Wednesday, February 17, 2010
The later stages of dementia - Alzheimer's Society
The later stages of dementia - Alzheimer's Society: "If the person with dementia remains in the same position for too long - for example, in a bed or chair - they may develop pressure sores. Pressure sores need immediate attention, as they can easily become infected and painful."
The later stages of dementia - Alzheimer's Society
The later stages of dementia - Alzheimer's Society: "Some people experience hallucinations, in which they see, smell, hear, taste or feel things that are not really there. Others develop delusions, in which they experience distorted ideas about what is happening. If the person is distressed, distracting and comforting them can help."
The later stages of dementia - Alzheimer's Society
The later stages of dementia - Alzheimer's Society: "The person may react aggressively if they feel threatened or cannot understand what is going on around them"
The later stages of dementia - Alzheimer's Society
The later stages of dementia - Alzheimer's Society: "The person may become more agitated in the late afternoon and early evening. This is sometimes known as 'sundowning'. Those caring for the person sometimes find it helps to give the person more individual attention at this time, or to arrange extra help at this time of day."
The later stages of dementia - Alzheimer's Society
The later stages of dementia - Alzheimer's Society: "Most people with dementia lose weight in the later stages of the illness, although occasionally people eat too much and put on weight. The person may need help and encouragement with eating and drinking. If chewing and swallowing are a problem, due to the muscles and reflexes no longer working properly, the person may choke on food or develop chest infections, so it is important to seek help."
The later stages of dementia - Alzheimer's Society
The later stages of dementia - Alzheimer's Society: "Many people with dementia gradually lose their ability to walk and to perform everyday tasks unaided. One of the first signs of this is that they shuffle or walk unsteadily. They may also seem slow or clumsy and be more likely to bump into things, drop objects or fall. A stroke, arthritis or the effects of a fall may also affect a person's mobility."
Dear Followers,
I was researching for my inquiry project and I found a website that saddened me. It states what my mind was thinking. Here are the starting facts that I found on this website: http://altzheimers.about.com/od/caregivers/a/surv_nurs_homes.htm
I was researching for my inquiry project and I found a website that saddened me. It states what my mind was thinking. Here are the starting facts that I found on this website: http://altzheimers.about.com/od/caregivers/a/surv_nurs_homes.htm
- There is evidence that people with dementia admitted to psycogeriatric nursing homes and care facilities die comparatively quickly. It is known that mortality rates are high initially, when people move from their homes.
- 50-60% of people admitted to care facilities die within the first two years and are the highest the first six months.
I found a page on the website where you can post your story with your walk with loved ones with altzheimers. I left this note about my dad last night. Tonight 37 people have already read my post. It is posted on my blog.
The more I read and research about this disease the more I am scared for my future. The jury is still out if Altzheimers is genetic. The sad news is that we took my mom to the doctor yesterday to try to get her resettled. He is asking her to take a driving test and we are looking into home health care/occupational therapy. The good news is that my mom is totally unlike my dad in that she listens and wants to do the right thing. I will keep you in the loop.
Fondly,
Debbie
Saturday, February 13, 2010
A Huge Thank you!
Dear Friends,
It has been several days since my last blog and I have to tell you they have been some extremely tough days. You all know that my dad passed away Tuesday morning and since then we have been on a freight train recovering. The viewing was Thursday night and it was an incredible blessing seeing so many of you and please know if I didn't get to talk to you much your presense was so appreciated. I have never known the strengh that just being there can give to someone. It made the night a time where I felt I could share my dad with everyone and celebrate the incredible life he led. My only regret was not being able to talk with everyone as much as I wished I could.
Friday was tough, that is the only word I can think of. Saying good-bye and watching my dad's body being put away clearly reminded me that we only use these imperfect bodies for a short time and when our spirit leaves the body is just an empty container. I know for certain that my father is in heaven rejoicing. In a strange way it gives hope for my future. It was so comforting to see all of the friends and family come and walk that journey with us. It would be so lonely to be alone. I can't thank everyone enough.
The amazing event for me was looking over my friend's shoulder and seeing my best childhood buddy (from age 4) standing waiting for me. Jennifer said she just knew something was wrong and started reading the obituaries from Indy. Jennifer you are a blessing. I have no question that we were bonded as babies and that it is a mighty strong tie. Other friends, Tina, what a comfort to have you there as well as all of the church friends and relatives. I can't thank you enough.
