Well, as a part of my grieving process, I will write about Daddy/Pop/Poppy while this is fresh in my mind. I have been getting better each day, but when I'm very tired I struggle a little more than the rest of the day.
I know that there are five basic stages of grief: denial and isolation; anger; bargaining; depression; acceptance. I don't know that everyone goes through every stage, but I do know that everyone grieves...if they have loved and lost. I would encourage you to check out this website, http://psychcentral.com/lib/2006/the-5-stages-of-loss-and-grief/ , just to get a handle on where you might be in your grieving process. I know that with several of you this is not new, but to some of you it might be helpful. I haven't been trained in the ways of "hospice," but I have been around two parents who served in hospice care here, and through them, I have learned quite a bit. Bottom line: Don't be afraid to grieve. Grieve in your own way. Don't be surprised if you think of something you'd like to tell Poppy and forget for a moment that you "can't." Is it wrong to tell him anyway, even though he can't hear you? I hope not because I've already done it at least twice!
All of you who receive this were either at the visitation or the memorial service for Pop. I won't go over all of that, but I want to share with you the outpouring that Mama has received and that I have received since those major events have passed.
The cards: I know that they will be coming to an end soon, but the encouragement and love that we have seen, through kind, loving words has been overwhelming at times. I wish I could gather all of those people together for a big group hug, to say thank you for caring.
The food: Wow!! Our friends can either cook to win contests, or they sure know where to purchase yummy food! Mama and I both had stuffed refrigerators for several days.
The words: Special words of comfort from family and friends that came by way of phone calls, text messages, Facebook comments, and face-to-face communication have been very helpful. Residents at Primrose Retirement Community have given hugs, let me hold their hands...One 90+ year old woman had me sit beside her on a bench one day. Georgia held my hand and patted my knee. She said, "I wish there was something that I could do for you, Cindy" I said, "You're doing it, Georgia. You're doing it."
The residents at Primrose were so sweet. Since Poppy was the main Primrose Pastor of a congregation of 18-22(ish), a collection was taken, a memorial blanket was purchased and the residual cash was presented to Mama to do with as she saw fit. I don't think that she has decided, yet, what to do with the money, but it will go to a good cause. One of the men who spear-headed the collection told me, "You know, Cindy, you not only lost your dad, but we lost our shepherd." Most of the residents at Primrose really do care about and love each other.
The staff at Primrose has also been very accommodating; The use of the model apartment was offered for Uncle Bob and Aunt Doris. This made their extended stay much more comfortable than the usual guest suite. As a memento, Mama was given a card and a set of wind chimes, which she really enjoys...and Poppy never did. (Must be the gene that Joel got from Poppy!) Several of the staff have stopped by the apartment to see how Mama is doing, and have offered to help in a variety of ways, from making copies of DVD's to taking away garage trash and empty boxes, and many hugs in between.
Big Sister Kathy and Little Sister Lynn were both huge helps, with a little bit of a switch. Growing up, Kathy was usually the one who was counted on to do the bulk of the child labor in various projects. I was also a "grunt," but needed more direction than Kathy. Lynn, after working for a time, would somehow mysteriously disappear for the main event but would be back in time for the evening meal to tell us all of the news from the neighborhood. Fast forward 45 years (can it really be that long ago?). Lynn was our work-horse and director this trip, and Kathy kept the dishes clean and the conversation going. Again, I was the "grunt" who still needed much direction. The emotions of the past 11 days not included, I was mentally whipped/overwhelmed by the task of cleaning out closets, going through the garage and emptying it, and preparing the car to be sold. I simply could. not. have. done. it by the end of the month without my sisters. Tonight at dinner, Mark gave Lynn the nickname, "F-5." "F-5" is the term used for the strongest tornadoes. Lynn definitely kicked up the dust, but the job is all but done: donations, empty boxes, and one set of shelves to be dismantled are the only things left behind. I promised that I could take care of that by the end of June. Just call me "F-.1." (Yes, I meant ".1"!) Thank you both.
Kathy is home teaching again. Lynn leaves EARLY tomorrow morning and will have one day of rest before beginning a new job on Monday. Mama and I (and of course, my beloved husband, Mark) will be here, sorting through the rest of the boxes which are decorating her apartment. We hope to do a little traveling this summer, going around to visit the most local grandkids and great-grandkids. We will be learning a "new normal."
I have been saying, for the past 11 days, we are blessed. I miss my Pop, but knowing that he is healthy and whole, I wouldn't want him suffering in his old skin again. Thank you, Lord, for the best earthly Daddy You could have given me, and Poppy for our kidlings. We were blessed to have him for so long, and we will continue to be blessed by memories of him. Thank you, again, Lord.
...And, as always, thank you for reading.
Friday, June 7, 2013
Friday, May 24, 2013
Boston Family Vacation
I could almost smell the tea in the harbor...
A little background, first. Two years ago, when we had several graduates in the family, we all went to Yellowstone National Park for a big family vacation. Mark's sister, Aunt Shasta, helped Mark find a house just north of the park that was large enough for us all to stay in while we took day trips into our country's first national park. Aunt Shasta was living in Gardiner, MT, with Uncle Mike and their daughter, Olivia. Besides a family vacation for all of us, it was a mini reunion getting to see part of Mark's family in the mix. We had a blast and the kids decided that we should do it again in a couple of years.
Fast forward one and a half of those two years. I'm a little fuzzy on how we decided, but we decided that we would be Boston-Bound. Jessie did the research and, with Aunt Shasta's help once again, found us a house in Hyde Park, large enough for all of us...8 adults and two cute little girls.
The players in this adventure: The Sr. Paganos (Mark and Cindy/me); The Waymans (Jessie and Richard); The Hildebrands (Amber, Jesse, Lily, and Emma); The Jr. Paganos (Joel and Kimmy).
Conveniently, Joel graduated, again...so why not go on another family vacation?
May 4th began the adventure for Mark and me. We drove over to Muncie, IN, to watch our son, the actuary, get his master's degree, to much Pomp and Circumstance!
We left Muncie after taking a few pictures of Joel with various significant people, like his parents, his wife...you know, the basics. We drove to Columbus, OH, to spend the night with Terri and Dan Mitchell (Mark's sister and brother-in-law, and a BIG thank you to them!) in order to get up E.A.R.L.Y. Sunday, to drive to the airport for our flight to Wilkes-Barre, PA...because who doesn't want to visit Wilkes-Barre, PA?
Actually, we flew there to meet up with the Hildebrands, who were driving to Boston. It tooks us about 6 hours to get to Boston from Wilkes-Barre. Mark and I were not approved drivers for the rental car, so we got to play with Lily and Emma!! Grandparenting is great!
I'll let all of the others blog about their experiences getting to Boston, but let me say this: Flying may be the fastest way to get someplace, ONCE YOU ARE IN THE AIR, but it may take longer when you count in the time and inconvenience of flight changes, transfers and layovers, and the cost of having to check your luggage!
Back to my story.
Once we ALL arrived at our rental home in Hyde Park, MA, it was close to bedtime for the little girls. The Sr. Paganos were pretty pooped, too, so we let the youngsters stay up and get the party started without us. We had the honor of sharing a room with Lily. Actually, the first night we shared the bed, too. After that night, Lily decided that there wasn't enough room in our bed and she slept in the Pack and Play in our room. She's a pretty good little roommate. :)
Monday was our shopping/planning day. We got our food for the week and a few cursory plans made for the week. The Waymans and the Jr. Paganos went into Boston to get "acclimated." Well, maybe to take the train into Boston, and out again, in order to get to Uncle Bob's and Aunt Doris's for a wonderful dinner. Thank you to Moores for hosting such a large gathering, and thank you to Pam for stopping in to say hi, and to Paula, Kylie, Edward, and Katrina for staying for dinner...and for playing in the park with Mark...oh, and the Hildebrands. Thanks also for the hints and helps on what to see and what not to see (good call on the zoo...we didn't go).
