pecans from the yard and sharing them with neighbors. It is wonderful to see him able to do so many things again.
How grateful we are to receive the normal days again with family, friends and neighbors. Each day is welcomed and blessed.
More Later......................Brenda
We enjoyed the traditional meal of Turkey, dressing, cranberries, many vegetables and of course, the pumpkin pies. Immediately following our Thanksgiving dinner on Thursday, I decided to take advantage of my good fortune, to have available at that moment, my three, strong, male family members, who needed to work off all those calories from the huge meal. As the three daughters cleaned the tables, loaded the dishwasher and begin to put away the food, I supervised the "boys" as they rearranged the living room furniture to make room for the Christmas tree. The tree was brought up from storage in the basement and assembled and placed in the reserved location in the living room that it has now occupied for the past 17 or so years.
Unfortunately, some of the pre-lit lights would not work. After a lengthy discussion between the mechanical engineer son, and the computer engineer son, it was determined that those lights were indeed, dead. I was given a demonstration on how I could check each light to determine the culprit....unfortunately, they did not have the time as each had to return to another Thanksgiving dinner in the evening. Everyone left, and we were left with a bare tree and empty house. Lee and I did the sensible thing..... we napped, and we rested the remainder of the afternoon. In fact, we rested all day Friday!
On Saturday morning, I had begun putting away all the Fall decorations, when daughter Julia burst through the back door, accompanied with her two daughters and a friend of the older daughter. With gusto, she announced that they had come to help us clear away Fall ,and begin decorating for Christmas! Of course, a light lunch for the girls would help get them on their way. After the girls finished off the rest of the turkey, vegetables and desserts from Thanksgiving, they were ready to go to work. In a flurry, they were up and down the stairs, as they removed most of the normal house decor to make room for Christmas. Lillie, age 13, along with John from next door, assumed control of the golf cart, and made many trips to collect items and transfer them to the lower level of the house. They also helped Grandaddy Lee collect trash, load it onto the truck and make a trip to the convenience site.
Within an hour or two, my front bedroom was filled with Christmas! As each carried items up from storage, they used that room as a landing site as it would enable me to have easy access to retrieve later, at a slower pace, on my own! Our attention now turned to the giant tree that stood completely naked and unadorned in the corner of the living room. It seems that two complete sets of lights refused to light. This became one of our more challenging projects........................
And so it was that yesterday, with the ingenuity of my daughter, a practical minded elementary school principle, that the problem was solved by simply adding more strands of lights. We will meet again next Saturday and decorate the tree and the remainder of the house.
Lee and I will be leaving on Tuesday for Durham. He will have another routine check-up on Wednesday with another bronchoscopy and we will return on Thursday. We are planning to visit Dennis and Betsy for lunch on Tuesday, and a friend of Lee's for lunch in Winston Salem on Thursday as we return. Lee has had a wonderful Thanksgiving and good days. He has enjoyed picking up pecans from the yard and sharing them with neighbors. It is wonderful to see him able to do so many things again.
How grateful we are to receive the normal days again with family, friends and neighbors. Each day is welcomed and blessed.
More Later......................Brenda
Friday, November 18, 2011
A Lovely Week
This has been one of those weeks when I am hesitant to close the day for sleep at night, not wanting the day to end. This past week has been so pleasant. I have been able to accomplish and complete a long list of "things to do!" Lee has rebounded with renewed strength and vigor! I guess you could say that I took advantage of that. For example: I have needed to clean the basement for the past year! (amazing how things no longer used get moved to the basement for storage) So it was, this past Tuesday that I declared a cleaning, organizing day. Lee jumped right in and by the early part of the afternoon, we were able to load his truck with enough "stuff" to fill the entire bed of the truck. Lee left for the convenience site while I stayed behind to tidy up a bit. He hired Mel to come on Wednesday to do some thorough cleaning.
I must admit, there was an incentive for all the cleaning. On Sunday, November 2 0, Lee will be hosting his football party and it will be held in his "Man's Cave" in the basement. So, with that in mind, we were both anxious to be able to present a cleaner and less cluttered environment. Lee is ready for his company, and I am thrilled to be rid of some junk stuff that caused all the clutter!
Don't know if you heard or not, but we had some really strange and scary weather on Wednesday! I was busy downstairs ironing when I noticed extreme darkness outside at only 4:00 p.m. I turned on the T.V. and sure enough, there were tornado warnings. As I continued to monitor the weather, it became more ominous and threatening. Realizing that Lee was outside visiting some of the neighbors, I called and reminded him of the bad weather. Fortunately, we escaped a bad storm. There was a tornado in Shelby ( about 40 miles SE of Vale). Later we learned of the devastation as the storm moved through Rock Hill and the Salisbury area.
We continue to stay in touch with our many friends who are also transplantees. We know that they will be lifetime friends with a common connection to our experiences. It is so good to share those "bumps in the road" from time to time, especially when we are able to gain hope from their renewals. All of us have learned that we must live each day fully, especially on those very good days. We try not look too far ahead and just enjoy each day as it is. After all, when you really look at all of our lives closely, that is all we really have.
We are looking forward to seeing our children, grandchildren and other family members on Thursday. We will miss those who are unable to attend the Kanipe Thanksgiving because of other family committments.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
More Later...........................Brenda
I must admit, there was an incentive for all the cleaning. On Sunday, November 2 0, Lee will be hosting his football party and it will be held in his "Man's Cave" in the basement. So, with that in mind, we were both anxious to be able to present a cleaner and less cluttered environment. Lee is ready for his company, and I am thrilled to be rid of some junk stuff that caused all the clutter!
Don't know if you heard or not, but we had some really strange and scary weather on Wednesday! I was busy downstairs ironing when I noticed extreme darkness outside at only 4:00 p.m. I turned on the T.V. and sure enough, there were tornado warnings. As I continued to monitor the weather, it became more ominous and threatening. Realizing that Lee was outside visiting some of the neighbors, I called and reminded him of the bad weather. Fortunately, we escaped a bad storm. There was a tornado in Shelby ( about 40 miles SE of Vale). Later we learned of the devastation as the storm moved through Rock Hill and the Salisbury area.
We continue to stay in touch with our many friends who are also transplantees. We know that they will be lifetime friends with a common connection to our experiences. It is so good to share those "bumps in the road" from time to time, especially when we are able to gain hope from their renewals. All of us have learned that we must live each day fully, especially on those very good days. We try not look too far ahead and just enjoy each day as it is. After all, when you really look at all of our lives closely, that is all we really have.
We are looking forward to seeing our children, grandchildren and other family members on Thursday. We will miss those who are unable to attend the Kanipe Thanksgiving because of other family committments.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
More Later...........................Brenda
Saturday, November 12, 2011
No News is Good News
It's been a while......I guess that is what is meant by "No news is good news". We have been enjoying spending some days that are so good and so normal, that time slips away. With the exception of Lee's shoulder problem.......it has been a really good week.
He did go to the doctor about the shoulder, and the diagnosis is probably a muscle that is inflammed. He did this once before last Spring, when he overworked the shoulder. We think it is because he lost so much voluntary skeletal muscle, that even this muscle has to gain it's strength like all the others. It is still not strong enough to perform to Lee's expectations ( like fishing for 7-9 hours straight!). Anyway, the prednisone was increased for a week and he has shown much improvement since.
Several months ago, we began talking about possibly looking at another car. We have enjoyed the town car and it has served us well, but I wanted one that was smaller, with better gas mileage along with comfort at the same time. So it was that yesterday, I drove home in a new Toyota Avalon! I have to admit that I did experience some "buyer's remorse" on the way home. I was reminded that the car cost more than the first house I owned ( which, by the way took 30 years to pay!) Had to reason with myself to keep from turning around and changing my mind! Lee said he could have held out longer than I did and saved some money. I believe he was right and for that I have regrets! Nonetheless, the car is here, it is what I wanted, and I look forward to the drive.......................
Lee is busy preparing for his football friends and former Nationwide colleagues to join him here for a Sunday football game on his big T.V. downstairs. He is busy planning the "tail-gating" party, and all the things he will need for the afternoon. One of his friends suggested this so Lee followed through and arranged a date. Since he is no longer able to attend the Panther games, they will watch one of the away games here.
On the heels of that Sunday, I will be busy with the Thanksgiving preparations that will begin on Monday. Pumpkin pies to be made, tables to be decorated, etc......Each day I will be busy with preparations for the family to come and we will be blessed with the gathering of family during this special day. We will remember Thanksgivings past and those who are no longer here. It is their memory and their traditions that began long ago that we will continue. Even though this celebration is different, in many ways, it will be the same as we share my Mom's recipe for potato salad, my sister-in-laws's recipe for the sweet potato coogle, my sister's recipe for the coconut cake, and all the other foods that have become the staple for Thanksgiving.
The house will be filled with the blessing of family.....truly our Thanksgiving day!
More Later.........................................Brenda
He did go to the doctor about the shoulder, and the diagnosis is probably a muscle that is inflammed. He did this once before last Spring, when he overworked the shoulder. We think it is because he lost so much voluntary skeletal muscle, that even this muscle has to gain it's strength like all the others. It is still not strong enough to perform to Lee's expectations ( like fishing for 7-9 hours straight!). Anyway, the prednisone was increased for a week and he has shown much improvement since.
Several months ago, we began talking about possibly looking at another car. We have enjoyed the town car and it has served us well, but I wanted one that was smaller, with better gas mileage along with comfort at the same time. So it was that yesterday, I drove home in a new Toyota Avalon! I have to admit that I did experience some "buyer's remorse" on the way home. I was reminded that the car cost more than the first house I owned ( which, by the way took 30 years to pay!) Had to reason with myself to keep from turning around and changing my mind! Lee said he could have held out longer than I did and saved some money. I believe he was right and for that I have regrets! Nonetheless, the car is here, it is what I wanted, and I look forward to the drive.......................
Lee is busy preparing for his football friends and former Nationwide colleagues to join him here for a Sunday football game on his big T.V. downstairs. He is busy planning the "tail-gating" party, and all the things he will need for the afternoon. One of his friends suggested this so Lee followed through and arranged a date. Since he is no longer able to attend the Panther games, they will watch one of the away games here.
On the heels of that Sunday, I will be busy with the Thanksgiving preparations that will begin on Monday. Pumpkin pies to be made, tables to be decorated, etc......Each day I will be busy with preparations for the family to come and we will be blessed with the gathering of family during this special day. We will remember Thanksgivings past and those who are no longer here. It is their memory and their traditions that began long ago that we will continue. Even though this celebration is different, in many ways, it will be the same as we share my Mom's recipe for potato salad, my sister-in-laws's recipe for the sweet potato coogle, my sister's recipe for the coconut cake, and all the other foods that have become the staple for Thanksgiving.
The house will be filled with the blessing of family.....truly our Thanksgiving day!
More Later.........................................Brenda
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Just Thinking............
The Halloween decoration are gone now. Even though I had the jack-o-laterns out and left the porch light on, we were disappointed that no little goblins visited us. Too bad for the trick or treaters, because waiting on a table in the foyer was a small witch holding a bowl filled with assorted candy. We normally do not have more than one, our grandson John, who lives next door. We have had on rare occasions, some small children who will stop by shortly after dark. John is almost 13 years old, and believes he is way too old to dress in a costume and play trick or treat. The smaller grandchildren live in Virginia and Charlotte. And so it was, in knowing this, that we still left the light on until 8:00 p.m.
We missed having our annual Halloween party this year and last year. The children and grandchildren missed it too! There were too many complication during these times for both of us to even plan the gathering, much less follow through. Our children have begun their own traditions in their neighborhoods with the celebration of Halloween. The tradition continues to delight the children, along with their parents and the many friends they have. How fortunate we are to be able to enjoy this season that closes the door to Summer with fun and costumes, while opening another with short blasts of cold nights, and the promise of days by the fire and maybe some snow.
The house is still filled with the colors of this season. The wreaths of yellow, gold, orange and brown still adorn the entrance doors. They will remain in place until Thanksgiving day. Soon after Thanksgiving, the Fall colors will be exchanged for the Christmas colors of red, green, silver and gold. I will be busy with all the joys of the holidays. Pumpkin pies to be made and all the preparations for a feast.....then the decorating, gift purchases, wrapping and................ There is much to do!
This past week, Lee has been bothered with shoulder pain. It seems that he may have injured his right shoulder with all the fishing at the beach. He is still using ice packs which seem to relieve the pain, and he is more comfortable with the arm immobilized in a sling. He has decided that he may have to see an orthopedic doctor next week. He still has not regained the strength he had prior to this new anti-rejection drug he is taking. We will probably talk to Duke about that next week also. Other than that, he is doing o.k. He does get very disappointed when he loses his strength. We have observed that his strength can leave very quickly and will only return after much hard work on his part. This episode with the bad shoulder has prevented him from the level of activity he had previously.
Last night we had our birthday group over for dinner. Good that I made chicken 'n dumplings cause that is what everyone had said they were hoping for! We call our birthday group the ABOOF gang. There are four couples, and we have been doing this for over twenty years! What does the acronym mean?