Le Peep was wonderful! The whole mood of the day was brighter. My dad would have loved sharing his favorite restrauant with his friends. The food was terrific and the fellowship even better. Thank you Le Peep friends for doing such an awesome job!
After everyone left from the funeral I was left alone with my thoughts and that was when I began to notice how tired and beat up I was emotionally. I called my brother and sister and we all felt like we had run a marathon. It was a great day though. I wouldn't have changed a thing.
Now we have to turn our attention to the living and that is my mom. Today was spent working on getting her organized. She is forgetting to eat, has not been taking her meds, not been taking care of herself physically and we fear she may regress even more. Please pray for her. We are all hurting but her loss is immense. She has not only lost her husband but her friend and companion. No one can fill my dad's shoes on that one.
Dementia is a terrible animal. The more I learn the more I am so afraid of that path. It is like a thief in the night that robs you of your greatest possessions, your memories and health. I hope through this I can help others eventually when I am healed. It is like nothing I have ever dealt with. I am constantly asking myself what I should have done differently and something always comes to mind. Regret and sorrow follow this disease as closely as a shadow. It is something I hope to put behind me quickly.
So to my followers, and I now know there are many, I thank you for your prayers, thoughts and compassionate actions. I hope I can return the kindness for all of you. My life has hit a very low valley but I can see many arms reaching down ready to help me climb out. Thank you for everything.
Love,
Debbie
It has been several days since my last blog and I have to tell you they have been some extremely tough days. You all know that my dad passed away Tuesday morning and since then we have been on a freight train recovering. The viewing was Thursday night and it was an incredible blessing seeing so many of you and please know if I didn't get to talk to you much your presense was so appreciated. I have never known the strengh that just being there can give to someone. It made the night a time where I felt I could share my dad with everyone and celebrate the incredible life he led. My only regret was not being able to talk with everyone as much as I wished I could.
Friday was tough, that is the only word I can think of. Saying good-bye and watching my dad's body being put away clearly reminded me that we only use these imperfect bodies for a short time and when our spirit leaves the body is just an empty container. I know for certain that my father is in heaven rejoicing. In a strange way it gives hope for my future. It was so comforting to see all of the friends and family come and walk that journey with us. It would be so lonely to be alone. I can't thank everyone enough.
The amazing event for me was looking over my friend's shoulder and seeing my best childhood buddy (from age 4) standing waiting for me. Jennifer said she just knew something was wrong and started reading the obituaries from Indy. Jennifer you are a blessing. I have no question that we were bonded as babies and that it is a mighty strong tie. Other friends, Tina, what a comfort to have you there as well as all of the church friends and relatives. I can't thank you enough.
Le Peep was wonderful! The whole mood of the day was brighter. My dad would have loved sharing his favorite restrauant with his friends. The food was terrific and the fellowship even better. Thank you Le Peep friends for doing such an awesome job!
After everyone left from the funeral I was left alone with my thoughts and that was when I began to notice how tired and beat up I was emotionally. I called my brother and sister and we all felt like we had run a marathon. It was a great day though. I wouldn't have changed a thing.
Now we have to turn our attention to the living and that is my mom. Today was spent working on getting her organized. She is forgetting to eat, has not been taking her meds, not been taking care of herself physically and we fear she may regress even more. Please pray for her. We are all hurting but her loss is immense. She has not only lost her husband but her friend and companion. No one can fill my dad's shoes on that one.
Dementia is a terrible animal. The more I learn the more I am so afraid of that path. It is like a thief in the night that robs you of your greatest possessions, your memories and health. I hope through this I can help others eventually when I am healed. It is like nothing I have ever dealt with. I am constantly asking myself what I should have done differently and something always comes to mind. Regret and sorrow follow this disease as closely as a shadow. It is something I hope to put behind me quickly.
So to my followers, and I now know there are many, I thank you for your prayers, thoughts and compassionate actions. I hope I can return the kindness for all of you. My life has hit a very low valley but I can see many arms reaching down ready to help me climb out. Thank you for everything.
Love,
Debbie
Monday, February 8, 2010
A Bittersweet Good-bye
Dear Friends,
My dad passed away tonight shortly after midnight, 12:15 A.M. It was very quick. I was at home getting ready to go to bed when Gay called. I threw my clothes on and raced over only to miss his departure by a few minutes. Before I left tonight I gave him a hug and kiss and told him I loved him. I know he knew I was here. Although the atmosphere is grim here there is a celebration in heaven welcoming Lowell into the neighborhood. I'm sure he has a great mansion and crown waiting for him. The Lord has given the ultimate healing to my dad's weak body. In his life he always told us he was healed. Well, he now is completely healed. My brother and his wife are on their way. What a rotten way for Garry and Pat to finish their journey.