Tuesday, the hard-core vacationing/touristing began. Getting into Boston was not a problem. Getting out - well, that was a different story. Suffice it to say that some of the people of metropolitan Boston, and at least one train conductor, were extremely kind and generous to help us find our way home! :)
From Tuesday through Thursday we used "Boston Go" passes to get into all of the sights that we could possibly see in 3 days with two tiny troopers with us. The highlights of our trip are as follows: The BeanTown Trolley Tour, the Aquarium, the Boston Harbor Cruise (Trivia Question: Did you know that 70% of the land mass of Boston is landfill/man made? That's a few tons of dirt!!); Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall; Boston Commons; Freedom Trail Tour (half of it in the rain...); Public Gardens (where we saw and played with the ducks from the book, MAKE WAY FOR DUCKS...and saw beautiful flower gardens, too); Lexington, Concord, The Bridge (sadly, the Manse was closed that day); tried to the Orchard House (Louisa May Alcott's home), but it was going to be too long for the little girls, and it had already been a long day.
The one thing we did not get to do, because for some reason they weren't running, was the Segway tour. That was rather odd, because it was advertised in the Go Pass book, and we saw some running, but had been told they were closed when we called for reservations. Oh well.
Thursday night, the Sr. Paganos, Lily and Emma stayed "home" while the rest of the Clan went back into Boston. Richard and Jessie went to MIT and to some delicious place for Italian food. Jesse and Amber met a couple from college and ate seafood (Jesse ate a TWO POUND LOBSTER and felt sick later that night...said it was worth it, and didn't offer one single bite to his wife!). Joel and Kimmy went to Harvard to meet a friend from Kimmy's high school days and they ate Chinese. Mark, the girls and I had sloppy Joes over baked potatoes, in case you were wondering. :)
Friday morning we did some straightening up and headed down to Torrington, CT, via Rhode Island. Why? Because RI was the ONLY New England state that Mark and I hadn't been to in all of our travels, and neither had anyone else, so now we all have! In Torrington, we visited Auntie Mae, Mark's sole surviving great aunt (there are no aunts or uncles left from any generation in that line). At 96 years old, she still gets around on her own two feet and climbs the stairs to her second story apartment each week when she goes to get her hair done! We had a nice visit and enjoyed iced tea and real percolated coffee! Auntie Mae's sister, Carmella, was there along with two of Mark's 2nd cousins, Anna Marie and Judy, Anna Marie's husband, Ben, and their son, Tom.
When we said good-bye to the Torrington Family, our Family Vacation also came to an end. The Waymans and Jr. Paganos returned for one more evening in Boston, and one more night at our "home" in Hyde Park. They flew out on Saturday. When our van-load left Torrington, we headed back to Wilkes-Barre, PA. On our way there (we had 6 hours to make our plans), we made some plans, then did some research and re-planned. The bottom line: The Hildebrands drove us to the airport and we rented a car and drove home...the day before we were supposed to fly. In the long run, even though the airfare was paid, we saved money and got home a day early.
On the way to the airport, Jesse wanted to settle an "argument" that he was having with Amber over which donuts were the best: Dunkin' Donuts (Amber) vs. Krispy Kreme (Jesse). Jesse definitely won that round by stopping and buying Krispy Kreme filled donuts. One more stop on our way to the airport:
It was just after dark when the truck started down
The hill that leads into Scranton Pennsylvania.
Carrying thirty thousand pounds of bananas.
Carrying thirty thousand pounds of bananas.
This is from Harry Chapin's song, "Thirty Thousand Pounds of Bananas." I didn't realize this actually happened, in a real place. We saw a sign that read, "Load limit 20,000 lbs." Either that driver couldn't read, or they have since changed the load limit!!
We returned home, stopping at Der Dutchman for dinner, Happy Mother's evening. The rest of the way was uneventful and our Boston Family Vacation came to an end.
If you made it this far, congratulations!
Thanks for reading.
P.S. My favorite line from the WHOLE vacation came as we were getting into the car to go to the airport for our rental car, Saturday morning. Lily settled into her car seat and said, "Mama, My no want more 'venture." Lily was done with this adventure. If Emma could speak and knew the word, I'm sure that she would say, "Ditto!" What cute little girls.
A little background, first. Two years ago, when we had several graduates in the family, we all went to Yellowstone National Park for a big family vacation. Mark's sister, Aunt Shasta, helped Mark find a house just north of the park that was large enough for us all to stay in while we took day trips into our country's first national park. Aunt Shasta was living in Gardiner, MT, with Uncle Mike and their daughter, Olivia. Besides a family vacation for all of us, it was a mini reunion getting to see part of Mark's family in the mix. We had a blast and the kids decided that we should do it again in a couple of years.
Fast forward one and a half of those two years. I'm a little fuzzy on how we decided, but we decided that we would be Boston-Bound. Jessie did the research and, with Aunt Shasta's help once again, found us a house in Hyde Park, large enough for all of us...8 adults and two cute little girls.
The players in this adventure: The Sr. Paganos (Mark and Cindy/me); The Waymans (Jessie and Richard); The Hildebrands (Amber, Jesse, Lily, and Emma); The Jr. Paganos (Joel and Kimmy).
Conveniently, Joel graduated, again...so why not go on another family vacation?
May 4th began the adventure for Mark and me. We drove over to Muncie, IN, to watch our son, the actuary, get his master's degree, to much Pomp and Circumstance!
We left Muncie after taking a few pictures of Joel with various significant people, like his parents, his wife...you know, the basics. We drove to Columbus, OH, to spend the night with Terri and Dan Mitchell (Mark's sister and brother-in-law, and a BIG thank you to them!) in order to get up E.A.R.L.Y. Sunday, to drive to the airport for our flight to Wilkes-Barre, PA...because who doesn't want to visit Wilkes-Barre, PA?
Actually, we flew there to meet up with the Hildebrands, who were driving to Boston. It tooks us about 6 hours to get to Boston from Wilkes-Barre. Mark and I were not approved drivers for the rental car, so we got to play with Lily and Emma!! Grandparenting is great!
I'll let all of the others blog about their experiences getting to Boston, but let me say this: Flying may be the fastest way to get someplace, ONCE YOU ARE IN THE AIR, but it may take longer when you count in the time and inconvenience of flight changes, transfers and layovers, and the cost of having to check your luggage!
Back to my story.
Once we ALL arrived at our rental home in Hyde Park, MA, it was close to bedtime for the little girls. The Sr. Paganos were pretty pooped, too, so we let the youngsters stay up and get the party started without us. We had the honor of sharing a room with Lily. Actually, the first night we shared the bed, too. After that night, Lily decided that there wasn't enough room in our bed and she slept in the Pack and Play in our room. She's a pretty good little roommate. :)
Monday was our shopping/planning day. We got our food for the week and a few cursory plans made for the week. The Waymans and the Jr. Paganos went into Boston to get "acclimated." Well, maybe to take the train into Boston, and out again, in order to get to Uncle Bob's and Aunt Doris's for a wonderful dinner. Thank you to Moores for hosting such a large gathering, and thank you to Pam for stopping in to say hi, and to Paula, Kylie, Edward, and Katrina for staying for dinner...and for playing in the park with Mark...oh, and the Hildebrands. Thanks also for the hints and helps on what to see and what not to see (good call on the zoo...we didn't go).
Tuesday, the hard-core vacationing/touristing began. Getting into Boston was not a problem. Getting out - well, that was a different story. Suffice it to say that some of the people of metropolitan Boston, and at least one train conductor, were extremely kind and generous to help us find our way home! :)
From Tuesday through Thursday we used "Boston Go" passes to get into all of the sights that we could possibly see in 3 days with two tiny troopers with us. The highlights of our trip are as follows: The BeanTown Trolley Tour, the Aquarium, the Boston Harbor Cruise (Trivia Question: Did you know that 70% of the land mass of Boston is landfill/man made? That's a few tons of dirt!!); Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall; Boston Commons; Freedom Trail Tour (half of it in the rain...); Public Gardens (where we saw and played with the ducks from the book, MAKE WAY FOR DUCKS...and saw beautiful flower gardens, too); Lexington, Concord, The Bridge (sadly, the Manse was closed that day); tried to the Orchard House (Louisa May Alcott's home), but it was going to be too long for the little girls, and it had already been a long day.