(1) A bunch of old friends, (2) a bunch of old fools, (3) or a bunch of old................... Just use your imagination! Depending on the mood of the group,we will determine which group we belong to. We stopped giving gifts a long time ago and decided that we would each give $5.00 to commemorate the birthday. The person having the birthday is exempt. In December of each year, we count the accumulated birthday money, along with a special Christmas monetary gift and donate to charity.
As for now, we will look forward to the holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas, the joy of family and friends and the blessings of life.
More Later......................................Brenda
We missed having our annual Halloween party this year and last year. The children and grandchildren missed it too! There were too many complication during these times for both of us to even plan the gathering, much less follow through. Our children have begun their own traditions in their neighborhoods with the celebration of Halloween. The tradition continues to delight the children, along with their parents and the many friends they have. How fortunate we are to be able to enjoy this season that closes the door to Summer with fun and costumes, while opening another with short blasts of cold nights, and the promise of days by the fire and maybe some snow.
The house is still filled with the colors of this season. The wreaths of yellow, gold, orange and brown still adorn the entrance doors. They will remain in place until Thanksgiving day. Soon after Thanksgiving, the Fall colors will be exchanged for the Christmas colors of red, green, silver and gold. I will be busy with all the joys of the holidays. Pumpkin pies to be made and all the preparations for a feast.....then the decorating, gift purchases, wrapping and................ There is much to do!
This past week, Lee has been bothered with shoulder pain. It seems that he may have injured his right shoulder with all the fishing at the beach. He is still using ice packs which seem to relieve the pain, and he is more comfortable with the arm immobilized in a sling. He has decided that he may have to see an orthopedic doctor next week. He still has not regained the strength he had prior to this new anti-rejection drug he is taking. We will probably talk to Duke about that next week also. Other than that, he is doing o.k. He does get very disappointed when he loses his strength. We have observed that his strength can leave very quickly and will only return after much hard work on his part. This episode with the bad shoulder has prevented him from the level of activity he had previously.
Last night we had our birthday group over for dinner. Good that I made chicken 'n dumplings cause that is what everyone had said they were hoping for! We call our birthday group the ABOOF gang. There are four couples, and we have been doing this for over twenty years! What does the acronym mean?
(1) A bunch of old friends, (2) a bunch of old fools, (3) or a bunch of old................... Just use your imagination! Depending on the mood of the group,we will determine which group we belong to. We stopped giving gifts a long time ago and decided that we would each give $5.00 to commemorate the birthday. The person having the birthday is exempt. In December of each year, we count the accumulated birthday money, along with a special Christmas monetary gift and donate to charity.
As for now, we will look forward to the holidays of Thanksgiving and Christmas, the joy of family and friends and the blessings of life.
More Later......................................Brenda
Monday, October 31, 2011
Home
We departed the beach early yesterday morning, had breakfast @ Bojangles and was on the road by 8:00 a.m. Lee drove all the way and each time I offered to drive, he reminded me that he was fine. The trip home was somewhat eventful because we passed an accident near Lumberton and a traffic jam on I-85 near Gastonia. Other than that we were able to arrive home by 1:30 after stopping for a few groceries and subway for lunch.
Lee's cough from the bronchoscopy Oct. 20th has finally subsided. I called his lung transplant nurse last Thursday and she was able to get a prescription order from the doctor for an antibiotic. Within 24 hours, the cough was beginning to wane. He seems to be fine now and will continue the antibiotic until the 10 days have been completed. I believe his lung was inflammed from the biopsy, and it had not healed. He had begun to run a low grade fever.
Unfortunately, he has had a complication from his fishing day last week. It seems that the constant throwing out the line and reeling with his right arm and shoulder has caused extreme discomfort. He gets some temporary relief from "icy hot" patches, but is not able to use his right arm with shoulder movement without experiencing the pain. This is the same shoulder that has the prosthesis that he had in 2006. We are hoping he did not tear a muscle. This morning he has gone to his family doctor to have his labs done and will talk to him about the shoulder. His plan is to go to rehab and at least get his leg exercise in today.
He has been given a new anti-rejection drug that he must take twice a day. This is in addition to the ones he has been on during this past year. We are suspicious that it is draining some of his energy that he had prior to the last visit to Duke. There are several types of drugs that may be used, but Lee has at some time during this past year tried them all with adverse effects, such as low blood pressure or debilitating fatigue. This is one of the last to try and since he had rejection, they really want him to stay with it. Unfortunately, it saps his energy.
It is good to know that you are still there as our friends and family, reading the blog and caring about what is happening in our lives. We love hearing from you with all your comments. Doug, I know your Dad will be happy when he can share some days of golf with you. Dennis & Betsy, thanks for your counseling on my behalf and all that you do for us when we visit Durham. We had such a good visit over your "early" Thanksgiving meal and enjoyed the take-home food at the beach.
So, there you have it. The good, the bad, the ugly....................We are focusing only on the good because Lee and I believe that is the key to his success. How fortunate we are to have family and friends who never give up on us and continue to send prayers and good wishes our way! Good news is that we are home, looking forward to the holidays, family visits, and all the good times ahead. We wish you the Good, also.
More Later...............................................Brenda
Lee's cough from the bronchoscopy Oct. 20th has finally subsided. I called his lung transplant nurse last Thursday and she was able to get a prescription order from the doctor for an antibiotic. Within 24 hours, the cough was beginning to wane. He seems to be fine now and will continue the antibiotic until the 10 days have been completed. I believe his lung was inflammed from the biopsy, and it had not healed. He had begun to run a low grade fever.
Unfortunately, he has had a complication from his fishing day last week. It seems that the constant throwing out the line and reeling with his right arm and shoulder has caused extreme discomfort. He gets some temporary relief from "icy hot" patches, but is not able to use his right arm with shoulder movement without experiencing the pain. This is the same shoulder that has the prosthesis that he had in 2006. We are hoping he did not tear a muscle. This morning he has gone to his family doctor to have his labs done and will talk to him about the shoulder. His plan is to go to rehab and at least get his leg exercise in today.
He has been given a new anti-rejection drug that he must take twice a day. This is in addition to the ones he has been on during this past year. We are suspicious that it is draining some of his energy that he had prior to the last visit to Duke. There are several types of drugs that may be used, but Lee has at some time during this past year tried them all with adverse effects, such as low blood pressure or debilitating fatigue. This is one of the last to try and since he had rejection, they really want him to stay with it. Unfortunately, it saps his energy.
It is good to know that you are still there as our friends and family, reading the blog and caring about what is happening in our lives. We love hearing from you with all your comments. Doug, I know your Dad will be happy when he can share some days of golf with you. Dennis & Betsy, thanks for your counseling on my behalf and all that you do for us when we visit Durham. We had such a good visit over your "early" Thanksgiving meal and enjoyed the take-home food at the beach.
So, there you have it. The good, the bad, the ugly....................We are focusing only on the good because Lee and I believe that is the key to his success. How fortunate we are to have family and friends who never give up on us and continue to send prayers and good wishes our way! Good news is that we are home, looking forward to the holidays, family visits, and all the good times ahead. We wish you the Good, also.
More Later...............................................Brenda
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Last DAY
This is our last day at the beach. We plan to leave early Sunday morning and get Lee home in time to watch the Panther's game. We could have left today, but we were both a little tired from staying up late to watch the last game of the World Series. Actually, that is not quite as accurate as it sounds. I went to bed @ 10:00, only to awake @ 11:30 to watch it to the finish. Lee went to bed @ 11:00 and just gave up. He figured the game was probably already won...and of course, it was. I did get to see the celebration and jubilation from the winning team.
Today we are playing catch-up on laundry and all the tasks that must be completed prior to our leaving. It has been a lovely week. The weather has been perfect..........sunshine every day.............Indian Summer weather with most days in the hight 70's. Perfect! And, of course, the big event.........Lee enjoyed a day fishing.
Yesterday evening we were invited to our neighbor's house to enjoy the catch from the fishing trips. They had caught whitings, sheepheads and spots. We joined another couple and were treated to lots of fried fish, baked potatoes, and cole slaw. Lee and I had to watch our portions since we were still full from a big lunch earlier.
We were able to have some of our transplant friends , Gloria & Jerry from Wilmington, and Nancy & Veda, from OI, over for lunch. It was so uplifting to hear the three of them, Lee, Jerry & Nancy share so many of their stories before, during and after their lung transplants. To look at each of them today, you could not imagine how sick each of them had been prior to the transplant. It was as if we were all witnessing a miracle! Each of the three have experienced some form of rejection during this past year, and each one has been able to overcome it.
That was one of the issues we addressed as we sat around the living room and talked for several hours. We, the transplantees and caregivers, have come to terms with the fact that this is an ongoing process, and how important it is to use precautions. Precautions are necessary, but at the same time, one must get on with their lives. Jerry has returned to playing golf a couple of days a week, Nancy is planning to return to her home in Alabama, and Lee was able to go fishing for an entire day this week. His plans now are to return to golf in the Spring. I have no doubt that he can do that!
So, for today, we will wind down our week here..............start packing up the car....return home and begin looking forward to the Holidays! There is much work to be done!
More Later..................................Brenda
Today we are playing catch-up on laundry and all the tasks that must be completed prior to our leaving. It has been a lovely week. The weather has been perfect..........sunshine every day.............Indian Summer weather with most days in the hight 70's. Perfect! And, of course, the big event.........Lee enjoyed a day fishing.
Yesterday evening we were invited to our neighbor's house to enjoy the catch from the fishing trips. They had caught whitings, sheepheads and spots. We joined another couple and were treated to lots of fried fish, baked potatoes, and cole slaw. Lee and I had to watch our portions since we were still full from a big lunch earlier.
We were able to have some of our transplant friends , Gloria & Jerry from Wilmington, and Nancy & Veda, from OI, over for lunch. It was so uplifting to hear the three of them, Lee, Jerry & Nancy share so many of their stories before, during and after their lung transplants. To look at each of them today, you could not imagine how sick each of them had been prior to the transplant. It was as if we were all witnessing a miracle! Each of the three have experienced some form of rejection during this past year, and each one has been able to overcome it.
That was one of the issues we addressed as we sat around the living room and talked for several hours. We, the transplantees and caregivers, have come to terms with the fact that this is an ongoing process, and how important it is to use precautions. Precautions are necessary, but at the same time, one must get on with their lives. Jerry has returned to playing golf a couple of days a week, Nancy is planning to return to her home in Alabama, and Lee was able to go fishing for an entire day this week. His plans now are to return to golf in the Spring. I have no doubt that he can do that!
So, for today, we will wind down our week here..............start packing up the car....return home and begin looking forward to the Holidays! There is much work to be done!
More Later..................................Brenda
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Gone Fishing!
Yesterday was a day when Lee was able to meet another benchmark! He spent the entire day, on a boat , between the waterway, the Cape Fear river, and the ocean! Our neighbor, Ted, has a good fishing boat with all the necessary gear. He, along with another fisherman from Oak Island, invited Lee to spend the day with them. Lee had been feeling so good, that he decided he could do this.
So it was, that early Tuesday morning, I fixed him a full breakfast of bacon, eggs, biscuits, packed his lunch and all medication, loaded him with sunscreen and bid him farewell for his adventurous day ahead. I have to admit that it was with trepidation that I experienced his leaving and being in the sun all day. I could not remove the thoughts such as: Will he remember his medication? Will he find shelter from the sun? Will he remember to use extra sunscreen?
You are probably wondering why those thoughts were any concern for me. That is part of being a caregiver. This has been something that I was not prepared for. When you become a caregiver for your loved one, your role expands beyond that of marital partners to include those of nurse, mother, guide, advocate, decision maker, etc. What happens is the shifting of responsibilities from one partner to another. Sometimes it is gradual, but in our case, it was rapid. Even though it was a quick transition, for me, I was slow in realizing the shift of all the responsibility. Now I am trying to change the tide of the shift back to Lee. Once again, we both have to establish the trust for each other that we had before his illness. It is coming back and Lee has once again become the person in charge of those areas he once dominated. I, however, must now learn to move out of the "Mothering" role and let him go. This, of course, is happening....it is only still there in my emotional challenges.
I share this with you in hopes that I may somehow help other caregivers along the way. I was not prepared for those emotional challenges I mentioned. In a sense, a caregiver, along with the person being cared for, must relinquish former identities, and assume those that have now become an inevitable force in ther lives. The days now become focused on the immediate care involving the situation at hand. There is no time to mourn for roles that no longer exist. Catastropic illness thrusts you forward into a lifestyle that only weeks before would have been totally alien to you. Our return to former life roles has been gradual, but the good thing is that it continues to return. His fishing day was a huge step forward in that positive direction.
When Lee returned around 4:00 from his fishing trip, I had good news for him from Duke. He does NOT have any rejection. Our transplant coordinator was delighted to learn that he had spent the day fishing! We will return on Nov. 30th for another bronch to see if the fungus is completely cleared. Today, Lee wants to go to a nursery to look for some trees......so we will be exploring today..............as you can see.....most of our previous roles and identies have returned..........we're.......back to where we were.
