29 Feb 08 - Waking up tomorrow

29 Feb 08
Well, despite the technical success of the procedure on Monday, Mum is still becoming increasingly weak and breathless. The doctors were delighted with having discovered the blocked vessel and corrected it, but we all realise that the masses have increased in number and size, and must be more responsible for her current condition. No doubt, this procedure was beneficial anyway.

We had hoped that relieving the venous congestion to her upper body would alleviate the limited breathing and heart strain. (She had a 2nd episode of chest pain on Wed PM) The visible swelling to her face, head, neck and shoulders has reduced and we assume that internal oedema is resolving too, so it is a real disappointment to accept that it might not be enough to improve her significantly (however temporary).

Mum was pleased with the specialist who was honest enough to say that quality is her main priority, not quantity. She would much rather a straight understanding.

We wanted this to be a quiet week of rest and recovery but it has been instead, full of activity and stimulation. The loo needed fixing 3 times (new seals and mechanism), shed fridges had to be emptied and swapped, the garage door broke (at ballistic speed), the microwave went bang (using Chrissy’s spare now), tradesmen bashed around doing some work booked in weeks ago, kids coming and going, Doctor visits, blood tests and urgent business taken care of.

Poor Chris has been on and off at work, very difficult trying to do everything she usually has to do and big medical stuff and be with Mum at home and for appointments. She did get some good news herself - saw the specialist who said her bone strength was now up in good range (first time in years) and her back fracture is slowly healing. The 6-month scan shows the beginning of healing from the outside edges toward the centre (like a cake cooking). The 2nd horse might have to come back, which is another real worry, expense and stress for her. Her cute puppy (unnamed) is a source of great delight and bother.

Tom has had some days off to be around for the children and many jobs we have needed help with. Couldn’t have got through without him. Steve was away at school camp Sunday-Wednesday and Leah is off next week Wed-Friday. Homework routine is shot as they have limited time, support or opportunity to get anything done at home where they can access the things they need, oh well. Somehow the pets are surviving. The chook lays her eggs in the rabbit burrow and the dog keeps them safe in his kennel till we remember to collect them. The budgies are all in the outside cage and our fish numbers are about 2, last check. One inside, one outside in the pond with the frog. Gilly dog is a patient old gentleman with the puppy when we puppysit her.

Through recent weeks and days, Mum has had much to say that is inspirational, encouraging and beautiful. She feels such love and is praising the Lord so often for the blessings in her life as she looks back over the years, as well as right now. She feels all her issues are dealt with and has no regrets, wouldn’t change even the bad stuff, because it created the person she is today. She reckons she’s the most loved and blessed lady in the world. She approaches each day with a bright attitude and feels fulfilled and at peace when she settles at night. She said she is content and will wake up tomorrow, either in her bed or in heaven.

Thank you for your loving thoughts and care; for not visiting when you’d like to and for coming when it was right anyway. For messages and calls (sorry, Mum has not been keen to talk on the phone this week).

Must sign off. Love to all and God bless you, ‘cos He’s sure blessed us!
Beth for Joan, Chris and families