Fondly,
Debbie
My dad passed away tonight shortly after midnight, 12:15 A.M. It was very quick. I was at home getting ready to go to bed when Gay called. I threw my clothes on and raced over only to miss his departure by a few minutes. Before I left tonight I gave him a hug and kiss and told him I loved him. I know he knew I was here. Although the atmosphere is grim here there is a celebration in heaven welcoming Lowell into the neighborhood. I'm sure he has a great mansion and crown waiting for him. The Lord has given the ultimate healing to my dad's weak body. In his life he always told us he was healed. Well, he now is completely healed. My brother and his wife are on their way. What a rotten way for Garry and Pat to finish their journey.
Fondly,
Debbie
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Update on Dad
Dear Friends,
It amazes me that I am finding more and more friends that are reading my blog and finding out how dad is doing. Today he is resting more comfortably but he is not getting any better. His urine is getting darker and darker and he has not really opened his eyes to look at us. My mom has not left his side most of the time holding his hand. This is one tough journey.
We read the binder they provided for us when we brought dad here. It has information about what to expect and look for. I can tell you honestly it is a great depressing resource. I am still struggling with the responsibility of bringing him here. I know he is really sick and will get sick again but going this way is just really hard. They are telling us that it is harder on us than on him and I am praying that is true.
I am struggling right now on what to do tomorrow. I want to stay by my dad and there are some things that must occur before he passes but I feel responsible for my students and the running of my classroom. At this point I think I will go to school tomorrow if for no other reason but to get ready for a longer absence. I am praying for understanding and a delay.
Tonight is the Superbowl. My dad would have loved to watch the game. He was a die hard sports fan. He loved the Colts and the Pacers as if they were his own children. He actually attended more of their events than mine. (Interesting thought...) He could tell you who was playing and their record. He can't do that anymore and it breaks your heart.
I've been thinking... wouldn't it be nice if people had expiration dates. Then we would know when and how we would leave this world. Today was amazing. It has been so comforting to see so many family and friends. I know my dad heard everyone of their voices. The food from friends and relatives and friends watching the kids has been more than helpful, it has been a Godsend. Thank you so much for everything that you have done. I can honestly say this is the toughest time I have ever had to go through and I wouldn't not wish it on anyone.
Last night I went home and read from the book The 36 Hour Day. In it I found the following points.
Death
Debbie
It amazes me that I am finding more and more friends that are reading my blog and finding out how dad is doing. Today he is resting more comfortably but he is not getting any better. His urine is getting darker and darker and he has not really opened his eyes to look at us. My mom has not left his side most of the time holding his hand. This is one tough journey.
We read the binder they provided for us when we brought dad here. It has information about what to expect and look for. I can tell you honestly it is a great depressing resource. I am still struggling with the responsibility of bringing him here. I know he is really sick and will get sick again but going this way is just really hard. They are telling us that it is harder on us than on him and I am praying that is true.
I am struggling right now on what to do tomorrow. I want to stay by my dad and there are some things that must occur before he passes but I feel responsible for my students and the running of my classroom. At this point I think I will go to school tomorrow if for no other reason but to get ready for a longer absence. I am praying for understanding and a delay.
Tonight is the Superbowl. My dad would have loved to watch the game. He was a die hard sports fan. He loved the Colts and the Pacers as if they were his own children. He actually attended more of their events than mine. (Interesting thought...) He could tell you who was playing and their record. He can't do that anymore and it breaks your heart.
I've been thinking... wouldn't it be nice if people had expiration dates. Then we would know when and how we would leave this world. Today was amazing. It has been so comforting to see so many family and friends. I know my dad heard everyone of their voices. The food from friends and relatives and friends watching the kids has been more than helpful, it has been a Godsend. Thank you so much for everything that you have done. I can honestly say this is the toughest time I have ever had to go through and I wouldn't not wish it on anyone.
Last night I went home and read from the book The 36 Hour Day. In it I found the following points.
Death
- p. 113 The immediate cause of death is often a complicating condition, such as a pneumonia, dehydration, infection, or malnutrition, but the actual cause of death is the dementing illness.