More Later.....................................brenda
More Later.................................................Brenda
So it was, that early Tuesday morning, I fixed him a full breakfast of bacon, eggs, biscuits, packed his lunch and all medication, loaded him with sunscreen and bid him farewell for his adventurous day ahead. I have to admit that it was with trepidation that I experienced his leaving and being in the sun all day. I could not remove the thoughts such as: Will he remember his medication? Will he find shelter from the sun? Will he remember to use extra sunscreen?
You are probably wondering why those thoughts were any concern for me. That is part of being a caregiver. This has been something that I was not prepared for. When you become a caregiver for your loved one, your role expands beyond that of marital partners to include those of nurse, mother, guide, advocate, decision maker, etc. What happens is the shifting of responsibilities from one partner to another. Sometimes it is gradual, but in our case, it was rapid. Even though it was a quick transition, for me, I was slow in realizing the shift of all the responsibility. Now I am trying to change the tide of the shift back to Lee. Once again, we both have to establish the trust for each other that we had before his illness. It is coming back and Lee has once again become the person in charge of those areas he once dominated. I, however, must now learn to move out of the "Mothering" role and let him go. This, of course, is happening....it is only still there in my emotional challenges.
I share this with you in hopes that I may somehow help other caregivers along the way. I was not prepared for those emotional challenges I mentioned. In a sense, a caregiver, along with the person being cared for, must relinquish former identities, and assume those that have now become an inevitable force in ther lives. The days now become focused on the immediate care involving the situation at hand. There is no time to mourn for roles that no longer exist. Catastropic illness thrusts you forward into a lifestyle that only weeks before would have been totally alien to you. Our return to former life roles has been gradual, but the good thing is that it continues to return. His fishing day was a huge step forward in that positive direction.
When Lee returned around 4:00 from his fishing trip, I had good news for him from Duke. He does NOT have any rejection. Our transplant coordinator was delighted to learn that he had spent the day fishing! We will return on Nov. 30th for another bronch to see if the fungus is completely cleared. Today, Lee wants to go to a nursery to look for some trees......so we will be exploring today..............as you can see.....most of our previous roles and identies have returned..........we're.......back to where we were.
More Later.....................................brenda
More Later.................................................Brenda
Monday, October 24, 2011
Rest, Food, etc....
After that exciting trip down from Raleigh on Friday, Lee and I have spent most of our time recuperating. I suppose that is a better word than telling you we have been very lazy. Everything we have done during these past three days has been with leisure. No housework yet! No Laundry! No big projects! Just being lazy and probably consuming way too much food!
On Saturday evening, we collected some of our neighbors and had a pizza feast......then last night we were invited over to Ted & Diane's for Ted's famous oyster stew. Lee and I waddled home around 7:45 to watch the world series. We were so loaded with warm milk and crackers that we had to fight to stay awake! Lee finally woke me,( as I was sitting up sound asleep on the sofa), and told me to go to bed. I suppose it can be annoying to try to watch a game with someone making sleep noises adjacent to you. (I will not use the word snoring!) Anyway I was banished to the bedroom only to discover that bedtime rituals (bathing, brushing teeth, etc. ) brought me back to full awakfulness. I returned to Lee and was permitted to stay and watch the exciting game with him. When the game was over, he went to bed.....not me.....I was on full alert! After trying to read, drinking a little milk and nibbling on peanut butter and cracker, I began to relax and finally was ready to sleep again by midnight.
Needless to say, we slept in this a.m. and enjoyed a late breakfast and leisure time with the newspaper. I and my neighbor decided to venture out to the Christmas shop in Southport and enjoyed shopping on this beautiful Fall day. So good to have a friend to share my time with. Lee found a few small chores to do around the house and was on his own for his lunch. Each day he is feeling better after the bronch he had last Thursday. He has finally stopped coughing so much.....still occasionally, but hope it too will subside. We should get the report from that by Tomorrow. We are hoping that he is no longer in rejection.
Even though we have had this lovely beach weather, Lee and I have had to limit our time on the beach. He must use precautions and I have an outbreak of rosecea on my chin. This happens sometime when I am exposed to the sun, or the chemicals in the sunscreen are too strong. We are still able to enjoy the breeze from the ocean and to inhale the fresh salty air. Perhaps we will be able to return later in the week.
We are looking forward to lunch with our former Duke Towers friends on Wednesday and dinner with other friends here on Thursday. I had purchased some new jeans prior to leaving last week, and if I continue to overeat with little activity, there may be a struggle to fit into them! In addition to my body making a fast trip South, it is detouring in the worst of places for these jeans! Old Age.......you have to humor it!
Our return to Vale may be determined by the report from Duke Tomorrow. At any rate, we will have to return by Monday. Until then, our days are restful, there is peace and harmony here and we have the exciting baseball game and dancing with the stars tonight.
We wish you peaceful, restful days also.......................
More Later............................................................Brenda
On Saturday evening, we collected some of our neighbors and had a pizza feast......then last night we were invited over to Ted & Diane's for Ted's famous oyster stew. Lee and I waddled home around 7:45 to watch the world series. We were so loaded with warm milk and crackers that we had to fight to stay awake! Lee finally woke me,( as I was sitting up sound asleep on the sofa), and told me to go to bed. I suppose it can be annoying to try to watch a game with someone making sleep noises adjacent to you. (I will not use the word snoring!) Anyway I was banished to the bedroom only to discover that bedtime rituals (bathing, brushing teeth, etc. ) brought me back to full awakfulness. I returned to Lee and was permitted to stay and watch the exciting game with him. When the game was over, he went to bed.....not me.....I was on full alert! After trying to read, drinking a little milk and nibbling on peanut butter and cracker, I began to relax and finally was ready to sleep again by midnight.
Needless to say, we slept in this a.m. and enjoyed a late breakfast and leisure time with the newspaper. I and my neighbor decided to venture out to the Christmas shop in Southport and enjoyed shopping on this beautiful Fall day. So good to have a friend to share my time with. Lee found a few small chores to do around the house and was on his own for his lunch. Each day he is feeling better after the bronch he had last Thursday. He has finally stopped coughing so much.....still occasionally, but hope it too will subside. We should get the report from that by Tomorrow. We are hoping that he is no longer in rejection.
Even though we have had this lovely beach weather, Lee and I have had to limit our time on the beach. He must use precautions and I have an outbreak of rosecea on my chin. This happens sometime when I am exposed to the sun, or the chemicals in the sunscreen are too strong. We are still able to enjoy the breeze from the ocean and to inhale the fresh salty air. Perhaps we will be able to return later in the week.
We are looking forward to lunch with our former Duke Towers friends on Wednesday and dinner with other friends here on Thursday. I had purchased some new jeans prior to leaving last week, and if I continue to overeat with little activity, there may be a struggle to fit into them! In addition to my body making a fast trip South, it is detouring in the worst of places for these jeans! Old Age.......you have to humor it!
Our return to Vale may be determined by the report from Duke Tomorrow. At any rate, we will have to return by Monday. Until then, our days are restful, there is peace and harmony here and we have the exciting baseball game and dancing with the stars tonight.
We wish you peaceful, restful days also.......................
More Later............................................................Brenda
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Beach & Sunshine!
We are at the beach and enjoying a lovely Fall day! The temperature on the beach is warm enough for shorts and t-shirts. (Lee said Bikinis, because he saw some girls on the beach....guess I missed that!) Lee and I took the golf cart to the beach and he enjoyed some good fellowship with two of his fishing buddies. I relaxed in the sun, took off my shoes and let the sand gather between my toes. The ocean was calm and a soft breeze would occasionally cross our paths. There were some sailboats on the horizon and the sky was a beautiful "Carolina Blue". As I sat, determined to read an exciting novel, I had to stop more frequently to take in the sites of the day than to read the book. There were some beach walkers, mostly people in our age group. The children are in school so there were no children on the beach where we sat.
We could have stayed all afternoon, but after about 30-45 minutes, I realized that Lee would be toast if we did not return to the shade of the house. All of his medications warn against being in the sun as he is more prone to skin cancer now. In fact, his exposure is now exponential to what is was before the transplant. We are always being warned against this when we return to the clinic. In fact, we have encountered at least two post lung transplantees who have developed skin cancer.
I have to say, this was not one of our better trips to Duke. Thursday was a very busy day for Lee. We arrived at the clinic @7:45 to begin with labs, chest x-ray, pulmonary function tests and then to the surgical area for his bronchoscopy. We were surprised to find that he would be done as close to the appointed hour of 9:00. ( usually, we have to wait and hour or so). Not so this time............he was whisked to surgery @ 9:20. I made my usual exit to the waiting area and prepared for the long wait.....again, not so......he was back in the recovery area long enough for me to be called back by 10:15! He was discharged from that area around 12:00. This is not unusual. However, Lee could not seem to recover from the anesthesia as fast as usual. Anyway, we had our lunch around 12:15 and decided to relax in the waiting room until his doctor's appointment @ 2:30.
It was a long wait! He was called back @ 3:30 and saw the doctor @ 4:30. We left the clinic at 5:00. Back at the condo, Lee began having hard chills, his face was flushed, and he had a fever of 100.8. The instructions were to call if fever was above 101. Tylenol reduced it to 99.8, he continued to sleep...could not even stay awake for the world series. This sleepiness lasted throughout Friday, but no fever. We visited friends Martha and Larry @ Duke Raleigh and had lunch with Dennis & Betsy. ( a feast! ) I drank lots of caffeinated coffee because I knew I would be driving to Oak Island.
Well! After a long ride on I-40......about 40 miles from Wilmington......we had a tire to go bad. Exited @ a little town called Rose Hill ( Duplin wine country) and was able to get a used tire after the second inquiry. After being advised to travel 7 more miles to a little town called Wallace, we were able to purchase a tire. We were told that we were an accident waiting to happen! ( and I had been moving along @ a cool 70-75 miles an hour!) Our only warning had been a quiet little thump, thump in rapid succession. We made new friends in Wallace.....the owner and his wife were very cordial and had us back on the road in record time....all for $25.00!
All is well now................we are safe in our house at the beach................Lee is finally (this a.m. ) awake and with energy................and we are happy!
More Later.....................................Brenda
We could have stayed all afternoon, but after about 30-45 minutes, I realized that Lee would be toast if we did not return to the shade of the house. All of his medications warn against being in the sun as he is more prone to skin cancer now. In fact, his exposure is now exponential to what is was before the transplant. We are always being warned against this when we return to the clinic. In fact, we have encountered at least two post lung transplantees who have developed skin cancer.
I have to say, this was not one of our better trips to Duke. Thursday was a very busy day for Lee. We arrived at the clinic @7:45 to begin with labs, chest x-ray, pulmonary function tests and then to the surgical area for his bronchoscopy. We were surprised to find that he would be done as close to the appointed hour of 9:00. ( usually, we have to wait and hour or so). Not so this time............he was whisked to surgery @ 9:20. I made my usual exit to the waiting area and prepared for the long wait.....again, not so......he was back in the recovery area long enough for me to be called back by 10:15! He was discharged from that area around 12:00. This is not unusual. However, Lee could not seem to recover from the anesthesia as fast as usual. Anyway, we had our lunch around 12:15 and decided to relax in the waiting room until his doctor's appointment @ 2:30.
It was a long wait! He was called back @ 3:30 and saw the doctor @ 4:30. We left the clinic at 5:00. Back at the condo, Lee began having hard chills, his face was flushed, and he had a fever of 100.8. The instructions were to call if fever was above 101. Tylenol reduced it to 99.8, he continued to sleep...could not even stay awake for the world series. This sleepiness lasted throughout Friday, but no fever. We visited friends Martha and Larry @ Duke Raleigh and had lunch with Dennis & Betsy. ( a feast! ) I drank lots of caffeinated coffee because I knew I would be driving to Oak Island.
Well! After a long ride on I-40......about 40 miles from Wilmington......we had a tire to go bad. Exited @ a little town called Rose Hill ( Duplin wine country) and was able to get a used tire after the second inquiry. After being advised to travel 7 more miles to a little town called Wallace, we were able to purchase a tire. We were told that we were an accident waiting to happen! ( and I had been moving along @ a cool 70-75 miles an hour!) Our only warning had been a quiet little thump, thump in rapid succession. We made new friends in Wallace.....the owner and his wife were very cordial and had us back on the road in record time....all for $25.00!
All is well now................we are safe in our house at the beach................Lee is finally (this a.m. ) awake and with energy................and we are happy!
More Later.....................................Brenda
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Good Report today
We arrived in Durham around 2:00 p.m. after a foggy, drizzly drive from home. Lee drove all the way. I relaxed and slept some of the way. Good to be relaxed and let him do the driving! Those of you who know me already know and understand that I do not enjoy driving on crowded interstates...........especially around Burlington and Greensboro. I can do it, but not without tense muscles in my neck!
We are staying @ Duke Towers again for two nights. This afternoon, Lee had a 3:30 appointment with the urologist for his 3-month post TURP check-up. He is doing so well, that the doctor released him to his urologist in Hickory for any follow up treatment. Such Good News!
