BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure

Subject: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 01:22 AM

This evening after supper Tom stepped outside onto the deck. It had been misting all day and the artifical wood (Trex) of the deck was wet, maybe somewhat slimy. It's been an odd winter.

Anyway, he slipped. The important thing here is he slipped ON the deck not OFF the deck.

He was just away from the door to the house. I'd heard a noise and was going to investigate when I heard a pounding noise, yelled, "I'm coming!" and ran down the stairs. (Neat trick as my knee has been giving me grief the past couple days.)

He had the door open and had pounded on the sheetrocked wall to get my attention.

He couldn't right himself, and thought he may have done something to his ankle. So I brought over his heavy antique wood office chair on casters to see if he could pull himself upright. No go.

I called 911.

First a Nottingham police officer and then the EMTs arrived.

They got him into a chair without stressing his ankle and, eventually, loaded into the ambulance to take him to Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover. After posting at Facebook and calling my boss (I'm scheduled to work noon to 8 on Thursday), I followed him.

He was somewhat settled in when I got there -- Dr. Trotzky said he'd dislocated the right ankle. Usually in these cases, there needs to be surgery soon after to repair minor problems associated with the dislocation. The last time I talked to him was just before Sue from X-Ray dragged him off for a photo shoot.

After waiting a couple more hours, I encountered the nurses' station. Kelly was off looking for the hospitalist who would admit him and get him settled in a room. It was unclear as to whether a room was available, in which case it wasn't, they'd get him comfortable in the backwater of the ER where he was.

I left at 11 pm, after settling his new insurance cards with the ER admitters, and came home to post at Facebook, send an email to a friend, and call my sister before trying to sleep.

A craving for a taste brought me again downstairs, so here's this post.

This shouldn't be a major setback, but it does mean I have to clean out the living room and find room for him on the couch as I don't expect he'll be able to negotiate the steps for awhile. And I'll have to do basically everything for awhile until he can do his share.

It also means he'll be missing the Press Room evening St. Patrick's celebration for the second time since the first in 1978. And that means Bob Frost, who has only missed one (with the Angel Band) will beat his record. Tom and Bob are planning to hand off the evening entertainment after this year -- hopefully to someone in the Press Room family.

I don't know what pains Tom more...

Whatever, it's going to be a major change, and some major physical work for Tom whom I don't think has broken any bones before. I'm not going to second guess what God has planned...just that it will be different and will probably work out better than we speculate.

Please send some good thoughts in this direction.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 02:12 AM

as large a bunch of good wishes as I can gather are winging their way from Oz to your part of the globe

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Ebbie
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 02:37 AM

Just one thing after another, huh! The best aspect of it all is that he - and you - keeps proving that he - and you - can survive a lot of just plain stuff. Congratulations on that part!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ranger1
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 07:03 AM

Linn, been thinking about you both since you posted on Facebook last night. I have Tuesdays and Wednesdays off and you're not that far away. Call me if you need anything, even if it's just someone to come hang out and fetch and carry for a bit. Hugs to you both from me and Jason.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 07:34 AM

Crap! And good thoughts, of course.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 07:38 AM

Just got off the phone with Tom. He DID finally get into a room last night -- 230B at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover, NH.

I'm navigating on less than optimal sleep, probably less than 5 hours' worth. Just talked to him a few minutes ago. He slept until 4 when he woke up in pain -- didn't get pain meds until just a little while ago (7-ish) and they haven't totally kicked in yet.

Looks like Dr. Blitzer who did my arm surgery has been engaged to fix his ankle this afternoon. Two breaks, one long one, so Tom will have hardware in his appendage similar to what I have in my arm.

That's it for now -- not sure when I'm heading over there. Got stuff to do here at home, first.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: maeve
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 08:27 AM

You'll be a matched set!

Hugs for you both, Tom and Linn.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: jacqui.c
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 09:29 AM

Good thoughts coming from Maine - I hope that Tom recovers quickly.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Jeri
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 10:10 AM

Jeez--what a nightmare!
Here's hoping everything improves quickly!
(I'm wondering how he ended up with a Dr Trotzky and a Dr Blitzer.)

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 10:59 AM

So sorry, Tom. Any idea how long you'll be hobbling?

Linn,
First Facebook and then work?????
LOL
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 11:18 AM

Now's the time to rally any and all troops over there to give you a hand, an arm, an ankle, an able body!:-) Jeepers, you folks don't do by half-measures, do you?

Much good thoughts and thanks givings for a full and swift recovery for Tom and some respite for yourself. Sometimes I think givers of care should have their own hospital room cum spa for the r&r they need whilst tending to all and sundry.

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 11:26 AM

Now I had an adventure! I managed to lock myself out of the house when I took stuff out to the car. Ferretted out secret car key and drove to a neighbor's where I called Jeri who had a key and could bail me out, er, in.

Just talked to Tom (to let him know I was back in the house -- he is on his way to the OR for the surgery.

I'm soon rendezvouing with a friend to get some needed paraphernalia for when Tom gets home and then I'll be heading from there to the hospital.

Oh, and I'm finally eating breakfast -- a roast beef sandwich -- first food since I was up at 6. (No caffeine, either!)

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charmion
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 02:01 PM

Crap!

I have lots of experience with broken ankles and the surgery that goes with -- did both of mine (four years apart, thank God). Tom will be only semi-mobile for some time, at least two weeks for recovery from the surgery and up to rather a lot depending on when (if) he can have a walking cast.

The worst things for me were the boredom of prolonged house arrest, and not being able to cook for myself because I was on crutches and couldn't carry anything. Oh, and getting into and out of the bathtub, a risky business that was half backward push-up and half crawl.

All the best to both of you, and I really hope we'll see you in Connecticut in May.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 02:13 PM

TWO breaks? And one is long? DOUBLE CRAP!

The recovery ward is getting way too crowded for anybody's likely.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 02:55 PM

Just home from the hospital and I'm so tired I can barely see straight (and it's only 2:45 p.m.).

Got to the hospital after he was in the OR so, after walking all over hell and gone, got to the Same Day Surgery Waiting Room. Read one article in Vanity Fair before I got the call to wait for Dr. Blitzer in the consulting room.

What Dr. Blitzer is mostly concerned with is Tom's poor leg circulation -- especially regarding the surgical wound healing. Anywho, Tom's got very similar looking hardware in his ankle that I have in my arm. (Damn! Should have asked him for a copy of the pictures!) Looks like Tom will be in the hospital until at least Saturday. And then they'll decide whether he comes home or goes to rehab. He can't put any weight on the ankle for at least two months. Being able to walk unassisted is four or five months away.

Maybe it's just that I'm exhausted, but I'm starting to be a little bit depressed thinking about, well, Life, the Universe...Everything.

Then again, this WILL get the clutter in the living room dispatched and great incentive to clean the house AND declutter and open up as much as possible...but not today. I think I desperately need a nap.

When I left the hospital a little before 2:00, Tom wasn't expected out of recovery for an hour or so. And I'm sure even after he gets back into his room, he'll be pretty well drugged up. I'll call for an update in an hour or so.

Right now I'm going to call my sister and then take that nap!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 03:08 PM

Aw crap. Steady on, Linn... and Tom. Chin up and all that... crap. I wish I had good words and more than just words to offer. I hope you can get some rest.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Celtaddict
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 03:18 PM

Hang in there, Linn. Best thought for comfort, healing, and rest on the way to both of you.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: maeve
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 04:31 PM

Sleep is next, Linn, you're right.

You and Tom have a rough go these last couple of years. Do the first thing (sleep), then the next (food), the next (make the call)...and so on.

Then picture me in our new home, listening to our Owl Survey cd in preparation for our annual route- with three house chickens trilling in warning each time they hear an owl they know.

Hugs from Maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,Paul and Charlene (Albany
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 04:34 PM

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 05:05 PM

Linn, you won't need it just yet, but when it comes to healing wounds, fast and well, even with poor circulation, try what my doc called a "miracle:" Amerigel.

Last year when I was dying, I had an open weeping wound from edema on my leg. Nothing helped. The doc gave me an order for the wound clinic. They couldn't see me for at least three weeks. It was a joke. I happened to talk with a friend who told me about Amerigel; got some. The itchy, weepy, red sore was the size of a quarter. Within a week it was down to a dime; within two weeks it was virtually gone. The stuff 9all natural, no chemicals) works on all sorts of scrapes, wounds, sores, etc. and can be safely used on critters, too. It is not cheap, but a little bit goes a long way. All my docs were simply amazed and now prescribe it for their other patients.

Rest, rest, rest and all the best to the two o'youse.

luvyakat

P.S. And, good going, Jeri!;-)

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: fat B****rd
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 05:09 PM

Bugger! It never rains etc.
Thinking of you both.
ATB from Charlie.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,Warped one
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 05:23 PM

I stopped in and saw Tom just as he was brought back to his room. He smiled and said he is not in any pain, but he was still groggy, so I didn't linger. I had hopped to see Linn and give her a hug, but she is taking care of herself with a much needed nap.
Linn, take care and remember that you've got lots of friends you can call on.
Here's to a speedy recovery!

Dianne

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Jeri
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 05:24 PM

Kat, it sounds like that stuff is good for skin wounds. Maybe not so much for bones, muscles and connective tissue? Sounds like great stuff, though!

Hope you sleep well, Linn.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: JennieG
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 05:34 PM

Bummer.....it never rains, but it pours! More good wishes from me to you both. Take time to look after your own needs, Linn, or you will be no use to yourself, Tom, or anyone.

Cheers and hugs
JennieG

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,Paul and Charlene Schurr
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 05:48 PM

My last post, easily 1000words of clever and amazingly sympathetic poetry, did not go through. So, this time: damn! Tom, stop hurting yourself and get well!

We'll sing for your're return to good health.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 07:28 PM

Teach me to post without making a copy first -- Paul, you're not alone. My last post was just eaten.

(Speaking of eating, I really want to go heat something up for supper and then call my sister again.)

Anywho, what I said was, thanks, Kat -- sounds like good stuff. Dr. Blitzer (and I, too) think the bone will heal reasonably well. Tom heals well. But his circulation is really bad in his legs, so he's concerned about the surgical wound healing.

Talked to Tom's nurse, Lynne, about 3 p.m. He was resting (sleeping at the time), but had been awake and wasn't in pain. (Drugged to the gills, I'm sure.) She suggested that if I wanted to talk to him, I wait until about 8-ish. And not come to see him until tomorrow after he's thrown off some more of the anesthesia, etc. (Even after a nap, I'd be dangerous on the road right now.)

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Leadfingers
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 08:11 PM

As has been been said - Bummer !! Shame I am the wrong side of the pond to anything but immoral support !

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 15 Mar 12 - 10:01 PM

Rest well, Linn, if you can. You need rest to be strong. My heart goes out to you both. I ain't a prayin man, but God should surely must bless you both. I know all your friends would and that matters too. Take care of each other as best you can. My thoughts are with youse as I end this day and youse will be in my thoughts tomorrow and in the days to come.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 16 Mar 12 - 12:08 AM

I'll be praying. What an ordeal for both of you. I hope Tom recovers more quickly than the doctor anticipates.

Aside from that, I was interested to read that you are in Nottingham, NH. My mom was born in Newmarket and I have a cousin who lived in Epping for several years.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charmion
Date: 16 Mar 12 - 08:56 AM

G'day from the Great Grey North, Linn, and I hope you're feeling a little less crushed after a decent night's sleep.

Again, we're hoping for the best and bombarding the Higher Power for benevolent attention to both you and Tom.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 16 Mar 12 - 08:56 AM

Talked to Tom twice in the past hour or so -- first time he was definitely in pain and hadn't yet had meds. A few minutes ago, he was uncomfortable, but had the meds. I'm probably not going to go to Dover to see him until this afternoon.

Friends dropped off what sounds like a lovely bouquet of daffodils and pussy willow, but, alas, Tom can't SEE well enough to see it and enjoy it. (I'll find out exactly where it is when I get there.)

Started cleaning off Tom's side of the table -- at least that's not quite as frantic as when he had his heart problems in 2004; I'm not desperately searching for needed documentation, etc.

Mostly what I've been doing this morning is planning...the day, the next few days...the future. Figuring out who I need to call (such as Dr. Zeitels' office), what I can cook in advance to make my life a bit simpler (Tom does almost all of the cooking, so besides DOING it, I have to reorganize my life to INCLUDE doing it and the shopping), even a new breakfast routine since for 30 years (with a few breaks for hospitalizations, etc.) Tom has brought me my morning tea or coffee in bed, then brought breakfast to me. This morning got my tea (and computerized while waiting for the water to boil) before my shower. Just came downstairs awhile ago to do a few things AND make myself breakfast. So here I am.

I plan to do some de-cluttering this morning, etc., maybe pull out some more stuff for Goodwill which I can drop off either fore or aft of going to the hospital. Then the Press Room session later this afternoon. Don't know how much voice I have and I know the session-count will be low due to pre-St. Pat's gigs. And my evening may turn out to be more social than singing.

I'm feeling a little overwhelmed -- it comes and goes. This is going to change a lot of things (including my search for a replacement for my problematic job situation).

Better go get dressed and set to face the day.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 16 Mar 12 - 11:40 AM

Just got a call from one of the hospital social workers -- looks like it's pretty definite that he'll be going into rehab until he can navigate on crutches.

I'll find out more when I get there this afternoon. Have a couple places I need to research, but I haven't a clue as to what his insurance (or Medicare) might cover and for how long.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 16 Mar 12 - 01:13 PM

Lots of stiff to think through. Best of luck with this. Hope you have some time this afternoon to sit back and enjoy the music.

Cheerily,
Charley Noble and JudyB

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 16 Mar 12 - 01:44 PM

Linn I'm sorry to hear about Tom's fall, and the subsequent damage caused. Please tell him I'm asking after his health, and give him my best wishes.
NOW........ Tom is being looked after by professionals, so YOU need to look after yourself lass. You need to be strong and fit to cope with him when he gets home, so wearing yourself out will do neither of you any good.
Take care y'hear?

Giok x

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 16 Mar 12 - 04:54 PM

Rehab is probably best for both of you, Linn. Tom will need watching and meds on a regular basis. Physical therapy as well.

First order of business is to see that he heals properly.

So sorry this has happened.

Mary

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 16 Mar 12 - 07:19 PM

And me too.

You know you have all my best but I'm sorry to see you guys go through this. Everyday it seems its something else......and that part I understand. I agree with Sins on the rehab. The "rules" on that end of things are really nuts so find a good caseworker (yeah, there are some) who can navigate all the ins and outs......and there will probably be plenty.

After that disastrous appendectomy last year, I had to be weaned off all the tubes and even had to learn to walk again. The rehab hospital had a really great caseworker who watched out all through the process and took care of stretching things out when the time was running out. The hospital did a great job for us and Linda, the caseworker, made sure as much as possible was covered and that all the bases of home care services/equipment were set up before I went home. After a month in the rehab hospital and three months of home health care to check the open belly wounds and the like, we came out with only $500. out of pocket.

We'll all be following along here and if there is anything we can do, even from this distance, let us know.   Best to both Tom and yourself....Take good care...........


Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,kendall
Date: 16 Mar 12 - 09:23 PM

Tom, old buddy, why the hell can't this sort of thing happen when we are young and flexible? All I did today was pound the hell out of a shaft with a 4 pound hammer to free it from a snow blower part, and I wrecked my wrist.
Take care and do as you are told; you have a lot of support here.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 16 Mar 12 - 09:33 PM

Just back from the Press Room session, which I got to a bit late (after leaving Tom settled in the ICU), but which I desperately needed, I think. Good friends and good music. Had a really nice haddock burrito for dinner, too. Smuttynose Robust Porter -- did I mention I really needed a beer, too?!?

Earlier today Tom was pretty much out of it. Scared the crap out of me talking to him on the phone around noon (he couldn't hear me -- found out later it was because the phone wasn't near his ear; he couldn't hold it there), then when I got there, he wasn't responding to conversation. When I'd ask if he was okay, he said yes, but it didn't seem that way. I kept asking if he was okay; he kept answering "yes", but it didn't much reassure me. And the nurse was having trouble getting his blood pressure.

The hospitalist figured out that he'd had too much of the pain meds or something and gave him something to counteract that. He also figured Tom would be better monitored, etc. on the cardiac floor than in the surgical recovery wing where he was. So, while I was there, they took him to the ICU until he could find a bed in cardiac. By the time I left to go to The Press Room, Tom was Tom again, thank God.

I just got home from the Press Room session and talked to him and he seems okay, but I talked to his nurse just before I talked to him, and he said they're giving Tom antibiotics because they're concerned his chest congestion might be or turn into pneumonia. I told him he has a cough normally because half his vocal cords are missing, etc. and that before the Gore-tex medialization laryngoplasty, he couldn't sneeze, yawn or hiccup or easily cough. And that he's recovering from a cold which has him coughing up a lot of phlegm.

Ach! I'd like to see him out of the hospital because hospitals are dangerous places. Don't know yet where a bed in a short-term rehab facility will be available. (St. Ann's on Dover Point Road would be the most convenient; Edgewood gets the most recommendations.) Don't know whether they'll spring him tomorrow or Sunday (or maybe Monday). Lots I don't know and nobody can tell me yet.