The one thing we did not get to do, because for some reason they weren't running, was the Segway tour. That was rather odd, because it was advertised in the Go Pass book, and we saw some running, but had been told they were closed when we called for reservations. Oh well.
Thursday night, the Sr. Paganos, Lily and Emma stayed "home" while the rest of the Clan went back into Boston. Richard and Jessie went to MIT and to some delicious place for Italian food. Jesse and Amber met a couple from college and ate seafood (Jesse ate a TWO POUND LOBSTER and felt sick later that night...said it was worth it, and didn't offer one single bite to his wife!). Joel and Kimmy went to Harvard to meet a friend from Kimmy's high school days and they ate Chinese. Mark, the girls and I had sloppy Joes over baked potatoes, in case you were wondering. :)
Friday morning we did some straightening up and headed down to Torrington, CT, via Rhode Island. Why? Because RI was the ONLY New England state that Mark and I hadn't been to in all of our travels, and neither had anyone else, so now we all have! In Torrington, we visited Auntie Mae, Mark's sole surviving great aunt (there are no aunts or uncles left from any generation in that line). At 96 years old, she still gets around on her own two feet and climbs the stairs to her second story apartment each week when she goes to get her hair done! We had a nice visit and enjoyed iced tea and real percolated coffee! Auntie Mae's sister, Carmella, was there along with two of Mark's 2nd cousins, Anna Marie and Judy, Anna Marie's husband, Ben, and their son, Tom.
When we said good-bye to the Torrington Family, our Family Vacation also came to an end. The Waymans and Jr. Paganos returned for one more evening in Boston, and one more night at our "home" in Hyde Park. They flew out on Saturday. When our van-load left Torrington, we headed back to Wilkes-Barre, PA. On our way there (we had 6 hours to make our plans), we made some plans, then did some research and re-planned. The bottom line: The Hildebrands drove us to the airport and we rented a car and drove home...the day before we were supposed to fly. In the long run, even though the airfare was paid, we saved money and got home a day early.
On the way to the airport, Jesse wanted to settle an "argument" that he was having with Amber over which donuts were the best: Dunkin' Donuts (Amber) vs. Krispy Kreme (Jesse). Jesse definitely won that round by stopping and buying Krispy Kreme filled donuts. One more stop on our way to the airport:
It was just after dark when the truck started down
The hill that leads into Scranton Pennsylvania.
Carrying thirty thousand pounds of bananas.
Carrying thirty thousand pounds of bananas.
This is from Harry Chapin's song, "Thirty Thousand Pounds of Bananas." I didn't realize this actually happened, in a real place. We saw a sign that read, "Load limit 20,000 lbs." Either that driver couldn't read, or they have since changed the load limit!!
We returned home, stopping at Der Dutchman for dinner, Happy Mother's evening. The rest of the way was uneventful and our Boston Family Vacation came to an end.
If you made it this far, congratulations!
Thanks for reading.
P.S. My favorite line from the WHOLE vacation came as we were getting into the car to go to the airport for our rental car, Saturday morning. Lily settled into her car seat and said, "Mama, My no want more 'venture." Lily was done with this adventure. If Emma could speak and knew the word, I'm sure that she would say, "Ditto!" What cute little girls.
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Mimi Takes a Trip to Salem, WV
Dear Amber and Jesse,
Thanks for the fun and the memories, and for introducing me to "the Ladies." The whole weekend was too fast, so I'll have to come again. Now that I know how to gather eggs and feed them "chicken candy," I can actually be of some use! :) Love you!
Truly it was fun, and here is a sample:
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| This is Gladys Knight and the Peeps. |
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| Just Kidding. I think they have names, but I can't remember them. |
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| This one may be called "Rosie." Or was it "Ruby"? I never was very good with names! |
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| Look what our brilliant granddaughter did with a few bricks... |
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| ...and these tools... |
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| She created this beautiful fire ring!! OK. She might have had a little help from her daddy. |
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| Then, Amber and Jesse shared their inaugural fire with me, while we waited to see the Aurora Borealis...that never botheredto show itself. Bummer. But the fire was nice! The S'mores were yummy! (Joel, singing "Kum Ba Ya" was NOT required.) |
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| "Painting" with Mimi |
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| You've got to love left-over Easter candy :) |
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| With all of these sleepless nights, there MUST be another tooth in there! |
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| "Too high, Daddy!!" "Do it again, Daddy!!" |
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| Daddy makes the BEST horsey. Go Jesse! |
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| The best thing about waking up is NOT Folgers in your cup. It's cuddling with your daughter in a wrap big enough for two! :) |
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| Good-byes don't have to be ALL tears... |
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| ...there can be "good-bye smiles," too.
Thanks for reading!
|
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Christ is Risen! He is Risen, Indeed!!
What a wonderful weekend!
Little Sister, Lynn, arrived Thursday evening, where she stayed with Mama and Pop. Let the Easter Family Reunion begin!
Jessie and Richard arrived first on Friday evening. Joel and Kimmy arrived a couple of hours later. Amber, Jesse, Lily and Emma arrived about an hour later. Amber and Jesse were generous enough to let us all give Lily and Emma some loving before they had to go off to bed. It was HOURS past their bedtimes. Lily didn't like the idea of going to bed, but getting to sleep in Uncle Joel's bed helps a little. Emma doesn't care where she sleeps, she just fights it till sleep wins!
Anyway, we had a weekend filled with family! Saturday morning found Mark and Jessie running 10 miles together, while Richard ran about 14 miles...while the rest of us let them! :) There was a run for the ones in training for the Carmel, IN, half-marathon later in April. There was food.
There were visits from Family Friend Courtney who is leaving later this month for mission work in Alaska! Mark's dad and his wife Pat came to visit, and so did Mark's sister Terri. During that visit, my sister, Lynn (visiting from Florida) brought my folks over for a visit. Joel and Kimmy made Cincinnati Chili (or was is "Skyline Chili"...or is there any difference?) for lunch. Afterward, we had a visit from some of the Hildebrand counsins, who have new twins! (Only baby food was served at this time of the visiting.) There was some kite-flying with "Poppo (Mark) and Lily. After kite-flying, Grandpa, Pat and Terri all had to leave. :( None of us like saying good-bye. Later, Jessica and Richard made "Spaghetti Pepperoni Pizza" for dinner. After desserts of ice cream, brownies, and some scrumptious oatmeal (health-food) cookie bar that involved chocolate, we all waddled off to bed.
Easter Sunday, the day we celebrate Christ's Resurrection was a wonderful reminder that no matter what we go through in this life, the Life Eternal can be spent with Jesus if we simply put our faith in His Resurrection Power. He will take care of the rest!
After our various church services, we gathered at Primrose to celebrate more family time over...you guessed it...more food! Lamb for the lamb lovers and ham for the ham lovers, and delicious, Sandford Family traditional side dishes for everyone. And I think that we will all be sorry to see the Waymans and the Paganos move away from Muncie, where the most delicious Cake (the name of which escapes me just now) can be found. The Waymans have brought it the last two Easters.
Then, our family time had to break up, as all of the younger out-of-town members had to return to their abodes. That's always the hardest part of these family gatherings. However...
...we will look forward to our next gathering! Boston, or Bust!!
Thanks for reading.
P.S. Amber, I don't want you to feel bad about being late with updates, anymore. Easter weekend was TWO FULL WEEKS ago! :-*
Little Sister, Lynn, arrived Thursday evening, where she stayed with Mama and Pop. Let the Easter Family Reunion begin!
Jessie and Richard arrived first on Friday evening. Joel and Kimmy arrived a couple of hours later. Amber, Jesse, Lily and Emma arrived about an hour later. Amber and Jesse were generous enough to let us all give Lily and Emma some loving before they had to go off to bed. It was HOURS past their bedtimes. Lily didn't like the idea of going to bed, but getting to sleep in Uncle Joel's bed helps a little. Emma doesn't care where she sleeps, she just fights it till sleep wins!
Anyway, we had a weekend filled with family! Saturday morning found Mark and Jessie running 10 miles together, while Richard ran about 14 miles...while the rest of us let them! :) There was a run for the ones in training for the Carmel, IN, half-marathon later in April. There was food.