We plan to check out a good restaurant for dinner this evening....just need something warm and comforting on this cool, rainy evening. Also good to get out because Lee will have a full day tomorrow. The day begins with the usual Labs, x-ray, breathing tests, bronchoscopy, and finally all wrapped up with a visit with the lung transplant doctor @ 2:30 in the afternoon. That is when we get most of the results.
We will stay here at the Towers Thursday night, visit Martha & Larry @ Duke Raleigh on Friday a.m. and hopefully meet Dennis and Betsy for lunch before heading down I-40 to Oak Island for a week. Lee is looking forward to fishing with Ted and I am looking forward to seeing Diane. We may do some shopping in Southport or just read on the beach...............weather permitting. Ted loves to cook and I'm sure his famous pot of oyster stew is on the menue! At any rate, we are anticipating a good week at the beach.
More Later..................................Brenda
We are staying @ Duke Towers again for two nights. This afternoon, Lee had a 3:30 appointment with the urologist for his 3-month post TURP check-up. He is doing so well, that the doctor released him to his urologist in Hickory for any follow up treatment. Such Good News!
We plan to check out a good restaurant for dinner this evening....just need something warm and comforting on this cool, rainy evening. Also good to get out because Lee will have a full day tomorrow. The day begins with the usual Labs, x-ray, breathing tests, bronchoscopy, and finally all wrapped up with a visit with the lung transplant doctor @ 2:30 in the afternoon. That is when we get most of the results.
We will stay here at the Towers Thursday night, visit Martha & Larry @ Duke Raleigh on Friday a.m. and hopefully meet Dennis and Betsy for lunch before heading down I-40 to Oak Island for a week. Lee is looking forward to fishing with Ted and I am looking forward to seeing Diane. We may do some shopping in Southport or just read on the beach...............weather permitting. Ted loves to cook and I'm sure his famous pot of oyster stew is on the menue! At any rate, we are anticipating a good week at the beach.
More Later..................................Brenda
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Mall Sitter
Today I have had the good fortune to spend a good part of my time as a Mall Sitter. That is what I get to do whenever I am invited to accompany my daughter and teenage grandaughters on a shopping expedition. There was a time (just a few years ago) when I could maintain my stamina and keep up with their pace as we wandered in and out of ALL the stores in the Mall. They have always been more attracted to those stores with the loudest music which is also fast-paced. When we moved from store to store, there would be different music in each area.....none was calm and soothing...........no, the music and the rhythm had to be loud and fast in order to keep the teens hopping among the various stores. These stores were all alike: jammed with clothes that were arranged in such a way that one had to be a shopping sleuth to find their way among the maze. I believe you could leave a child in there for a week before someone found them! After several years of this, I discovered the various benches and chairs that were scattered along the walkways of the Mall.
I have become accustomed to this new method of shopping with them. I leave them in the store after announcing that I may be reached outside in the comfort zone. I am usually notified that I am necessary by text message. I do not worry about losing them at all because I am the keeper of the money. They would never lose Nana!
And so it is that I have learned to use my time wisely as a Mall Sitter. I have become very observant during my sitting time. Mall sitting can be an educational experience. One thing I learned today is that a person's gait belongs to the age one is in. For example, children do not walk.....they jump, skip or run. They are always moving forward or side to side and they move quickly. If they happen to be in a stroller, they want out and they let everyone within 10 feet know that! Then you have the teens. They are everywhere. They are easy to spot because they have cloned themselves in the way they wear their hair and dress. Jeans, flip-flops, tops that are usually layered. and the same long hairstyle. Most of the teen shoppers are girls and they always come in pairs. Occasionally I would see a young couple holding hands as they strolled along. Next were the parents. The mothers looked tired....they never smiled. They were too busy trying to quiet the toddler or hang on to another child. The fathers would usually saunter along beside or behind as though they had not a care in the world.
Finally, I found my category.............the seniors. Some would waddle as they walked with weight bearing more side to side than forward. This, of course, depended on the bulk being walked. They would stop from time to time and look all around. I knew what they were looking for, and it was not for a particular store. They were busy looking for an empty bench or chair so they could join the other Mall sitters for a while.
Where was Lee while I was shopping? He was invited to join many of his neighbors and friends for a bonanza birthday bash in our friendly neighborhood. They had a big BBQ feast. As I was leaving for my shopping day, I kindly reminded him to carry hand sanitizer and a mask. He was very abliging and did not seem to be offended by my little hint. (I prefer to not call it "nagging"). He has had quite a week! Every day during this past week he has been involved in some type of work. He is visibly enjoying being able to do some of the work around here. Not all of his strength has returned, but enough has returned to make him feel comfortable doing some of his chores. He loves to do anything that is work outside.....tried to convince him that vacuuming, mopping, etc. would be the same as an exercise program, but to no avail for me.
A great week....................even as a Mall Sitter!
More Later.................................Brenda
I have become accustomed to this new method of shopping with them. I leave them in the store after announcing that I may be reached outside in the comfort zone. I am usually notified that I am necessary by text message. I do not worry about losing them at all because I am the keeper of the money. They would never lose Nana!
And so it is that I have learned to use my time wisely as a Mall Sitter. I have become very observant during my sitting time. Mall sitting can be an educational experience. One thing I learned today is that a person's gait belongs to the age one is in. For example, children do not walk.....they jump, skip or run. They are always moving forward or side to side and they move quickly. If they happen to be in a stroller, they want out and they let everyone within 10 feet know that! Then you have the teens. They are everywhere. They are easy to spot because they have cloned themselves in the way they wear their hair and dress. Jeans, flip-flops, tops that are usually layered. and the same long hairstyle. Most of the teen shoppers are girls and they always come in pairs. Occasionally I would see a young couple holding hands as they strolled along. Next were the parents. The mothers looked tired....they never smiled. They were too busy trying to quiet the toddler or hang on to another child. The fathers would usually saunter along beside or behind as though they had not a care in the world.
Finally, I found my category.............the seniors. Some would waddle as they walked with weight bearing more side to side than forward. This, of course, depended on the bulk being walked. They would stop from time to time and look all around. I knew what they were looking for, and it was not for a particular store. They were busy looking for an empty bench or chair so they could join the other Mall sitters for a while.
Where was Lee while I was shopping? He was invited to join many of his neighbors and friends for a bonanza birthday bash in our friendly neighborhood. They had a big BBQ feast. As I was leaving for my shopping day, I kindly reminded him to carry hand sanitizer and a mask. He was very abliging and did not seem to be offended by my little hint. (I prefer to not call it "nagging"). He has had quite a week! Every day during this past week he has been involved in some type of work. He is visibly enjoying being able to do some of the work around here. Not all of his strength has returned, but enough has returned to make him feel comfortable doing some of his chores. He loves to do anything that is work outside.....tried to convince him that vacuuming, mopping, etc. would be the same as an exercise program, but to no avail for me.
A great week....................even as a Mall Sitter!
More Later.................................Brenda
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Connections
I don't remember if I have shared with you the connections we continue to have with others who have had lung transplants. I will explain: During our first month in Durham, I was fortunate to meet a group of caregivers whose loved ones had already had their lung transplants, and were in the rehabilitative stages. One of the wives compiled an e-mail address list that has now grown to over 40 contacts. Lee and I are part of the contact group, and are able to receive and share stories and events that surround his continuing recovery.
This has been a valuable tool, because it helps prepare us for some unforseen complications that may occur and it also allows us to share and give feed-back to others who may have been or are experiencing the same "bump in the road" as these crisis are referred to. I have to admit though, I do have ambivilent feelings sometimes when I have learned of more serious complications of one of our former asquaintances. There have been some, and of course that tends to put us on guard.
Post lung transplant, in addition to all the precautions related to coming in contact with various infective organisms, we must deal with the adverse effects of the anti-rejection drugs. These drugs are a necessary part of keeping Lee from rejecting his lung, however, the drugs are also very harmful to his body. The kidneys and liver are the ones @ highest risk. We pay close attention to all his lab reports for any signs of the beginning of kidney or liver damage. We have also learned that the longer the length of time post lung transplant, the more we must participate in being pro-active and iniating calls to Duke rather than waiting for them to contact us.
Each person is unique and the way their bodies respond to the drugs is also unique. Some may do very well and live a fairly normal life while others may have extreme adverse effects of the drugs on their bodies. So far, Lee is doing amazingly well. The medical team was impressed with how well he did on the RATG treatment for rejection. He rebounded with strength and vigor that we had not seen for a long time. We pay close attention to all his labs and contact Duke for any adjustment in medication as soon as possible. Lee is an amazing person and was gifted with a strong, healthy body prior to his illness. He had been careful during his life to not abuse his body with overindulging bad habits. He was physically fit from hard work, and prior to that from all the athletics he maintained through 33 years of officiating basketball, and 40 years of officiating football. I believe his lifestyle contributed to his recovery..........................that along with his fierce determination, strong will power, faith and the prayers from so many of you.
During his intense battle for recovery @ Baptist (prior to the transplant), one of the doctors told him that if he could take Lee's determination and will power to recover, and put it in a bottle, he could cure a lot of patients! There you go...................Our Lee!
More Later................................Brenda
This has been a valuable tool, because it helps prepare us for some unforseen complications that may occur and it also allows us to share and give feed-back to others who may have been or are experiencing the same "bump in the road" as these crisis are referred to. I have to admit though, I do have ambivilent feelings sometimes when I have learned of more serious complications of one of our former asquaintances. There have been some, and of course that tends to put us on guard.
Post lung transplant, in addition to all the precautions related to coming in contact with various infective organisms, we must deal with the adverse effects of the anti-rejection drugs. These drugs are a necessary part of keeping Lee from rejecting his lung, however, the drugs are also very harmful to his body. The kidneys and liver are the ones @ highest risk. We pay close attention to all his lab reports for any signs of the beginning of kidney or liver damage. We have also learned that the longer the length of time post lung transplant, the more we must participate in being pro-active and iniating calls to Duke rather than waiting for them to contact us.
Each person is unique and the way their bodies respond to the drugs is also unique. Some may do very well and live a fairly normal life while others may have extreme adverse effects of the drugs on their bodies. So far, Lee is doing amazingly well. The medical team was impressed with how well he did on the RATG treatment for rejection. He rebounded with strength and vigor that we had not seen for a long time. We pay close attention to all his labs and contact Duke for any adjustment in medication as soon as possible. Lee is an amazing person and was gifted with a strong, healthy body prior to his illness. He had been careful during his life to not abuse his body with overindulging bad habits. He was physically fit from hard work, and prior to that from all the athletics he maintained through 33 years of officiating basketball, and 40 years of officiating football. I believe his lifestyle contributed to his recovery..........................that along with his fierce determination, strong will power, faith and the prayers from so many of you.
During his intense battle for recovery @ Baptist (prior to the transplant), one of the doctors told him that if he could take Lee's determination and will power to recover, and put it in a bottle, he could cure a lot of patients! There you go...................Our Lee!
More Later................................Brenda
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
A working Man
Lee has lately been reentering his former life of a "working man". Following our breakfast together, he begins planning his day. Sometimes he is planning his entire week. When the weather is nice, his plans are to travel a short distance or to find something to do here on the farm that does not include working around hazardous materials ( soil, hay, dust, etc.). He has been spending more time in his shop out back and it is good to hear him discussing ways to repair or fix something that he uses.
Yesterday, he and his brother-in-law, Tom, spent most of the afternoon traveling to and from a not too distant golf cart sales store. They were able to secure Lee's trailer to his truck in preparation for the short journey to Lenoir. Lee had the strength to be actively involved with the work that was necessary in the transaction of loading the golf cart onto the trailer and unloading it when he returned home. Last evening as he was talking to his son, Todd, in Charlotte, I overheard him making plans to deliver a tractor to him on Friday. Todd is planning to remove excess trees and foliage from his back yard, and Lee is now planning to load the John Deere on the trailer and take it to him. He has invited a neighbor to go along. At the moment, Lee is working with his bee hives. He has faithfully been supplementing their food daily, and seems to be enjoying every moment of the work that must be done to keep his hives healthy and thriving. His plan for this afternoon is to hang some pictures for me in his downstairs "man's room". A good chore for this cool, rainy October day.
Work is so good for him! I share another quote from Kahlil Gibran:
"You work that you may keep pace with the earth and the soul of the earth. For to be idle is to become a stranger unto the seasons, and to step out of life's proscession that marches in majesty and proud submission towards the infinite. And when you work with love you bind yourself to yourself, and to one another, and to God. Work is love made visible."
When we lose our ability to work, due to sickness or an accident, a major part of who we are, and who we have always been, has been removed from our lives. Lee's love of work, and the satisfaction he receives from being able to make a contribution to not only himself, but others, has been restored. It has not been restored to the capacity that he had two years ago, but nonetheless, it is returning, and for that I am eternally grateful.
We are enjoying these bountiful blessings!
