that cared for him in the hospital, this time - our family physicain now. He changed some of Rick's medications. In so doing - it knocked Rick out of a plan that the stroke doctor had arranged for him - to get some of his spascity back - however - we have to take care of the condition that is causing him trouble now. Rick series of seizures and the mini stroke took him back to where he was before he left the rehab unit last April - Rick has alot of memory loss and he has speech hesitation and his thinking isn't very clear. He is extremely weak and doesn't have any energy whatsoever. The hardest part of all of this is - that the home health care that the doctor ordered can not happen - because our insurance will not cover it. We can't get in-home or out-patient therapy - we have run over the limit for the year - we are actually three months in the rears for payments for the out-patient treatment that he has already had - they finally told me this - this week - we are at square one again and we have to fill out papers for all those agencies all over again - for financial aid for therapy.

Shirlene, I am praying for you and crying too. I wish I could do something to help. My funds are short at the moment as I have been off sick from work for the last year and a half as you know. If I had some spare cash I would gladly give it to you. who knows something might come up. I have been thinking a lot about you and Rick and I believe that God's plan was quite simple. He knew Rick was going to be needing an Angel so he gave him you. Please Please take care of yourself. Anxiety and exhaustion can cause real physical illness. You are always in my thoughts and prayer.
Alice

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by shirlener88 24 Nov 2010

Alice how thoughtful of you - thanks for the prayers - no need to worry about the money - we have never had any - so this isn't much different now than before. thank you

Sending you warm thoughts from South Africa. We are all thinking of you here on Cuties. Take care of yourself. Love Sarah.

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by shirlener88 24 Nov 2010

Sarah, thank you so very much - the hug was what I needed, too - *4U

Sending you warm thoughts from South Africa. We are all thinking of you here on Cuties. Take care of yourself. Love Sarah.

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by shirlener88 24 Nov 2010

thanks

Sending you warm thoughts from South Africa. We are all thinking of you here on Cuties. Take care of yourself. Love Sarah.

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by shirlener88 24 Nov 2010

Oh thank you so much

Dear Shirlene, I think of you all so often, and my heart goes out to you. I keep you all in my prayers.

I know what you mean. We all need to vent sometimes, and where better than Cute? One always finds a lot of compassionate hearts here.

I don't know how, but somehow, things will work out. I am going to pray that the Lord sends you help. In the meantime take care of yourself.

You know, if I could, I'd help you somehow.

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by shirlener88 24 Nov 2010

Thank you dear stitchship - that is so kind of you - I appreciate the prayers so much. *4u

Dear Shirlene and Rick,

I too like everyone else on here am upholding you in love and prayer. I am so sorry to read that he has had a set back. I believe we are all given those trials and it just depends on how we handle them.

You are such an inspiration to us all and I know God is using you for something - I don't know what it is, but only He does. We just have to listen to Him, open our eyes and our hearts and learn to be still in His presence.

I will continue to keep you upheld in prayer before our mighty God. Love and blessings Chris

P.S. I wish I was closer to you too - would help you in a heartbeat!

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by shirlener88 23 Nov 2010

Chris, thank you my dear - I so appreciate your words and prayers. *4U

Shirlene, this is certainly not the good news we were hoping for...yet. Is there any therapy you can help him with at home that you learned earlier in his journey? You've probably already thought of that but thinking of ideas is the least I can do. And how about respite care services in your area to give you a break?

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by shirlener88 23 Nov 2010

Yes, you are righ t- I have thought of all these things - having trouble finding anything or anyone that will do it - without getting paid - we have one item that might work in the long run - we will see. Thanks!

Oh my i wish i was your neibour John would love to talk to Rick (hes good at it )lol We will continue to pray for you guys Carolyn

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by shirlener88 23 Nov 2010

Thanks Carolyn, we would love you and John as our neighbors, too. *4U

Shirlene, I have just read your post.
Please be assured that you and Rick are in my thoughts and prayers. Wish I was close by,
to give you a hand. Or just to give you a break.