Good friends and good music at The Press Room. I needed that.

I'm going to bed.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 16 Mar 12 - 09:38 PM

Kendall... linament and wrap it up tight at night. Gentle exercise and stretching three times a day. Take care. Been there, done that.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 17 Mar 12 - 09:56 AM

Saturday morning -- I've talked to Tom several times this morning. Early, I talked to his nurse who said he was confused, but otherwise doing okay. When I talked to him, he said he remembered very, very little of yesterday and asked when I saw him last. He remembered me being there, but not exactly when. He also seemed to think he'd been there since Monday rather than since late Wednesday night in the ER.

I'm pretty sure the confusion, etc. was the result of the pain meds, etc. I gave him a synopsis of what has happened from Wednesday night, through his surgery on Thursday, yesterday afternoon's move to the ICU and up to this morning and he seemed very pleased that he could now understand better what was going on. The doctors are also pleased that he knows where he really is and not in the back room of a convenience store in Nottingham, which is how his drug-befuddled brain was trying to comprehend things. I know how out of it I was after my arm surgery and how unclear and patchy my memory of the day of surgery and the next day when I was released from the hospital, so all this, I think, is pretty normal. I was home and in familiar surroundings. Tom's been moved about a lot.

He's Tom again. And he's eating and drinking coffee and getting enough oxygen (which had also been a problem). Anyway, I feel a lot better and more reassured about his situation this morning than I did even last night.

Still don't know when he'll go to rehab or where, for that matter.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 17 Mar 12 - 10:15 AM

The list below is of a group of benzo relatives that are classified as hypotics and are pretty widely used post surgically to relieve pain by inducing sleep. I have a very powerful negative reaction to them, simlar to what Tom is going through but even a bit stronger, or maybe they just loaded me up more. Confusion, lack of responce, and believing you are somewhere else or have completely different scenarios to current reality, are also in the picture.



Ezopiclone§
Lunesta

Zaleplon§
Sonata, Starnoc

Zolpidem§
Ambien, Nytamel, Stilnoct, Stilnox, Zoldem, Zolnod

Zopiclone§
Imovane, Rhovane, Ximovan; Zileze; Zimoclone; Zimovane; Zopitan; Zorclone,

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: maeve
Date: 17 Mar 12 - 10:15 AM

Thanks for that cheering update, Linn. Hello to Tom.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 17 Mar 12 - 11:15 AM

They may have just figured out (despite MY telling them numerous times) that Tom has limited and sporadic vision. It just occurred to me that I need to put it in large letters on his meds list handout. Maybe they finally figured it out this morning when he told them he couldn't see his breakfast.

I have to take his amber glasses over to him today. His super UV shield we won't trust to the hospital, and he managed to break his yellow ones (but I ordered two more pair this morning), so those are out. (I fixed them, but they really needed epoxy and I haven't had the time.)

I'm just not getting a lot accomplished this morning and I'll probably have to go to the hospital earlier than I'd planned. Which means in order to perform with the gang at The Press Room tonight, I'd have to go back home, then back to Portsmouth, etcet etcet. Makes me tired just to think of it. (Actually, I'm pretty tired right now.) So I think not only will Tom be missing the show tonight, but I will be as well.

Talked to my boss this morning -- and I HAVE to work Monday and Tuesday. Tom should be in short-term rehab by then, I hope.

Ach!
Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 17 Mar 12 - 01:22 PM

Okay, just talked to his nurse and to Tom.

Looks like he's not going anyplace today and probably not tomorrow.

Tom sounds a lot better than even the last time I talked to him earlier this morning. I'm taking his amber goggles and his talking clock to him when I go. Got a few more things I want to do around here before I head over. (Like take another batch of shortbread out of the oven -- a friend is coming over tomorrow morning to fix the cellar door that Tom broke the last time he fell. He's been lucky. Up until Wednesday night, each time he's fallen he's only broken inanimate objects.)

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 17 Mar 12 - 02:23 PM

Not the best, but better. Glad to hear it.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Midchuck
Date: 17 Mar 12 - 05:33 PM

Tom, old buddy, why the hell can't this sort of thing happen when we are young and flexible? All I did today was pound the hell out of a shaft with a 4 pound hammer to free it from a snow blower part, and I wrecked my wrist.

It does happen when we're young and flexible. We just never notice it. I think about the falls I took in high school and college, learning to ski...the same exact sort of fall, now, would put me in the hospital for weeks and in several casts for months, IF I was lucky.

Peter

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 17 Mar 12 - 05:52 PM

Midchuck... yup. The lowest three joints in my spine are messed up. Constant leg pain. Did it when I was young and never felt it then. I was gonna live forever.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 17 Mar 12 - 06:07 PM

My left knee has been screwed up since I slipped on a piece of lettuce in a Kohl's grocery store when I was four years old. Back's been messed up (lower and neck) since I was in my twenties.

Just home from the hospital. They didn't have him up practicing with the walker today because his blood pressure was very low and they couldn't figure out why. He won't be going to rehab until at least Monday. I HAVE to work Monday and Tuesday...but they now have my work phone number.

He's looking good and is in good spirits. The phone number for Wentworth-Douglass Hospital is 603-742-5252.

I just warmed up the meatloaf I made earlier today along with a baked potato, so I've just eaten. I am sooo tired. Think I'll go upstairs and watch some more "Boston Legal" and call Tom before I go to sleep.

This is the strangest St. Patrick's Day in over 30 years.

My heart's at The Press Room.

Speaking of things one did when one's body was a lot younger, I remember wrapping the evening up at The Press Room well after midnight (Tom's band played every St. Pat's since the first in 1977)...and then Tom, Bob, Jay Smith and myself would go over to the Victory Spa on State St. for a late supper or early breakfast around 3-4 in the morning. Those were the days...

Linn

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 08:59 AM

I guess one of the things that will be in short supply for awhile is my first-thing-in-the-morning tea-sipping, reading, cat-petting time. Unless I consciously insist on it. Came downstairs upon arising to heat water for tea, computerized a bit, got behind schedule so decided to postpone shower and hair wash -- so, not having the excuse of waiting for my hair to dry, I didn't go back to my bed and book (and cat, don't forget the cat!), I got dressed and dove right into the day.

Called Tom. He's doing well and, now that they seem to have gotten his low blood pressure under control, expects to start navigating with a walker today.

The friend is coming over this afternoon to repair the door, so I probably won't get to the hospital until 4 or later, but I'll talk to Tom over the course of the day.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: maeve
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 09:06 AM

That's all progress, Linn! Thinking about you and Tom as I reclaim the veggie garden.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 09:08 AM

Sounding a bit more hopeful there Linn.
kieep the chin up, and soldier on lassie.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 09:16 AM

Keep on, keeping on -- that's the best I can do at this point.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 09:22 AM

Good to hear about the progress.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,Warped one
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 09:25 AM

Hey Linn,
Thanks for the updates. It does sound better today. I am familiar with the Edgewood Center, they have an excellent reputation. It would be easier for you if he can be closer than Portsmouth, which is where Edgewood is located.
Please give Tom my best wishes when you talk to him.
Dianne

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Noreen
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 09:27 AM

Hugs for you both, Linn xx

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 10:13 AM

Linn-

Sounds like slow but steady progress. I'm sure the medical staff appreciate having more information from you.

Maybe we'll ship you a "rusty nail" via UPS.

Charley Noble and JudyB

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: fat B****rd
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 10:16 AM

Still thinking of you both in Dunfermline.
Best as usual from Charlie. fB

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 10:35 AM

Good timing! The bread pudding is out of the oven just as I discover I need to make a quick store run to get flour for the zucchini bread (which I'll put in the freezer for future breakfasts). And when I come home, it'll be the right time to call Noonie, Tom's 90-year-old cousin, and let her know of Tom's recent adventures in modern medicine.

Dianne, I work in Portsmouth, so that's not a problem (although it's about 5 miles from Fox Run). St. Ann's on Dover Point Road, though, is only a mile and a half out of my way coming home from work, and is actually closer to home than Wentworth-Douglass.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 11:48 AM

Glad to hear things are going a bit better, Linn. Take good care of you and get plenty of rest, as others have said. Since it's the surgical wound the doc is concerned about, I still highly recommend Amerigel.

Jeri, yes, it is for wounds/skin lacerations, etc. and also works well on closed wounds when they get itchy. For actual bone healing, I am never without Zheng Gi Shui which translates to "bone setting water" and has been used for a LONG time in China to help heal bones. Kendall, it would do your wrist a world of good!

Take care, everyone!

kat

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 12:16 PM

Just spoke with Tom who answered the phone with Hi Sweetheart!
LOL Wrong sweetheart.
He sounds good, better than I expected. Was mid-breathing exercises so our call was brief. He says he is probably going to St. Ann's for rehab in Dover.
I suggested books on tape for him - anyone have suggestions or experience with them?
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 12:46 PM

When I called Tom after I got home from the store, he was asleep. Then when I called him after Jeff fixed the cellar door, he was having a breathing treatment. Maybe I'll get through to him this time!

(Mary, you're a sweetheart anyway!)

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 04:07 PM

Well...

When I walked into the house after seeing Tom this afternoon, the phone was ringing. It was my boss (manager). The district manager has decreed that I am off the schedule for this week (Monday, Tuesday and Thursday -- which is more than the 18 hrs/week I'd been cut back to), and next Saturday he and my manager will confer to decide whether I'm to be fired or not. (In other words, to let me know if I would be working next Sunday as usual or not.)

The reason for this is I called in sick on Tuesday -- I could neither walk nor talk. I'd hobbled around the shop on a borrowed cane -- I was ALONE as usual on a Monday which is a very busy day -- and also kept losing my voice all day. I did $1200+ in sales, BTW, in 5 hours while answering the constantly ringing phone, repairing multiple pairs of glasses, making the insurance calls and reminder calls for the Tuesday exams, and dealing with all of the Monday crises while trying not to damage my knee any more than it was and having to apologize to customers, etc. when my voice would disappear and the tears would involuntarily run down my left eye. (Why just that one?)

Anyway, I called in sick because I just couldn't do that again, and what use am I to make pre-Expo phone calls if I can't talk?

Wednesday was my scheduled day off -- and Tom slipped on the deck that evening and wound up in the hospital. I called my manager before I went to the hospital to give her a heads up. I got home from the hospital around midnight. Tom had surgery the next day. I called my manager early the next morning to say that I wouldn't be able to work my noon-8 pm shift. I was next scheduled to work today (Sunday) during the big weekend Eyeglass Extravaganza. With Tom still in the ICU, I let my manager know Saturday that this wasn't going to happen.

So...the district manager, whom I'm convinced is trying to get rid of me anyway (for no reasons that are provable) is pissed off because I've effectively called out 3 shifts in a row during the biggest sales week of the year.

I'm calling NH Employment Security tomorrow (plus I'll be able to make all the phone calls to Tom's other doctors, etc. that I was afraid I'd have to put off til my day off on Wednesday) to ask for advice (and whether I can/should apply this week). I HAVE been looking for an alternative job, but right now I don't know how much Tom will need me when he comes home after rehab.

Again, this may actually work out for the best, but I'm a bit angry right now.

Think I better call Tom...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 06:33 PM

it never rains, but it pours ...

sending good wishes & love & hugs

sandra (who would be more than a bit angry in a similar situation)

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 10:22 PM

Linn, after reading you most recent post, I was thinking exactly what Sandra wrote!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 10:52 PM

I'm hanging in there, but, alas, still moving a million miles an hour at 10:38 p.m.

Just put the braised lamb shank in the fridge (with wonderful garlic from Jeri, beef stock and chopped tomatoes with the juice). Tomorrow will add carrots and potatoes and try to reduce the stock a bit. It's really good.

I've had a very productive day. Besides seeing Tom and talking to him several times, I've also made 3 loaves of zucchini bread for the freezer, entertained a friend while he fixed the cellar door (and rewarded him with shortbread), done some cleaning (which I can't do when Tom is around), saw how the ice in most of the ponds on Young and Merry Hill Road have disappeared, actually remove some of the leaf mulch from the flower beds, talked to my sister, talked to Tom's ex-wife (whom I think of as a friend...and who is definitely a friend of Tom's), done some serious cat petting, and I'm wrapping up the book "Lies My Teacher Told Me: Everything Your American History Textbook Got Wrong" along with another brandy. Yes, I'm self medicating to fall asleep tonight -- benedryl, clonazapam (anti-anxiety), and brandy.

Tom was confused when I talked to him earlier, but I think it was because he had been dozing and dreaming. I'm sure he's still on pain meds. I know what state I was in after my similar surgery (and installation of similar hardware) four years ago. But I was at home in familiar surroundings and with Tom at my beck and call. He's in the ICU with different nurses and attendants every few hours. He did so much better yesterday after I gave him a timeline and explanation of what happened. It helped him to piece it together in his head along with his sporadic and disjointed memories.

Now, back to my brandy and book. Hey! I don't have to go to work tomorrow.

Linn





Other than that I haven't done a damned thing.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 18 Mar 12 - 11:48 PM

your glass definitely is half-full

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 06:29 AM

Sometimes (like now) I wish I could cry more easily than I do. I think I could use a really good bawl right now.

Tom woke me up with a phone call at 4:30 this morning. This is the first time he's called ME since he was admitted to the hospital. (It's 6:00 now; I couldn't get back to sleep. I wish I could just turn my brain off.) He's very paranoid right now. His immediate question was how much progress I've made at clearing out the living room which will be his bedroom for a few months after he gets home from rehab. He wants me to come to the hospital, pick him up and bring him home so he can see. That his doctors want him to see so he can tell them.

My first thought is he's still in a dream he was having. When I talked to him about 7:30 last night, he had evidently been dozing and dreaming. (He was concerned about some sort of board controversy going on with a folk organization he's on the board of. I suggested that he couldn't know if anything was going on as he doesn't have access to his email and he's not getting phone calls about anything. "Oh, yes -- THEY (meaning his nurses, etc.) are getting calls." I think he understood by the time we hung up that it was a dream. Now I'm not so sure.)

His nurse came in to draw blood and he adamantly refused to let him draw blood. I asked to talk with his nurse at the time, which he let me. When I got back on the phone with Tom, I tried to suggest he cooperate. He was like a 6-year-old: "No. No. No." and "I don't trust them." Anyway, I reassured him that I would call a little later this morning and come to see him -- but right now I really needed more sleep. (I didn't get to sleep until almost midnight.)

I called the ICU back and talked to his nurse, wondering if it's meds that are making him paranoid. He said Tom's really only on his regular medications, not pain meds, but this paranoia is not unusual. They can wait until later for the blood and he'll be okay off the heart monitor for awhile. I'm wondering if the Wellbutrin he takes for depression may be causing the paranoia. We hadn't updated his meds list when his primary care doctor changed the dosage a few months ago and I just corrected that with the ICU people yesterday. I'll try to call his primary care doctor later this morning -- I don't think he knows about Tom's ankle yet. Got to call other doctors as well because his hospitalization, etc. will affect his ongoing treatment with Dr. Z and with his vascular and cardiac doctors.

Basically, I'm scared spitless right now. I desperately need some more sleep and I will go back upstairs and try again.

It would be really nice if something would go smoothly.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 08:02 AM

Linn-

Oh, dear!

That's not a nice turn.

Reminds me of my father's paranoia, which did not mellow with age.

I do wish we lived closer so we could be more supportive.

Charlie and Judy

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 08:08 AM

Wasn't able to get back to sleep, but a little while ago I had a lovely chat with his nurse, Cindy, who explained a bit about ICU psychosis. She says it's very common. Of her three patients this weekend, two have the syndrome. (Actually, in the article I just read, it said the occurrence is in 2 out of 3 patients in the ICU for 5 days or more -- Tom's only been there 2 days and Friday from late afternoon.

She said he's been very polite and hasn't yelled at her as some patients do. He's just refusing the blood draw and the heart monitor until I get there. She also hopes just daylight will help. Things ARE always darker when it's still night.

I feel a bit better now -- although extremely tired/sleepy. I almost fell, trying to climb one more stair that was actually there. I just ate breakfast and now have to let my hair dry before I drive to the hospital. Maybe I can make some phone calls before I go.

It's going to be a long day.

I think I'm very glad my district manager is "punishing" me by taking me off this week's work schedule. Hope I'm alert enough to drive safely.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,kendall
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 08:08 AM

He feels helpless, not in control. He'll be ok when he comes home.
Tell him I said "Shape up, or I'll come down there and sing to him."

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: AllisonA(Animaterra)
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 08:14 AM

You may not feel it, but you are a pillar of strength. My thoughts are with you and Tom.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 08:37 AM

beautifully said, Allison

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 10:01 AM

Heading over to the hospital in a few minutes. Hope daylight has brought Tom back to reality and is again cooperating with the medical powers that be.