There were visits from Family Friend Courtney who is leaving later this month for mission work in Alaska! Mark's dad and his wife Pat came to visit, and so did Mark's sister Terri. During that visit, my sister, Lynn (visiting from Florida) brought my folks over for a visit. Joel and Kimmy made Cincinnati Chili (or was is "Skyline Chili"...or is there any difference?) for lunch. Afterward, we had a visit from some of the Hildebrand counsins, who have new twins! (Only baby food was served at this time of the visiting.) There was some kite-flying with "Poppo (Mark) and Lily. After kite-flying, Grandpa, Pat and Terri all had to leave. :( None of us like saying good-bye. Later, Jessica and Richard made "Spaghetti Pepperoni Pizza" for dinner. After desserts of ice cream, brownies, and some scrumptious oatmeal (health-food) cookie bar that involved chocolate, we all waddled off to bed.
Easter Sunday, the day we celebrate Christ's Resurrection was a wonderful reminder that no matter what we go through in this life, the Life Eternal can be spent with Jesus if we simply put our faith in His Resurrection Power. He will take care of the rest!
After our various church services, we gathered at Primrose to celebrate more family time over...you guessed it...more food! Lamb for the lamb lovers and ham for the ham lovers, and delicious, Sandford Family traditional side dishes for everyone. And I think that we will all be sorry to see the Waymans and the Paganos move away from Muncie, where the most delicious Cake (the name of which escapes me just now) can be found. The Waymans have brought it the last two Easters.
Then, our family time had to break up, as all of the younger out-of-town members had to return to their abodes. That's always the hardest part of these family gatherings. However...
...we will look forward to our next gathering! Boston, or Bust!!
Thanks for reading.
P.S. Amber, I don't want you to feel bad about being late with updates, anymore. Easter weekend was TWO FULL WEEKS ago! :-*
Friday, March 22, 2013
It's Spring and I Have Sprung!!
March 20th was a Big Day!
It was Amber's Birthday! About that: Mark and I made a big calendar with EVERYBODY'S birthdays listed. It was to help get cards out to everyone this year...for the first time. It is March and I have given ONE card, to Mama and Pop, on the day in between their birthdays. So, the calendar is a sad reminder that even with a reminder calendar, you may not receive a birthday greeting from us, again this year. We have remembered to check the calendar ON the day or the day AFTER your big event. Yes, we are still not so good at this...after all these years.
Amber's birthday was more important to me than it being the first day of Spring. That happened on March 20th, also. That part came and went without much fanfare for us. It still came, and it is Spring!
My big news, locally, and personally, was that I had my six week, post surgery, check up. I can hardly believe that six weeks have gone by already!! I have been working hard here at home to do all of my exercises twice a day...well, maybe not twice a day on the weekends, but still twice in the weekend. I have gone to all of my physical therapy appointments (on those days, I only did exercises once at home).
I had one little set back a couple of weeks ago when I did some exercise wrong (at home) and strained my back. What?? I have lower back problems, anyway, so this was no surprise, but disappointing since I was not allowed to do my straight leg lifts for several days after that. I had JUST gotten to where I could do 15 straight leg lifts without stopping...then I had to stop altogether! Oh well. The therapists told me not to be discouraged: they see things like this all the time. A little glitch, not a major set-back. OK.
So, March 20th came. I saw Dr. McMath's physician's assistant, Amanda. She checked me out, told me my X-rays look great (everything is right where it is supposed to be and healing nicely), and then...drum roll, please! Had me walk without my walker!!! It was only a few steps and it was not pretty, but it was a start! I had taken my cane in case the walker was really going to leave me, but I wasn't quite ready to be without assistance. I have to return the walker to Primrose, and the other walker to Robert Church, but the cane is mine.
I left Amanda and went to physical therapy a very happycamper. I mean walker! It was convenient to use the walker because I had to take it with me, but once in therapy, they put it aside and had me walk with or without my cane...which ever made me more comfortable. I went without for most of therapy...to get my feet wet, so to speak, with help right there. Wasn't that nice of the physical therapy scheduler to plan my therapy right after I was released from my walker?
Physical therapy went very well. I got through all of my exercises without incident, and was able to do TEN straight leg lifts without stopping. Not without pain or struggle, but without stopping, and no back pain.
It was a great day. Thank you for sharing, Amber, and Spring!
But, wait! There's more good news!!
When Mark got home from soccer that night, he drove me over to the Liberty Benton High School parking lot for a driving test! His driving test, not the bureau of motor vehicles'. He gave me an "A" which means that he will let me drive on my own! The rules from the doctor/physical therapy are that as long as I'm off my narcotics (pain killer) and can handle the necessary response time, I can drive. Check and Check. :)
That all brings me to today. I will be driving to Primrose for the first time to help the residents celebrate the March birthdays. I baked and iced brownies and we will make brownie sundaes for all who want them! I'm pretty excited and I think Mama and Pop are, as well. I don't know if I'm more excited to be driving again, or to eat frosted brownie sundaes! :)
Before I close for today, I want you to know that my walking is improving. It is hard to walk without a limp. I have some weakness to overcome...and a little fear: will my new parts really hold me unassisted by the walker? So far, so good. However, around the house, I am cane free with the exception of first thing in the morning when I am a little weak, sore and stiff from sleep. After my morning shower, I'm good to go without the cane. I will take it to the store with me, and keep it in the car, just in case I feel insecure about a situation. I move slowly, and can't adjust my direction quickly, yet. It will come (and has nothing to do with my driving, I promise)!
I am pleased with the results of this adventure.
For now, thanks for reading.
It was Amber's Birthday! About that: Mark and I made a big calendar with EVERYBODY'S birthdays listed. It was to help get cards out to everyone this year...for the first time. It is March and I have given ONE card, to Mama and Pop, on the day in between their birthdays. So, the calendar is a sad reminder that even with a reminder calendar, you may not receive a birthday greeting from us, again this year. We have remembered to check the calendar ON the day or the day AFTER your big event. Yes, we are still not so good at this...after all these years.
Amber's birthday was more important to me than it being the first day of Spring. That happened on March 20th, also. That part came and went without much fanfare for us. It still came, and it is Spring!
My big news, locally, and personally, was that I had my six week, post surgery, check up. I can hardly believe that six weeks have gone by already!! I have been working hard here at home to do all of my exercises twice a day...well, maybe not twice a day on the weekends, but still twice in the weekend. I have gone to all of my physical therapy appointments (on those days, I only did exercises once at home).
I had one little set back a couple of weeks ago when I did some exercise wrong (at home) and strained my back. What?? I have lower back problems, anyway, so this was no surprise, but disappointing since I was not allowed to do my straight leg lifts for several days after that. I had JUST gotten to where I could do 15 straight leg lifts without stopping...then I had to stop altogether! Oh well. The therapists told me not to be discouraged: they see things like this all the time. A little glitch, not a major set-back. OK.
So, March 20th came. I saw Dr. McMath's physician's assistant, Amanda. She checked me out, told me my X-rays look great (everything is right where it is supposed to be and healing nicely), and then...drum roll, please! Had me walk without my walker!!! It was only a few steps and it was not pretty, but it was a start! I had taken my cane in case the walker was really going to leave me, but I wasn't quite ready to be without assistance. I have to return the walker to Primrose, and the other walker to Robert Church, but the cane is mine.
I left Amanda and went to physical therapy a very happy
Physical therapy went very well. I got through all of my exercises without incident, and was able to do TEN straight leg lifts without stopping. Not without pain or struggle, but without stopping, and no back pain.
It was a great day. Thank you for sharing, Amber, and Spring!
But, wait! There's more good news!!