- p. 117 The questions that families often face include whether to hospitalize a person, use tubes to feed a person who has stopped eating or markedly limit their food and fluid intake, or treat concurrent illness with antibiotics or surgery.
- p. 121 The person living with someone who as dementia may know tht theperosn is impaired yet get no support or understaind from others who cannot see the problem. Friends may say the "he looks and sound perfectly all right. I don't see why he cannot remember to call me." Family members may not be able to differentiate between real memory loss and plain contrariness.
- p. 212 When the person does not know they have memory problems, h may manage for years until a crisis occurs. Families are often shocked and distresed by the extent fo the problem when they finally learn of it.
- p.162 Hallucinations are a symptom, like a fever or sore throat.
- Hallucinations develop as an inexplicable part of the dementia.
- Amyloid proteins - abnormal deposits of a protein called amyloid are found in the brains of people with Alzheimers
Debbie
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Dad is not doing well
Dear Followers,
Just thought I would let you know that dad is not doing well at all. Please pray for his comfort and ours. He has fought the great battle and he has reached the end of his journey, but boy does it hurt.
Sincerely,
Debbie
Just thought I would let you know that dad is not doing well at all. Please pray for his comfort and ours. He has fought the great battle and he has reached the end of his journey, but boy does it hurt.
Sincerely,
Debbie
Friday, February 5, 2010
Humor is Good for the Soul
Dear Followers,
I am so glad to have this blog. It has enabled me to document the journey for myself and at the same time keep some people updated. Less I digress, I promised some humor. When we left St. Vs today to go to the hospice we left my mom's car in the parking lot because the roads were getting yucky. Eric and Garry went back to get her car after we ate dinner. They were scraping the snow off the car thinking the windows were broke when they realized that she had left her front two windows cracked open a few inches. There was several inches of snow inside her car. Garry, like a true son, drove the car sitting on wet seats to her apartment. He arrived back at hospice with a wet bottom. What a day it has been. I left hospice at 11:30 and Eric and Garry stayed. He is resting more comfortably but is still coughing and crying at times. It was a welcomed laugh tonight when Garry shared my mom's sillyness. I'm spending time with my own two kiddos tonight. They really missed their mommy and are concerned I'm ok. Please continue to pray for my dad and his family. I don't know what going through this would be like without God carrying me through.
Fondly,
Debbie
I am so glad to have this blog. It has enabled me to document the journey for myself and at the same time keep some people updated. Less I digress, I promised some humor. When we left St. Vs today to go to the hospice we left my mom's car in the parking lot because the roads were getting yucky. Eric and Garry went back to get her car after we ate dinner. They were scraping the snow off the car thinking the windows were broke when they realized that she had left her front two windows cracked open a few inches. There was several inches of snow inside her car. Garry, like a true son, drove the car sitting on wet seats to her apartment. He arrived back at hospice with a wet bottom. What a day it has been. I left hospice at 11:30 and Eric and Garry stayed. He is resting more comfortably but is still coughing and crying at times. It was a welcomed laugh tonight when Garry shared my mom's sillyness. I'm spending time with my own two kiddos tonight. They really missed their mommy and are concerned I'm ok. Please continue to pray for my dad and his family. I don't know what going through this would be like without God carrying me through.
Fondly,
Debbie
A New Address For Dad
Dear Followers,
We have reached a different spot in my dad's life. Hospice. It is a very kind and peaceful place but we are now focused on easing the pain and not curing the infections. When I arrived at the hospital this morning the doctors met with us. The decision was to stop the antibiotic treatment and proceed with hospice. Dad had a 102 fever most of the day only controlled with Tylenol. We also found out that he has bacteria in his blood they were not sure if he was sepsis or if is was staff. Both are not good options. After filling out the paperwork they transferred my dad to hospice at 2:30. He is in a beautiful room and they have been very kind. He is now on a morphine line and they have backed his oxygen down to a nasal canula so thy could moisturize the air. He seems to be more comfortable but I would say he is peaceful. He did eat chocolate ice cream and drank a half glass of water from a straw.
Making this decision was the hardest decision I have ever made. I believe it tore my brother, sister and mom apart but the medical experts assured us it was the right decision. I now know what people go through and I have to tell you that it tears your heart right out of your chest. Tomorrow we are going to make funeral arrangements. Even though I am praying for a miracle I know the miracle may be peace. The exit strategy on this earth is just now a good one. I have spent every moment with dad giving him water, arranging his pillows, encouraging him to breath deep, and taking care of my mom. It has made me understand compassion at a whole new level. Needless to say, I have not done much of anything else. I'll post later when I have more news.