Hugs and love Yvonne

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by shirlener88 23 Nov 2010

Yvonne, than you for saying so - I really appreciate it and for the prayers especially. *4u

Dear Shirlene I have just read this post, it is so sad that Rick is come back as in april, he sleeps always because he needs rest to recover some strength.Take care of you, Rick needs of you.and also benefit of each minut together, love is strong.All my prayers and my thoughts for both, you are not alone,
Hugs and love Claude

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by shirlener88 23 Nov 2010

Claude, than you dear one - I so appreicate it. *4U

Shirlene, just read this - days late (for me, as usual!). We just traveled back home again for Thanksgiving. I, like everyone here, pray for you every day, and I wish I could do more. Never hesitate to let us know how things are going for you and Rick. We care and we want to know. You are rich with friends from all around the world. I'll continue my prayers for you. I hope today looks a little brighter for you!! Hugs, Laura*

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by shirlener88 22 Nov 2010

Laura, I am so happy to hear that you and the family are home for Thanksgiving together. Thanks dear - I will *4U

I just now read your post Shirlene so I am late in replying. I helped take care of my ailing granny when I was in high school because I was the only one who she would do things for. I know how you feel exactly. It is stress that you are feeling right now. So many times the care giver gets ill just trying to keep up. Don't worry about the things that you can't get done. They will be there when you can get to them. I do wish there was a neighbor or someone who could come in to help you even if it is just so you can get out of the house. I would do it in a heart beat if I could. The old saying let go and let God is what we have to learn to do so we can stay strong. My prayers will continue for you and Rick. Take care of yourself.

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by shirlener88 22 Nov 2010

Thank you so much - it means the world to me - to know that you would come - if you could - I will let go and let God - that is how I am getting through this for sure.

Shirlene,
I won't bore you with the last 5 years of my life but I can promise you that it has been disasterous - everytime I asked "What more can POSSIBLY go wrong, SOMETHING DID!"
My mom said to me that God NEVER gives us "something" that will break us - I guess He knows us better than we know ourselves and knows what we can handle!
Now, when life feels just too much I simply turn it over to Him, tell Him I have done my best and the rest is up to Him. Its amazing how much calmer I feel.
I will keep you in my prayers as always.
LOL
Fiona

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by shirlener88 22 Nov 2010

Fiona, you can PM me anytime and share your past 5 years - if you would like - it might help. I do know what you are saying - I sometimes wished God didn't think of me so higly - that I can handle all this - but I do know - that with each day or situation - I do get through it - I feel so much better than I did on the 20th - I have had some time at the embroidery machine and tried not to think about things I wanted to do - outside of the house - it has been snowing - so I wouldn't want to be out in that anyway - Hehehe! Have fun with the Cape Town Cuties. *4U

I feel your frustration....I know how hard it is to see Rick in a position to have to start all over again....I pray God makes a way for Rick to start receiving the help he needs.....and may God give you peace during this trying time as only He can....I hope as you rest in Gods peace you will start feeling better...I send you a loving hug....Gods blessings to you and Rick.....Janet

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by shirlener88 22 Nov 2010

Janet, thank you dear one - I do feel much better in the last day or two - perhaps I just needed some over due rest. Thanks for the prayers & hug. *4U

I am so sorry your burdens are so heavy on you and Rick. I too wish I could be there for you and share them with you. We know we have a God that is greater than all of this and praying for His will and then being able to except it is what we have to do as hard as it is at times. None of us want to go through things like this, but many have and many will in the future but praise God we have Him to carry us through the hard times as well as the good times. Stay strong in the Lord and many of us are praying for you both. I pray God will give Rick the desire to hang in there and do the things he needs to do to and not get depressed to where he doesn't want to do anything. Please continue to update us on things. Also, I pray you will get to feeling better soon. Hugs, Judy

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by shirlener88 21 Nov 2010

Judy, thank you dear - these words do bring me comfort - things I might have also said to another - I appreciate it so very much - thanks dear. *4U

We're a world away - but know we hold you in our hearts. I am new here and wish there was more we could do - but GOD has his own plans and will never give us more than we can bear. Have faith and He will be with you always.

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by shirlener88 21 Nov 2010

Elizabeth, thank you dear and welcome to the CUTE family. We have been waiting for you. Thanks so much for the kindness and I really wished God didn't have so much confindence in me this year - lol.