When Mark got home from soccer that night, he drove me over to the Liberty Benton High School parking lot for a driving test! His driving test, not the bureau of motor vehicles'. He gave me an "A" which means that he will let me drive on my own! The rules from the doctor/physical therapy are that as long as I'm off my narcotics (pain killer) and can handle the necessary response time, I can drive. Check and Check. :)
That all brings me to today. I will be driving to Primrose for the first time to help the residents celebrate the March birthdays. I baked and iced brownies and we will make brownie sundaes for all who want them! I'm pretty excited and I think Mama and Pop are, as well. I don't know if I'm more excited to be driving again, or to eat frosted brownie sundaes! :)
Before I close for today, I want you to know that my walking is improving. It is hard to walk without a limp. I have some weakness to overcome...and a little fear: will my new parts really hold me unassisted by the walker? So far, so good. However, around the house, I am cane free with the exception of first thing in the morning when I am a little weak, sore and stiff from sleep. After my morning shower, I'm good to go without the cane. I will take it to the store with me, and keep it in the car, just in case I feel insecure about a situation. I move slowly, and can't adjust my direction quickly, yet. It will come (and has nothing to do with my driving, I promise)!
I am pleased with the results of this adventure.
For now, thanks for reading.
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Weesah HOOOOMMMME!!!!!!!
Today's title, "Weesah HOOOOMMMME!!!!!!!" is a favorite line from one of the Star Wars movies. I use it often after a trip or a long day, when I'm glad to be back home and will be sleeping in my own bed again.
Friday, February 8, 2013, began as every other day of my hospital stay: one last early moring stick for my blood (I hope I get to take some home with me...they decided not to do a blood transfusion for my low iron which kept me hooked up to the IV my entire stay); and an early morning Amanda visit during which she changed my dressing. Everything is looking good. Dr. McMath came a little later and said that today I would be going home! I like that doctor!! :) He makes good things happen.
I never saw a respiratory therapist again. Either I was doing great and they didn't need to watch me breathe anymore, or they forgot about me. I kept practicing, anyway...breathing that is...into the spirometer.
Another good breakfast was sent from the kitchen. This, too, I could get used to: someone serving meals 3 times each day, and cleaning it up.
Today, "Tammy from Physical Therapy" came and she brought "Mitch from Occupational Therapy" with her. I think Mitch was observing Tammy, because he really didn't do much with me today except ask if I had any questions for him. He was a pretty good teacher, even though he's pretty new at this. Tammy took me through the torture paces for the last time. Even though I didn't do any better than yesterday, she was still very encouraging. My leg was still like lead: I couldn't swing it by myself or lift it. Maybe tomorrow. And maybe elephants will fly tomorrow, too! :)
Mark decided that he would eat lunch with me before taking me home, so when he arrived, I ordered lunch for both of us and we had a nice meal and visit together. Then, he began taking things to the car for me (flowers, cards, suitcase, etc) while I got the "going-home" instructions from the nurse. She was very thorough and very nice, answering all of my questions, and laughing with me a few times.
Then, is was time to go. This is the part of the hospital stay that is always bitter-sweet for me. I want to go home. I want all of the hospital staff to come with me...because they know what to do, just in case... But, they aren't coming with me. This was my sixth hospital stay long enough to know that I don't know everything I want to know before being on my own, even with help. I think I can speak with some authority on my mixed emotions.
Today will be just Mark and me to figure things out. Another TeamPagano adventure. Well, we like adventure, so here we go...
Thanks for reading.
P.S. I realize that the time frame for my blog is so far off at this point. No one should believe that my 4 days at the hospital spread out over 4 weeks. I'm just easily side-tracked. It took me a month to describe 4 life-changing days. Consider the source, and love me, anyway, OK? Thank you.
Friday, February 8, 2013, began as every other day of my hospital stay: one last early moring stick for my blood (I hope I get to take some home with me...they decided not to do a blood transfusion for my low iron which kept me hooked up to the IV my entire stay); and an early morning Amanda visit during which she changed my dressing. Everything is looking good. Dr. McMath came a little later and said that today I would be going home! I like that doctor!! :) He makes good things happen.
I never saw a respiratory therapist again. Either I was doing great and they didn't need to watch me breathe anymore, or they forgot about me. I kept practicing, anyway...breathing that is...into the spirometer.
Another good breakfast was sent from the kitchen. This, too, I could get used to: someone serving meals 3 times each day, and cleaning it up.
Today, "Tammy from Physical Therapy" came and she brought "Mitch from Occupational Therapy" with her. I think Mitch was observing Tammy, because he really didn't do much with me today except ask if I had any questions for him. He was a pretty good teacher, even though he's pretty new at this. Tammy took me through the torture paces for the last time. Even though I didn't do any better than yesterday, she was still very encouraging. My leg was still like lead: I couldn't swing it by myself or lift it. Maybe tomorrow. And maybe elephants will fly tomorrow, too! :)
Mark decided that he would eat lunch with me before taking me home, so when he arrived, I ordered lunch for both of us and we had a nice meal and visit together. Then, he began taking things to the car for me (flowers, cards, suitcase, etc) while I got the "going-home" instructions from the nurse. She was very thorough and very nice, answering all of my questions, and laughing with me a few times.
Then, is was time to go. This is the part of the hospital stay that is always bitter-sweet for me. I want to go home. I want all of the hospital staff to come with me...because they know what to do, just in case... But, they aren't coming with me. This was my sixth hospital stay long enough to know that I don't know everything I want to know before being on my own, even with help. I think I can speak with some authority on my mixed emotions.
Today will be just Mark and me to figure things out. Another TeamPagano adventure. Well, we like adventure, so here we go...
Thanks for reading.
P.S. I realize that the time frame for my blog is so far off at this point. No one should believe that my 4 days at the hospital spread out over 4 weeks. I'm just easily side-tracked. It took me a month to describe 4 life-changing days. Consider the source, and love me, anyway, OK? Thank you.
Monday, February 11, 2013
On the Road to Recovery - Part 2
Another night of vitals being taken. I had a better night's sleep, however. This day, the mosquito (the lab tech) came to draw blood at 4 AM!! He was very nice, but 4 AM? REALLY??? I know that he was only doing his job, and I don't even remember the poke, though he warned me. I guess if you are going to wake people up like that, you do your best to be good at what you do.
One, two, three, ZIP... the catheter was removed. That was at 7 AM. I had until 1 PM to be successful in the bathroom. I didn't want to find out what would happen if I wasn't successful. I was really pushing the fluids, so within an hour, I was ready to try. Piece of cake! Done with that test!
I had all of the early morning visits from Amanda, Dr. McEvoy with another courtesy visit (He really said that, yesterday, and today he asked again if there was ANYthing I needed...at all. That's nice to know that some doctors are just nice like that. No charge, just care.) and Dr. McMath.
Dr. McMath's visits are the ones I look forward to because he sees all of the reports, puts it all together and then lets me know how I'm doing. So far, so GREAT! Well, he didn't say it that way, but he really has been encouraging.
Then, there was breakfast and Mitch with Occupational Therapy. He talked me through putting on my right shoe (nothing changed with the left), and then coached me as I DID IT MYSELF! With the aid of the reacher and the long shoe horn, I was successful. Tying the shoe will have to be left up to Mark, or some other kind person, for awhile, anyway. Robert Church showed me that I WILL be able to do this by myself someday. Mitch left and I finished breakfast. The omelette was sort of cold, but does that really matter when I put my shoe on BY MYSELF?? :)
"Tammy from Physical Therapy" arrived. I remember Tammy because I had her 3 times in a row for therapy...AND for some of the things that she helped me do, or did for me. She helped me put on my "unmentionables" and my sweatpants! I had to do most of the work, but she helped when I couldn't quite get it finished. Thank you, Tammy! We went through the torture routine. I still was unable to "swing" my leg back in by myself, but I was able to get it out. The Hardest exercise was the last one...each time. Attempting to lift that right leg that is filled with 1 ton of lead bee-bees was no simple or fun task. Tammy was encouraging, though, when she said words to the effect, "Not bad, Cindy. You got your heal off the bed!" I just laughed! Then we went for a walk. It's getting easier, and I'm going farther. I don't trust that new prosthesis, yet. It's a matter of time and practice...and faith. Tammy took me to a stairwell and taught me how to "do the stairs." That all came back pretty easily, after all, I've been here before. Then, we went into a small sun room and we practiced getting in and out of "the van." "The van" was a chair that had a seat about the height of a van seat. So she talked me through everything I would need to know about that and I practiced a couple of times. Then, she took me back to my room.