I had time to leave information with his primary care doctor, his cardiologist, his vascular doc, and I actually got to talk to The Man Himself, Dr. Zeitels. (When I picked up the phone to call, there was a message from one of his associates who had some questions for Tom. So I called her back, explained the situation -- answered her questions, then asked to speak to Justin, Dr. Z's assistant, who said Dr. Z was available and would probably want to talk to me, which he did.)

I feel as if it should be lunch time, since I've been up since 4:30, and I was famished. I'm eating a roast beef and cheese sandwich (horseradish spread) and I'll pick up a large black coffee at "the Scottish restaurant" on my way to Dover.

Later!
Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 02:51 PM

Crap again! Wish I had words. I've been there and done that with a few relatives... my old man was the hardest. Thoughts and prayers. Hope you tell him what Kendall said.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 06:48 PM

Today has been one of the most difficult, stressful and exhausting days I've ever had through all of Tom's medical adventures including his heart valve replacement surgery in 2004.

But I think things are okay...for now.

When I got there, Tom had two (count 'em, two) security guards keeping watch to make sure he didn't get physically belligerent. Cindi, his nurse (she is one fantastic lady!!!) had closed the glass doors to cut down some of the constant ICU background noise. He was perusing the copy of our living will/medical power of attorney, even though I know he couldn't actually read it. It was as if Tom had regressed to age 6. The only word he knew was "No!" and he used it often. He didn't trust anyone, and, I think, only grudgingly trusted me. I think I'm now the officially responsible party. It took a bit of explaining (and some Haldol) to get him to understand that no one was trying to hurt him. ("She turned on me.") His doctor came in and the three of us had a good conversation. Tom said he would consent to his meds as long as he could read with a magnifying glass everything he was being given. (Actually, he ended up letting me confirm that the pills were what they are.) He responded best when I put the pills directly into his mouth and let him wash them down with water. He kept wanting to stand up and had to have it explained repeatedly that he had a broken ankle; he couldn't stand up. We finally were able to convince him he'd be more comfortable with both legs on the bed, and his right leg elevated. Eventually, he let Cindi make his bed more lounge chair-like and get him situated in it properly...and reconnect the heart monitor and his oxygen.

He hadn't been eating. Somehow he was put on the cardiac menu and he just didn't like that. Cindi pulled some strings, but he still didn't want to eat. Finally he said he'd like some mashed potatoes with "real butter", but when they came, he took one bite and said they didn't taste right. She also brought some chocolate Ensure, but he took one sip, announced "chemicals" and refused any more. (I tasted it and thought it tasted pretty good -- chocolate malt, actually.)

He dozed a lot, and that was a good thing. I had a pillow on the rail of the bed and rested my head on it; I was pretty tired -- I never got back to sleep after his 4:30 phone call. Cindi made up the pull out cot for me and I actually got an hour and a half nap. Tom got some good sleep, too, I think. He slept a lot this afternoon. I figured he was touch-deprived and made sure I had my hand reassuringly on his arm while I read and he dozed. I massaged his good leg, and then when he said his right leg was uncomfortable, massaged that above the cast until he asked me to stop.

By later in the afternoon he consented to his breathing treatment. He's also getting an antibiotic because he has a touch of pneumonia. Then he actually let the lab guy get enough blood. (I hope he left some inside Tom...)

I don't know if it was the Haldol or me, but he was a lot calmer when I left.

A solution would be to get him out of the ICU and into a room, probably on the cardiac floor where he can be best monitored. But there are no rooms available, so he's stuck in the ICU.

Had a nice talk with Cindi giving her a history of Tom's medical problems, the Press Room session, his leadership of the Portsmouth Maritime Folk Festival, etc. Unfortunately she's not on tomorrow. I don't know which of us thanked the other more. I've been through a lot of medical stuff with Tom and I try to be as useful as I can. Today was pretty intense. I truly hope tomorrow (and tonight!) will be better.

I suppose I should pick up the phone and see if there are any messages. I just couldn't face that until I finished this update. Nap or not, I'm still pretty sleep-deprived. And, since I wasn't home all day, I still have things to do (and cats to pet).

I think it's a pretty good thing my DM is "punishing" me for calling out 3 times in a row by taking me off this week's schedule. I could NOT have worked today.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 07:22 PM

Oh, one of the nurses who helped Cindi rearrange Tom into a more comfortable position was named Sheila, so I, of course, mentioned Shel Silverstein's song, "Tequila Sheila". She'd never heard of it, so I had to sing it to her. It was a hit.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bill D
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 07:22 PM

Linn.. is there any chance one of his meds is Prednizone? His mental state sure reminds me of what my wife went thru (for a short while) after her heart transplant. She was paranoid, afraid, wanted to have everything 'just right'. It was a scary period. Prednizone affects people differently, but it is common to have emotional episodes.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 08:08 PM

No, not prednizone.

I guess ICU psychosis/syndrome is incredibly common. Cindi, Tom's nurse this weekend and today, said yesterday that of her three patients this weekend, two were paranoid and showing all the symptoms of ICU syndrome.

Besides the Haldol which helps to keep him calm, the "cure" is getting him the hell out of the 24 hour light, voices, activity, etcet etcet of the ICU. And, unfortunately, right now there isn't another suitable room available.

I'm going to bed. I really hope I don't get a paranoid phone call in the wee hours...

'Night, all -- thanks for all your good wishes.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bill D
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 08:15 PM

sleep well.... dream of better days

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 08:20 PM

Linn... paeace and love and strength to you... and to Tom.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,Warped one
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 08:23 PM

Thanks for the updates. I hope you see this tomorrow, after a good night's sleep.
I'll bet the doctors and nurses failed to mention that a slight fever due to infection and dehydration can also be the cause of dementia. Whatever the cause, I hope this phase passes soon because it is very frustrating and scary. Antibiotics and Anti-psychotics should have him in a better space within 24 hours.

Hang in there and remember to take care of yourself.

Dianne

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 08:42 PM

One third of ICU patients suffer some paranoia after five days. Noise and light are the main culprits making it impossible to sleep soundly. Add a fever (pneumonia will do it), dehydration, poor respiration and it's call in the security guards time.
Poor Tom.
I recall a friend who was finally put in the Psychiatric Ward at Elmhurst Hospital. I went to visit him and could hear him calling me three corridors away. When I went in and said I was Mary, three people said "Thank God". Poor Jesse refused to allow his wife near him. He was convinced that the CIA had drugged him and locked him away. She was their leader. He kept asking me for a quarter. I thought that he wanted it for a vending machine. Instead he sidled up to an armed guard and offered him the quarter in exchange for his freedom.
It was heartbreaking to see him like this. He was a bright, well read man once a professional opera tenor. Sang at the Met.
I am getting off point...Tom's behavior is distressing both for him and for Linn but it is "normal" for the situation.

Bet the anesthesia has his taste buds all screwed up. I smelled and tasted mint for a week. Gross.

Best to hang in there and wait. He does have to do the breathing exercises. Pneumonia will prevent him from leaving the hospital.

Sounds like everyone needs to get some sllep tonight, nurses included.
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 09:20 PM

sleep well, Linn & Tom

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,Lynn Noel
Date: 19 Mar 12 - 09:59 PM

Following the saga with love and admiration. I wish I weren't so far away. Hang in there and dream of squid.

Love,
Lynn and Phill

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Ebbie
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 02:46 AM

One friend of mine calmed down when we brought him his banjo and played with him. I was afraid that hospital staff would object but they were admiring of him and asked him a number of music-related questions. Which not only helped him get through a difficult time but also put him in a different frame of mind.

Is there a chance of something like that for Tom?

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 07:16 AM

Gee, Ebbie, if they put up with a banjo, maybe even a concertina would be tolerated... ;-)

Last night actually ended on a high note. I answered the phone fairly late, hoping it wasn't the hospital (and not really wanting to talk to ANYBODY), and it was a real estate broker (one of my advertisers when I ran the Real Estate Guide four years ago) I'd been playing telephone tab with for the past couple weeks. She had inadvertently called me instead of another friend, but we were both SO glad to at last talk to each other at last. We commiserated with each other on life since we last talked and had a grand time. She would LOVE to hire me as an administrative assistant and thinks we would have a lot of fun working together, but, alas, she can't right how -- but will definitely recommend me to her friends and see if she can help me find a gig.

So on that most upbeat note of the day, I retired to my bed with a glass of wine to wind down while finishing up "Lies My Teacher Told Me" and petting a cat. Slept well and was awakened by cat Rufus at daylight rather than a paranoid phone call in the wee hours like yesterday.

Just finished a warmed up cup of coffee left over from yesterday's McDonald's stop and will go back upstairs with breakfast and call Tom.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 07:19 AM

I DO hope you'll forgive me the typos and lack of editing in my posts; you KNOW I have a lot on my mind... (But one of those things is, as usual, composing what I hope are well-written posts...)

Ach!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: fat B****rd
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 07:41 AM

Linn if I had your circumstances I would be writing total gibberish -even more so than usual !.
Stay good and please accept my very best regards to you both.
Charlie.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 09:24 AM

Linn-

The real estate market is really picking up around here in Maine. So maybe there is hope that you can shift over to a different job.

Any maybe Tom would like to noodle around with his old friend the concertina. I can't imagine that the hospital staff would raise serious objections once they listened to a tune or two. Who knows, maybe they could write up the results for a new therapy procedure in one of their professional papers, "Concertina Rehabilitation."

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 11:20 AM

Tom's been asleep both times I've called this morning. I DID talk to his nurse and he's probably better today than yesterday, but she came on shift just before I called him the first time, so I don't know how much she's interacted with him.

Been catching up on the phone with a couple friends -- R&R while sitting in bed with a cup of Earl Grey and a cat (who wanted to eat my pen). I've got a couple more things to do here at home, then a few errands on my way to Dover, so I'm not sure what time I'll get to the hospital.

Maybe I can talk to the social worker today and find out what the plans are for rehab. I'm also trying to get a printout of an ankle x-ray showing the hardware in his ankle which I only saw in passing when I talked to Dr. Blitzer just after the surgery.

Later,
Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 12:42 PM

Linn, you are a wonder woman. Thanks so much for keeping us posted. I don't remember any paranoia in ICU, but there was one day, in a regular room where I was alone, when I had a huge, blackout, full-out screaming scare, I was sitting in a chair paralysed with fear, after seeing the surgeon's partner, a woman. The staff all came running and I remember telling them to keep her away from me. I thought she had caused whatever it was I experienced. Fortunately, that never happened again. I do think her bedside manner was brusque and not very empathic.

Take good care of you and I hope you get a different job, pronto. Much love to you and Tom,

kat

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 12:46 PM

Blitzer? Is that Wolf's brother or is he a partner in the orthopedic firm of Commer, Koopid, Donder, & Blitzer? I hear they charge deerly for their services.............


Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 01:25 PM

Any way of finding out when his doctor is due in for a visit? Jacqui usually got up to date information directly from the doctor. Although they can be hard to pin down due to their surgery schedules and appointments at multiple locations.
Just a thought.
Hang in there.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 01:26 PM

Re: Tom's eyesight. A sign pinned to Tom's bed saying "I can't see" will help. He just has to point at it.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 01:38 PM

Glad to hear hopeful news on the job front. I still check this thread every time I see a new post and your updates mean a lot, as has been said by others.

Typos.... pffft. Don't be concerned about typos.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 05:07 PM

Home again, home again, lickety splish.

The good news is Tom Hall is Tom Hall again -- moreso than any time since he landed in the ER. THAT was a major relief.

Talked to the social worker -- they're working on both getting him a room outside of the ICU and getting him a bed in one of the local rehab facilities. No go on either front yet.

But he's got his appetite back (despite being on a cardiac low salt, low fat diet). As usual, the nutritionists restrict things that don't need restricting and what is allowed is saltier and fatter than necessary. For lunch he had a grilled cheese sandwich and a sugar cookie (plus coffee). He was denied carrot cake or chocolate cake. He said the cheese sandwich was salty and greasy -- not bad, but saltier and greasier than if had made it himself, but the cookie was good.

We had some time and I started making notes on his recollections of playing folk music in Boston in the '60s for "The Charles Street Chronicles". Also made notes for some of the financial duties I have to take over.

He really was much more alert than he has been and all the paranoia of yesterday has disappeared.

I left when the physical therapist came in to get him up and moving a bit.

Mary, the problem is he doesn't really have one doctor. I called his primary care yesterday, but haven't heard from him. Yesterday I talked to the doctor who was in charge of him in the ICU -- Friday it was the hospitalist.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 05:59 PM

Oh ye, gawds and gawdesses! A cheese sandwich on a low-fat, low-sodium diet?!? Whadda they nuts! Cheese always has too much sodium in it for a low sodium diet and fat, too. They tried to deny me a chocolate chip cookie until I nabbed the hospitalist who said he couldn't expect anyone to go without their daily chocolate as he had to have it, too. It was a low-fat cookie and perfectly delicious! The kidney doc I go to said anything over 200mg of sodium is too much. I average about 5-700mg per day, but am allowed up to 1000mg.

SO glad to hear the Tom Hall we all know is back!! Now, here's a thanks giving he is moved to a regular room, pronto, for the highest good of all concerned and may you get loads of deep, restful sleep, tonight.

My first daffodil opened, today.:-)

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: MaineDog
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 06:29 PM

I hope he (and you) are doing better now! Doctors etc, can be very scary! I know Gail would have fared better if she had trusted them a little more. (pls don't move this topic to facebook) Hope to see you at a session soon.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 06:44 PM

No, no...I link from Facebook to this Mudcat thread.

Who knows, though, when he'll get out of the ICU and into either a regular room or rehab. There don't seem to be beds available anywhere.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 07:01 PM

All right, people, FOCUS. *See* that bed with Tom's name on it? It's all cushy, adjustable, soothing pillows, quiet room with no harsh lights, drapes to pull over the window or open and over the bed is a softly lit sign crawling across the screen:

This bed reserved for Tom Hall!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 07:14 PM

And I just talked to him -- he had a great afternoon using the walker to get to the chair, etc. Baby steps, but he's getting somewhere. He sounded great...better than any time since Wednesday night. And there's a rumor of a bed outside of the ICU.

So...we'll see what tomorrow brings.

Had planned to transcribe today's notes on "The Charles Street Chronicles", gather up the bills that need to be paid, and find the tax stuff in the piles on the side of the table, but, quite honestly, I think I'm too tired. Mañana.

I'll retire to my bedchamber and make phone calls.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 09:28 PM

He sounded good when I called to say "Goodnight", too.

Thanks, everybody!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 10:36 PM

Goodness, you and Tom have been going through so much! I am glad Tom is doing better. Monday must have been just awful. Somehow I missed this thread completely that day.

So, Linn, what bedtime beverage are you using to unwind tonight (Tuesday)? Whatever it is, I hope it is effective. ; )

Prayers!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 20 Mar 12 - 10:42 PM

Sounding better, bit by bit. I hope it continues.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 21 Mar 12 - 05:27 AM

me, too

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 21 Mar 12 - 07:59 AM

ChanteyLass, last night (Tuesday night) it was a margarita -- I keep a bottle mixed up in the fridge and I'd just bought a fresh lime on...Saturday? (I lose track...) It was in the 80s F here in New Hampshire with glorious sunshine. NOT typical March New Hampshuh weather.

Anyway the margarita was good throat lubrication for the phone calls I needed to make -- finally reached Tom's 90-year-old cousin. He has very few relatives.

By the way, margaritas are easy as 1-2-3 -- 1 part triple sec (the stickiest of the ingredients), 2 parts lime juice (I buy Jamaica Gold preserved lime juice by the case from a food service former client of mine), and 3 parts ta-kill-ya, I mean, tequila (which sort of cleans out the measuring device). Fruit juice, in other words. Practically health food.

That's my story and I'm sticking to it...

Linn (gotta go call Tom back; he should be done with his breathing treatment)

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 21 Mar 12 - 09:09 AM

Talked to Tom -- he's having some foot pain mostly from his toenails, but that may get alleviated soon. (Neither he nor I can cut them.)

I'd been sipping Earl Grey and typing up Tom's notes from yesterday for "The Charles Street Chronicles" -- Tom's folkie adventures in Boston in the '60s, when I googled David Omar White for some more details (he hung out in some of the same places Tom did -- Haskell's, the Sevens, the Turk's Head where Tom was general manager/cook and performer, of course). Really got sidetracked there -- the artist died in 2009. Sounds like a fascinating guy.

Not sure when I'm going to get to the hospital. Hope they get him in another room today and maybe we can find out when (and where) he'll be going into rehab.

Life is still pretty much up in the air.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 21 Mar 12 - 02:04 PM

EVERYTHING takes longer than you expect.

And, no matter how long or short amount of time I'm at the hospital, I'm absolutely exhausted when I get home.

I have so much to do, and so little energy with which to do it.

Anyway, Tom may be getting into another room tomorrow. And he may be going to either St. Ann's or Clipper Harbor Home on Friday. Or maybe it will take longer.

Who knows?

I need to get some stuff done. Or maybe I'll take a nap.