I too wish I was closer as I would love to help you out in any way possible. Please know I am thinking of you often. Lots of Love Lisa

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by shirlener88 21 Nov 2010

Lisa, thank you so very much - it means the world to me - to know that. *4u

Shirlene, I'm so very sorry that this is happening in your life. I am sure God has a plan and a reason and he will make something wonderful come from this, if it is only to bring someone from this community to their knees to worship and praise him. I know that you are being used as an inspiration as you travel down this road and hold your faith up high as a banner. Take care of yourself. XOXOX

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by shirlener88 21 Nov 2010

Jerrilyn, thank you - I had never thought of it in that manner - I appreciate you words so very much - I had thought it might mean that we had something to learn - not that we would be an example. Love to you! *4U

Shirlene, I wish I could help, but you're half a world away from me. Only thing I can do is continue my prayers for Rick and certainly for you too.

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by shirlener88 21 Nov 2010

Martine, thank you - you have helped with your kindness and words. *4U

Shirlene, where do you and Rick live? Maybe you are close, maybe not but I won't know unless I ask. If you're close, I will help you. You both have been in my prayers. Sleeping alot isn't unusual after a stroke from what I've read. If you are concerned call his doc and ask. It might ease your mind some.
It sounds like you are getting stressed out with all you have on your plate. Go to your doc and explain the symptoms. It could also ease your mind knowing what is going on with you. You need to take care of yourself because if you don't, you won't be able to take care of Rick. We worry about you too, you know! Let me know where you live and I'll help if I can.
Meri

Shirlene I am so sorry to read that things are not getting better. I wish we would be closer. You can call me anytime if you just want to chat. I had not read the personal for a couple of days so I had missed your update until now. Hang in there. You are in my prayers.

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by shirlener88 21 Nov 2010

Angie, thank you so much for the offer. I really do appreciate it. *4U

Oh Shirlene I am so sorry to hear this. What can one say? You and Rick are always in our thoughts and prayers. Wish I could just give you a hug. Horrible things are happening all over the world - is this a test? But please - dont give up. You have come too far. TRUST

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by shirlener88 21 Nov 2010

Marthie, thanks - I am TRUSTING there is something in this to learn or for us to have a way to help another in their time of need. I am praying for your daughter and her dad, too. *4U

Shirlene, I'm just now reading this, so I'm late in my encouraging words. But I see a lot of love here from everyone. I so wish I lived closer so I could help you out...I must say though, even though it is hard to do things with Rick sleeping so much, it is the way God has made our bodies. Healing comes with sleep. So while Rick is wanting to sleep so much, just think of it as faster road to recovery. (In God's Time)...You are continually on my heart. My church is praying for you also. As for your problem, it sounds more like stress, and yes stress can make you dizzy because of your BP elevating. Stress also causes stomach problems including ulcers etc... So try not to stress too much, Rick does need you in good condition. :) Rest as much as you possibly can because that will give you more strength and also less stress... Never hesitate to "cry" on our shoulders. Mine are broad and fat to boot, so they are cushiony. LOL... Love to you both... Terre (Today's (19th) is very appropriate...

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by shirlener88 21 Nov 2010

Terre, dear - thanks - I have been using the daily meditation book and it does help - so very much - I appreciate that you have your church also praying - I am accepting God's will for us, even if times - it sounds as if I am not. Thanks *4U

You are all such ders - you have my eyes leaking - but that is a good thing - to know that other's would help - if only they could - I just got off the phone with Terri (twee) she had some good idea's and had invited us to Thanksgiving with her family - we are going to my daughter's - so we had to say no - but she gave me some good idea's and love and support and it makes me feel a whole let better about everything. Love to each of you. *4U

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Just letting others know what is going on helps, at least a little. The insurance companies and medical rules that we have to follow are very frustrating. How can we, as Americans, support the hardships throughout the World, and not support our own? So many with situations like you and Rick are in just seem to fall in the "donut hole" and can not get what could possibly save a life. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you and hopefully soon it will be so much easier on you. It would be nice to be closer to help you - please know that. Special Hugs

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by shirlener88 20 Nov 2010

Thank you my dear - just knowing that you care - makes it easier and I know how you would be here and help out - as I know you, too. *4U