Respiratory Therapy came to watch me breathe in the spirometer. I think that's what it's called. The exercise is a VERY CONTROLLED breathing in as you fill your lungs to 2500 mL. Sounds easy enough. It's not. Ten times every hour I'm awake. Thankfully, they didn't wake me from naps or from the night time "sleep" to get those exercises done.
This day, Mark brought his lunch and we ate together. I could get used to eating lunch with this guy! I showed off my sweatpants to Mark. I was really impressed with myself, can you tell?
Mark returned to work and at some point (I'm sorry I can't remember when), Sharon and Robert Church came to visit. It is nice to have personal friends who have gone through this before and can share the triumphs. They were both encouraging and our visit ended way too soon.
I waited all afternoon, and all night, actually, for Respiratory Therapy to return. I was told that they would come eventually, even if it was the middle of the night. And we have to PAY for this treatment? Well, RT never came, but I did keep working on my breathing. This whole adventure has been too long coming, and WAY too expensive (with or without insurance) to blow it by getting pneumonia!
At some point, "Tammy from Physical Therapy" came back. She took me through the torture routine again, with no more success than this morning. Then, she said, "Let's go for a walk." I usually went to the door and turned right. I don't know why. Tammy said, "You can go either direction you want to, but if you turn left, there's something I want to show you." I said, "I like surprises," and I turned left. There are 4 short halls that connect the two long halls where all of the patients' rooms are, and a plethora of other rooms. As we would come to one of these short halls, Tammy would say, keep going, keep going. We came to the end of the hall and she walked me into another sun room, but this was about twice the size of the one we used earlier. She sat me down in a rocking chair and said, I want you just to enjoy the sunshine for a little while. I have to go work with another patient, but I'll be back. Enjoy!" O, the Lord is good! His mercies are everlasting! The room was so bright, I could have used sunglasses, honest! The sun felt so good!! I tried to read the newspaper, but I mostly just sat with a huge grin on my face, squinting out at Findlay! When Tammy came back, maybe 20 minutes later, she asked how that was and I told her it was wonderful - Thank you for the treat! She said, "I just think sunshine is good for the soul," and she had a big smile on her face, too. :) She took me back to my room and said, "I'll see you once more in the morning." Yay!!
Later, I had dinner and no evening visitors, so I started this blog.
I really hope you are enjoying my adventure. I am long-winded. I'm just so thankful, it's hard to hold it in, so I decided to share it with you.
Thanks for reading.
One, two, three, ZIP... the catheter was removed. That was at 7 AM. I had until 1 PM to be successful in the bathroom. I didn't want to find out what would happen if I wasn't successful. I was really pushing the fluids, so within an hour, I was ready to try. Piece of cake! Done with that test!
I had all of the early morning visits from Amanda, Dr. McEvoy with another courtesy visit (He really said that, yesterday, and today he asked again if there was ANYthing I needed...at all. That's nice to know that some doctors are just nice like that. No charge, just care.) and Dr. McMath.
Dr. McMath's visits are the ones I look forward to because he sees all of the reports, puts it all together and then lets me know how I'm doing. So far, so GREAT! Well, he didn't say it that way, but he really has been encouraging.
Then, there was breakfast and Mitch with Occupational Therapy. He talked me through putting on my right shoe (nothing changed with the left), and then coached me as I DID IT MYSELF! With the aid of the reacher and the long shoe horn, I was successful. Tying the shoe will have to be left up to Mark, or some other kind person, for awhile, anyway. Robert Church showed me that I WILL be able to do this by myself someday. Mitch left and I finished breakfast. The omelette was sort of cold, but does that really matter when I put my shoe on BY MYSELF?? :)
"Tammy from Physical Therapy" arrived. I remember Tammy because I had her 3 times in a row for therapy...AND for some of the things that she helped me do, or did for me. She helped me put on my "unmentionables" and my sweatpants! I had to do most of the work, but she helped when I couldn't quite get it finished. Thank you, Tammy! We went through the torture routine. I still was unable to "swing" my leg back in by myself, but I was able to get it out. The Hardest exercise was the last one...each time. Attempting to lift that right leg that is filled with 1 ton of lead bee-bees was no simple or fun task. Tammy was encouraging, though, when she said words to the effect, "Not bad, Cindy. You got your heal off the bed!" I just laughed! Then we went for a walk. It's getting easier, and I'm going farther. I don't trust that new prosthesis, yet. It's a matter of time and practice...and faith. Tammy took me to a stairwell and taught me how to "do the stairs." That all came back pretty easily, after all, I've been here before. Then, we went into a small sun room and we practiced getting in and out of "the van." "The van" was a chair that had a seat about the height of a van seat. So she talked me through everything I would need to know about that and I practiced a couple of times. Then, she took me back to my room.
Respiratory Therapy came to watch me breathe in the spirometer. I think that's what it's called. The exercise is a VERY CONTROLLED breathing in as you fill your lungs to 2500 mL. Sounds easy enough. It's not. Ten times every hour I'm awake. Thankfully, they didn't wake me from naps or from the night time "sleep" to get those exercises done.
This day, Mark brought his lunch and we ate together. I could get used to eating lunch with this guy! I showed off my sweatpants to Mark. I was really impressed with myself, can you tell?
Mark returned to work and at some point (I'm sorry I can't remember when), Sharon and Robert Church came to visit. It is nice to have personal friends who have gone through this before and can share the triumphs. They were both encouraging and our visit ended way too soon.
I waited all afternoon, and all night, actually, for Respiratory Therapy to return. I was told that they would come eventually, even if it was the middle of the night. And we have to PAY for this treatment? Well, RT never came, but I did keep working on my breathing. This whole adventure has been too long coming, and WAY too expensive (with or without insurance) to blow it by getting pneumonia!
At some point, "Tammy from Physical Therapy" came back. She took me through the torture routine again, with no more success than this morning. Then, she said, "Let's go for a walk." I usually went to the door and turned right. I don't know why. Tammy said, "You can go either direction you want to, but if you turn left, there's something I want to show you." I said, "I like surprises," and I turned left. There are 4 short halls that connect the two long halls where all of the patients' rooms are, and a plethora of other rooms. As we would come to one of these short halls, Tammy would say, keep going, keep going. We came to the end of the hall and she walked me into another sun room, but this was about twice the size of the one we used earlier. She sat me down in a rocking chair and said, I want you just to enjoy the sunshine for a little while. I have to go work with another patient, but I'll be back. Enjoy!" O, the Lord is good! His mercies are everlasting! The room was so bright, I could have used sunglasses, honest! The sun felt so good!! I tried to read the newspaper, but I mostly just sat with a huge grin on my face, squinting out at Findlay! When Tammy came back, maybe 20 minutes later, she asked how that was and I told her it was wonderful - Thank you for the treat! She said, "I just think sunshine is good for the soul," and she had a big smile on her face, too. :) She took me back to my room and said, "I'll see you once more in the morning." Yay!!
Later, I had dinner and no evening visitors, so I started this blog.
I really hope you are enjoying my adventure. I am long-winded. I'm just so thankful, it's hard to hold it in, so I decided to share it with you.
Thanks for reading.
Saturday, February 9, 2013
On the Road to Recovery
Vitals taken for the um-teenth time just before shift change at 5 AM, blood drawn at 6, breakfast at 7, then "bath" by 9...with visits from Amanda (Dr. McMath's physician's assistant, or PA), Dr. McEvoy (family physician) for a "courtesy call," and Dr. McMath, himself, all before 8:30.
There's NO rest for the wicked...I must be very wicked. Or is that weary? I was extremely weary! But, OH SO HAPPY!
After my bath, my morning continued with Occupational Therapy. Two entered my room together, one the OT, whose name I can't remember, and the Student OT, Mitch. Mitch was left in charge to talk to me about all of the equipment I would need: the extended shoe horn (thank you Mama and Pop, 2 Christmases back), the "sock aid" (thank you Jessie and Richard, again, 2 Christmases ago), the reaching tool (thank you fellow Bionicle, Robert Church), and the long handled bath "brush" (mine is a nylon scrubbie). Mitch didn't literally show me how to get dressed, but he was pretty detailed in his explanation.
