>>>> as an out-patient - of coarse that means a co-payment for us - but better than staying in the hospital rehab for another week. He was very sleepy and tired most of his first day home and it looks like he might be some today as well - I will have to get into a routine and make him do things - so that he doesn't go down hill fast. I feel a bit like a nurse-maid - but it is so much better than traveling all that way each day - caring for him will get easier as the days go by - I hope. I am so grateful for all the love and support and especally for all the angels and cards and FSL that was sent to the two of us through the last two months - has it been that long - YES - exactly today! Next week, it will be two months - since Mother passed, too. I know she went to heaven to talk to God about keeping Rick here for me and I have had so many spiritual awakenings through this short period of time - I know all your prayers were answered - I felt them happen - THANK YOU, all. But please don't stop now - as we have such a long way to go. Rick's arm isn't working as good as we were hoping at this point - he has very limited use of his leg and foot - but that is coming along. I have had a time remembering to give his medication and take his blood sugar and feed him on time - as before the nurses did all that - so I am going to have to do a day-planner or something to keep take - if you have any suggestions - please share them with me. He has so many appointments next week - we will be all over the place and to top it off - I have a couple, too. Thanks, again and much love to each of you. Unconditionally, Shirlene
211079
It is so wonderful that you now have Rick home with you.I know how you must feel..it is truly a gift from heaven!Just love each other and know that there are a lot of people(friends) who care and send prayers. It is so GOOD to have a place where we can converse and vent our emotions when needed! Love to you both, Nadyne
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by shirlener88
10 Apr 2010
Nadyne, thank you so very much - I feel the very same way - hope to hear more from you, too.
24424Shirlene, I cried tears of joy when I read this. I'm so glad that Rick is home. As a caregiver for the past ten years, I have learned how important it is to make the "patient" feel useful and needed. When he is stronger, give Rick little jobs to do "to help you" that you know he can do.(fold washclothes, pair socks, write out a grocery list) Let him know that these little things are a great help to you. Find a hobby that he can do. My husband started learning all he could about gemstones just by watching television. And when there are times that you want to run out screaming, give Rick a hug and tell him how wonderful he is and why you love him so much. If you ever need a friend to vent to, email me. You don't always have to send it. It just helps get things off your chest. Please feel welcome to ask me any questions. I probably won't know many answers but I can sure pray about it. Oh yes, remember that there are many organizations that will help provide medical equipment and things to make your life so much easier that your insurance company wouldn't dream of providing. Do let your CUTE buddies know if there's a financial need. We can always have a buddy (cake, yard) sale. We're here for you. May our loving Heavenly Father continue to hold you both in the palm of His hand, right next to His heart. With Much Love, Marjorie ****
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by shirlener88
10 Apr 2010
Marjorie, thank you dear - I will try to remember to do these things - I have been hit with the bills - over and over and over and over again - not much that I can do about it - don't think they will send me to jail for not paying - but I am not sure about that - but then - I could use some rest - if they do. Hehehe!
5755This is very good news overall. Keep up the good spirits.
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463421This is the day you have both been waiting for,Yahoo**********
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11814Shirlene dear,
We are so thankful that you are both home. Give yourself a little time to fall into a routine. Know that I am praying for you both, as are so many others.
Praise God for this time.
Love,
Jacqueline
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70914I am happy to read Rick is back home. A day planner is a great idea, and I hope you take time for yourself too. I will continue to pray and send thoughts out to you and your family.
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by shirlener88
07 Apr 2010
bluerhino, thank you - I am using a day planner and it seems to be helping alot. Thank you for your prayers and thoughts.
2430Dear Shirlene, I just see this post and I', so glad that you are together again. Please use you mobile phone as a reminder when you have to do somethinh and what medicines Rick has to take on a curtan time (spelling) A diary is a good advice to remember when and how things go and you can take it with you to drs appointments. Please take care of yourself and rest as much as possible. You are the person Rick needs the most at this moment. I wish I could help you to take care or do some shopping etc. etc. Hugs and you both are constantly in my thoughts. Carla
1 comment
by shirlener88
07 Apr 2010
Carla, thank you - I am using a system that I believe will work for us - thanks. I too, wish you were close - that would be a nice treat. Thanks!