Fondly,
Debbie
We have reached a different spot in my dad's life. Hospice. It is a very kind and peaceful place but we are now focused on easing the pain and not curing the infections. When I arrived at the hospital this morning the doctors met with us. The decision was to stop the antibiotic treatment and proceed with hospice. Dad had a 102 fever most of the day only controlled with Tylenol. We also found out that he has bacteria in his blood they were not sure if he was sepsis or if is was staff. Both are not good options. After filling out the paperwork they transferred my dad to hospice at 2:30. He is in a beautiful room and they have been very kind. He is now on a morphine line and they have backed his oxygen down to a nasal canula so thy could moisturize the air. He seems to be more comfortable but I would say he is peaceful. He did eat chocolate ice cream and drank a half glass of water from a straw.
Making this decision was the hardest decision I have ever made. I believe it tore my brother, sister and mom apart but the medical experts assured us it was the right decision. I now know what people go through and I have to tell you that it tears your heart right out of your chest. Tomorrow we are going to make funeral arrangements. Even though I am praying for a miracle I know the miracle may be peace. The exit strategy on this earth is just now a good one. I have spent every moment with dad giving him water, arranging his pillows, encouraging him to breath deep, and taking care of my mom. It has made me understand compassion at a whole new level. Needless to say, I have not done much of anything else. I'll post later when I have more news.
Fondly,
Debbie
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Another Day with Dad!
Dear Followers,
Garry, Mom and I spent the night with dad last night. The St. Vincent amazing staff worked throughout the night to save my dad's life. The respitory therapist came in numerous times working to reduce the oxygen level in an attempt to lower his heart rate and along with the support from the doctors, staff and morphine his heart rate is now down to 95 and he is resting comfortably.
Gay returned early this morning and at least one of us is rested. The doctor came to visit us and although he is encouraged he feels that dad has a long way to go. He is not hopeful of him returning to the nursing home. He spoke with us about a feeding tube and the decision we may have to make. He cautioned us and said that we are far from that. Dad has a massive amount of infection that he needs to fight though in order to survive. He believes that dad may have lost the understanding of swallowing and is asperating whatever goes in his mouth. That is a gigantic problem and brings forward many new decisions that we are going to have to face.
How wonderful friends and family are. This morning dad had a visitor bright and early. Every visitor makes my dad react. He remembered him being here and even smiled. Thank you for all your prayers, kind deeds, and visits. They are all greatly appreciated.
Fondly,
Debbie
Garry, Mom and I spent the night with dad last night. The St. Vincent amazing staff worked throughout the night to save my dad's life. The respitory therapist came in numerous times working to reduce the oxygen level in an attempt to lower his heart rate and along with the support from the doctors, staff and morphine his heart rate is now down to 95 and he is resting comfortably.
Gay returned early this morning and at least one of us is rested. The doctor came to visit us and although he is encouraged he feels that dad has a long way to go. He is not hopeful of him returning to the nursing home. He spoke with us about a feeding tube and the decision we may have to make. He cautioned us and said that we are far from that. Dad has a massive amount of infection that he needs to fight though in order to survive. He believes that dad may have lost the understanding of swallowing and is asperating whatever goes in his mouth. That is a gigantic problem and brings forward many new decisions that we are going to have to face.
How wonderful friends and family are. This morning dad had a visitor bright and early. Every visitor makes my dad react. He remembered him being here and even smiled. Thank you for all your prayers, kind deeds, and visits. They are all greatly appreciated.
Fondly,
Debbie
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Taking the First Shift
Dear Followers,
It's 12:30 and Garry, Mom and I are with dad. He is about the same but we made the decision to help him feel more comfortable by giving him some morphine. He has responded to all of us. He has been holding my hand and he seems to want to do so. His heart rate continues to go up to over 175 and he is struggling to breathe but he is more comfortable. Garry can really make him respond.
Gay and Nikki went to my mom's to rest. The both looked very wiped. It is funny how distress can make you so exhausted. I know a bit of rest will do them both well. I'm worried about my mom because she is being brave but not taking care of herself. I'll send another update soon. Take care.