Mitch left and Physical Therapy arrived. I'm sorry that I can't remember her name, but, she was the first one to get me on the road to independence again. (I will return to a thought about independence in a minute.) We talked about, but didn't practice stairs, the walk-in shower, and the car transfer. We did, however, take my maiden voyage around a short square in the hall. She said I was doing very well as I made my way around the "block."
Sometime before lunch, Respiratory Therapy arrived. Deep breathing can make one light-headed, especially when it is SSSLLLOOOWWW deep breathing. And dry-mouthed!
As we rounded the last corner, there stood Jessie at my door. "Look at you walking down the hall!" I must admit that I was a little proud. She had brought Mama to visit before lunch at Primrose, so we finished up PT and had our little visit. I go them caught up on my busy night and morning. Mama caught me up on the folks at Primrose asking about me. Mama and Pop have their hands full telling everyone my "latest news."
Jessie took Mama back to Primrose. After a bit, my lunch arrived. After another bit, Mark arrived to visit over his lunch break, so I caught him up on my night and morning happenings. After another little bit, Jessie walked in the door with a tray from the hospital cafeteria to have lunch with me. Mark should have brought his lunch. We could have had a veritable feast!!
Mark returned to work. When Jessie and I finished our lunches, we took a walk so that she could make sure that the physical therapist was working me hard enough! I think that she was pleased with my progress so far. Then, Jessie had to return to Muncie. :( I knew it couldn't last, but I am so thankful that she was able to visit for the time of my surgery and part of the following day. She could answer questions that I forgot to ask my therapists.
Well, the afternoon was much the same as the morning, minus Occupational Therapy. Apparently, they only work with patients once a day. I went twice as far around the "block" this time with physical therapy. It was a busy afternoon, and I think it might have involved a little "exploituting." That means "napping" for those who live outside of the world of Team Pagano.
Sanny Sutton came to visit on her way home from work and to fix a meal for Mark and Jessie...who left...poor Mark! There would be PLENTY for Mark over the next couple of days for lunch. That was nice of Sanny. The "Life Group" that we are in is bringing meals every other day for the next week. We will eat like a king and queen!
Mark visited again on his way home from weight training with the high school girls he coaches in soccer. Tiffani (my "supervisor" at Primrose) was visiting me, giving me a blow-by-blow about the helicopter activity. While she was catching me up on all of the things I was missing at work, on come the flood lights, right outside my window! We watched the helicopter land...and we thought it might come right through my window if it didn't quite make the turn! Happily, there was a controlled turn and landing. After awhile, once Mark arrived, we all watched it take off. Then, visiting hours were over and the both had to leave.
Tomorrow is another day. Thanks for reading.
Cindy
There's NO rest for the wicked...I must be very wicked. Or is that weary? I was extremely weary! But, OH SO HAPPY!
After my bath, my morning continued with Occupational Therapy. Two entered my room together, one the OT, whose name I can't remember, and the Student OT, Mitch. Mitch was left in charge to talk to me about all of the equipment I would need: the extended shoe horn (thank you Mama and Pop, 2 Christmases back), the "sock aid" (thank you Jessie and Richard, again, 2 Christmases ago), the reaching tool (thank you fellow Bionicle, Robert Church), and the long handled bath "brush" (mine is a nylon scrubbie). Mitch didn't literally show me how to get dressed, but he was pretty detailed in his explanation.
Mitch left and Physical Therapy arrived. I'm sorry that I can't remember her name, but, she was the first one to get me on the road to independence again. (I will return to a thought about independence in a minute.) We talked about, but didn't practice stairs, the walk-in shower, and the car transfer. We did, however, take my maiden voyage around a short square in the hall. She said I was doing very well as I made my way around the "block."
Sometime before lunch, Respiratory Therapy arrived. Deep breathing can make one light-headed, especially when it is SSSLLLOOOWWW deep breathing. And dry-mouthed!
As we rounded the last corner, there stood Jessie at my door. "Look at you walking down the hall!" I must admit that I was a little proud. She had brought Mama to visit before lunch at Primrose, so we finished up PT and had our little visit. I go them caught up on my busy night and morning. Mama caught me up on the folks at Primrose asking about me. Mama and Pop have their hands full telling everyone my "latest news."
Jessie took Mama back to Primrose. After a bit, my lunch arrived. After another bit, Mark arrived to visit over his lunch break, so I caught him up on my night and morning happenings. After another little bit, Jessie walked in the door with a tray from the hospital cafeteria to have lunch with me. Mark should have brought his lunch. We could have had a veritable feast!!
Mark returned to work. When Jessie and I finished our lunches, we took a walk so that she could make sure that the physical therapist was working me hard enough! I think that she was pleased with my progress so far. Then, Jessie had to return to Muncie. :( I knew it couldn't last, but I am so thankful that she was able to visit for the time of my surgery and part of the following day. She could answer questions that I forgot to ask my therapists.
Well, the afternoon was much the same as the morning, minus Occupational Therapy. Apparently, they only work with patients once a day. I went twice as far around the "block" this time with physical therapy. It was a busy afternoon, and I think it might have involved a little "exploituting." That means "napping" for those who live outside of the world of Team Pagano.
Sanny Sutton came to visit on her way home from work and to fix a meal for Mark and Jessie...who left...poor Mark! There would be PLENTY for Mark over the next couple of days for lunch. That was nice of Sanny. The "Life Group" that we are in is bringing meals every other day for the next week. We will eat like a king and queen!
Mark visited again on his way home from weight training with the high school girls he coaches in soccer. Tiffani (my "supervisor" at Primrose) was visiting me, giving me a blow-by-blow about the helicopter activity. While she was catching me up on all of the things I was missing at work, on come the flood lights, right outside my window! We watched the helicopter land...and we thought it might come right through my window if it didn't quite make the turn! Happily, there was a controlled turn and landing. After awhile, once Mark arrived, we all watched it take off. Then, visiting hours were over and the both had to leave.
Tomorrow is another day. Thanks for reading.
Cindy
Thursday, February 7, 2013
The New Bionic Cindy - Part 2
As my dad, Mark, Jessie, and I waited for the folks to take me to surgery, Pastor Ben walked in to have a prayer with me. That was very unexpected, but wonderful. He read Psalm 121, a very comforting and reassuring psalm.
I spoke with Amanda, Dr. McMath's physicians assistant (PA), the anesthesiologist, probably a few nurses in there (the primary one being Jen), and finally Dr. McMath arrived. What nice people, all of them! Dr. McMath initialed my hip, literally, with blue permanent marker...so they all knew for certain where to make the first cut!
My dad had another prayer over me with Mark and Jessie. What a blessing it is to have so much prayer covering me. It is very humbling! After this prayer, Jessie took my dad back home to Primrose Retirement Community. Pop had to pick up Mama and take her to an eye doctor appointment, since I was sort of busy and couldn't take her.
Steve came to take me to the operating room. I said good-bye to Pop, Jessie, and Mark (or maybe Pop and Jessie were already gone...anesthesia does that to you) and went away with Steve. I met Tasha outside of the operating room. I can't remember what her part was, but she helped prep me.
They helped me get onto the operating table and I remember them talking about something, but my eyes started to have a hard time focusing and I knew there was no turning back at that point. The next thing I knew, Jen was saying hello to me in the recovery room. They have some new name for it now, PACU, and all of those letters stand for something, but I can't remember what, but it still means recovery. I had a very hard time getting my eyes to focus, but eventually Steve rolled me away to my room, 6168, on the Ortho-Neuro floor.
Suffice it to say, everyone here at Blanchard Valley Hospital has been fabulous to me. I have had fun joking with the staff, and so has my dad and my husband. It really has been a blessing to be here, close to family and friends, and not be an hour away, like I was at St. Luke's in Toledo all those many years ago.
I did not have any therapy (maybe I had respiratory therapy?) the day of surgery as we all expected. Jessie was NOT amused, so she gave me some bed therapy to do. I was ok with not having therapy the first day. Jessie's workout (a portion of what I would be doing later) was good enough. I was pretty tired and still woozy from the anesthetics, so I was sort of glad it didn't happen as we all expected.