58029I am so glad to hear that Rick has gotten better and able to come home. As you already know, it is going to be hard for awhile and you need to take care of yourself as well as Rick. You will of no good to him if you let yourself go. Rest is the main thing that you need. You may not have been the one in the hospital but you were the one worrying and fussing over Rick even though he had his crew of medical attendants. 2010 has not been very good on your nerves or your heart! You did not get over one major crisis in your life before the next one rared it's ugly head and took over both of your lives.
Your Mom was a very wonderful person and I am sure she is in heaven as I write, wishing you could slow down and take care of yourself. Trust in the Lord and trust yourself to be able to handle all of your new duties. We all know that whatever you do, it will be in love and the Lord will be right with you and Rick. I also know from personal experience that things could get a bit dicey before it get back to normal. I am sure that Rick is not used to having to depend on someone for everything and he will not be happy with himself until he is well. The love you have for each other will certainly help your Hubby more than you could know right now. His whole life and lifestyle has changed at the drop of a hat. He could have a bit of a bad time dealing with the changes. I will continue to pray that he and all things get better for both of you. A man usually will have a hard time believing that what happens to him also happens to the family also. Most men are just not wired that way. You are going to have to be patient but you also need to set aside some "me time" for yourself. The time you take for yourself will also help Rick. Neither of you are used to being together 24/7. We all love you and want you to get your rest and also do some of things that you enjoy doing for yourself. I am sure Lillian would agree with me, She is a nurse and I am not but I have been there and done that with several family members and friends. Your "me time" is very necessary even if it is very small doses. Just remember that we love you and we want you to get through this and still be happy with yourself and with Rick. Hugs to you, Linda
1 comment
by shirlener88
07 Apr 2010
Linda, thank you so much - you have some really good idea's here and I need to make sure that I do take care of me - Rick has been a hand full - to say the least. I will be talking to the insurance company - to see what other services are available to us - to use and we will see how it goes. Thanks!
24961Thank you each and every one - I love your tips and I will use them - to the best of my ability.
211079Shirlene, welcome home, and continued good health for Rick!!
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45070I am so glad, that you were able to have Rick home for Easter. Nothing better than that. Thanks for the update. Just a reminder. Take care of yourselve. Any time you can find to rest please do so. Believe me I know. Hugs Angie
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by shirlener88
06 Apr 2010
Angie, dear one - thanks so much. I will try to rest more - I think I need it, now.
109774Hello darlin' and Rick too -
Didn't look here first! So again - so glad you are home and together again. As all the other ladies have said make sure you rest up Shirlene. Good ideas from everyone. I'd also use a chart like they do in hospital for the meds, BP etc. Keeping a diary is also a good idea.
I hope the Physio will continue to free up Rick's arm a bit more - lots of healing prayers being sent your way.
It's Monday afternoon here and it's just been the most glorious day. Overcast in the morning and perfect sunshine for the afternoon.
I'm off till the 16th and Amy is due tomorrow! We are just waiting around for this baby to come!
God bless you both and I know you are being surrounded by love. Make sure you take any help you can get.
Love and blessings Chris
1 comment
by shirlener88
06 Apr 2010
Chris, thank you so much - I hope that Amy has had the baby by now - I will look for a posting. Thanks!
234507Hello Shirlene, it is so good to hear about this good news for you. I bet it must be so nice to have him home, even though it must be tough to do everything, but God kept you going in these last few months, and He will always be there to watch over you. You are a wonderfull person, and I know you will cope fine.
I used to look after my Mother in law who had Alsheimers, and my fater in law who had Parkinsons at the same time. They lived with us, and all I can tell you, is that you must just remember to try and rest as often as it is possible. Remember you are Rick's anker, and having you tired and mabe not so well because of it, will do nobody, especially you, no good.
Also I never wanted too, but if you can, try to get others to help a little, delegate sometimes. I realized afterwards that it is no shame to depend just a teensy weensy bit on others too.
I got myself one of those big desk callenders, and had it on a table where it was not in the way, but where I could quickly see what was lying ahead for the day. Also everything was (all the days) always clear in sight, when I had to plan appointments, etc.