More Later..............................Brenda
Yesterday, he and his brother-in-law, Tom, spent most of the afternoon traveling to and from a not too distant golf cart sales store. They were able to secure Lee's trailer to his truck in preparation for the short journey to Lenoir. Lee had the strength to be actively involved with the work that was necessary in the transaction of loading the golf cart onto the trailer and unloading it when he returned home. Last evening as he was talking to his son, Todd, in Charlotte, I overheard him making plans to deliver a tractor to him on Friday. Todd is planning to remove excess trees and foliage from his back yard, and Lee is now planning to load the John Deere on the trailer and take it to him. He has invited a neighbor to go along. At the moment, Lee is working with his bee hives. He has faithfully been supplementing their food daily, and seems to be enjoying every moment of the work that must be done to keep his hives healthy and thriving. His plan for this afternoon is to hang some pictures for me in his downstairs "man's room". A good chore for this cool, rainy October day.
Work is so good for him! I share another quote from Kahlil Gibran:
"You work that you may keep pace with the earth and the soul of the earth. For to be idle is to become a stranger unto the seasons, and to step out of life's proscession that marches in majesty and proud submission towards the infinite. And when you work with love you bind yourself to yourself, and to one another, and to God. Work is love made visible."
When we lose our ability to work, due to sickness or an accident, a major part of who we are, and who we have always been, has been removed from our lives. Lee's love of work, and the satisfaction he receives from being able to make a contribution to not only himself, but others, has been restored. It has not been restored to the capacity that he had two years ago, but nonetheless, it is returning, and for that I am eternally grateful.
We are enjoying these bountiful blessings!
More Later..............................Brenda
Monday, October 10, 2011
To Sleep or not to Sleep
Stealing a quote from Shakespeare, and changing it to fit my life......to sleep or not to sleep, that is the question.....................................
There are many unexpected events that continue to susrprise me as I age. The one I have been dealing with lately is sleep. I do get sleepy as the day moves into evening, and I fall asleep eventually. It is now becoming my habit to awaken one to three times during the night. The earlier the wakefulness ( as 12-1:00), the raiding of the kitchen for a late night snack, and the later wakefulness, ( as after 3-4:00), the more apt I am to remain awake. This morning is the latter of the two.......awake @ 3:00, dozed until 5:00, and now @ 6:00, awake for the day. I read an article recently that encouraged all to get at least 8-9 hours of sleep as we age, because it will probably increase our lifespan, help us to feel better, and may even enhance our looks. Looks like I may lose out on that!
Where is Lee during the night? Blissfully sleeping like a baby! Last night he turned in at the same time I did, 10:00, and has been peacefully asleep since then. Isn't that wonderful?! After all he has been through these past almost two years, and he can sleep even better than before. I am greatly encouraged to see that he is (a) increasing his lifespan, (b) will probably feel better than I today (c) and everyday is enhancing his looks! If this keeps up, someone will eventually ask if I am his Mother!
I must admit that there are advantages to rising before dawn. I love the peaceful time that I can spend in prayer. There are so many friends of ours who need prayers.......It is good to be allowed some quiet times to remember them and lift up their needs in prayer. It is also a good time for me to visit with you, my bloggers, and to share some of the more poignant events of our life. I'm sure most of you are still sleeping as I write. I wish for you, a day that is filled with the wonder of our creation, along with the peace and love that is available for all of us to share with others.
Sleep well tonight.............................
More Later.....................................Brenda
There are many unexpected events that continue to susrprise me as I age. The one I have been dealing with lately is sleep. I do get sleepy as the day moves into evening, and I fall asleep eventually. It is now becoming my habit to awaken one to three times during the night. The earlier the wakefulness ( as 12-1:00), the raiding of the kitchen for a late night snack, and the later wakefulness, ( as after 3-4:00), the more apt I am to remain awake. This morning is the latter of the two.......awake @ 3:00, dozed until 5:00, and now @ 6:00, awake for the day. I read an article recently that encouraged all to get at least 8-9 hours of sleep as we age, because it will probably increase our lifespan, help us to feel better, and may even enhance our looks. Looks like I may lose out on that!
Where is Lee during the night? Blissfully sleeping like a baby! Last night he turned in at the same time I did, 10:00, and has been peacefully asleep since then. Isn't that wonderful?! After all he has been through these past almost two years, and he can sleep even better than before. I am greatly encouraged to see that he is (a) increasing his lifespan, (b) will probably feel better than I today (c) and everyday is enhancing his looks! If this keeps up, someone will eventually ask if I am his Mother!
I must admit that there are advantages to rising before dawn. I love the peaceful time that I can spend in prayer. There are so many friends of ours who need prayers.......It is good to be allowed some quiet times to remember them and lift up their needs in prayer. It is also a good time for me to visit with you, my bloggers, and to share some of the more poignant events of our life. I'm sure most of you are still sleeping as I write. I wish for you, a day that is filled with the wonder of our creation, along with the peace and love that is available for all of us to share with others.
Sleep well tonight.............................
More Later.....................................Brenda
Saturday, October 8, 2011
A NEW LOOK
I decided to change the picture on the Blog so that you could see what Lee looks like now...(he actually looks even better now -- this pic was made in May at our Mother's Day celebration). At the time of the picture, he was still on high doses of Prednisone which made his face "puffy". Today he is on lower doses, and he looks more like he did before his illness. I will add more picture updates as we are able to have more family gatherings where pictures are taken (and when my daughter is here to help me post them!)
On this lovely autumn sunny day, we are enjoying a visit from daughter Julia, and son Doug with his wife Elizabeth and their two children Alex and Max. Earlier today, under Granddaddy's supervision, they all worked to remove fence posts from the garden. Granddaddy commented that the boys were such good workers, that he wished they lived closer so that he could put them to work on the farm more often. The grandsons are excited to be going to a Panther's game tomorrow with their parents (they both play football).
Max (almost six) will be having a "football party" for his birthday November 3rd, and he plans to play on the Panther's team when he grows up.
Today is what I would refer to as a "normal" Saturday on the farm. Family is visiting, and trucks and tractors are going up and down the driveway. How nice to enjoy "business as usual" here.
How lovely....
More Later -- Brenda
On this lovely autumn sunny day, we are enjoying a visit from daughter Julia, and son Doug with his wife Elizabeth and their two children Alex and Max. Earlier today, under Granddaddy's supervision, they all worked to remove fence posts from the garden. Granddaddy commented that the boys were such good workers, that he wished they lived closer so that he could put them to work on the farm more often. The grandsons are excited to be going to a Panther's game tomorrow with their parents (they both play football).
Max (almost six) will be having a "football party" for his birthday November 3rd, and he plans to play on the Panther's team when he grows up.
Today is what I would refer to as a "normal" Saturday on the farm. Family is visiting, and trucks and tractors are going up and down the driveway. How nice to enjoy "business as usual" here.
How lovely....
More Later -- Brenda
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Out and About..........
It seems that Lee and I are passing each other frequently, either leaving or returning for one or two of us! I had some errands to run today and Lee was scheduled to go to the rehab center in Hickory. He departed around 9:30 and I left at 10:00. I had decided to make a day of it, and in between errands was able to spend some time with my sister Bonnie, and Aunt Kat, who live in Lenoir.
By the time I finished the visits, filled the car with gas (now $3.29/gal), stopped by the grocery to pick up a few things......( I thought just a few.....spent $103.00!). I think it was because I was hungry. One pack of peanut butter crackers and water, along with a few slices of apples apparently weren't enough for my lunch on the run today. One should never grocery shop when hungry..........................
Anyway, after leaving the grocery, I decided to check in with Lee and tell him the expected time of my arrival home. No answer. He was not at home. I called his cell and he was out shopping with his friend, and the two of them had been looking at golf carts in Granite Falls. I arrived home around 5:00, carried in the groceries, put them away, and started supper. Lee arrived about 45 minutes after I came home. I could tell by the smile on his face that he had a good day with his friend.
He continues to get stronger each day. As his strength is returning, he is becoming more mobile. There are some days when I just have to look the other way or swallow the words such as: Do you have a face mask and hand sanitizer with you or, please try to stay out of the hay areas.........I have learned to try to refrain from my "mothering" and learn to trust his judgement.
I share this day with you so you may be able to see a good normal day that we are able to have from time to time. We have rediscovered the relationship we had for so many years, that includes recognizing space for each other from time to time. This has not been easy returning. I remind you that Lee and I have spent almost every day together for the past two years. There is a saying about marriage by the great Labanese poet, Kahil Gibran, "Let there be separateness in your togetherness".
I love sharing these good days and stories about Lee with all of you. There were so many days in the past when I could only speak of the difficult days he had to endure. Tonight I am spending time on the computer while Lee is............................Where is he anyway?
More Later...................................................Brenda
By the time I finished the visits, filled the car with gas (now $3.29/gal), stopped by the grocery to pick up a few things......( I thought just a few.....spent $103.00!). I think it was because I was hungry. One pack of peanut butter crackers and water, along with a few slices of apples apparently weren't enough for my lunch on the run today. One should never grocery shop when hungry..........................
Anyway, after leaving the grocery, I decided to check in with Lee and tell him the expected time of my arrival home. No answer. He was not at home. I called his cell and he was out shopping with his friend, and the two of them had been looking at golf carts in Granite Falls. I arrived home around 5:00, carried in the groceries, put them away, and started supper. Lee arrived about 45 minutes after I came home. I could tell by the smile on his face that he had a good day with his friend.
He continues to get stronger each day. As his strength is returning, he is becoming more mobile. There are some days when I just have to look the other way or swallow the words such as: Do you have a face mask and hand sanitizer with you or, please try to stay out of the hay areas.........I have learned to try to refrain from my "mothering" and learn to trust his judgement.
I share this day with you so you may be able to see a good normal day that we are able to have from time to time. We have rediscovered the relationship we had for so many years, that includes recognizing space for each other from time to time. This has not been easy returning. I remind you that Lee and I have spent almost every day together for the past two years. There is a saying about marriage by the great Labanese poet, Kahil Gibran, "Let there be separateness in your togetherness".
I love sharing these good days and stories about Lee with all of you. There were so many days in the past when I could only speak of the difficult days he had to endure. Tonight I am spending time on the computer while Lee is............................Where is he anyway?
More Later...................................................Brenda
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Apples!
Lee and I spent the afternoon preparing Granny Smith apples for the freezer. It was an exciting thing for both of us......................and very uplifting, because this is the way we were before Lee's illness and transplant. It has been our custom every Fall to gather apples and prepare them for the freezer. Before Lee sold his orchard, we were able to pick our own, share them with other family members, friends and neighbors. Our orchard is gone, but we were able to purchase these from a local apple orchard in Vale.
I remember one year in particular when we had a beautiful Autumn such as today, with an abundance of apples in the orchard, especially those delectable "Granny Smith's". It was the time for our annual Halloween party with our children and grandchildren. Lee hitched the hay wagon to the tractor, loaded all the children and grandchildren, dressed in their Halloween costumes, and headed for the orchard a few miles away. For many of them , this was a first time event! We made many pictures that warm, sunny afternoon just before dusk. The children delighted in finding their very own apples, and from time to time I would see the little girls gathering apples in the fullness of their little princess dresses. Our little boys, dressed as warriors or transformers (fighters) delighted in finding an apple with a worm and scaring the girls! I remember the squeals of delight and laughter as we moved among the apple trees.
So, this afternoon, Lee and I prepared the downstairs for our work. Lee secured the apple-peeler to the table while I washed the apples and prepared the area for my work. Lee is quite the pro with the apple-peeler. It is a unique apparatus. Once the apple is secured into the three prongs on one end, Lee turns the handle on the opposite end and as the apple is turning, it is peeled and cored all at the same time! He then drops the apple into a large basin of salted water. ( the salt keeps the apples from changing color and also removes the bitterness from the green apples) I, in turn, separate the "wheels" and place them on paper towels to dry. After they dry, I put them into zip-lock bags. We were able to put 18 quarts and 2 gallons in the freezer.
While working together, we remembered those joyful events and each in turn shared a memory thought to be long forgotton. Even though we cannot have the annual family Halloween party this year, We savor all those memories! How wonderful to look at him now.....happy and laughing at the shared memories, while peeling all those apples!
I suppose your are wondering why I am so excited to be writing about something that is a lot of work. I am sharing this with you because Lee thrives on work. To be able to watch him doing something he enjoys, and to know that he is be able to have the strength to do it is a tremendous blessing to me this day. Blessings are meant to be shared.
More Later.....................................Brenda
I remember one year in particular when we had a beautiful Autumn such as today, with an abundance of apples in the orchard, especially those delectable "Granny Smith's". It was the time for our annual Halloween party with our children and grandchildren. Lee hitched the hay wagon to the tractor, loaded all the children and grandchildren, dressed in their Halloween costumes, and headed for the orchard a few miles away. For many of them , this was a first time event! We made many pictures that warm, sunny afternoon just before dusk. The children delighted in finding their very own apples, and from time to time I would see the little girls gathering apples in the fullness of their little princess dresses. Our little boys, dressed as warriors or transformers (fighters) delighted in finding an apple with a worm and scaring the girls! I remember the squeals of delight and laughter as we moved among the apple trees.