Sincerely,
Debbie
It's 12:30 and Garry, Mom and I are with dad. He is about the same but we made the decision to help him feel more comfortable by giving him some morphine. He has responded to all of us. He has been holding my hand and he seems to want to do so. His heart rate continues to go up to over 175 and he is struggling to breathe but he is more comfortable. Garry can really make him respond.
Gay and Nikki went to my mom's to rest. The both looked very wiped. It is funny how distress can make you so exhausted. I know a bit of rest will do them both well. I'm worried about my mom because she is being brave but not taking care of herself. I'll send another update soon. Take care.
Sincerely,
Debbie
Dear Followers,
Just wanted you to know that I am at the hospital with dad. He is not doing well. All of my attention is focused on him. My brother is on his way from WI and Gay, Nikki, Mom and I are manning the ship. He is receiving the best care but it is definately a David and Goliath story. My dad is fighting pneumonia, another uti and now renal failure. They are making him comfortable and hitting the infection squarely in the face with the "nuclear bomb" of antibiotics. We are now on the Medical floor and have a new team of doctors.
The prognosis is not good. They have told us that the next 12 hours will be critical. He is struggling to keep his heart rate down below 150 now and he is on a non rebreather straight oxygen mask. His stomach pulls in and out everytime he breaths. The bright spot was when Alex and Natalie came by to see Grandpa. I told dad they were here and he smiled! It made their day and ours. In some ways it is a blessing that his memories and mind are still in tact while his body is failing around him.
It is in times like these that you really see the wonderful character in people. Before I left school today two of my girls came up to me and asked me if we could pray as a class for my dad. The incredibly cool thing was that one was a Muslim and the other a Christian. I know they are lifting my dad up in prayer as well as numerous others. If that wasn't incredible enough Mrs. Fitts and friends, I don't even know how many, at school worked so that my lesson plans were ready to go and she even brought us dinner tonight. If it weren't for her I would not have been able to be with my dad and I surely would not have eaten.
Earlier today in the ER John Reeder, Mark Hearn, and Paster Dan all came by to pray with dad. If God didn't know where he was before then there was a spotlight up to heaven from my dad's bed as these three men of God raised their voices and prayers to Him. What a blessing to have the assurance that my dad is surrounded by great Christian men.
This is one of the hardest roads I have ever had to travel. I have to wonder what makes our journey through this world so different. Some make a grand entrance into this world and sneak out and others struggle with every breath that they take. I know God has a plan and that we have no way to understand His purpose in so many things we struggle with but it sure is hard. If you are reading this please continue to pray for my dad. I know prayer works. They have told us that he will probably not make it through the night. That is the saddest news I have had in my life.
Sincerely,
Debbie
Just wanted you to know that I am at the hospital with dad. He is not doing well. All of my attention is focused on him. My brother is on his way from WI and Gay, Nikki, Mom and I are manning the ship. He is receiving the best care but it is definately a David and Goliath story. My dad is fighting pneumonia, another uti and now renal failure. They are making him comfortable and hitting the infection squarely in the face with the "nuclear bomb" of antibiotics. We are now on the Medical floor and have a new team of doctors.
The prognosis is not good. They have told us that the next 12 hours will be critical. He is struggling to keep his heart rate down below 150 now and he is on a non rebreather straight oxygen mask. His stomach pulls in and out everytime he breaths. The bright spot was when Alex and Natalie came by to see Grandpa. I told dad they were here and he smiled! It made their day and ours. In some ways it is a blessing that his memories and mind are still in tact while his body is failing around him.
It is in times like these that you really see the wonderful character in people. Before I left school today two of my girls came up to me and asked me if we could pray as a class for my dad. The incredibly cool thing was that one was a Muslim and the other a Christian. I know they are lifting my dad up in prayer as well as numerous others. If that wasn't incredible enough Mrs. Fitts and friends, I don't even know how many, at school worked so that my lesson plans were ready to go and she even brought us dinner tonight. If it weren't for her I would not have been able to be with my dad and I surely would not have eaten.
Earlier today in the ER John Reeder, Mark Hearn, and Paster Dan all came by to pray with dad. If God didn't know where he was before then there was a spotlight up to heaven from my dad's bed as these three men of God raised their voices and prayers to Him. What a blessing to have the assurance that my dad is surrounded by great Christian men.