Keep the sunny side up.
Lots of love.
Hugs and God bless.
Marietta
1 comment
by shirlener88
06 Apr 2010
Marietta, thank you for your love and support - I love your tips and I am sure I will use them - don't have many offering to help - but when they do - I will take them up on it. Hehehe! Thanks
15907great that he is at home.
All difficult, but I'm sure he can be proud of a woman like you.
You can do it!
1 comment
by shirlener88
06 Apr 2010
10tje, thank you so much - I do believe that he is proud of me - as he was the one that gave away all the 250 angels at the hospital and each time - he told them all - that it was me that made them - Hehehe!
52672O Shirlene I am so glad to hear this. My husband has Alzheimers Disease and only 25% of his heart's use. In 2001and2002 I had to nurse him back from nearly dying. A few ideas. Keep a record of his blood sugar, blood pressure as they do in hospital. I used to have a file next to his bed and took it every 4 hours (as in hospital). On this file I also kept record of his fluid intake and output because it is very important. Please stay away from cold drink with gas (and please no Coke) and of course lots of sugar and also Aspertame which can be deadly. Lots of people died from that. He must drink LOTS of water to keep him from dehydrating. Use some or other cream to massage his limbs to keep them supple. You can put some pressure on his limbs while doing this. I still do that with Theo. I used to do things on certain times of the day and found that very helpful to keep me on track. You can keep him on busy with books to read, puzzles to build and (if he can) to walk around in the house. I also made Theo help me with small things in the house as this make them feel still useful. I pray for you and Rick. Going so send you a PM with my e-mail and when you need some more advice just write me. At the moment I have trouble to receive my e-mail but am busy working on them to get it fixed. I also made a point of it to read as much as possible about his sickness and believe me at this point I can tell you a lot about Alzheimers. You both are always in my mind and prayers. Lots of love and hugs to you both.
1 comment
by shirlener88
06 Apr 2010
annatjie, thank you very much - these are great tips - I have your email addy, too. I appreciate all you tips and I know they will come in handy. Thanks!
2516Dear Shirlene, I'm so happy for you! It must have been the longest and most difficult 2 months in your life, and we were here, praying for you. My prayers continue for Ricks full recovery! He is home, God is so good!!!
Love, Yoriko
1 comment
by shirlener88
06 Apr 2010
Yoriko, thank you my dear - it did feel like six and not just two - but now looking back - we got through it - because of all the prayers from each of you. THANKS!
88650all love,hugs and prayers for you two!
great you have easter together, and mom will watch you from above and be present in your heart!
your friend Gerry
wantad to add a special picture but that seems not to be possible anymore here)
1 comment
by shirlener88
06 Apr 2010
Gerry, thank you my dear - how sweet of you to think of my Mother, too. She will - I know. I wished I could have seen your special picture, too.
743327Shirlene, I am so glad to hear that you were able to bring your beloved home. On such a beautiful day the Resurrection of Christ!. I am sure that you will be challenged, but the good Lord is their to help you, and be sure to take time to rest your self. A few tips for you if you are interested. I have a son who has had 23 surgeries and is now 24 years old. When I would bring him home from the hospital I always had a daily sheet for medications along with a timer or alarm clock. This would help me not forget. I also used little pill holders for each medication for the day. God bless you and Rick and a big hug from Minnesota, Cindy B.
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11473Glad to hear you now have your other half home with you. Remeber to look after youself first other wise you cannot look after anyone else. I felt selffish doing that but it is true because if you go down who can take the workload
1 comment
by shirlener88
06 Apr 2010
Raelene, that is very good advice - I know just what you mean, too. Thanks!
76409I am so happy to hear Rick is home,have a great Easter with him , take care ,LOL Tanuja
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5753I am so happy to hear that Rick is home. As busy as you must be....knowing that you don't have to do all that traveling must be somewhat of a relief!! I think your idea of keeping him busy is a good one...I know you have a lot to "figure out" but, you are such a strong individual, I know you will do a wonderful job!! God bless you!! Laura*
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96283We had a dry erase board the first couple months my preemie twin granddaughters were home. We(their Mom,Dad and Nana) were all so tired we couldn't remember when who had been fed,changed etc. They were eating every hour and taking about half an hour for a tiny bit of milk and also had medicine to take. Things will get better and it is definitely much nicer to be at home. Just take care of yourself and if someone offers to help let them and take a few minutes for yourself- if only for a nap.