So, this afternoon, Lee and I prepared the downstairs for our work. Lee secured the apple-peeler to the table while I washed the apples and prepared the area for my work. Lee is quite the pro with the apple-peeler. It is a unique apparatus. Once the apple is secured into the three prongs on one end, Lee turns the handle on the opposite end and as the apple is turning, it is peeled and cored all at the same time! He then drops the apple into a large basin of salted water. ( the salt keeps the apples from changing color and also removes the bitterness from the green apples) I, in turn, separate the "wheels" and place them on paper towels to dry. After they dry, I put them into zip-lock bags. We were able to put 18 quarts and 2 gallons in the freezer.
While working together, we remembered those joyful events and each in turn shared a memory thought to be long forgotton. Even though we cannot have the annual family Halloween party this year, We savor all those memories! How wonderful to look at him now.....happy and laughing at the shared memories, while peeling all those apples!
I suppose your are wondering why I am so excited to be writing about something that is a lot of work. I am sharing this with you because Lee thrives on work. To be able to watch him doing something he enjoys, and to know that he is be able to have the strength to do it is a tremendous blessing to me this day. Blessings are meant to be shared.
More Later.....................................Brenda
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Football etc....
Thank Goodness for Football! I don't know anyone who enjoys it more than Lee. He always looks forward to the games on Sunday afternoon, and again on Monday for "Monday night Football!" This is good, because right now he is having to limit his activities, and restrict his being around crowds of people. Of course that eliminates church, restaurants and some of our family visits.
We did get the report from his labs last week and the lymph count is only 5. (Normal is around 30 ) You can see how we have to be careful because he needs a higher lymphocyte count along with thymocyte (the killer T-cells) to fight any kind of infection. He must use the next three weeks with caution to allow his body to build the cells again. A viral infection would be extremely dangerous right now.
Lee encouraged me to go on to church without him, and it was good to be able to see our friends there. I was able to sit with Carroll Morrell who is experiencing many difficulties during her husband, Robert's illness. Please remember them in your prayers, along with special requests for Lee to recover from his rejection and for him to continue to restrict his time with others until we return to Duke for another evaluation that will determine whether or not he is indeed out of rejection.
This afternoon I was able to visit with my daughter and grandaughter as they shared a CD of Michaela singing at the Whiperwill festival in Nebo yesterday. She is very talented , plays the guitar, and loves to sing ballads. She is only 15, and a delightful girl to be with. We enjoyed a lovely Fall day while sharing a freshly made pumpkin pie and coffee. This visit was a pleasure that I no longer take for granted. Lee and I have learned to treasure each and every moment we are able to spend with family and friends.
Later this afternoon, we decided to take a long ride through the country, and travel around some areas that we had not seen in a long time. As we were driving, it occurred to both of us how fortunate we were to be able to live in the country, and enjoy such an outing. All we had to do was turn right at the end of our driveway and keep going! We realize that for those who live in big cities, a day like this is impossible for many people. We count our blessings. I wish for you....a lovely Fall day with a slow drive through the beautiful countryside. Enjoy!
More Later......................................Brenda
We did get the report from his labs last week and the lymph count is only 5. (Normal is around 30 ) You can see how we have to be careful because he needs a higher lymphocyte count along with thymocyte (the killer T-cells) to fight any kind of infection. He must use the next three weeks with caution to allow his body to build the cells again. A viral infection would be extremely dangerous right now.
Lee encouraged me to go on to church without him, and it was good to be able to see our friends there. I was able to sit with Carroll Morrell who is experiencing many difficulties during her husband, Robert's illness. Please remember them in your prayers, along with special requests for Lee to recover from his rejection and for him to continue to restrict his time with others until we return to Duke for another evaluation that will determine whether or not he is indeed out of rejection.
This afternoon I was able to visit with my daughter and grandaughter as they shared a CD of Michaela singing at the Whiperwill festival in Nebo yesterday. She is very talented , plays the guitar, and loves to sing ballads. She is only 15, and a delightful girl to be with. We enjoyed a lovely Fall day while sharing a freshly made pumpkin pie and coffee. This visit was a pleasure that I no longer take for granted. Lee and I have learned to treasure each and every moment we are able to spend with family and friends.
Later this afternoon, we decided to take a long ride through the country, and travel around some areas that we had not seen in a long time. As we were driving, it occurred to both of us how fortunate we were to be able to live in the country, and enjoy such an outing. All we had to do was turn right at the end of our driveway and keep going! We realize that for those who live in big cities, a day like this is impossible for many people. We count our blessings. I wish for you....a lovely Fall day with a slow drive through the beautiful countryside. Enjoy!
More Later......................................Brenda
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Short note
This will be a short note to let you know that all is well. We have been trying to adjust to the sudden change of weather. We have had a steady wind all day ,and the temperature this a.m. was a low 46 degrees. I think it has stayed around 58 to 60 this afternoon. These changes in the weather do seem to have some effect on the way Lee feels. He has been coughing a little today, and I am hoping that is because he has been outside some today, and not rejection.
Earlier today we went North of Lenoir to look at some trees that we need to purchase as replacements in our yard. All the beautiful Bradford pear trees developed the blight and were dying. Lee had them removed and now we are in the process of replacing them with a mixture of Cleveland pear trees and Crepe Myrtles. He has arranged to have them planted sometime during the next two weeks.
Yesterday was one of those beautiful days that reminded of the days Lee used to enjoy when working on the farm. On those days he would leave the house shortly after sun-up and return after dark. He never tired form work; quite the opposite, he thrived on work. He confessed to me that those days were the hardest for him because he cannot do the things he loves. He does acknowledge, however, that he feels blesssed to be alive and to breathe freely again. He continues to enjoy his independence with driving and visiting his neighbors and friends. He still has not tried golf. Every time he begins to talk about starting golf again, he has a "bump" in the road, and once again it gets put on the "back burner".
Well, I guess the short note became a longer note. Just wanted to give you a glimpse of our days. Right now, Lee is watching a GeorgiaTech vs. State football game and I am about ready to start supper. I guess you could say, this has been one of those very, very good days for both of us. One of those wonderful, normal days!
More Later...............................Brenda
Earlier today we went North of Lenoir to look at some trees that we need to purchase as replacements in our yard. All the beautiful Bradford pear trees developed the blight and were dying. Lee had them removed and now we are in the process of replacing them with a mixture of Cleveland pear trees and Crepe Myrtles. He has arranged to have them planted sometime during the next two weeks.
Yesterday was one of those beautiful days that reminded of the days Lee used to enjoy when working on the farm. On those days he would leave the house shortly after sun-up and return after dark. He never tired form work; quite the opposite, he thrived on work. He confessed to me that those days were the hardest for him because he cannot do the things he loves. He does acknowledge, however, that he feels blesssed to be alive and to breathe freely again. He continues to enjoy his independence with driving and visiting his neighbors and friends. He still has not tried golf. Every time he begins to talk about starting golf again, he has a "bump" in the road, and once again it gets put on the "back burner".
Well, I guess the short note became a longer note. Just wanted to give you a glimpse of our days. Right now, Lee is watching a GeorgiaTech vs. State football game and I am about ready to start supper. I guess you could say, this has been one of those very, very good days for both of us. One of those wonderful, normal days!
More Later...............................Brenda
Thursday, September 29, 2011
answered prayer
After I had posted the blog, I looked out the window to see Lee walking down the driveway to get the paper. Our dog, Bella, was walking along beside him.
I want to share this with you because from the time Lee became ill, my prayer was that I would once again be able to see my husband walk to the mailbox, free from oxygen, and with renewed strength. He has been able to do this most every day since we returned home last November.
My prayer was answered. Thanks be to God!
More Later..................................................Brenda
I want to share this with you because from the time Lee became ill, my prayer was that I would once again be able to see my husband walk to the mailbox, free from oxygen, and with renewed strength. He has been able to do this most every day since we returned home last November.
My prayer was answered. Thanks be to God!
More Later..................................................Brenda
Autumn @ Home
As I gaze out my window, the signs of autumn surround me. Some of the trees have shed most of their leaves and others are beginning to turn the golden color. The maple trees are so wonderful in their contribution to the canvas of color. It is so good to be home this time of the year. Earlier this his morning, the air was fresh at 58 degrees, now, the sun is up, and everywhere I look there is a sense of the beauty of this earth. What a blessing to find so much beauty to lift us up when we have the bumps in the road.
Lee is doing better each day. I would liken the recovery from the RATG treatment as to recovering from the flu. It did sap his energy, and he is having to work to get back the strength he had before the treatment. He has not returned to his rehab sessions this week which is, probably just as well because of the lowered immune system right now. He will return next week if all goes well.
Lee continues to have a high potassium blood count and we have tried diligently over this past year to adjust his meals around a potassium free or a low potassium diet. That is very hard to do, but we have managed. He has had almost no tomatoes, potatoes, dark green veggies, many fruits ( particularly citrus), dried beans and peas, and the list goes on to include good things like melons. I talked to the doctor about this and he did concede that it is caused by his medication for rejection. He said to allow some of these foods, space them apart and to watch the proportions.
As you can see, each day is a challenge. Lee's status can change in a 24 hour period. We are grateful for each good day he has and we try hard to be alert to any changes that will created a problem. It is so good to know that Duke is immediately available via phone and only 3 hours drive. It is comforting and reassuring to know that whatever the problem, they will aggresively try to resolve the situation.
I have been in touch with many of our transplant aquaintances via e-mail. It is good to have the support group that we met while in Durham. Having these conversations helps us to be prepared for any changes that may occur and how the problems are being resolved. There are times when we don't get good news, but sad news, and that of course, makes us face the reality we face on a daily basis.
Good to be back with you bloggers.......thanks for being there to listen and for allowing me to unload some of my concerns.......
More Later........................................Brenda
Lee is doing better each day. I would liken the recovery from the RATG treatment as to recovering from the flu. It did sap his energy, and he is having to work to get back the strength he had before the treatment. He has not returned to his rehab sessions this week which is, probably just as well because of the lowered immune system right now. He will return next week if all goes well.
Lee continues to have a high potassium blood count and we have tried diligently over this past year to adjust his meals around a potassium free or a low potassium diet. That is very hard to do, but we have managed. He has had almost no tomatoes, potatoes, dark green veggies, many fruits ( particularly citrus), dried beans and peas, and the list goes on to include good things like melons. I talked to the doctor about this and he did concede that it is caused by his medication for rejection. He said to allow some of these foods, space them apart and to watch the proportions.
As you can see, each day is a challenge. Lee's status can change in a 24 hour period. We are grateful for each good day he has and we try hard to be alert to any changes that will created a problem. It is so good to know that Duke is immediately available via phone and only 3 hours drive. It is comforting and reassuring to know that whatever the problem, they will aggresively try to resolve the situation.
I have been in touch with many of our transplant aquaintances via e-mail. It is good to have the support group that we met while in Durham. Having these conversations helps us to be prepared for any changes that may occur and how the problems are being resolved. There are times when we don't get good news, but sad news, and that of course, makes us face the reality we face on a daily basis.
Good to be back with you bloggers.......thanks for being there to listen and for allowing me to unload some of my concerns.......
More Later........................................Brenda
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Stomach bug or food?
I did not write yesterday because both Lee and I have been trying to get over a peculiar "belly ache". We were both stricken at the same time late Sunday afternoon with nausea. With the help of Lee's nausea medication for him, and dramamine for me, we have slowly begun to feel better. We have narrowed it down to one of two things: Same food we both ate on Sunday, or we came in contact with a bug at approximately. the same time. I have recovered quickly, but Lee's still lingers somewhat. I believe this is due in part to his lowered immune response.
Today has been a better day for both of us. Lee was able to drive by himself to the doctor's office for the routine lab work and the drive-through for his Bojangles biscuit. He also went through the drive-through at the Drug Store for a pick-up of my prescription. It is good to be doing the normal routines again. We really do appreciate the "normal" days now when we can have them. I would suggest to all of you bloggers to just stop and realize how important your normal ( sometimes called, mundane or boring) days are. Now that we have many of the surprising and not so normal days, we look forward to those we once simply brushed aside.
I once read and have never forgotten this statement: "You never know the worth of a man, until he is gone."
I suppose we never know the worth of our days, our time, our lives and all it encompasses, until it is gone. I suppose I could go on with, "you cannot appreciate the full cup, until it is empty", or unto each life a little rain must fall, .................................................O.K.....enough!
More Later.................................Brenda
Today has been a better day for both of us. Lee was able to drive by himself to the doctor's office for the routine lab work and the drive-through for his Bojangles biscuit. He also went through the drive-through at the Drug Store for a pick-up of my prescription. It is good to be doing the normal routines again. We really do appreciate the "normal" days now when we can have them. I would suggest to all of you bloggers to just stop and realize how important your normal ( sometimes called, mundane or boring) days are. Now that we have many of the surprising and not so normal days, we look forward to those we once simply brushed aside.
I once read and have never forgotten this statement: "You never know the worth of a man, until he is gone."