Ach!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 21 Mar 12 - 02:46 PM

Nap. That other stuff will be there later. Try to rest.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 21 Mar 12 - 07:27 PM

I vote for a nap, too, and hope you've taken it by now. Can the hospital have a podiatrist cut Tom's toenails if that will be covered by insurance? The margarita sounds luscious, especially because you didn't mention salt. I don't make them at home and have stopped ordering them out because I forget to say, "Skip the salt" when I order! I don't like that taste and don't need the sodium!

I look forward to reading more and hope that he does get another room tomorrow.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 21 Mar 12 - 09:37 PM

Just called Tom to find out if he was still awake and to say "Goodnight" (again) and found out he is IN TRANSIT to a room on the cardiac floor...out of the ICU!!! Yeehah!!!

The nap was good -- I was awakened after two hours by my sophisticated black lady cat, Sabine, sticking her cold nose in my face and insisting that it's been waaaaaay too long since she's been petted.

Computerized, made myself some supper, talked to Tom, then called a friend in Ontario whose birthday I sort of missed the other day and we yakked for over an hour, getting caught up on life, the universe, everything.

Going to wrap up things here, shut down the downstairs, and call Tom again, as he'll probably be situated in the new room and still awake.

I think I'm doing a bit better than I was earlier.

I just did something I've never done before -- I watered my brandy. What's this world coming to?!?

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 21 Mar 12 - 09:40 PM

Keep giving us good news.. and keep resting up. Good vibes for you and Tom.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 21 Mar 12 - 09:55 PM

Merde! Just got a call from Tom. He's been moved, but he was confused. I think I calmed his fears: the move is good, he should be able to get a better night's sleep, I'll call him first thing in the morning and come see him again tomorrow. And that I called the ICU and found he was in transit and was going to call him just as soon as I got back upstairs in a few minutes.

And I love him. So much. And goodnight.

This doesn't sound quite like Monday, but is a bit disconcerting.

I think he's now less confused after I explained everything and reassured him I'll call first thing in the morning.

I think my next snifter of brandy will NOT be watered...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 21 Mar 12 - 11:33 PM

It's close to midnight and I'm having trouble (despite a bendryl) working up the energy to turn out the light and try to fall asleep. I'm a bit concerned about Tom's confusion. I was hoping to find some more encouragement here. But it's late...

No more reading (in a book, a little more, perhaps, at Facebook) tonight.

Good thoughts, please. I really need them right now.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: maeve
Date: 21 Mar 12 - 11:49 PM

Linn, I suspect any of us would also be confused in Tom's position. The move is what you wanted for Tom, but in the hospital nothing happens at the comfortable time for patients ; they happen when it's easiest for staff. That's a statement, not a criticism. He'll likely feel much better tomorrow.

Sleep. You have all the wisdom you need. (((Linn & Tom)))
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 22 Mar 12 - 12:47 AM

{{{{{{LINN}}}}}}

Hospitals are confusing even to able-bodied folk who try to find their way around them, let alone being on a gurney being shoved down a hall by strangers in white coats!**bg** Lights flickering overhead,too cold air rushing on your face sending a chill down your neck. I remember! He will sleep tonight, more easily, I am sure. Your love is strong, so strong and a part of him is aware of that and of what is going on even if it doesn't always seem like it. When you get there, your touch will mean even more.

How about this: imagine your heart full of beautiful soft light, then see a ribbon of that light travelling straight to Tom's heart, connecting you both and bathing you in a light of peace and healing with calm loving emanations. And, most of all, allow yourself to sleep, Linn. You are no good to anyone without proper sleep and nourishment. Listen to your kitties...they know what you need, too!:-)

Much love,

kat

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 22 Mar 12 - 06:06 AM

& from me, too

may your cats prrrrrr you to sleep

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 22 Mar 12 - 07:39 AM

Well, I think I know why I had a bit of a confrontation with a flying squirrel in the kitchen last night...Rufus was locked in the cellar.

I talked at the flying squirrel. He ignored me. Only Tom knows the trick of setting the Hav-A-Heart and this guy didn't seem to be interested in the apple slice a friend assured us would work the last few times it was set. (For raccoons, it's jelly donuts and that DOES work -- but, alas, the raccoon tries to get it from OUTSIDE the trap.) I suspect Rufus is keeping this flying squirrel as a pet. And Sabine has evidently retired from her job as Queen of the Jungle and Scourge of Flying Squirrels.

The good news is now all of the ceramic book spice jars have been knocked from the beam so I can wash them. The bad news is a ceramic flamingo toothpick holder (ah! so essential, these flamingo doohickies!) is headless and in the trash.

I just heard Rufus's sad requests this morning and let him out. (I TOLD him when he ran down the stairs as I was closing the door yesterday afternoon that it would be awhile. Even longer because I forgot. Just don't know why my mind was elsewhere...and I don't think I heard him late last night when I was here at the computer in a quiet house...)

Have my tea and I'm going upstairs to call Tom.

Linn

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 22 Mar 12 - 08:35 AM

Hoping for better news in the morning reports.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 22 Mar 12 - 08:38 AM

The lack of privacy drove me nuts my one multi-day stay in hospital. Four women all minding my business - arghhhh!
Poor Tom.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 22 Mar 12 - 09:11 AM

Finally got through to him on the third try -- he's not in the bed they told me last night. And he had a doctor with him. And then in was something else (none of which they were sharing with me).

His voice is sooo quiet...and the room is noisy, with two other patients and assorted nurses, etc. Had trouble hearing him on the phone and he said, because of the ambient voices, etc., he was having trouble hearing me.

After I talked to him I tried to grab a bit more sleep, but Rufus, my empty stomach, and my over-active brain conspired to deny that to me. So, after I finish the leftover pizza, I'll get my body together and head over to the hospital to see him. Yeah, I'll probably need a nap again today when I get home, but maybe I can get some of the odds and ends around here accomplished afterwards.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 22 Mar 12 - 02:08 PM

Back from the hospital -- desparately need that nap. (Appointment to get long needed haircut at 4:30, too -- chance to check out my new alarm clock.)

I'm a bit concerned about Tom's lethargy and weakness. Thought, too, that the left side of his mouth was drooping, but his nurse checked that out and it was probably just gravity as he was listing to that side. He was in a chair when I got there, he'd had physical therapy earlier and the occupational therapist (who was a bit of a klutz, repeatedly running into Tom's good foot) was there when I arrived.

I'm also worried because his voice is so much quieter than it was, even the last few days. So low I had trouble understanding him on the phone and when just in front of him.

He didn't sleep well last night and so was dozing off. We got him a bit more comfortable in the chair so he could sleep -- I guess he was just enough unsteady on his feet that his nurse didn't want to risk getting him back into bed right now.

Spring has exploded -- not only is it again in the 80s(F), but crocuses, forsythia, daffodils snapped into bloom overnight and the willows are greening up and all the other trees budded out. Saw a guy on a motorcycle with his dog in the sidecar, and half naked muscular young men in Dover lolling in the sun as if it were mid-summer.

Had a lovely conversation with the gentleman in the bed next to Tom (whom I disturbed with phone calls this morning -- last night they told me the wrong bed position in the room for Tom) and his wife. They're in somewhat the same boat -- waiting for an available space in rehab.

Right now I really have to get a bit of sleep.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 22 Mar 12 - 05:40 PM

Had a nice nap and, just before my alarm went off (I had a 4:30 appointment to get my hair cut), I was awakened by a call from a woman at Clipper Harbor of Portsmouth, saying Tom will probably be move there tomorrow maybe late afternoon.

It's a little further away than St. Ann's, but definitely a nice location and they're a good outfit from everything I've heard.

BTW, the new alarm clock not only works fine, but has a pleasant alarm. I mention this because some of you know about my "Alarm Clock Chronicles" of January/February when I purchased a Westclox battery-operated repro of a 1949 model that initially woke me at 3:30 when the alarm was set for 6:00 and the next morning the stem to move the hands broke off. Later I found that it was impossible to remove (or, ultimately, change) the battery. Later I found that Westclox has been owned recently by several different companies and all of their products are made in China with less than optimal quality control. The customer service for www.alarmclocksonline.com is FANTASTIC. There was no argument, I didn't need to send the clock back, and my purchase price plus shipping and handling was immediately restored to my credit card account. And, in the course of a lovely conversation (I discovered there are only two people running the business, she recommended I would find a better product with a Seiko. So, I immediately turned around and ordered one from them.

Going to call Tom now.

Later!
Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 22 Mar 12 - 07:11 PM

That's good news about the move to rehab. I always thought, if I needed and alarm clock (I don't, 'cause my internal one works well), I would like one like THIS only a prettier one I saw years ago.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 22 Mar 12 - 07:36 PM

Our 30-year-old wedding present brass analog (looked like an oversized pocket watch), ran on a AA battery alarm clock died in January. I wanted a traditional looking analog with an alarm not too annoying that would run on a single AA. Thought I'd found a decent replacement in that Westclox Big Ben -- a line of clocks that used to be well made and reliable. This Seiko seems to fit the bill. Probably won't last as long as as the old one, but at least it seems to work well and has already lasted longer than that Big Ben which self destructed less than a week after it was received.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 22 Mar 12 - 10:23 PM

Linn, I'm sorry I wasn't there for you last night. My laptop needed recharging, and I turned it off when I plugged it in. I'm also sorry Tom was distressed by the move. I hope the move to Clipper Harbor goes smoothly, but it will probably be more strenuous than the move to another room inside the hospital. Will you be able to ride along with him or at least be with him when he leaves the hospital and then drive to CH to be with him when he arrives?

I used to have a lovely alarm clock. It was about 6 inches tall and looked like the top one here. http://collectibles.rubylane.com/collectibles/,c=Vintage_China,,_Porcelain_Clocks,,_Timepieces,id=15.4.html
It sounded like a music box and played "Return to Sorrento." My college roommate was surprised that it could wake me up, especially after I slept through a fire alarm. (Well, I heard the alarm, but I didn't know what it was. I thought someone in the dorm was making an awful lot of noise. The reason I didn't know what the sound was because I had moved into the dorm during the second semester and had missed the practice fire drill which was only held at the beginning of the first semester. My roommate thought I had left the room before her and was amazed to find me asleep in bed when she returned to the room. Good thing it was only a drill!)

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 23 Mar 12 - 06:37 AM

Many years ago when the world was young and I was in high school, I got a wonderful red leather and brass folding travel alarm for Christmas. The alarm played "Oh, What A Beautiful Morning" in chimes. For years after the clock no longer worked, I kept it for the musical tune.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 23 Mar 12 - 07:55 AM

Just talked to Tom AND his nurse. Will head over there after my hair dries. The nurse said Tom will probably go to Clipper Harbor before 4 his afternoon, but I know how nothing is ever etched in stone.

I'll know more when I get there. Obviously, nothing is going to get done here at home today (besides the load of laundry I did around 6 a.m.) Don't know whether I can follow him over or what.

I WILL be at the session today at The Press Room. Meeting some concerned friends besides getting in a couple songs, I hope.

Not sure when I'll be checking back in here.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 23 Mar 12 - 09:05 AM

Linn-

Best of luck with the move, and raise a few for us at the Press Room.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 23 Mar 12 - 08:56 PM

After Tom's move, I hope you get some much deserved rest. While I look forward to your posts, you need to take care of yourselves.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 23 Mar 12 - 10:11 PM

It's been a long day...where do I start? How about with the peepers I heard on the way home? Peepers! The day sort of started out with turtles. Remember that basking rock in one of the ponds I pass on the scenic route between Rte. 4 and Rte. 9? It's way too early, but I've been watching anyway and this morning around 9 a.m. there were a bunch of, I think, musk turtles on the rock in the morning sun. It was cooler today -- only 74F.

When I got to the hospital, Tom was curmudging -- and that's a REALLY good sign. Actually, the day went pretty well despite a klutzy nurse and some annoying (for Tom) distractions, but I managed to grab his physical therapist and get him in a chair where he was a lot more comfortable. I think (and he thinks) the reason his voice has been so quiet lately is the fact he's been stuck in bed, maybe, but not necessarily with his head raised for way too long and seated upright in a chair too seldom. Today he was a lot more comfortable in the chair.

Of course, nothing goes too smoothly. First the ambulance which was supposed to transport him to Clipper Harbor Rehab didn't arrive at 3:30, but about a half hour later. And then, because the double room he was in is so small, they needed to get him first back into the bed and then onto the transport's gurney, so that took a lot of time. And then...oh, like I need this...Wentworth-Douglass Hospital has managed to lose his dentures, last seen in a drawer in his room in the ICU (in a pink plastic container with translucent top with HALL written on it). On my way to the car to follow him, I first stopped at the ICU (even though assured they were no longer there) to make sure the right drawer was checked. Then I went to find the Patient Advocate's office. Found it okay, but they'd left for the day.

On the way to Portsmouth, I was first almost rear-ended by a tailgater when I had to brake for a car braking in front of me, then a car pulled out of a side road and almost turned into me instead of the lane she should have been aiming for. (And she wasn't even talking on a cell phone...)

So finally made it to rehab about an hour after I'd have liked to have been at The Press Room. But Tom was already somewhat settled in his room and then we got to talk to the concierge. I think his stay there is going to be just fine. She made a list of his food likes and especially dislikes (broccoli) so they can avoid them. If I bring beer in (and, I'd imagine, wine) he can have that with meals. As she said, it's not a prison. I have 24/7 access to him. She walked me out to the car to get the bag of clothes I'd had packed there since last week. (I have to find sweat pants or pajama pants that can fit over his cast and bring a lighter weight shirt than I packed last week.) When I told her about my job situation, she asked a few questions and said she'd check around for possible jobs.

I was late enough getting to The Press Room that I had to circle several times before finally landing a parking place at the end of the block. And the session was in full fling when I got there as well. Boy, did that porter hit the spot! I spent most of my time away from the session (after telling Tom's tale to several people just finding out about his hospitalization, etc.) having dinner with a friend whose birthday I'd neglected last week (except for a belated email). I also had her Christmas presents with me -- we've been trying to get together since December. Since I'd had a roast beef sandwich mid-afternoon, I didn't think I was hungry, but I ate most of half a haddock burrito anyway.

By 8-ish I'd consumed a pint and a half of porter, and felt myself fading. Never did actually sing anything. Took my leave and talked my way slowly out the door accompanied by another friend who offered useful stuff for when Tom comes home. We've got an incredible bunch of friends. Don't know what I'd do without everybody including everybody here.

Picked up the mail at the head of the driveway and my copy of "Baby, Let Me Follow You Down" by Eric Von Schmidt and Jim Rooney had arrived...but I think I'm too tired to start reading it. Maybe I'll go upstairs and page through it while winding down.

Did I mention I went to the first yard sale of the season yesterday? Spent a buck and got a nice pinking shears and some heavy (perhaps carpet) thread and some needles. Should swing by and get the box of keys they were holding for me -- they needed to find the key for a wardrobe that was possibly in the box before they sell it to me.

It's been a long day and night. G'night, all.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 23 Mar 12 - 10:29 PM

I hope you sleep (slept?) well, Linn. I rarely go back to Mudcat after I've gone through the threads once, but I came back to check this thread. Just in time, too, because my laptop's battery needs recharging in 6 seconds. Thinking of you and Tom, hoping all goes well in his new "home away from home," and hoping he gets back to your real home soon.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 24 Mar 12 - 08:07 AM

Am I tired? Well, I had to read my post from last night to remember everything from yesterday...

Despite the fact I lost the concierge's card with his room telephone number on it (I've even looked in the refrigerator! I took it out of my purse and the last time I saw it was on the kitchen counter on my way to the computer) I talked to his nurse this morning and then called him.

He sounds fantastic! In a lot of ways, including the fact that his voice is stronger again. He speculated yesterday (or maybe it was Thursday) that the lack of volume was due to lying in bed too much and being upright in a chair too little. This is such an improvement over the hospital.

I've got to get some stuff done around here and then gather up some stuff to take to him around mid-day. My problem right now is I've misplaced some stuff I brought home last Friday. I know it's here -- I just have to locate where I put it.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 24 Mar 12 - 09:34 AM

Linn-

Nice to get this morning report.

The "spring" peppers are raising a raucous around here in Maine as well. Little do they know that we're due for a blizzard next week!

Our best to Tom.

Charley Noble and JudyB

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 24 Mar 12 - 09:37 AM

All good news, Linn. How long will Tom be in rehab or is it too soon to ask.
Address?
Phone Number?
Mary

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 24 Mar 12 - 12:02 PM

Good to hear the progress.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 24 Mar 12 - 03:33 PM

Found the stuff. (Whew!) Took stuff and other stuff to Tom. He was in a wheelchair and he had gotten himself there by himself. He'd already been wheeling all over the place. The windows open and he can not only SEE stuff outside but can smell Spring creeping up on us. He looks great. Such an improvement in less than one day! And on a weekend!

I took him a nip of Johnny Walker, but needed to find out more information before bringing him some beer.

His direct line is 603-431-7592.

I think I've been running on adrenalin for a week and a half. I have definitely crashed. Next up is a nap.

Oh, work gets more bizarre, but I've said enough already for a public forum. I'm working tomorrow, Sunday, noon to five -- I'll see Tom before I go to work and again on my way home.