1 comment
by shirlener88
06 Apr 2010
turtleowl, what a cute name. Thank you - I will consider it - I am not that organized, yet. I do wish I had someone that would ask to help - lol.
2294I'm so glad things are going uphill instead of down.. My suggestion would be a dry erase board on the fron to the fridge you can divide it into boxes with hours of the day for meds, testing and food. THANX for the update and prayers still coming your way:)
1 comment
by shirlener88
06 Apr 2010
Barb, thanks - sounds like a plan. We are glad it is going uphill, too. Thanks!
31942Delighted to hear your news. Tablets in a box divided into compartments can be useful so you can see what is there and to be taken when can be useful
A book/diary with all that is happening and useful comments such as results of blood sugar levels, and general commments on Rick's progress could be useful for when you have a Drs appointment and are trying to rememeber what happened and when. He must be delighted to be home but it will take a while to get a routine going for both of you.
Take care and dont overdo it
1 comment
by shirlener88
06 Apr 2010
Caroline, thanks dear - I read this a couple days ago - but didn't have time to write then - I did buy some of those and they have become very useful for the meds. I do take note of Rick's blood sugar in a little booklet that came with the little machine - so I will take that with us, too.
115775Shirlene, so glad to hear that Rick is home.
Will keep both of you still in my prayers.
What about keeping a diary for all the appointments - for when you have to go out and when people are coming around to visit you.
Then set your cell phone alarm for when medication must be given, when you must do tests for blood sugar and to feed Rick and yourself on time.
DON'T FORGET TO REST WHILE RICK IS RESTING AS WELL.
You must look after yourself to.
Hugs and love Yvonne
Set it to go off every day - 5 minutes before hand.
Hope this will help.
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132773I am so glad you two are coming home! Have a great Easter, and I'll continue to pray for Rick's recovery! You have been so missed around here, and it will be great to hear from you again when everything has settled down there in Utah :)
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by shirlener88
03 Apr 2010
Daisy, thank you so much - I am sure - that you all have done just fine without me around, too. Hehehe!
12707
30638Shirlene, I am so thrilled that you all are home now. I know your mind must be going a hundred miles an hour trying to get everything done. I'm sure Rick would do the same for you as we know how much we love our spouses. Our wonderful Savior will guide us through all our days and what a wonderful comfort that is. This isn't the way we would write the script for our lives, but He is greater than us and will carry us through. Stay strong in the Lord. In Christ, Judy
1 comment
by shirlener88
03 Apr 2010
Judy, thank you - we are staying strong as we can - at this time - we know how blessed we really have been.
10530Shirlene, I am so happy for you and Rick that he is home. You have been in my thoughts and prayers since hearing about his heart attack. People usually recovery quicker when in their own home. I pray this is the case for your dear husband Rick. I was so sorry to hear of the loss of your Mother. She is looking down from heaven now to give you the strength to care for Rick. You have had a very stressful couple of months. Please take care of yourself also. Keep us updated when you get a chance. Keeping you and Rick in my prayers. Hugs to you both. Lynn.
1 comment
by shirlener88
03 Apr 2010
Lynn, thank you - actually Rick had a stroke - a hemorrhagic CVA - it was in his left brain and that cause the right side of the body to not work. Thanks for all your love and support. I believe that my Mother is helping, too. Thanks!
51302That's great news, Shirlene! I've been thinking about you two...glad you are back home!
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7310Shirlene, this must have been the worse 2 months in your life, and I can only hope and pray that you will keep on feeling the love and experiencing God's presence in the months to come! Love Suzette
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by shirlener88
03 Apr 2010
Suzette, I can't say they were the worst two months - but they surely were difficult to get through. I have had so many wonderful things happen - during this time - that to say they were the worst - would be very wrong indeed. Thanks for all your support and prayers - they really did get us through the hard times. I love you! Shirlene
8654