I suppose we never know the worth of our days, our time, our lives and all it encompasses, until it is gone. I suppose I could go on with, "you cannot appreciate the full cup, until it is empty", or unto each life a little rain must fall, .................................................O.K.....enough!
More Later.................................Brenda
Sunday, September 25, 2011
In Charge Man
Yesterday was amazing! We have now learned how to get discharged from Duke in a timely manner. Lee began his day at Duke Hospital and as soon as he was visited by the nurse, the PA, and the pulmonary doctor, he began making them all aware of his goal to be out of the hospital no later than 3:30 p.m. Next, he asked the nurse if she would try to begin the four-hour I.V. by 11:00 a.m. She said that could be done. He then approached the PA and asked if she could have all his discharge papers and medications completed by 3:00 p.m. She said she could do that. After getting the official discharge from the doctor, everyone worked very hard to meet Lee's request. He had taken control and was the man in charge of his departure!
Based on past experiences, we now know that efficiency works if everyone knows the plan. When no one realizes the plan, then hours may be sacrificed. Lee remembered the time Labor Day week-end 2010 (our first trip home since May31 ) and how it took three hours to get out of the hospital after the doctor wrote the official discharge! One of the longest and most exasperating waits was for the transport person. What we did not know then, and know now, is that whenever you are discharged from Duke, your name is sent to the transport service and they will only come get you on a "first come, first serve" basis. If your name is at the bottom of the list............long wait!
So, in view of this, I decided to find our own wheelchair for Lee. This is not an easy find @ Duke as all the wheel chairs belong to the transport dept. I walked along all the adjacent hallways and was about to give up when I finally found one lurking around a corner, in front of another patient room. It was empty, and as I stood there for a few minutes, I felt sure that it was not being used. I cautiously approached the w/chair and took it to Lee's room. When I told him how I got it, he accused me of stealing someone's w/chair and told me to go get approval from the desk person. Feeling like a guilty child, I did, and it was then ours. We would not have to rely on the transport person.
The last I.V medication finished at 3:00 pm.. The designated picc-line person ( per Lee's request also ) came and pulled the picc line. Lee dressed quickly, I put him in the wheel chair, and we were out the door to valet service for our car promptly @ 3:30 p.m.
We had a good trip home, maybe a few minutes longer than if Lee had driven, but I do not ride with a driver who has slurred speech! The benadryl was still in his system! After a stop for food for supper, we arrived home around 7:00 p.m. All is well.............................
More Later..............................................Brenda
Based on past experiences, we now know that efficiency works if everyone knows the plan. When no one realizes the plan, then hours may be sacrificed. Lee remembered the time Labor Day week-end 2010 (our first trip home since May31 ) and how it took three hours to get out of the hospital after the doctor wrote the official discharge! One of the longest and most exasperating waits was for the transport person. What we did not know then, and know now, is that whenever you are discharged from Duke, your name is sent to the transport service and they will only come get you on a "first come, first serve" basis. If your name is at the bottom of the list............long wait!
So, in view of this, I decided to find our own wheelchair for Lee. This is not an easy find @ Duke as all the wheel chairs belong to the transport dept. I walked along all the adjacent hallways and was about to give up when I finally found one lurking around a corner, in front of another patient room. It was empty, and as I stood there for a few minutes, I felt sure that it was not being used. I cautiously approached the w/chair and took it to Lee's room. When I told him how I got it, he accused me of stealing someone's w/chair and told me to go get approval from the desk person. Feeling like a guilty child, I did, and it was then ours. We would not have to rely on the transport person.
The last I.V medication finished at 3:00 pm.. The designated picc-line person ( per Lee's request also ) came and pulled the picc line. Lee dressed quickly, I put him in the wheel chair, and we were out the door to valet service for our car promptly @ 3:30 p.m.
We had a good trip home, maybe a few minutes longer than if Lee had driven, but I do not ride with a driver who has slurred speech! The benadryl was still in his system! After a stop for food for supper, we arrived home around 7:00 p.m. All is well.............................
More Later..............................................Brenda
Friday, September 23, 2011
Great Day!
Lee has had a great day! The treatment is visably working....he is stronger, looks so good, color is good and the cough is already gone. Rejection is incidious.....it creeps on ....and there are barely noticeable symptoms. I can see now that with this immediate improvement that the rejection was making him very tired and was responsible for the cough. I believe it probably started around the first week of July because that is when he started to cough and he just could not develop any strength.
It is such a relief to see him feeling better. He has been doing laps around the hosptal corridor like a pro-runner. (compared to this time last year). The doctor said that he could be discharged from the hospital as soon as he finished his third treatment tomorrow. That will be completed by 3:00, but it has been our experience that it takes a long time to actually get out of the hospital! So...............if it is late, we will spend Sat. night here and go home early Sunday a.m.
All in all..............this has been a Great Day!
More Later...............................Brenda
It is such a relief to see him feeling better. He has been doing laps around the hosptal corridor like a pro-runner. (compared to this time last year). The doctor said that he could be discharged from the hospital as soon as he finished his third treatment tomorrow. That will be completed by 3:00, but it has been our experience that it takes a long time to actually get out of the hospital! So...............if it is late, we will spend Sat. night here and go home early Sunday a.m.
All in all..............this has been a Great Day!
More Later...............................Brenda
addendum to yesterday's blog
A better morning for me and for Lee. I am still at the condo because the 2nd treatment will not begin until after 12:00. I prefer to be with him during the treatment so I can observe for any possible adverse reaction and call for help if needed. I talked with Lee this a.m. and he said he was feeling great! He had already been up walking in the hallways after having had another big breakfast. The headache from the evening before left around 9:00 and he was able to sleep soundly all night. Such good news! I, on the other hand, could not go to sleep until after 12;30 and was awake @ 6:00 a.m. Sometimes I have a difficult time shutting down the conscious brain.
I have tried, without success, to grab a nap this a.m., but finally gave up......did make a run to Whole Foods for some milk and yogurt for me. I will pack a lunch bag for me, take the kindle and finish the John Grishman novel "The Confession", and plan to leave here within the hour.
The weather here is heavy! Very warm and the moisture just hangs like a blanket in the air. We are to expect flash flooding in areas here and adjacent to Durham, perhaps a thunderstorm. I plan to take the shuttle to and from the hospital.
Thought I would write early in case I am late returning.....I will give you and update as soon as I can. As for now, Lee is doing great.............I am the "zombie" from lack of sleep!
More Later................................Brenda
I have tried, without success, to grab a nap this a.m., but finally gave up......did make a run to Whole Foods for some milk and yogurt for me. I will pack a lunch bag for me, take the kindle and finish the John Grishman novel "The Confession", and plan to leave here within the hour.
The weather here is heavy! Very warm and the moisture just hangs like a blanket in the air. We are to expect flash flooding in areas here and adjacent to Durham, perhaps a thunderstorm. I plan to take the shuttle to and from the hospital.
Thought I would write early in case I am late returning.....I will give you and update as soon as I can. As for now, Lee is doing great.............I am the "zombie" from lack of sleep!
More Later................................Brenda
Thursday, September 22, 2011
RATG
You are probably asking, "What is that?" So did I, especially since the pronounciation is RAT G. I have had many medical persons explain this term to me, and after some confusion on my part, I did some research on my own ( these wonderful internets!). By definition, RATG is an acronym for rabbit antithymocyte globulin. (yes, a rabbit is involved). To explain further, it is a polyclonal antibody preparation to decrease rejection of the lung by reducing the lymphocyte counts and modulating t-cell formation. ( These are parts of our white blood cells that protect us from bad invading organisms).
Lee's protective cells in his body are recognizing his lung as an alien and is fighting to throw it out....Ratg....will reduce his fighting cells and reverse the rejection. The down side is that he will have no protection and it will take 4-6 weeks for him to build back to a level that his body will can live peacefully with the transplanted lung. So there you have it.....Rejection and Treatment 101 from me!
The I.V. was started @ noon following precautionary meds I.V., such as benadryl, steroids, tylenol. We were advised that he would most likely get a headache, maybe a fever and generally feel like the flu. He had all of the above but not the fever. Fortunately after about two hours, he fell asleep for two hours. The benadryl worked.
I stayed with him until the I.V. was DC and came back to the condo around 6:45 this evening. He still has the headache and feels very tired, but all the other reactions have disappeared. I will return tomorrow and the next I.V. will probably begin around noon. If all goes well, this one may run 4 hours instead of 6.
I will keep you informed of his progress.
More Later.................................Brenda
Lee's protective cells in his body are recognizing his lung as an alien and is fighting to throw it out....Ratg....will reduce his fighting cells and reverse the rejection. The down side is that he will have no protection and it will take 4-6 weeks for him to build back to a level that his body will can live peacefully with the transplanted lung. So there you have it.....Rejection and Treatment 101 from me!
The I.V. was started @ noon following precautionary meds I.V., such as benadryl, steroids, tylenol. We were advised that he would most likely get a headache, maybe a fever and generally feel like the flu. He had all of the above but not the fever. Fortunately after about two hours, he fell asleep for two hours. The benadryl worked.
I stayed with him until the I.V. was DC and came back to the condo around 6:45 this evening. He still has the headache and feels very tired, but all the other reactions have disappeared. I will return tomorrow and the next I.V. will probably begin around noon. If all goes well, this one may run 4 hours instead of 6.
I will keep you informed of his progress.
More Later.................................Brenda
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Rejection
Lee and I were hoping we would not have to write a blog titled "Rejection", but then again, we were advised in the beginning that it is not IF your will reject, but WHEN. We are now experiencing the WHEN.
We were here at Duke last week for a check-up and follow-up post infection for the past two months. Last Friday he had the usual lab, breathing tests and a bronchoscopy. We were told at that time that his breathing test were down and showed some reduced air flow in the smaller respiratory areas. His lab work is beginning to show some increased levels of creatinine and his blood potassium is too high. We could not get the reports from the bronchoscopy until Tuesday so we decided to go on to the beach for a few days. That was a good decision. The weather was beautiful and Lee and I were able to have a really good respite from the bumps in the road that he has had to experience lately.
He was admitted to Duke Hospital this afternoon and will begin the agressive globulin (HgT) treatment in the morning. He will have to be monitored closely with one on one nursing.....lots of lab tests and stats. He will be observed closely for any adverse reaction to this treatment. Reactions can range from mild to severe. It is unique to each individual, so each is cared for in case of a severe reaction. He will remain on contact isolation while this is being done.
All in all, it has been a good 10 months since he was discharged in October last year. We have enjoyed family gatherings, dinners with friends and to church when we think it is safe. Lee has steadily become more and more independent and now he functions very much as he did prior to his illness and transplant. He loves to get in his truck and go wherever he pleases. I'm sure he misses work on the farm and I know some of the decisions he had to make were difficult. He sold all his cows and leased all the farmland to a neighbor. To date he has sold all of his farm equipment with the exception of his two favorite tractors and some other small pieces of useful equipment. He wanted to do a garden, but finally decided it was too stressful to try to tell others how to do it the way he wanted, so eventually left it alone.
Lee continues to go to the rehab unit at Catawba three days a week and his strength is returning. Getting his legs back has been the most difficult. In talking to others who have had lung transplants, we have discovered that others have the same loss of strength in their legs.
I have to say that it is good to know you are there tonight, blog followers......it is hard to stay in the condo without Lee....very lonely. We have been "joined by the hip" for almost two years now!
I had to close the blog when my book was sent to the publisher. One of their requirements as dictated by the contract. If you are interested in my book:
Check the web site: publishamerica.com
Mention my name:
Title of my book: Now We Have Hope
More Later......................................Brenda
We were here at Duke last week for a check-up and follow-up post infection for the past two months. Last Friday he had the usual lab, breathing tests and a bronchoscopy. We were told at that time that his breathing test were down and showed some reduced air flow in the smaller respiratory areas. His lab work is beginning to show some increased levels of creatinine and his blood potassium is too high. We could not get the reports from the bronchoscopy until Tuesday so we decided to go on to the beach for a few days. That was a good decision. The weather was beautiful and Lee and I were able to have a really good respite from the bumps in the road that he has had to experience lately.
He was admitted to Duke Hospital this afternoon and will begin the agressive globulin (HgT) treatment in the morning. He will have to be monitored closely with one on one nursing.....lots of lab tests and stats. He will be observed closely for any adverse reaction to this treatment. Reactions can range from mild to severe. It is unique to each individual, so each is cared for in case of a severe reaction. He will remain on contact isolation while this is being done.
All in all, it has been a good 10 months since he was discharged in October last year. We have enjoyed family gatherings, dinners with friends and to church when we think it is safe. Lee has steadily become more and more independent and now he functions very much as he did prior to his illness and transplant. He loves to get in his truck and go wherever he pleases. I'm sure he misses work on the farm and I know some of the decisions he had to make were difficult. He sold all his cows and leased all the farmland to a neighbor. To date he has sold all of his farm equipment with the exception of his two favorite tractors and some other small pieces of useful equipment. He wanted to do a garden, but finally decided it was too stressful to try to tell others how to do it the way he wanted, so eventually left it alone.