That nap is calling me very, very loudly.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 24 Mar 12 - 06:19 PM

Nap accomplished. Just whipped up some creamed onions -- haven't had any in way too long. (Tonight is comfort food night.) Saving some to add to the mac & cheese I'm putting together. Not the real stuff; I'm cooking up some macaroni, will add butter and Cabot's Cheddar Shake (handy stuff, that) and maybe the rest of the creamed onions.

Then I'll call Tom and go upstairs and watch "Boston Legal". Almost done with Season 4. I really need to just veg out.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 24 Mar 12 - 10:21 PM

Veg away! Glad to hear Tom is doing well in his new place.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 24 Mar 12 - 10:45 PM

Even more good news! I love it.

Now... what the hell are creamed onions?

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 12:37 AM

Great news!!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: maeve
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 12:55 AM

http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Creamed-Onions-109220

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 04:26 AM

very good news

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 06:58 AM

Boy, is THAT a needlessly complex recipe for creamed onions!

Here's what I do (same as me sainted mither before me):

Melt enough butter in a frying pan (all the measurements are going to be like this). Slice up as many onions as you want and plop 'em into the melted butter. Sautée them (Mom didn't say say sautée) until nicely yellow and limp. Sprinkle a wee bit of flour over them. (What you're doing is making a roux, but Mom didn't say that, either.) Stir so flour gets mixed into the butter without lumps. (Easier done than said, actually...) And pour in a little cream/milk/half and half, etc. until it's the right degree of creamy -- not too thick, not too thin.

That's it! No casseroles, no bread crumbs, no other shit. Salt & pepper.

Fine all by itself as a side dish (or sort of my entrée last night). Mom usually puts hers over boiled or baked potatoes (she does that with her cucumber salad, too), I discovered some years ago that creamed onions mixed in with prepared packaged mac & cheese is a guilty pleasure.

It went very nicely last night. (Rich, though, since I didn't use packaged mac & cheese.) There are leftovers.

Talked to Tom before bed last night -- going to bring a few more things over today, but probably after work rather than both fore and aft.

Linn

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 09:49 AM

Talked to Tom earlier -- he hadn't had coffee yet. That appears to be a bit of a problem, not sure whether that's just a weekend problem or not.

I wish I lived in Portsmouth and could bring him coffee before the kitchen at rehab opens.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 09:50 AM

Thanks, m, but that's what I thought when I read the recipe. I can just fry six medium size onions in marg and scarf em down. Maybe a meal and snacks all evening... just onions. Good for ya.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 11:02 AM

I'll find out today what kind of "coffee cubes" to bring in for Tom -- then he can have coffee whenever he wants.

Gotta go label his beer with his name and the date, then head to work.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 11:27 AM

"Boy, is THAT a needlessly complex recipe for creamed onions!"
sure- It was simply the first hit, and it served the purpose.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 11:39 AM

m... reset yer cookie.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: maeve
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 11:48 AM

Sorry about that- dropped my cookie in the onions.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 01:32 PM

Hahahahaaa!!!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 05:31 PM

Nana Sullivan followed Maeve's recipe minus the topping and oven bake. Ask Kendall about he enjoyed my creamed onions.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 07:36 PM

Rick Fielding and I had long PM conversations about creamed onions -- he didn't like them.

Whew! I'm home and can relax. I think I'm still sort of running on adrenaline. I just walked through the door and made myself a meatloaf sandwich (with mayo and curry ketchup) because I knew I had to eat and even the prospect of a haddock burrito wasn't enticing. Tonight whatever I'm eating is fill...

It'll take me awhile to slow down -- it was a totally crazy afternoon at work. I'm alone on Sundays, and, while they're usually very BUSY days (with repairs, dispense and fittings, problems, repairs and the phone rings constantly), they're not usually big sales days. I usually consider myself lucky to do $300 or $400. Today I did $1388 and change. There were people in the shop before I opened, and it stayed busy with multiple customers at the same time all afternoon. Didn't have time to call Tom until 15 minutes before closing. And the day's total would have been higher by a little over $200 except the customer didn't have enough money with her, so she's coming back tomorrow when I'm not there.

So went over to see Tom and take him another nightcap and a couple bottles of beer and a few more T-shirts, etc. I found him sitting on the side of the bed, which is what he's been wanting to do for almost a week. He had several phone calls earlier and a visitor. And, not only did Dianne come back after I got there so we could visit, but another friend showed up with a great bouquet of tulips, pussy willows, and, I think, daffodils.

I'm tired. Going to wrap up computerizing for the time being (and I've finished my supper) and go upstairs and maybe watch that last "Boston Legal" on the next to last DVD of the Fourth Season. I was waaay too tired yesterday.

With a glass of wine. I really do need to wind down and relax a bit. I'll call Tom again before bedtime. Did I post his phone number here? Direct to his bed is 603-431-7592.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 08:05 PM

Rest well.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Jack Campin
Date: 25 Mar 12 - 08:22 PM

Seems like Tom has dosged the bullet with the ICU delirium, biut it is a VERY SERIOUS matter and you need to do what it takes to reuce the chance of it recurring.

There is a good recent survey article in New Scientist which unfortunately you have to pay for:

Delirium in hospital can be a killer for the elderly

Similar content scattered across a few issues of Science Daily, follow links from here:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/12/111212144234.htm

The main point is that it isn't accidental, there are risk factors that hospital staff can do something about.

Clinicians should also take extra care to monitor medications and try not to interrupt patients' sleep patterns. In addition, isolation rooms should have clocks, calendars, and other orienting objects to help avoid sensory deprivation.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 26 Mar 12 - 08:07 AM

Thanks, Jack. Tom has extra more recent sensory deprivation -- he's been legally blind for about a year. So he couldn't SEE the clocks in his room or a lot of what was going on. I had brought him his talking clock, but that day he kept claiming it was broken, which it wasn't.

I had found our phone conversation of Sunday evening disturbing, but figured I had probably woken him from a dream. When he called me at 4:30 the next morning, it was full-blown paranoia.

Until Monday morning I had no idea "ICU psychosis" even existed. After talking to his nurse, I did some internet research as well and was amazed at how common it is. Tom had only been in the ICU (because of the monitoring they could provide since a bed on the cardiac floor was unavailable) less than 2 days when the symptoms manifested. And I'd been there for varying amounts of time both days, talking and going over again several times the timeline of his fall, breaking the ankle, surgery next day, what had happened that put him in THIS room so they could monitor his heart better, etc.

Since I broke my arm 4 years ago and had come though similar surgery (same surgeon), I remember all too well what I CAN'T remember about the surgery and the days following. I was only in the hospital the day of the surgery and was released the day after -- to go home and be taken care of by Tom. But I know how much the anesthesia and the pain meds, etc. affected me and how, so I knew he would be confused and he didn't have the luxury of being at home. Instead he was in a (more or less) unfamiliar place with constant personnel changes. For all practical purposes, I was his only continuity in those days. It's all understandable to me now -- I just wish I'd known about it beforehand so I could have done more to prevent it.

A lot of the psychosis is caused, I think, by Tom not really having any control over anything. That and the sensory deprivation.

I am so glad it's over!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 26 Mar 12 - 10:09 AM

So are we all!

Here's to better days!

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 26 Mar 12 - 10:26 AM

Right now Tom's in good hands and he's making major headway navigating with his ankle. He has no complaints other than terminally mediocre food that's also usually tepid, not hot, and really bad coffee not available until the kitchen opens (quite a while after he wakes up). That will be solved by me bringing him some K-cups today of dark roast so he can have fresh, decent coffee any time.

Just got back from grocery shopping, I'm doing laundry as we speak, need to immediately attend to the litter boxes, put groceries away, and a few other housekeeping activities.

I'm just physically wrung out again. I slept well and I'm not sleepy, just really really tired.

I've got a lot to get done today that didn't get done last week, plus a long list of phone calls. Need to talk to my temporary manager about my work schedule now that Tom is safely in rehab.

At least the weather is brisk but sunny, so encourages activity rather than lolling about with a book or something.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 26 Mar 12 - 07:26 PM

I was feeling as if I hadn't gotten much done today because there were still things on my list, but, in retrospect, I DID get a lot done today. Waiting for call backs, etc.

Right after the power went out here (incredibly windy today), I headed to Portsmouth -- a couple errands, then went to Clipper Harbor. He had a good session with the physical therapist today. I'm just amazed at the progress once he got out of the hospital and into Clipper Harbor.

Lights were back on when I got home, so I had a warm dinner instead of a cold one.

I'm not going to computerize much; I'm very very tired. Will retire upstairs to a book and cats.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 26 Mar 12 - 08:12 PM

Again, rest well and regain strength. Both of you.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 26 Mar 12 - 08:42 PM

Yes, rest! Now that we know he is doing better, we can wait a while for your next update.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 26 Mar 12 - 09:26 PM

Wild windy day here in Maine. Cats are freaked out. I love the sound of the wind as I fall asleep.
Beautiful old New England.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 27 Mar 12 - 05:11 AM

definitely time fro a rest

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 27 Mar 12 - 11:22 AM

Actually DID have a bit of a rest this morning -- computerized at 6 a.m. while heating water for tea, then shower and hair wash and then after calling Tom, WOW! I got to just sit in bed, read, sip tea and pet cats until after 9 a.m.! Just started "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" that a friend loaned me Friday night. What a delight!

Anyway, finally had to tear myself away and get dressed to attack the day. Mostly phone calls so far. The hospital hasn't yet found Tom's dentures, but the report has been filed with Security and, if it comes to that, Tom's total expense for fitting and new dentures will be paid by the hospital. Left a few more messages for someone to get back to me about my employment status, such as when am I back on the schedule? Am I still about to be fired? Etcet...a hint would be nice. Also called Tom's primary care again to let him know what's up -- got a reminder call last night for an appointment tomorrow. Had a nice chat with the nurse. I have to get over there and do the paperwork and set up an appointment for myself, since I have no health insurance any more and my primary care has just decided to specialize in depression. Let's see, who else have I talked to this morning? More calls and things on the list, of course.

Later,
Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 27 Mar 12 - 12:59 PM

Talked to the DM -- I have a job and he'll put me back on the schedule. Of course, things are at sixes and sevens there because my manager is no longer with the company. All I know for sure right now is I'm working next Sunday and Monday per my old schedule.

Tom's therapist, etc. seem to think he may be released from rehab in a wheelchair, which would be entirely unpractical considering how little floorspace there is on our "ground" floor (up a half dozen or so steps from the actual ground). So I've got to measure stuff, and count stairs and measure risers and stair depth, etc. so they know a little bit more of what they'll be releasing him to.

Took care of some of the bill paying, which Tom usually does. Will take some other papers, etc. over to Clipper Harbor this afternoon for Tom to go over with me so I can deal with them.

In between everything else, still trying to beat the house into submission. Managed to get the trash up to the road just as the collection truck was next door. Whew!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 27 Mar 12 - 03:13 PM

Odd that they don't do an inspection of yourse property and house to look at all the aspects of tom's return. Anyway, hope he get home soon and heals soon.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 27 Mar 12 - 06:20 PM

Okay, I'd let Dr. Z's office know where rehab is, per Dr. Z's request (so he could have someone local check out something in Tom's throat that Dr. Z REALLY had wanted to put Tom under for to check out more closely), but Justin says Dr. Z says that can wait until he's home from rehab. That REALLY shows that Dr. Z is concerned, but not a LOT concerned, about what he couldn't see when he scoped Tom in January.

Tom has a follow-up with Dr. Blitzer, his surgeon, on Friday -- and I can meet him at the office (rehab will get him there), which is very close to home. Maybe then I can get a copy of a printout of an x-ray showing his ankle tackle to look at more closely. (Dr. Blitzer showed me a small paper printout right after the surgery, but I spaced asking him for a copy at that time, and I really didn't look at it that closely; I'm just curious.)

Tom's really in great spirits, especially now that he can have good coffee whenever he wants it. He had a good physical therapy session earlier today. I think as far as strength goes, he'll be in better shape when he gets home than he's been in quite awhile.

On my way out, I stuck a couple chairs at the head of the driveway with a "FREE" sign on them. Also pulled some more stuff from the cellar to go to Goodwill. Got some antique-ish stuff that I'll throw in the car one of these days and see if I can sell them up the road in "Antique Alley" -- and probably put some ephemera on eBay.

Today was an accomplished day.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 27 Mar 12 - 09:54 PM

A good day is a good day. Hope youse rest well tonight.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 27 Mar 12 - 11:23 PM

If you get time to write, I'm curious about the ground floor of your house. Do you have a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen all on that floor? I hope so, because that will help if Tom does come home in a wheelchair.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 28 Mar 12 - 06:55 AM

What the...?!? There's WHITE STUFF on the deck, the top of the firewood, my windshield, and around the daffodils, crocuses, squill... Keep in mind, it was 84F before the weekend...

No, ChanteyLass, no bedrooms or bath on the ground floor (but the kitchen is)...all upstairs. Tom will be sleeping on our (very comfortable) couch and we'll have the loan of a sturdy hospital-type commode. There's not a lot of clearance between furniture; we have very little floorspace. I don't think a wheelchair would be practical at ALL, unless it's one of those walker/wheelchair combos. And even then, I think a walker would be more practical. I'll have to do the measurements, count the steps, sketch a floorplan, and discuss it with somebody.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 28 Mar 12 - 08:34 AM

Linn-

The 4-wheel walkers are more flexible for maneuvering, indoors or out, than the platform walkers, from my mother's experience. One can also sit in them periodically, if one needs a rest. They also fold up nicely for travel by car. Here's a link to what they look like: click here for PIX!

Good thing I did "preview" sincemy initial link turned up a lot of celebrities, some scantily clad. You might have cracked a rib laughing.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 28 Mar 12 - 10:16 AM

Yes. that's more what I have in mind, Charley. They require a lot less maneuvering space that a regular wheelchair, plus they more easily foldup for transport.

As expected, the white stuff outside at 6:30 a.m. is mostly gone except for a few traces on the deck near the house. Still, it was annoying.

Right now I'm a bit...I don't know what. I seem to be having a mild panic attack for no apparent reason. I took a clonazapam for this undercurrent of anxiety. I'm at a loss to understand it. I really need to go to the credit union and take care of a couple matters (all good -- there should be no anxiety involved). I just ate something in case my early morning bagel sans cream cheese wasn't enough. I had another "normal" morning in bed sipping tea, reading my book, and petting a very heavy red cat who insisted on sitting on my bum knee (and putting at least three times his normal weight there). I need to be in a better state for cover letter composition, etc.

Why does the body insist on doing things entirely at odds with the brain? Ach!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 28 Mar 12 - 10:17 AM

Linn,
Why not apply for the manager's job, settle in and use the position to move on to greener pastures?
Any other places in the mall that can offer you some hours or maybe more hours?
Be nice to have at least one piece of your life stable and predictable.
Will there be home visits when Tom is finally back at the ranch? I mean from health professionals maybe for continued therapy?
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 28 Mar 12 - 10:59 AM

No, no, NO, Mary!

No way in fxxking hell would I ever even CONSIDER to be a manager for them! It's also impractical. The additional hourly wage is nowhere near enough to offset the requirements including having to work if someone calls out, having to work Saturdays, and having to work all the hours the doctor is there (which also messes up the best day for Tom to schedule medical appointments), and, the fairly decent chance of being flat out unable to take time off if Tom is having a medical issue...which seems to happen at least once a year if not more. It's much worse job than the one I'm in and, quite honestly, I'm burned out on retail and trying to escape it as fast as possible. Hint: three managers in less than four years, and our store is NOT the only store that is managerless right now. Tell you anything? No. It is NOT an option.

With my background, I'm looking at copyediting/proofreading, administrative assistant in real estate or medical office, or even driver for one of the lab companies or messenger services.

I think this trying to do everything at once, though, is what's giving me the low level panic attack. I look forward to a time when I can mono-task...

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 28 Mar 12 - 02:07 PM

Okay, took care of some business at the credit union and decided to stop by the town offices and let Marge and the others there know what's been up with Tom. Entering Nottingham from McCrillis Road onto Rte. 152, the sky looked ominous...then it started to hail. Before I pulled up to the parking lot, there were clumps -- clumps! -- of white falling amidst the hail. When I pulled up outside the town offices, it was more like sleet...but different. I've got damned near 63 years worth of experience between Wisconsin and Maine and New Hampshire and I've never seen quite what whatever that variety of precipitation was. And while I was talking to Marge, the sun came out. When I left, the sky was bright blue and the sun brilliant and warm. Right now it's gray and cold again. And it's still only early afternoon.

Retrieved the mail on my way into the driveway and found a wee giftie from the British Museum -- a Rosetta Stone USB memory stick. Thanks, Micca! It could not have arrived at a better time!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 28 Mar 12 - 07:28 PM

Remember though.....There is no climate change!


Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 28 Mar 12 - 09:02 PM

climate change???? It's winter in new England.
Nothing more...nothing less.
DO NOT PLANT before Memorial Day.
I repeat...It is winter in New England.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 28 Mar 12 - 10:40 PM

Linn, when you measure the steps, measure the height of each one. I heard recently that they may not all be the same.