This is one of the hardest roads I have ever had to travel. I have to wonder what makes our journey through this world so different. Some make a grand entrance into this world and sneak out and others struggle with every breath that they take. I know God has a plan and that we have no way to understand His purpose in so many things we struggle with but it sure is hard. If you are reading this please continue to pray for my dad. I know prayer works. They have told us that he will probably not make it through the night. That is the saddest news I have had in my life.
Sincerely,
Debbie
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Dad's New Challenge and My Project
Dear Followers,
Saturday was the start of a bad beginning for my dad. Natalie, Mom, and I went to solo and ensemble and Natalie did a terrific job receiving a gold rating for not only her string trio but her solo as well. Walking on air and filled with joy we went to visit my dad. Natalie took her cello in and played her solo for dad and then went to the dining room and played for the residents during their lunch. Dad, unfortunately, has contracted another infection. This time it was causing him to have diarrhea. They had already begun treatment and were hopeful to get it under control. He had been moved so he could be on the nurse's wing who had the most experience with wound management and he didn't want to eat. The nurse is awesome. He came in and was so concerned with helping dad and doing everything possible to help his pressure sores heal. I left with guarded hope for a fast recovery.
Today I got the phone call from the doctor that dad had taken a turn for the worst. They believe he has Pneumonia and another UTI. I had to make the decision to have him taken to the hospital or start the treatment (oxygen, Pic line, Antibiotics and Fluids) at the nursing home. The third option was to not do anything at all and let him continue to decline. I was not ready for the third option. I took the second. The trips to and from the hospital tend to confuse him and he does not need that at all. We will see how he progresses. He is just so weak that he is a target for any wandering bug.
I think dementia is the worst way to loose anyone you love. It is like dying a thousand deaths. You have to watch your loved one fail one system at a time all the while their recognition of you and all that has made up their world fades into the woodwork. It is like making decisions for a ghost. My dad still knows who we are and when we are there but he is floating in and out of consciencness and it is so hard to walk away feeling hopeful. The new facility is amazing. I can find comfort in knowing he is in a place where they are so kind and attentive. At least that small part is positive.
Project
I came home and found some material that I was given at the second hospital. It outlines the stages of Alzheimer's Disease. It is written by Dr. Barry Reisberg. Part of my journey with my project I am having to weed out accurrate and inaccurrate information that is relavent to my search. This summary of the stages of Alzheimer's does not accurately portray my dad's walk. Inconsistencies like this are why it is such a confusing disease.
Tune in for more updates on my journey.
Fondly,
Debbie
Saturday was the start of a bad beginning for my dad. Natalie, Mom, and I went to solo and ensemble and Natalie did a terrific job receiving a gold rating for not only her string trio but her solo as well. Walking on air and filled with joy we went to visit my dad. Natalie took her cello in and played her solo for dad and then went to the dining room and played for the residents during their lunch. Dad, unfortunately, has contracted another infection. This time it was causing him to have diarrhea. They had already begun treatment and were hopeful to get it under control. He had been moved so he could be on the nurse's wing who had the most experience with wound management and he didn't want to eat. The nurse is awesome. He came in and was so concerned with helping dad and doing everything possible to help his pressure sores heal. I left with guarded hope for a fast recovery.
Today I got the phone call from the doctor that dad had taken a turn for the worst. They believe he has Pneumonia and another UTI. I had to make the decision to have him taken to the hospital or start the treatment (oxygen, Pic line, Antibiotics and Fluids) at the nursing home. The third option was to not do anything at all and let him continue to decline. I was not ready for the third option. I took the second. The trips to and from the hospital tend to confuse him and he does not need that at all. We will see how he progresses. He is just so weak that he is a target for any wandering bug.
I think dementia is the worst way to loose anyone you love. It is like dying a thousand deaths. You have to watch your loved one fail one system at a time all the while their recognition of you and all that has made up their world fades into the woodwork. It is like making decisions for a ghost. My dad still knows who we are and when we are there but he is floating in and out of consciencness and it is so hard to walk away feeling hopeful. The new facility is amazing. I can find comfort in knowing he is in a place where they are so kind and attentive. At least that small part is positive.
Project
I came home and found some material that I was given at the second hospital. It outlines the stages of Alzheimer's Disease. It is written by Dr. Barry Reisberg. Part of my journey with my project I am having to weed out accurrate and inaccurrate information that is relavent to my search. This summary of the stages of Alzheimer's does not accurately portray my dad's walk. Inconsistencies like this are why it is such a confusing disease.
Tune in for more updates on my journey.
Fondly,
Debbie
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