Lee continues to go to the rehab unit at Catawba three days a week and his strength is returning. Getting his legs back has been the most difficult. In talking to others who have had lung transplants, we have discovered that others have the same loss of strength in their legs.
I have to say that it is good to know you are there tonight, blog followers......it is hard to stay in the condo without Lee....very lonely. We have been "joined by the hip" for almost two years now!
I had to close the blog when my book was sent to the publisher. One of their requirements as dictated by the contract. If you are interested in my book:
Check the web site: publishamerica.com
Mention my name:
Title of my book: Now We Have Hope
More Later......................................Brenda
We are Back
It's been a while since I have visited you......going home......summer........readjustments to our new lifestyle. I am writing this from the beach. We have been here since Saturday after leaving Durham for a check-up for Lee. We were called by the lung transplant nurse yesterday and advised to return to Duke for Lee to be hospitilized for a few days. His bronchoscopy last week shows rejection.......the kind that must be treated aggressively. I will be busy packing to return and will catch up on the blog tonight. I have lots of news to share with you so stay here.
More Later.............................Brenda
More Later.............................Brenda
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Blog goes on vacation!
I want you to know that as Lee gets stronger, we are becoming more sociable! It seems that we have something to do almost every day. Of course that is a great thing. Lee is doing great! In fact, he is doing so well now that I sometimes feel like I need to put him on a leash. He is like a kid in a candy store who just cannot get enough! He loves to roam around the farm and enjoy the great outdoors. He has now been able to join his fellow farm friends in the afternoons for their daily conferences. It is during this time that they catch-up on the happenings in the neighborhood ( and you thought only women gossiped!), discuss politics with some antagonizing solutions along the way, and of course, solve all of the world's problems. Most of the fellows are able to contribute lengthy diatribes that have been bolstered by the brew. Lee, however, is restricted to his Non-drink and probably is the only one who can make a logical assesment of the above mentioned problems.
He loves Springtime and so do I. We have looked forward to each awakening day as the sun breaks through a little earlier each morning. The trees are proudly displaying their new leaves, much as a new Mom show off her newborn. The climatis that adorn the lamp post and the sides of the house are growing about a foot a day with promises of lovely flowers soon to appear. Everywhere we look, we see the beautiful white dogwoods that are scattered throughout the woods both in front of and behind the house.
Lee is also blossoming with the serenade of Spring. As the world around us bursts with renewed life, so is he. He has a renewed spirit and energy that is not be contained one minute during the day. He is constantly on the move! All this, in spite of the cataract surgery that he had yesterday. Today on the return post-op visit, he was given an excellent report. Yesterday he was not supposed to drive for 24 hours, however, within an hour of returning home he was on the road.
I am in the process of completing the lasts requests from the publisher for my book. I must relinquish and remove my blog for a period of 90 days. I will return sometime in July, and if you are still interested, check in. Until then, we will just wish the blog a restful vacation.
More in July.................................................Brenda
He loves Springtime and so do I. We have looked forward to each awakening day as the sun breaks through a little earlier each morning. The trees are proudly displaying their new leaves, much as a new Mom show off her newborn. The climatis that adorn the lamp post and the sides of the house are growing about a foot a day with promises of lovely flowers soon to appear. Everywhere we look, we see the beautiful white dogwoods that are scattered throughout the woods both in front of and behind the house.
Lee is also blossoming with the serenade of Spring. As the world around us bursts with renewed life, so is he. He has a renewed spirit and energy that is not be contained one minute during the day. He is constantly on the move! All this, in spite of the cataract surgery that he had yesterday. Today on the return post-op visit, he was given an excellent report. Yesterday he was not supposed to drive for 24 hours, however, within an hour of returning home he was on the road.
I am in the process of completing the lasts requests from the publisher for my book. I must relinquish and remove my blog for a period of 90 days. I will return sometime in July, and if you are still interested, check in. Until then, we will just wish the blog a restful vacation.
More in July.................................................Brenda
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Oh the weather outside is........................................
Perfect! One word to describe the beach. Temperatures have held from low 50's in early a.m. to mid to high 70's in the afternoon. Plenty of sunshine and breeze. (maybe a little too much breeze on the beach). Lee and I tried to sit on the beach Saturday, but the sand storm we encountered looked like the small sahara! After about 15 minutes, we gave up and came back to the house. Yesterday evening, the weather was so beautiful that I decided to walk on the beach. Lovely here, but cold and windy on the beach. I was able to enjoy a short walk and headed back to the house.
We talked to Lee's lung transplant coordinator yesterday and we do not have to return to Duke until June 14 & 15. We decided to have the bronch on a day separate from all the other tests. We do not want to dehydrate Lee again. She gave us a good report on all his tests and there was no rejection as reported from the bronch. We will have to wait another few weeks for the report on the fungus infection of the lung. We were told that this is a long treatment process and that it takes at least six months. After she talks to the doctor, she will let us know what he can do in regards to bee-keeping, planting and harvesting and using pesticide spray. This has been a major issue of Lee's. It is very hard for him to give up some aspects of farming.
Lee is enjoying his time at the beach and is getting much stronger with climbing the stairs. Last night we were able to meet with some friends and eat at a small restaurant that was not crowded. It felt good to do that. Tomorrow we will have lunch with our friends, Jerry and Gloria in Wilmington. So far, this has been a wonderful week.
I had time to finish proof-reading my book and sent it to the publisher. I hope to hear from them by next week. Will let you know how that turns out. If nothing else, I will have my own permanent record for the family. I would like to be able to share it with Duke and other recipients. It is my wish that the book will encourage others to become donors and that the recipients will learn to gain strength in their fight.
Time to help Lee with his breathing treatment and perhaps another trip to the beach and just read a book and relax. (weather permitting!)
More Later........................................Brenda
We talked to Lee's lung transplant coordinator yesterday and we do not have to return to Duke until June 14 & 15. We decided to have the bronch on a day separate from all the other tests. We do not want to dehydrate Lee again. She gave us a good report on all his tests and there was no rejection as reported from the bronch. We will have to wait another few weeks for the report on the fungus infection of the lung. We were told that this is a long treatment process and that it takes at least six months. After she talks to the doctor, she will let us know what he can do in regards to bee-keeping, planting and harvesting and using pesticide spray. This has been a major issue of Lee's. It is very hard for him to give up some aspects of farming.
Lee is enjoying his time at the beach and is getting much stronger with climbing the stairs. Last night we were able to meet with some friends and eat at a small restaurant that was not crowded. It felt good to do that. Tomorrow we will have lunch with our friends, Jerry and Gloria in Wilmington. So far, this has been a wonderful week.
I had time to finish proof-reading my book and sent it to the publisher. I hope to hear from them by next week. Will let you know how that turns out. If nothing else, I will have my own permanent record for the family. I would like to be able to share it with Duke and other recipients. It is my wish that the book will encourage others to become donors and that the recipients will learn to gain strength in their fight.
Time to help Lee with his breathing treatment and perhaps another trip to the beach and just read a book and relax. (weather permitting!)
More Later........................................Brenda
Saturday, March 19, 2011
"Honey, I feel..........."
Thursday , March 17 was clinic day @ Duke. We had traveled from our farm the day before and spent the night @ Staybridge where once again, we enjoyed meeting some "lung colleagues" from Duke lung transplant program. It was good to sit in the lounge and share success stories along with some of those who are still anticipating being accepted into the program. We talked with one couple from Alabama and another from Arkansas. One was recovering and the other was eagerly awaiting being on the list. How well we understood the anxieties and apprehensions they were experiencing. Lee is so good to offer an encouraging word to all he meets. When they hear his story and see how good he looks now, we can see a light begin to emerge from their almost senseless eyes. It is indeed rewarding. Lee had spent the earlier part of the afternoon visiting the workers at the Center For Living. He is very attached to those workers (especially, "his" girls!)
Since Lee was to be fasting after midnight on Thursday, I had encouraged him to hydrate with lots of water after dinner. At 9:00, he did eat some peanut butter and crackers and a large glass of water, then to bed. We were to be at the clinic @ 7:30 in the morning so early bedtime was essential.
We areived at the clinic at 7:30 and Lee was quickly ushered to the nurses station for vitals and then for a breathing test. From there he had lab work and then to x-ray. All of the usual routine work when we return to the clinic. He had a bronchoscopy scheduled for 10:00 that morning in the hospital so all the previous tests were rushed. We had decided to walk through the tunnel to the hospital (not realizing it was about a mile long!) and after a short distance an attendant told us he needed to ride in the w/chair. After seeing the long walk we were glad we did!
The bronchoscopy was completed by 11:30 and the doctor gave Lee a good thumbs up in that all looked very good! Lee drank three small cokes and it was back to the clinic via w/chair for the scheduled doctor's appointment at 2:00. On the way, Lee reminded me that he was hungry and we would need to eat before the appointment. However, as soon as we arrived at the clinic, his name was called and we were surprised to be called that early. We passed on the chicken sandwich and I hurridly retrieved a pack of peanut butter crackers and a bottle of water from my bag. We felt this would last until we could see the doctor.
I might add here that Lee was especially proud of how good he was doing and was excited about seeing his favorite pulmonary doctor (a female ) who had not seen him since October! Well, we waited and waited and waited and by this time, it was 2:00 p.m. Lee decided to walk around and then returned. When he sat down he said "HONEY, I FEEL LIGHTHEADED!" I quickly checked his blood sugar and it was normal. As I turned to look at him, he was chalky white, perspiring and OUT! The nurse walked in and then was followed by two others. I meanwhile had automatically assumed my nursing persona, and am telling Lee to put his head down to his knees! I heard someone ask to check his blood sugar and I announced that I already had and it was 120. Well, folks, here I am at the Mecca of medicine capital of whatever and I am acting like I not only WORK there, but have assumed CHARGE DUTIES!
Anyway, his favorite doctor did get to see him, alas, in the worst of conditions, and had to call 911! We were transported by ambulance to the emergency room. After two hours and failed (4) attempts to start and I.V., the emergency room physician decided to feed Lee a chicken sandwich (per his request) and lots of coke and/or water. After two chicken sandwiches, another coke and water, blood work and a normal EKG. the diagnosis was confirmed. Lee was hungry and dehydrated! He was discharged to go home. Unfortunately, we have not completed our clinic visit and are awaiting reports via phone next week. Meanwhile, we are enjoying some beautiful weather at the beach and all is well.
More Later...............................Brenda
Since Lee was to be fasting after midnight on Thursday, I had encouraged him to hydrate with lots of water after dinner. At 9:00, he did eat some peanut butter and crackers and a large glass of water, then to bed. We were to be at the clinic @ 7:30 in the morning so early bedtime was essential.
We areived at the clinic at 7:30 and Lee was quickly ushered to the nurses station for vitals and then for a breathing test. From there he had lab work and then to x-ray. All of the usual routine work when we return to the clinic. He had a bronchoscopy scheduled for 10:00 that morning in the hospital so all the previous tests were rushed. We had decided to walk through the tunnel to the hospital (not realizing it was about a mile long!) and after a short distance an attendant told us he needed to ride in the w/chair. After seeing the long walk we were glad we did!
The bronchoscopy was completed by 11:30 and the doctor gave Lee a good thumbs up in that all looked very good! Lee drank three small cokes and it was back to the clinic via w/chair for the scheduled doctor's appointment at 2:00. On the way, Lee reminded me that he was hungry and we would need to eat before the appointment. However, as soon as we arrived at the clinic, his name was called and we were surprised to be called that early. We passed on the chicken sandwich and I hurridly retrieved a pack of peanut butter crackers and a bottle of water from my bag. We felt this would last until we could see the doctor.
I might add here that Lee was especially proud of how good he was doing and was excited about seeing his favorite pulmonary doctor (a female ) who had not seen him since October! Well, we waited and waited and waited and by this time, it was 2:00 p.m. Lee decided to walk around and then returned. When he sat down he said "HONEY, I FEEL LIGHTHEADED!" I quickly checked his blood sugar and it was normal. As I turned to look at him, he was chalky white, perspiring and OUT! The nurse walked in and then was followed by two others. I meanwhile had automatically assumed my nursing persona, and am telling Lee to put his head down to his knees! I heard someone ask to check his blood sugar and I announced that I already had and it was 120. Well, folks, here I am at the Mecca of medicine capital of whatever and I am acting like I not only WORK there, but have assumed CHARGE DUTIES!
Anyway, his favorite doctor did get to see him, alas, in the worst of conditions, and had to call 911! We were transported by ambulance to the emergency room. After two hours and failed (4) attempts to start and I.V., the emergency room physician decided to feed Lee a chicken sandwich (per his request) and lots of coke and/or water. After two chicken sandwiches, another coke and water, blood work and a normal EKG. the diagnosis was confirmed. Lee was hungry and dehydrated! He was discharged to go home. Unfortunately, we have not completed our clinic visit and are awaiting reports via phone next week. Meanwhile, we are enjoying some beautiful weather at the beach and all is well.
More Later...............................Brenda
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