Like Mary, I am interested in knowing if Tom will get home visits from health care professionals, particularly from a physical therapist so that he can manage the stairs as soon as possible.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 29 Mar 12 - 06:38 AM

I haven't talked to anyone (other than a nurse) at rehab since the day after he got there, so I don't have any idea how long he'll be there. I understand (from some other sources) that usually before release someone -- whether from rehab or Visiting Nurses, or some concerned agency -- will come out and do an assessment. Usually there is some follow-up, too, perhaps with Visiting Nurses.

Tomorrow he has his first follow-up with the surgeon -- the wheelchair van (which may not be covered by his insurance) will bring him there and I will meet him there. (Besides, I've got his insurance card and ID.) I hope to get a copy of either the paper output which Dr. Blitzer showed me right after the surgery or the full set of x-rays on CD. I really didn't take that much time to look at the printout when I was talking to Dr. Blitzer right after he installed the hardware in Tom's fibula (at least, I THINK it's the fibula). I have the x-rays from right after Tom got to the ER.

A friend is loaning us a walker. His insurance will cover most of the cost of a combo and his physical therapist yesterday said he'll need both.

Rufus, our red feline brat, woke me at 5:30 by nosing his way into anything and everything that might make noise. I surmised correctly that his food dish was empty. Crisis averted; he will NOT starve to death -- there are crunchies in the bowl.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,Meg
Date: 29 Mar 12 - 10:46 AM

Rockingham Visiting Nurses provide in home PT. Both Judy Doughty and I have had excellent care from an interesting young man who immigrated from Poland. Judy worked with him in January this year. My insurance covered it and I think Judy's Medicare covered it. She had a knee replacement.

I have been thinking of you and Tom a lot and sending White Light your way. Take care of yourself as best you can because Tom would be in dire straits without your loving support and care.

Meg

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 29 Mar 12 - 06:31 PM

Just got home from visiting the ol' Curmudgeon. Took him a new pair of black sweat pants so he's got something reasonably decent in which to go to see the surgeon tomorrow. I'll meet him there.

Other than missing me and the cats, I think he's enjoying himself as much as one can while doing physical therapy and being fed high sodium (despite him being officially on a low sodium diet) mediocre food.

When he can be more active without supervision, there's a computer down the hall that he can use, so he may be checking in here in a few days.

I was pleased to see when I turned out of the driveway that the two chairs I put up there day before yesterday with a FREE sign on them were GONE! Yeehah! Cubic footage! More stuff to Goodwill tomorrow, too.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 29 Mar 12 - 06:49 PM

Ask at Goodwill about a wheelchair or combo. They often have them to lend or give.
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bupkes
Date: 30 Mar 12 - 10:15 AM

While you're scrounging at Goodwill, ask if they can give you a commode.

If not, I'll bring one up to you for when Tom goes home.

Marty

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 30 Mar 12 - 02:52 PM

Freecycle is a good source for medical equipment as well.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 30 Mar 12 - 04:19 PM

Our local Sally Army had an electric wheelchair not too long ago. My be worth checking with your local one, if there is one there.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 30 Mar 12 - 04:33 PM

Hey Mr Judge
I said sweet Mr Judge
Won't ya send me an electric chair ♫♫

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 30 Mar 12 - 08:07 PM

John! CELLAR!

And leave that bottle of single malt here for Tom.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 30 Mar 12 - 09:05 PM

Tom and Linn are into a more rustic/trad/green lifestyle so maybe they can find a wood burning wheelchair..........

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 30 Mar 12 - 11:57 PM

Just checking in to let you know that I'm still here, still concerned, and full of hope.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 31 Mar 12 - 07:21 AM

Spaw, I'm definitely passing your comment on to Tom...

Things took a little longer at the surgeon's yesterday than we anticipated...nothing wrong, just lots of waiting in between things. His cast was removed...and we waited...Tom got new x-rays taken and we waited...concern was expressed over a painful red spot on his knee (probably from contact with the deck when he slipped)...and we waited...another specialist came in...and we waited...Dr. Blitzer came in...and we waited...the knee problem wasn't with the bone or anything that would show on x-ray...waited some more...Tom got a new lighter weight cast...and we were turned loose.

Since it was as late as it was in the afternoon, I gave Tom the bag of clothes I'd brought for him, told him I'd see him AFTER the Press Room session, and saw him off on the wheelchair van, then headed myself towards Portsmouth.

Didn't do any of the other errands I had planned, either. I'll go to Goodwill (stuff in the back of the car to drop off, plus check on equipment) tomorrow on my way to see Tom. We've got a big, new Salvation Army store just a short ways from Goodwill, so I'll probably check them out, too, since I haven't had a chance since it opened.

Gave a full report multiple times to friends at The Press Room (and the short version plus Press Room session history to an Irish couple from Boston who loved my singing). Left the session just before the end and drove over to Clipper Harbor. Pressed the button at the locked door and got no response, so I walked over to Tom's window (gee, this sounds like a song) which was open a crack (Tom finds the place way too warm) and talked at him. He had a nurse go let me in -- no one had told me the "after hours" keypad code for the door. Visited a short while before I aimed towards home...and staying awake until I got there. Seemed like an inordinately long drive last night.

Alas, Tom didn't mention yesterday until too late that he needed more k-cups, so he's not getting good coffee (or any as early as he'd like it) until I get there today. He'll live.

Speaking of which, I've got a cup of tea to drink...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 31 Mar 12 - 04:29 PM

Around here the Salvation Army stores are not open on Sundays. I guess that is because it is a religious organization. I don't know about Goodwill.

Another question: when the couch Tom will sleep on is used as a bed, how low is it? The lower it is, the harder it will be for him to stand up.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 31 Mar 12 - 05:16 PM

I know you all mean well, but please stop "creating" problems where there are none. The only PROBLEM that will exist when Tom comes home is our floor -- which is deteriorating 35+ year old subflooring usually covered by area rugs. The rugs will be a hazard...but so are the holes in the floor. But there's a solution and it's already been planned around. The rugs will, of course, be taken up. And I can probably get the right sized heavy mat with tapered edges that can be rolled over (and not tripped over) through a beauty salon supply place with the help of my stylist.

I'm not concerned about equipment -- even if we have to buy a combo, it's covered by Tom's insurance.

It's not important whether Sally Army is open on Sundays...I WORK on Sundays so won't be shopping on that day anyway. And Tom won't be home for awhile yet anyway (though a clue as to when that might be would be nice.)

I'm sorry...I'm a bit bitchy and have been feeling...oh, I don't know. "Down" I guess covers it. Just Wednesday and today. No real reason (unless you count the job situation), just a bit of low level anxiety and depression, which, I think, is hardly surprising considering how much I'm juggling. AND my right contact lens is driving me nuts. It's as if there's a smudge in the middle of it and I have to keep blinking to clear it. (RGP not soft.) I've taken it out, cleaned it, and put it back in FOUR times (once in the parking lot at Dunkin' Donuts) this afternoon. So I wasn't seeing well on the way home and cut my excursions short. Dropped off stuff at Goodwill, but it was a zoo, so didn't do much more than a quick swing through. Skipped Sally Army. Did the minimum at Market Basket, too, because it was a zoo. Remind me to never go into a store on a Saturday, especially if you're having vision problems in one eye. Ach!

(Oh, had a nice visit with Tom. Took him his coffee K-cups. A high school friend and his wife came to visit and, in the middle of the lively conversation, Tom got a call from a former student of his [currently living in Thailand -- yes, he called from Thailand] at Kingsley Hall back in the '60s. He had recently tracked Tom down through me at Facebook and this was the first time he and Tom had talked since the '60s.)

Going to go upstairs and take my contacts out to soak, call Tom, and suck my thumb for awhile.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 31 Mar 12 - 06:11 PM

Suck away. Rest and recharge.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 31 Mar 12 - 08:47 PM

Work tomorrow. Actually, I think, that's my greatest source of stress right now.

Read my rant on Kendall's thread.

Good night...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 01 Apr 12 - 10:59 AM

I apologise for yesterday -- I'm in a much better state of mind today (despite having to head to work in a bit; I can see Tom after I leave there).

Thanks, everyone, too for your good wishes. Tom is enjoying the phone calls, too -- 603-431-7592.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 01 Apr 12 - 05:25 PM

No worries... no apologies. Rest and recharge and renew.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 01 Apr 12 - 06:59 PM

Another good sales day at work (unusual for a Sunday, which is usually busy with phone calls, repairs, problems, phone calls, repairs, pick ups, adjustments, repairs and more phone calls) and it was all between noon and 2:30 so I was able to get the other stuff that needs to be done taken care of, too. Had to reopen a drawer for someone picking up right on the stroke of 5. But...no schedule left for me and the schedule in the closet said a co-worker was working tomorrow. So...called her and left a message. She left a message in return, that as far as she knows, she was working, but then the next message said she heard from the DM and we're BOTH working. (That is also very good because Mondays are also crazy busy days and it's so much less hectic with two.) Still haven't a clue as to my schedule for the rest of the week, though. Sigh.

Saw Tom but didn't stay long. Too tired and had errands to run on the way home. I'll call him again before bedtime.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Jeri
Date: 01 Apr 12 - 07:14 PM

I had good intentions.
I got up thinking the headache would go away after coffee, but just kept getting worse, so I didn't do anything today except re-fill the bird feeder. Tomorrow should be better.

Anything I can bring him?

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 01 Apr 12 - 09:46 PM

I hope your contact lens is behaving itself.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 02 Apr 12 - 08:31 AM

Looks like my last post unposted. Sigh.

Contact lens is fine -- I think it was all related to a product called Blink-N-Clean, which I have now relegated to the trash. It was an experiment; I'm sticking to the tried and true and hassle-free.

Good thing I'm going to work today, I think -- I felt the beginnings of the low-level anxiety. At least I won't be alone at work today, so it won't be quite as crazy busy as Mondays usually are.

Just talked to Tom and he's NOT having a good day. He spilled coffee on himself as we talked. And he didn't get enough sleep last night. And he has trouble (even with a talking clock) knowing what time of day (or night) it is. And he knows his sleep problem is probably caused by napping during the day, but doesn't know what to do about that. And, for really the first time, he's complained about the attitude of some of the people there. I think he's just tired and crabby, but I don't know what to do about it and I also know there really isn't anything I CAN do about it.

Got so much to do before I'm out of the house -- laundry is already in, next to make my lunch. Have to leave early to stop at Seacoast Orthopedics and take them the cards and papers we didn't have on Friday.

May see Jeri at Tom's this afternoon after work. That will be nice.

Gotta go.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 02 Apr 12 - 09:06 AM

And now I have to wait until the wash cycle is finished...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 03 Apr 12 - 07:44 AM

Yesterday was a looong day. Tom's okay. Says he had good physical therapy and he may be home within two weeks. Tom's next appointment with Dr. Blitzer is next Tuesday when he'll get another lighter weight cast.

I may be back "on the schedule" at work, but what that actually means is I don't work again until next Monday, and I haven't a clue when else I'm working. (Normally I'd be working next Sunday, but it's Easter, and, despite our host store being open, the optical shop will be closed. No. I don't think I get holiday pay.)

Right now I'm swapping meals and having a ham sandwich for breakfast because that's what I wanted. Maybe I'll have zucchini bread for lunch (if I'm home for lunch).

More stuff to do today, including getting set up with a new primary care physician for myself and straightening out a matter at Wentworth-Douglass, both of which have to be attended to in person.

Gotta go plan my day. At least I finished a book this morning after Rufus woke me too early.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 03 Apr 12 - 08:46 AM

Oh, and picking up a walker from a friend.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 03 Apr 12 - 05:03 PM

Actually DID run around in circles today -- Nottingham to Somersworth, Somersworth to Dover (hospital and pick up walker), Dover to Portsmouth (to see Tom), Portsmouth to Lee (groceries and things for Tom), Lee to Nottingham. Circle, singular, but one big one and it took up most of the day.

Tom lost his roommate today -- the one who complained when Tom opened the window a crack because the whole facility is too warm. While I was there, another high school classmate showed up and we talked about our infirmities and "argued" (politely discussed trying to find areas of agreement) religion for over an hour.

Tom says he had a GREAT workout with the physical therapist today...and he may be coming home next Monday.

I'm tired. More stuff on my list, but mostly here at the computer or with pen and paper.

Later,
Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Jeri
Date: 03 Apr 12 - 05:18 PM

Tom lost his roommate?
Where did he see him last? Did he check under the bed? Maybe the guy is with his teeth.

Of course, if the man died and wasn't simply discharged or escaped, I apologize.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 03 Apr 12 - 06:25 PM

Discharged, Jeri.

Me? I've got a splitting headache for some reason.

Think I'll retire and under-react.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 03 Apr 12 - 06:30 PM

Great to hear good news about Tom.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 03 Apr 12 - 06:31 PM

There's something positive. All you have to do to have a private room is open a window. Now with some advice from Spaw and gnu on cabbage intake, maybe they can clear a suite. Check out the Kendall thread. Is Tom online? He can probably use a laugh - everyone takes a beating in that thread and we are now all locked in the basement including katlaughing who did nothing.
Come visit, Tom

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 03 Apr 12 - 07:08 PM

At least the weather is back to being nice again.

Sure hope Tom is able to make it back home next week.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 03 Apr 12 - 10:32 PM

I'm glad to read the good news that Tom should be home in two weeks. I hope you got over your headache in less than two hours!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 04 Apr 12 - 12:01 AM

I am?? When did that happen!

Good to hear Tom will be home, soon. Also, good you are retiring, at least for the night!

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 04 Apr 12 - 07:13 AM

There are computers (well, one that I know of) available, but it's in a tiny cubicle and the wheelchair can't be maneuvered into a position or slide under the desk. So I read him stuff over the phone when I'm in front of the computer.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 04 Apr 12 - 10:25 AM

Well, Tom's not having a great day so far (although I know the visit from a friend this morning was a welcome high point).

He again did not sleep well and has been awake since sometime between 3 an 4 a.m. When I talked to him around 9, he wanted to take a nap, but was afraid he'd be awakened either by the pain meds nurse or physical therapy. I suggested he call a nurse and explain his need for a nap early in the day so it won't interfere with his sleep tonight.

He also managed to break his glasses sometime between taking them off last night and putting them on this morning. I'll see later if it's something I can fix (that's one of the things I do as part of my current job) or if the frame will have to be replaced. Fortunately, I recently used my accumulated 50 bucks-worth of bonuses for exceptional customer service reports from secret shops to order a back-up frame "just in case" -- hope it comes in soon.

Got a lot on my to-do list for today so I probably won't go over to see Tom until the latter part of the afternoon.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 04 Apr 12 - 04:17 PM

.....or order a new pair from Zenni......LOL


Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 04 Apr 12 - 05:50 PM

His 'script is outdated, Spaw. And he's got a really high cyl. Fortunately, I ordered a new frame just last week. In real money (as opposed to the fictional company bonus certificates I used) it cost me $1.98.

When I get the new frame, I'll swap out the lenses and epoxy the broken spring hinge on the temple...then IT will become the emergency back-up frame.

He's depressed...worried about whether he'll be able to sleep tonight...about his loud new roommate...and I didn't bring him something I didn't know he needed. Sigh.

He's depressed and that certainly didn't help my mood. I was doing okay; got a mess o' stuff done today, although most of it will need to be FINISHED tomorrow. (I guess I'm susceptible to his mood because I can't check things off my list today.)

I'm just so tired...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ranger1
Date: 05 Apr 12 - 06:52 AM

(((Linn)))

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 05 Apr 12 - 07:24 AM

Tom had me concerned last night.

First, starting about 6:15, he called me three times, each time thinking it was morning and he'd slept the night. He must have dozed in between, but he's still confused about what day it is and what time of day it is.

Then, probably around 9:45 (it was 9:30 when I turned off the light) he called me again just as I was falling asleep. Again, I told him it was still Wednesday evening and I'd call him in the morning.

Hope he slept well...as he did Monday night. His confusion was troubling enough that I had some sleep problems. Woke at 3:30 but, after a bit of a struggle, got back to sleep. And again while it was still dark. Awake, though, at first light around 6.

Still a bit too early to call him. I'm waiting for water for tea to heat, then I'll go back upstairs to let my hair dry and call him closer to 8 a.m.

Need to talk to the concierge or someone at Clipper Harbor and find out what the OFFICIAL word is about when he might come home, and what equipment I need to have, and if Visiting Nurses or someone is coming out to assess our home and the provisions I've made.

Tea!
Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 05 Apr 12 - 10:35 AM

First cup of tea turned out to be some herbal crap, so I dumped it and made some real tea.

Talked to Tom. I guess he slept better -- but he hadn't had coffee yet. I think his confusion may be the result of pain and/or sleeping meds, but I don't know for sure.

Waiting for a call from the concierge with answers to my questions. Now have to call work and find out what my schedule is for past next Monday -- and if I need to change it. (Arghh! -- THIS week I could have worked what used to be my regular schedule; next week not so sure.)

Also have to call Employment Security for some advice.

Again, trying to make decisions without enough information.