During a rather sleepless first night in my room, I was awake for awhile between 2 and 3 AM, doing some of the isometric exercises that Jessie had given me (which I might add were very easy to do, but very painful as well, pre-surgery). As I was doing one that had been particularly painful, I realized that I was having no pain. I mean, No Pain. No, really, I mean, NO PAIN! I laid there and did them a couple of times just to see if I was right...and I was! I laid there thinking, "It was all worth it. It was really all worth it." And I slept...a little in spite of all of the interruptions.
So, I'll end this rather lengthy post and let you wonder what my first day of therapy was like...
Thanks for reading.
Cindy
I spoke with Amanda, Dr. McMath's physicians assistant (PA), the anesthesiologist, probably a few nurses in there (the primary one being Jen), and finally Dr. McMath arrived. What nice people, all of them! Dr. McMath initialed my hip, literally, with blue permanent marker...so they all knew for certain where to make the first cut!
My dad had another prayer over me with Mark and Jessie. What a blessing it is to have so much prayer covering me. It is very humbling! After this prayer, Jessie took my dad back home to Primrose Retirement Community. Pop had to pick up Mama and take her to an eye doctor appointment, since I was sort of busy and couldn't take her.
Steve came to take me to the operating room. I said good-bye to Pop, Jessie, and Mark (or maybe Pop and Jessie were already gone...anesthesia does that to you) and went away with Steve. I met Tasha outside of the operating room. I can't remember what her part was, but she helped prep me.
They helped me get onto the operating table and I remember them talking about something, but my eyes started to have a hard time focusing and I knew there was no turning back at that point. The next thing I knew, Jen was saying hello to me in the recovery room. They have some new name for it now, PACU, and all of those letters stand for something, but I can't remember what, but it still means recovery. I had a very hard time getting my eyes to focus, but eventually Steve rolled me away to my room, 6168, on the Ortho-Neuro floor.
Suffice it to say, everyone here at Blanchard Valley Hospital has been fabulous to me. I have had fun joking with the staff, and so has my dad and my husband. It really has been a blessing to be here, close to family and friends, and not be an hour away, like I was at St. Luke's in Toledo all those many years ago.
I did not have any therapy (maybe I had respiratory therapy?) the day of surgery as we all expected. Jessie was NOT amused, so she gave me some bed therapy to do. I was ok with not having therapy the first day. Jessie's workout (a portion of what I would be doing later) was good enough. I was pretty tired and still woozy from the anesthetics, so I was sort of glad it didn't happen as we all expected.
During a rather sleepless first night in my room, I was awake for awhile between 2 and 3 AM, doing some of the isometric exercises that Jessie had given me (which I might add were very easy to do, but very painful as well, pre-surgery). As I was doing one that had been particularly painful, I realized that I was having no pain. I mean, No Pain. No, really, I mean, NO PAIN! I laid there and did them a couple of times just to see if I was right...and I was! I laid there thinking, "It was all worth it. It was really all worth it." And I slept...a little in spite of all of the interruptions.
So, I'll end this rather lengthy post and let you wonder what my first day of therapy was like...
Thanks for reading.
Cindy
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
The New Bionic Cindy, Part I
Oh, the places you'll go!
Thirty-two and a half years ago my life was put on hold as I spent six weeks in the hospital and 8 weeks in the home of my parents, healing and recuperating from a car wreck in which I was the passenger. We were hit on my side and that type of hit was called being "T-boned," by the surgeon I met about 2 months ago, Dr. McMath. I had multiple injuries, but the main one was a smashed pelvis.
I had great therapists in the hospital and an excellent (sports medicine) orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Herkimer. Dr. Herkimer explained to me that there were too many parts to put back together and I was too young for a hip replacement. I was to "wiggle in bed and shape a new socket for the ball," which was in fine shape. For thirty years I have had good days and bad days, fluctuating between no pain and...well...much pain.
I have been seeing a great chiropractor, Dr. Petro, for the past 7 or 8 years, and I credit him with getting me off of mega doses of ibuprofen and working on stretches and isometric exercises, keeping me out of surgery for those years. Recently, we (Dr. Petro, my wonderful husband, Mark, and I) decided that it was time for new X-rays and a trip to meet Dr. McMath to hear what his opinion was on my hip. I have been having more and more trouble with everyday things like putting on my right sock, walking the stairs (we live in a split level home), standing or sitting for long periods of time, and most recently, waking in the middle of the night with "referred" knee pain. All of this was due to loss of cartilage in the hip joint (leaving me with bone on bone), bone spurs, and the flattening of the ball from years of rubbing in the misshapen hip socket.
Dr. McMath sent me for physical therapy where I learned some new stretches, worked on some of my old stretches, and whatever new kind of "torture" they could put me through. Seriously, Gordon, Shannon, and Jay got me ready for the inevitable total hip replacement surgery that I have been waiting for, for over 30 years.
As I was coming into my 5th week of therapy, I got a call from the surgery scheduler: "There has been a cancellation in the schedule. Instead of your April (or as I was going to ask for a May) surgery, could you have your surgery on February 5th?" After a couple of conversations with Mark and my co-worker/supervisor, Tiffani, I called back and said, "Sure, that will be fine." I hung up the phone and realized that instead of 3-4 months away, it was going to be a week-and-a-half away!! Yikes!!!
Over the past week-and-a-half, I have seen more medical professionals than I have seen since July 2, 1980, the day of the wreck. With all of the doctor visits done, and tests run, I turned out to be a healthy candidate for a total right hip replacement.
On the very early morning of February 5th, our daughter Jessie, Mark, my dad and I all met at the hospital for this next life-changing event...
...But, this is getting long, and it is getting late, so I'll save some of my story for tomorrow.
Thanks for reading.
Cindy
Thirty-two and a half years ago my life was put on hold as I spent six weeks in the hospital and 8 weeks in the home of my parents, healing and recuperating from a car wreck in which I was the passenger. We were hit on my side and that type of hit was called being "T-boned," by the surgeon I met about 2 months ago, Dr. McMath. I had multiple injuries, but the main one was a smashed pelvis.
I had great therapists in the hospital and an excellent (sports medicine) orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Herkimer. Dr. Herkimer explained to me that there were too many parts to put back together and I was too young for a hip replacement. I was to "wiggle in bed and shape a new socket for the ball," which was in fine shape. For thirty years I have had good days and bad days, fluctuating between no pain and...well...much pain.
I have been seeing a great chiropractor, Dr. Petro, for the past 7 or 8 years, and I credit him with getting me off of mega doses of ibuprofen and working on stretches and isometric exercises, keeping me out of surgery for those years. Recently, we (Dr. Petro, my wonderful husband, Mark, and I) decided that it was time for new X-rays and a trip to meet Dr. McMath to hear what his opinion was on my hip. I have been having more and more trouble with everyday things like putting on my right sock, walking the stairs (we live in a split level home), standing or sitting for long periods of time, and most recently, waking in the middle of the night with "referred" knee pain. All of this was due to loss of cartilage in the hip joint (leaving me with bone on bone), bone spurs, and the flattening of the ball from years of rubbing in the misshapen hip socket.
Dr. McMath sent me for physical therapy where I learned some new stretches, worked on some of my old stretches, and whatever new kind of "torture" they could put me through. Seriously, Gordon, Shannon, and Jay got me ready for the inevitable total hip replacement surgery that I have been waiting for, for over 30 years.
As I was coming into my 5th week of therapy, I got a call from the surgery scheduler: "There has been a cancellation in the schedule. Instead of your April (or as I was going to ask for a May) surgery, could you have your surgery on February 5th?" After a couple of conversations with Mark and my co-worker/supervisor, Tiffani, I called back and said, "Sure, that will be fine." I hung up the phone and realized that instead of 3-4 months away, it was going to be a week-and-a-half away!! Yikes!!!
Over the past week-and-a-half, I have seen more medical professionals than I have seen since July 2, 1980, the day of the wreck. With all of the doctor visits done, and tests run, I turned out to be a healthy candidate for a total right hip replacement.
On the very early morning of February 5th, our daughter Jessie, Mark, my dad and I all met at the hospital for this next life-changing event...
...But, this is getting long, and it is getting late, so I'll save some of my story for tomorrow.
Thanks for reading.
Cindy
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
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