Shirlene, it is a good thing to vent. It will help relieve some of your stress. I wish I could be there to help you with your errands and just to listen when you need to vent. There is something definitly wrong with the medical system in this country that Rick can not get the care and help he needs now. I know the Lord is looking over you. Hopefully soon you will get your medical care that you need and all the help you need for Rick. Hugs, Mary

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by shirlener88 20 Nov 2010

Thank you Mary - I appreciate it so very much. *4u

Your very last line says it all Shirlene. Our time frame is not the same as Gods, I have certainly found this out through the yrs. As for Rick just wanting to sleep all the time, this is normal for what he has been through. It has been over 5 yrs. since my Ron's massive Intracranial bleed & I still have to deal with the sleeping all the time with him. So much of what I'm hearing from you I know about 1st hand. In time it gets better but it will never, never be the same as it was before. God will give you the strength to make it through but you will have to lean on him. If I were nearer I thinki I could help . Life sometimes gets unbearable I know & you yourself would just like to lie down & sleep uninterrupted for a week. Believe me I know.. My prayers are still with you.

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by shirlener88 20 Nov 2010

Miss Lilian thank you so much - I needed to hear all that you said - thanks! I appreciate it so very much dear. *4U

dear shirlene, I wished i lived more close by to give you a hug or a shoulder to rest on. It must be hard all this happening to you both. You are always in my prayers and thoughts. I'm glad you can write all down here on cute,your other family. We all love you and will try to support you. In the meantime try to take the time to rest yourself.hope the pain will go away. love, hugs and prayers for you my dear.

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by shirlener88 20 Nov 2010

Thanks Gerry - I feel better today. I so appreciate your thoughts to help. *4U

Shirlene, Sorry to hear the news is not much better but I am glad you are venting as sometimes that will help even just writing things down can relieve the pressure. I would be there is a second if I lived closer... You and Rick are in my thoughts always....Love & Hugs Sally

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by shirlener88 20 Nov 2010

Sally, thanks - I think it did help alot - I felt better today - until I started reading all these lovely words - now my eyes are leaking - which is a good think, too - Hehehe! *4U

Dear Shirlene I wish you had some happier news. As for you feeling dizzy have you had your blood pressure checked recently. The stress of what you are going through has surely affected you. i have high blood pressure but did not know it until i almost passed out. Was admitted to the hospital immediately after seeing the doctor and that was 2 years ago. It is now under control with medication but I still have health isssues. i pray the new year will bring you and Rick some relief . Thank you for the update. Keeping you in thoughts and prayers. I wish there was more I could do.
Bev

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by shirlener88 20 Nov 2010

Bev, thanks - I might need to check my blood pressure tonight - when I check Rick's - thank - I never thought of that. I appreciate your words - thanks! *4U

Shirlene you are not venting. It is very difficult when one lives away from family or good neighbours who can help to give you a quick break to run to the shops and back or whatever. Sleep is a great healer and it is probably better that Rick is sleeping rather than rushing about in a manic state not wanting to sleep.

There is something wrong with systems throughout the world where just as you think you are getting there... you are at the back of the queue and having to start all over again. I think there are many of us on Cute who would willingly help with the shopping etc BUT due to where we all live we cannot. Thanks for the update and all we can hope for is the next will be better. Tke care of yourself too, get the stomach pains checked that is if it is possible.
Caroline

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by shirlener88 20 Nov 2010

Thank you dear Caroline. *4U

Shirlene my dear, If I could get away I would jump on an airplane and be there by your side in a heart beat. You are always in my prayers. Please take care of yourself, lean on us when you need to get it all out. We are hear to listen and pray. A huge hug for you and Rick. Love to both of you
Cindy B

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by shirlener88 20 Nov 2010

Thank you dear Cindy - that is so sweet. *4U

Oh my Dear Shirlene. I wish I was lived closer so I could come and give you some support. My heart goes out to you and Rick. Please take care of yourself, so you will be able to care for Rick. We are all here for you, Hugs Lynn

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by shirlener88 20 Nov 2010

Lynn, I do appreciate it - thanks! *4U

Shirlene dear, sometimes just venting helps some what, use our sholders to cry on, any time. We continue to pray for you both and hope you can sleep easier soon. God Bless you both.

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by shirlener88 20 Nov 2010

Dolly, thank you so very much dear - I will do that - Hugs! *4U