If I have a melt-down in all of this, today will be the day.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 05 Apr 12 - 01:45 PM

Still haven't heard from the concierge, but I have my schedule for the next couple weeks and, unless they decide to send him home next Monday or Friday, we're all set.

Feel as if I haven't done much today, but I actually HAVE. It was just a time consuming project (making more maneuvering room around the table AND cleaning off the table; oh, and removing the Christmas tablecloth that was still on top of the usual table cover but beneath all the piles of stuff) that doesn't look like much but it was, indeed, major.

Oh, and the new frame for Tom's glasses came in so I can pick up his old glasses, pingpong back to the shop to swap the lenses into the new frame and then bounce back for a visit.

Just about to head out -- have an application to attend to in Dover (to get set up with a new-to-me community health practice; Tom's been there since 2004), then can head to Portsmouth. Going around in circles again, I think...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 05 Apr 12 - 07:06 PM

Alrighty then...

Got set up with Goodwin Community Healthcare, fixed Tom's glasses, had a lovely conversation with a couple coworkers (about cats, what else?) while fixing them, and got back to spend some time with Tom before his evening meal.

He said it's got to be some of the meds...his dreams are, not exactly nightmares, but complex and vaguely ominous and threatening. And the combination of his poor vision, changing personnel and unfamiliar surroundings (well, it's not home) doesn't help.

Talked to the concierge. She says she's talked to the physical therapy people and Tom still has a ways to go, so he probably won't be home next week. And I'll have enough lead time to get whatever other equipment we may need, etc.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 05 Apr 12 - 07:50 PM

Did you get a definition of "a ways to go"? Two weeks? Four?
What goals does he have to accomplish before he can go home?

I ask because my father was given specific goals and with that motivation he cut his nursing home time from eight weeks to two.
Maybe Tom needs to know what he has to accomplish to be sprung - specifically.

Walk on his own ten feet? Place a chair with a bottle of Laphroiag ten feet away. LOL
Did the nurse give any suggestions for controlling his "dementia" ?Sorry - I can't think of another word other than confusion.

I have watched men and women in recovery and noticed that if a man is told he has to practice breathing ten minutes every two hours, he does that and no more. Then complains that "you said...". A woman with the same advice will puff away at every opportunity.

How involved is Tom in his recovery plan?

This may all sound harsh but all we hear from him is that his meals are cold and his coffee late.

I will go back down the CELLAR! with Spaw now.
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 05 Apr 12 - 07:59 PM

Harsh? No. Helpful. Any ideas that may help Tom are welcome, I am sure.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Jeri
Date: 05 Apr 12 - 08:50 PM

Pain meds can mess with sleep.

I think he's working at getting better. I suspect Linn WANTS him out sooner. As for "Walk on his own ten feet?": Mary, you smokin' dryer sheets again? As far as I know, he's only ever had the two.

Seriously, when I had knee surgery, I asked when I could get out of the hospital. My doc said "Next week, probably Tuesday." I said I was hoping to be out before the weekend. He laughed and said I could leave on Friday, if I could bend my knee (operated on the day before, Tuesday) 90°. He seemed pretty sure it was an impossibility. I got out early.

It's good if they've told him what they need him to be able to do. From my visit, I think he's putting effort into the rehab, HAS made great progress and will continue to do so.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 05 Apr 12 - 11:00 PM

I am adding my meddling voice to the others who indicated that Tom and you need to know what he has to be able to do to be released. From my personal experience as a hospital patient for two months and at a rehab facility for a third, I know that this information helped me. Knowing what I had to do was a big motivator, and I got home from rehab in four weeks rather than the predicted six.

It sounds like you are making a lot of progress getting your home ready for him. Good work!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 05 Apr 12 - 11:12 PM

A change in meds might be really helpful, too, re' sleep etc.

Lots of love to both of you,

kat

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 06 Apr 12 - 12:35 PM

Well, Tom didn't sleep well last night, either, but he doesn't seem as confused as he was on Wednesday. I made a couple suggestions to him on how to constructively pass the time from day to day AND keep his mind engaged so he has a better handle on the hours of the day.

I'm still trying to get some information from rehab about how long before he can come home and what skills he has to master before that's possible. I expect the major part of that will be getting up the stairs to the deck and the additional short step into the house as well as being able to get into and out of a car -- all needed before he can come home and still get to his follow-up appointments with his surgeon, etc.

From what he's said, they seem to be working most on his upper body strength right now.

Meanwhile -- thank goodness for concerned and handy friends! -- we're working on solving the problem of the 35+ year-old deteriorating particle board subflooring that could literally trip Tom up when he comes home. Friends are going to replace the seriously damaged sections with plywood.

I picked up a walker and quad-cane several days ago, and another friend last night brought over a "throne" for the king's use...no jewels or Gothic ornamentation, but eminently practical.

This morning I grabbed the closest thing to a "pajama day" I could find and stayed more or less in bed until 10:15 finishing a very nicely done mystery. (With a cat on my lap keeping me from floating to the ceiling.) Somehow, I fear, I may never get a true pajama day ever again in my life...

Right now, just keeping all the balls in the air at the same time is a lot of fun (yeah, right)...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 06 Apr 12 - 10:16 PM

Tom moves to another room tomorrow and I'll post his new phone number when that happens.

We're conducting an experiment tomorrow, too -- we'll see if he can maneuver into my car and I'll take him for a ride. And then we can see how well he can get OUT of the car. Just one of the skills he needs to have to come home. Hope it works out because then I can take him to his appointment with Dr. Blitzer on Tuesday instead of having to pay for the wheelchair van which his insurance doesn't cover.

Good session at The Press Room tonight, with a bunch of people I haven't seen for awhile. Called Tom from the car after the session and he was still awake. Hope he sleeps well for a change. (Getting away from his current roommate tomorrow should help.)

Way too tired...G'night, all...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 06 Apr 12 - 11:36 PM

I remember when I would take my uncle out of the nursing home to go to a restaurant. Each time he tried to get into the car I had to remind him how to do it. He wanted to put one foot in first as he had always done. I had to tell him to get in like a woman in a tight skirt, but he would have been insulted if I'd said that. I would remind him to stand sideways and lower his seat in to the car seat and then turn to bring his legs in. When I explained that, he could do it. What was harder for him was getting out because he had to have enough arm strength to pull himself up and out. The arm strength was also difficult for me when I got out of rehab.

This is something the therapists should teach him. My therapists worked with me on the arm strength and standing up. Then for a few days they took me out to practice on a real car.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 08:25 AM

That's what the therapists have been working on -- his upper body strength. He needs it to haul himself up and down.

Just talked to him, but it was before coffee (his) and he wasn't quite awake.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: RoyH (Burl)
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 08:39 AM

Healing thoughts and best wishes to you both fron over the water. Glad to see a NOTTINGHAM policeman came to your aid. Cheers, Burl

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 11:27 AM

Things a bit complicated this morning. When I talked to him at 8 a.m., he didn't sound awake and had not yet had coffee, so I wasn't that concerned about his grogginess.

Then I called back after giving him time to eat breakfast...and he was still detached and somewhat out of it. And I became quite concerned.

I called the concierge after I knew she'd be at work and left a message for her to check on Tom because I was concerned.

I just called Tom again. He answered, but sounded vague and his nurse was there and we each wanted at the same time to talk to each other.

Anyway, evidently he had just fallen out of bed. And he had been complaining of having trouble grasping his coffee cup. The concierge was also there and I talked to her. They both agree he's not like he usually is. I couldn't do anything more on the phone and they needed to attend to him, but they assured me they would keep me posted about what was happening. I think his nurse wants to send him to the hospital.

I'm not sure what I should be doing right now...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 11:40 AM

Go to the nursing home and see what is going on. Tom will feel a bit more secure with you there. And you will have a first hand knowledge of his condition.
M

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 11:42 AM

Okay. I just talked to TOM again (less than a half hour after I talked to his nurse)...and he both SAYS he's getting better by the minute and he SOUNDS like it. He is now very aware both of what's happening right now and what WAS happening earlier.

I called because I needed to know if I needed to come to Portsmouth right away or not. Looks like it will be best if I wait until mid-afternoon. Our excursion in the car seems to be ruled out for today, at least.

I really sounds to me like a problem with meds... He says it was like he'd overslept and wasn't quite awake.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 02:20 PM

I'm not going to relate the stories but you need to see what they are giving him outside of his norm. The Ambien and the Lunesta families will both cause problems such as you are discussing on their own and they often "don't play well with others" either. I had some very paranoid and very real sleeps back last year during the 2 month stay and they were not all related to infections and fevers.........


Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 02:38 PM

Glad to hear things seemed to be a bit better after the troubles.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 05:23 PM

Sorry, Gnu. I'm not sure things are better...

I lied the other day when I said of any day since this sh...stuff began that was the day I might melt down. Nope. Today. I'm on the edge, but I'm not sure of what. It seemed like everyone on the road or in the store were aiming at me, trying to trip me up or something. I did let off a good scream coming down Priest Road towards home, but all that succeeded in doing was hurting my throat. (Damn! Do I NEED to learn how to scream properly?!?)

And yes, Spaw, I think ultimately the problem is the Ambien plus, possibly, something else that he normally doesn't take. I've got the list and I've got OUR list (of his normal meds) and I'm calling his primary care doc, but I can't do that until Monday. Meanwhile, I think it's agreed with his nurse and with the concierge, that he's going to avoid the Ambien (of which he normally takes half a tab). Besides sleep problems, he's been having bizarre and threatening dreams and other symptoms that seem to be in line with the caveats on that drug.

Tom may or may not be doing better. He couldn't successfully sit up or attempt to get into a wheelchair when I got there. Of course, being forced to stay on his back, his voice is very quiet, and, because he'd like to change positions, he's constantly shifting his left leg. But...we got him moved out of the room with the roommate who makes loud, strange noises all night. The room he's now in -- Room 147A -- is at the end of the same hallway and is very quiet, compared to a lot of the other rooms. Because of its location and because the other occupant (furthest away from the door) is not there during the day and is quiet and sleeps at night. Had a long palaver with Annie, his nurse, and Sharon, the concierge, and I think Tom's going to try -- this is real low tech -- warm milk to help him sleep. Actually, we can do warm milk with a bit of butter and honey which is a Lebanese specific to sleep and I know from experience it puts ME right out.

So...when I left him he was settled in the new room and I got things laid out in a familiar fashion for him, the pain med for his ankle pain was starting to kick in and he was getting sleepy.

Tom's new phone number is 603-431-0898 if my information is correct. Probably not a good idea to call him today, though.

Me, on the other hand, I don't think I'm doing that well. I just feeling...beleaguered. I guess I just don't know what else to do. I can't check with his primary care until Monday. Because of the situation, today was NOT the day to see if he can maneuver in and out of my car -- so it looks as if he'll have to take the wheelchair van to his surgeon's appointment on Tuesday -- and his insurance doesn't pay for that. (I'm just not thinking about the actual medical costs of his adventure right now -- I'm dealing with the immediate regular bills, plus getting the income taxes filed...neither of which I usually have to deal with.)

The slightest thing -- cat doing something annoying, little old ladies blocking the aisles (same two each with their own carts in THREE places! I had to concentrate on NOT succumbing to road rage), mail falling on the floor, etcet etcet -- makes me feel as if I'm just going to start screaming. Or else collapse in a teary puddle. (Less likely. I really don't cry easily even if I want to.) And my throat hurts from the last time I screamed. Tom's nurse and the concierge asked if I needed anything. I said, "Sanity?" They said they were fresh out, alas.

Well, that's the news from Lake Woebegone... I'll talk to Tom again later, probably after I eat something.

Meanwhile, I'm trying desperately to unwind a bit.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 05:26 PM

P.S. -- I'm getting really tired of Tom's major problems actually being caused by being in hospital, nursing or rehab facilities. What the fxxk, is wrong with the fxxking universe?!?

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 06:16 PM

I was one of the lucky ones who had wonderful technicolor happy dreams with Ambien. So happy, my doctor refused to give me any more.

Just a thought, Linn. If Tom is confused in the morning, maybe it would be better to wait for him to call you post coffee, breakfast and waking up.

Did he really fall out of bed or was that part of his dream? His inability to sit up might be related. How is his incision healing? That was a concern a few weeks back.

You are obviously upset and concerned. Tom is hurting. Going off on old ladies in supermarkets always works for me when my frustration levels reach meltdown point. Throwing things helps too but then you have to pick them up.

Try to stay the course (thank you george bush). Tom has serious health issues which are making his recovery a slow process. There will be set backs. Ths Ambien is a good example. He couldn't sleep. He has to sleep to heal. Ambien let him sleep but he had a reaction to it. If the warm milk doesn't work and he can't sleep again, they will have to try something else. Be prepared for more reactions. Sleep drugs are strong medicine.

Hang in there.
M

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 06:32 PM

No, Mary. He was much more confused, groggy, whatever this morning than normal. He's been fine most of the time, but, because of a roommate making loud, strange noises all night, hasn't been getting much sleep despite his normal HALF an Ambien tab. AND when he IS asleep, he's been having vivid, threatening dreams. With or without coffee, he wasn't his normal self. This is NOT helping him with his ankle rehab -- it's setting him back. Both the hospital and rehab have added yet more meds to his already substantial list. And something is causing a problem. It's not only NOT HELPING him...it's HURTING him.

I'm hoping the lack of Ambien, plus a quiet room, will put him on a road to recovery. His other health issues are not causing the problems. It's a meds problem, and I'm getting really sick of hospitals and other facilities CAUSING the problems.

As for the little old ladies, if I had followed my inclinations there would have been blood on the floor and I would have been a screaming, flailing wreck in the middle of a circle of rabid Easter shoppers. And a Lee cop might have shot me to save me from myself.

Neither Tom nor I need this unnecessary bullshit.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 06:52 PM

I stand corrected.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 07:40 PM

File an extension request on your taxes and take that off your plate.

The sleep thing is tough. The 2 monther back in 2010............

**Paranoid dreams about a nurse who was being cruel to me. This one went so far as to get the chief of nursing in. The "cruel nurse" named Janet came in and I eventually saw it had been a nightmarish version of reality. She had indeed restrained me but I was trying to get out of bed and trying to rip out the Foley PLUS I DID rip out a PIC line. I thought I was laying in the back of my van and listening to Peter T. whose voice I have rarely heard read "Thoughts' for the Day" to me.

**More strangeness with no reality---I was in the back room at a taping of "Antiques Roadshow" and I had all these gizmos that no one would look at or price and I was out of money.

**Strangeness and paranoia with some reality----The staff was having a party in the hall outside my room and had me and other very sick patients dancing til we dropped and laughing at us. I begged to go to the bathroom but had to crap in the hallway. The only part of this one that was true is that I did manage to get out of bed, ripping out several lines and shit all over the hallway.

**Worst fear realized---I was moved all around the city to the ends of hallways in unfinished buildings and was never allowed to see Karen. The staff kept telling me I would never see her again. This one came when I could neither walk nor talk and when Karen came I begged her never to leave. This one took awhile to get past. THEY ARE SO GAWDDAM REAL!!!!!

There are more......you get the idea. Part of mine were meds and the interaction between the sleepers/painkillers/betablockers/antibiotics.......But part of them were due to fever/infection from the multiple fuck-up surgery.

Altogether I was in for 7 weeks and for almost 4 of them I was having problems like the above. It felt far longer. I cannot tell you how frightened I was and how long it took me to get over it.


Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Jeri
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 08:16 PM

I thought I replied, but obviously not.
I hope Tom gets some sleep without interruption by noisy roommates, weird dreams, or anything else. Hospitals don't ever seem to understand that comfort is important for patients. They think it's about drugs and vital signs and things they control.

I really do hope things go better tonight.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 10:32 PM

This must be very hard on both of you.

Praying.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 07 Apr 12 - 10:50 PM

Deep breaths. Try to rest. I hope it gets better for both of you.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 08 Apr 12 - 12:47 AM

It doesn't seem fair, Linn. I know how scared and helpless I felt in hospital last year, both of them. Nobody was listening and they did nothing but make things worse. I am fortunate to be here. I was better off at home finding a couple of gems of docs who knew what the fuck was going on and treated me for it!

For now, I hope Tom gets a good night's rest AND you, too. Since screaming isn't an option, how about beating up on a pillow, stamping your feet, writing out more of your frustrations either here or just on paper, etc.? I wish you could let yourself cry..imo tears can really help with release of all the rage, impotence, etc. one feels when all the crap is hitting the fan.

As others have said, and you, it sure sounds like the meds are wreaking havoc. Have a list of questions for his PCP and make sure you get answers on Monday. Ask for an advocate at the rehab place if all else fails.

Spaw, good call on the taxes. Linn, do you have a friend or two who could help you with all of the things you need to do? It doesn't hurt to delegate/accept help. I know you know this and are already accepting some, but maybe there's more? Like grocery shopping, schlepping stuff up and down the driveway, delivering whatever to whomever, etc.?

May all good things come to pass, now, for you and Tom. This, or something better, for the highest good of all concerned. So mote it be.

Love you,

kat

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Ebbie
Date: 08 Apr 12 - 02:57 AM

Spaw, it is easy to see why Karen loves you.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 08 Apr 12 - 07:39 AM

I was going to file for an extension, then let Tom deal with the taxes when he got home, but found a flyer at the community health center last week about free prep and efile (if income is less than $58,000 -- boy, do we qualify!) by the nice folks at MY credit union, called to make sure it wasn't too late, and will be able to accomplish it in about the same amount of time and bother that filing an extension would take. AND we'll get the (needed) refund sooner.

Spaw, the dreams sound very similar to what Tom's been describing -- the being moved around and long hallways. It's got to be the meds...

There have been lots of offers of help, but most of what needs to be done are things I have to do. (Sort of like you can't ask someone else to pee for you while they're up...)

And friends are taking care of the major thing that could trip Tom up (literally) when he gets home -- our antique deteriorating particle board subflooring.

I can wish that a lovely replacement part-time job will just fall into my lap, but I think all I can really do is send off resumes and make phone calls when I can (and try not to feel guilty about not having enough time...).

At least I didn't get any phone calls overnight...

Happy Easter, everyone, if that's what you celebrate.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 08 Apr 12 - 10:53 AM

Took me awhile to get through to Tom this morning -- even had to call the nurses' station to find out if he was awake, etc. (at 9 a.m.). Finally did, though, and he seems to be doing much better this morning -- slept well last night.

I'm about to head over after picking up a couple chocolate glazed donuts for him.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,Guest/Pony Girl
Date: 08 Apr 12 - 11:25 AM

Linn, can they change his sleep med to something with no side effects? Like Trazodone? It's a generic and JUST helps one sleep! Hope he and you both get some much needed respite from all these THINGS...
Pam Biggi

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 08 Apr 12 - 03:28 PM

Well, in some ways he's doing better, but he's definitely well down a slippery slope from where he was at the beginning of last week...

Evidently he slept okay last night -- quieter room, quieter roommate, warm milk instead of sleeping pill. He's still having strange dreams. His blood pressure (which tends to run low at best of times) is very low -- he is in danger of falling if he tries to sit up on the side of the bed. Getting into a chair is out of the question. He's shaky, frail and it scares the bejaysus out of me. He's supposed to be getting STRONGER, not deteriorating!

Tomorrow from work (at least I won't be working alone) I can try to call his primary care doctor and run the meds list past him. The hospital added stuff, rehab added stuff...SOMEthing is screwing up the works. This drug interaction is certainly not helping get him in shape to come home!

I would really like it if they don't accidently KILL him!

I've got to post at Facebook, then go upstairs and call my last remaining great aunt in Milwaukee -- her sister passed away last night. Age 93. These three younger sisters of my paternal grandmother were only a few years older than my parents (my father's uncle was actually younger than he was) much more like aunts than great aunts. (But they were all GREAT to me! My favorite relatives to visit growing up.) All three were unmarried "career girls" -- Irene got me my first job out of high school with the Wisconsin Telephone Company. She was the person who took educational programs to the schools.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST
Date: 08 Apr 12 - 05:08 PM

Hi Linn, Sorry for chiming in - we hardly know each other - though I have known 'of' you and Tom for many moons. Plus we are part of a tiny fb community so I care. Here's my two cents. I think you are on to something that the meds are causing increased weakness and deterioration. Good instincts! I hope you pursue this at the doctor's appointment. These drugs are powerful and the side effects are often worse than the affliction they are supposedly treating. Well, you obviously already know this - I am just offering support of your instincts and knowledge. Also, great that you got him to drink warm milk to sleep. Though the drug companies will lie and tell us that only a small percentage of those who take sleep meds suffer adverse reactions - like disturbing dreams, the truth is, most people have these reactions. Oprah did a whole show on it and I've seen it in my patients. Good luck and God Bless. You are taking great care of Tom. Take care, Cathy Nicol

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 08 Apr 12 - 06:39 PM

The warm milk with honey and a bit of butter is a Lebanese drink called udvash. It really works. Good for sleeping (puts me right out) and good for the throat as well.

It's so frustrating that this stuff happens on a weekend. Even the rehab facility's doctor is more or less unavailable. I think I really need the input of his PCP who, at least, KNOWS Tom. He has an appointment with his surgeon on Tuesday, who is really only familiar with his fibula -- not his replacement heart parts, vascular problems, vision problems, etcet etcet. I can call his PCP from work tomorrow -- maybe fax over the list I got from one of his nurses at Clipper Harbor. I think it's just so obvious that his downhill slide is adverse interaction of meds -- right now too many of them are not those prescribed by his PCP or cardiologist. (Hmmm...maybe I ought to contact his cardiologist, too...) I won't be able to run the list past our pharmacist until maybe Tuesday -- except for what Tom regularly takes, none of those prescribed by doctors at Wentworth-Douglass or Clipper Harbor go through our regular pharmacist.

Tom sounded good when I talked to him an hour ago or so. At least he's very cognisant of how this is affecting him. And he, too, feels impotent to get it straightened out. He truly wants to continue making physical headway so he can come home. He really doesn't need this setback.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 08 Apr 12 - 07:36 PM

Sorry to hear about your aunt, Linn. I hope you had a good visit with the one still remaining.

I would call the cardio asap, just like the PCP. Just adding my voice of support as others have. Your instincts are good. Sounds like a lot of professionals had their heads up their nether regions!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST
Date: 08 Apr 12 - 07:43 PM

I also hardly know you but certainly care on several levels; can't say it all better than Cathy N. above so just ditto everything there. I've been through it with my Dad and knew nothing...learned that you can't do everything but you MUST ask questions and give them information - it's always worth it. I wish you both all the luck in the world! Deb Goss

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Ebbie
Date: 08 Apr 12 - 08:40 PM

This thought doesn't really apply here but it is still instructive: My mother had gone to the same doctor for years. She was 80 when she started having vivid hallucinations- although some of them were very funny she - and we - were disturbed about it.

We talked her into going to see a different doctor and after the workup he immediately took her off four of the seven meds she was taking, all prescribed by her longtime doctor...

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 09 Apr 12 - 12:22 AM

Good point, Ebbie, and I would add the reminder that as we grow older we often don't need as much of certain meds. Doctors should be very careful about monitoring eh dosages in older folks and I'm not trying to be ageist.:-)

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 09 Apr 12 - 01:33 AM

This is the problem. Tom has a number of meds he's on, especially because of his heart and vascular problems.

Doctors at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital added more. Then Clipper Harbor Rehab added even more. Meanwhile, someone who KNOWS him -- his PCP or his cardiologist -- has not been involved.

Of course, the worst of this is happening over the weekend when Clipper's doctor isn't there. I just can't understand why the other professionals involved can't see that he's in a LOT worse shape than he was just a few days ago. Because of the low BP, he can't sit on the side of the bed or in a chair -- and can't do the physical therapy he needs to be doing, the reason he's there in the first place.

I'm not a professional -- but I can see that a lot of this (besides the sleep problems) seems to be meds -- interaction or something. And, because he's got replacement heart parts, they need to be on the lookout for any possible blood infection, too.

Can't do anything until morning...except go back to sleep and rest up (it's 1:30 a.m. and I just woke up from dreaming about it).

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 09 Apr 12 - 04:45 AM

sending more good wishes to both of you

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 09 Apr 12 - 08:44 AM

Tom sounds good on the phone (even before he's had his coffee) -- but that's because his mind isn't really being affected by all this. His weak and shaky physical reality (which I can't check on over the phone) scares the bejaysus out of me. I'll call HIS doctors today and maybe get something constructive done to get him back on track to healing well enough to come home.

We really don't need all this unnecessary bullshit...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 09 Apr 12 - 02:36 PM

I can only wish you luck with getting things straightened out.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 09 Apr 12 - 08:14 PM

Just got home...from errands before work...work...calling Tom's doctors from work (while my coworker was there)...talking to Tom's nurse this afternoon and finding out what blood tests he had today (not the blood count which might show a possible infection, though, until tomorrow morning...going to visit Tom...

Fortunately the work day itself wasn't that demanding, for a change, so I hope my co-worker doesn't feel guilty about going home sick. She stayed while I needed to make phone calls from the doctor's office and I really, really appreciate that.

I. Am. Soooo. Tired.

Hungry, too -- but just heated up some heat-'n'serve pot stickers (faked a dipping sauce) and a piece of fish from last week (vehicle for my tartar sauce which qualifies as a vegetable).

Good night...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 09 Apr 12 - 08:18 PM

Oh, and I stopped back at Optical on the way home from visiting Tom so I could fix his glasses. He managed to lose the nosepads on the new pair I got him last Wednesday (I think it was Wednesday...).

Can't give them back to him until I meet him at Dr. Blitzer's tomorrow afternoon.

Can I go to bed now?

Linn (whining just a little bit)

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,Linda
Date: 09 Apr 12 - 08:27 PM

I'm only a guest here, Linn, but a caring friend who wants to note the really good advice being given to you above.

Challenge authority.
Question everything.

Those adages from the 60's apply when your loved one is ill.
Those of us who have cared for older family members will attest to the muddle of medications that often send patients backward, rather than forward.

A second or third or fourth opinion is needed.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Midchuck
Date: 09 Apr 12 - 09:01 PM

What GuestLinda said, squared.

NEVERNEVERNEVER underestimate the ability of otherwise highly competent physicians to pile on the meds, without checking on what meds may already be in use, and what side effects my compound the side effects of others, etc. Especially if you're seeing more than one doc. One thing I learned from my heart surgery.

But then, I like to look for things to be paranoid about.

P.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ranger1
Date: 09 Apr 12 - 10:53 PM

Linn, whine away. That's what we're here for.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: MaineDog
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 09:15 AM

lots of drug interactions only have symptoms "later" you can check for this on line, just google: DrugA AND DrugB
you'll see both real and imagined interactions. Good Luck.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 09:52 AM

Tom says he had a decent night's sleep and he slept late -- didn't answer when I called at 8, but did when I called at 8:30. I'd also left a politely angry and frustrated voicemail for the concierge. I hope they (concierge, doctor, et al) FINALLY understand that a) something is wrong, and b) eliminating or finding and TREATING any infection that could be causing these symptoms is a matter for IMMEDIATE concern. He has a replacement aortic valve -- ANY infection is potentially life-threatening. That's why his teeth were removed back in 2004 -- so mouth/gum bacteria wouldn't endanger him. (Excuse me while I scream for a few minutes...)

Got a call back and made the appointment to get the taxes taken care of tomorrow morning. Another thing checked off the list. Worked out when a friend can come over earlier tomorrow to do some repair work on the floor. (Check)

Well, my hair's dry now, so I'd better get dressed and start eliminating a few more things from my list. ("Just put the book down and back away, Linn...")

Maybe Tom will have had some coffee by the time I call back...

Linn

Got a bunch of piddly things (that just take TIME) that need to get done before I head over to Seacoast Orthopedics this afternoon to meet Tom at his appointment with his surgeon.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 12:42 PM

The bad news is, they just cancelled Tom's appointment with Dr. Blitzer this afternoon and rescheduled it for Friday when I can't go because I'm working -- but they'll reschedule that reschedule on a day I'm available NEXT week. He's being rescheduled because he's still too frail and tippy to safely travel in the wheelchair van.

The good news is, Dr. Riskalla is at Clipper Harbor now and will be seeing Tom. And Tom's day nurse (who has been doing a great job of keeping me on top of stuff today and yesterday) will let me know what happens and when I should go over today to see Tom.

The other good news is that, for the next two weeks at least, I'm being scheduled for 20 hours at work per week -- that's about 2-1/2 hours more than (at best) I've been getting since the first of the year.

Maybe something will get accomplished today to get Tom back on the road to recovery.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 01:07 PM

It's sounding better, Linn!

I just came across something we all might be interested in. In Tom's case, I think it would have made a lot of difference in the initial ER visit. I know it would have been better for me. I'm surprised they don't see the bennies for people of all ages. Anyway, HERE IT IS.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 01:11 PM

As an aside Linn, Dr Z got an honourable mention on UK BBC Radio 4 this morning.
Give my love to Tom, but keep some of it for yourself too. Thinking of you both
J

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 01:22 PM

kat... that's excellent. Too bad it's not everywhere.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 01:39 PM

Just got a call from Tom's day nurse. Doctor was there, but I think only kvetched about not seeing it reported anywhere if Tom his his head when he slipped. (He didn't.) Evidently the doctor failed to address Tom's condition since Saturday. His nurse said that after the doctor left, Tom's labs came in -- he's anemic and his white count is somewhat elevated (so there may be an infection after all) -- and they're sending him to Wentworth-Douglass Emergency Room.

I'm about to call Tom's primary care doctor again and alert him (and his very competent nurse). Maybe THEN we can get this set-back corrected and get Tom on the road to recovery.

I'll be going over to Wentworth-Douglass in about an hour.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 01:59 PM

Left a message for Tom's primary care doc's nurse, just talked to a friend who called moments before I was going to call him, about to call another local friend, post this link at Facebook and head to Dover.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,GUEST
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 04:29 PM

Good Lord, this is horrendous, I'd never have bothered you for facebook instructions, but I had no idea. I apologize.

When I mentioned my break, I was thinking in terms of how it went with me - crept into house, called wife, she came & drove me to CVH, got there about 9:00 a.m,, had x-rays, consults, doc reduced the break, went thru surgery about 7:00 p.m, in a semi-private the next day until about 5:00 p.m., when I went home, and that was that. Clearly I got off very lightly, tho that wasn't my view at the time.

Seeing as I was 56 last July, I wasn't quite thinking of myself as a spring chicken, nor quite at the apogee of fitness either, but apparently I'm still nearly in the above-mentioned category of youngsters who do this kind of thing and never notice. (Well, actually I did notice.)

I'm another non-praying guy, but I can mention this to wife Meg if you'd like, and you can have the Baptist Fellowship of Randolph, Vermont add their petitions for Tom's prosperity. Speaking of religion, as I was crawling out the kitchen door & down the steps, on my way to the car & the hospital, Meg grins and says "See, God's finally got you on your knees, after all." Her sister later thought it incredibly callous, but I actually found it hilarious. I wanted all the hilarity that could be mustered, as I was lying around thinking of all the stuff I had been planning to get done in August & September, and the jams & concerts I'd not be going to. Foot didn't feel particularly good either, tho I'd always supposed broken bones more painful than this turned out to be, this being my first.

Hang in there, Linn. Rx: A sufficiency of cats, fried in butter until - no, I mean petted absently on top of good knee, whilst reading and drinking udvash, repeat PRN. This too shall pass.

Carl, VT Harmonica Guy

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 04:56 PM

I am glad to hear some action is being taken. I only lasted thirty minutes at the rehab place before they sent me to the next hospital.:-)

May all good come to pass, easily and quickly, for Tom and you. May the doctors and care team be divinely guided in his care and send him home on the mend! This, or something better, for the highest good of all concerned.

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 08:34 PM

Home. (A bit after 8 p.m.) Stopped at "the Scottish restaurant" for a mushroom burger to go and just ate it. At least I must have. It's gone and the bag, etc. is still here.

Just called Tom and said goodnight...I'll call him next in the morning.

I arrived at the ER about the same time he did. Found out later his blood pressure was 43/30. He got Dr. Trotzky again, which was nice. Everyone was amazed at how lucid and articulate he was despite such low BP.

They got him started on oxygen, fluids and blood. (Yeah, they first tried to get blood out of him, but they promised to replace it and then some...) Got a gastroenterologist involved -- they noted right away he definitely had some bleeding going on somewhere. Rehab SHOULD have noticed the black stools as well as all the other symptoms he had and DONE something about it. They're getting him stabilized and then tomorrow they'll send a camera down and see what's what so they can fix it. The only time he ever had a bleeding ulcer was the day he got out of the ICU after his heart surgery. That was probably caused by post-op meds.

He got into a room in the ICU about 7-ish and seemed reasonably comfortable when I left -- he's got a great nurse who will be with him until, I think, 7 tomorrow morning.

I'm very tired. (Surprise, surprise.) But also very relieved that someone is finally attending to the problem.

Got a friend coming over early tomorrow to do some repair work on our floor in anticipation of Tom coming home. (Prolly not this week...) And then I have what should be a fairly quick appointment to get the taxes filed. After that I'll pick up his clothes and tackle at Clipper Harbor and head to Wentworth-Douglass.

All in all, Tom is in good spirits and would REALLY like all this to be over so he can come home. Tomorrow it will be four weeks. The cats and I miss HIM around the ol' homestead, too.

Goodnight, all. Thanks for all the good thoughts, white light and prayers...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Janie
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 10:11 PM

Holding both of you in a circle of light in my mind, Linn. Haven't been posting, but have been following the thread with good intent and will continue to do so.

Janie

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 10:27 PM

43/30 and black stools. I have no words. Just Ts&Ps that things get straightened out. My heart aches for you both.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 10:54 PM

I am so relieved to hear Tom is being well taken care of now. I sure hope you can get some better rest and that he will be home very soon.

Much love,

kat

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 10 Apr 12 - 11:05 PM

Sleep for both of you, and healing.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 07:41 AM

Expected to talk to his night nurse early this morning, but she and his day nurse were in the hand-off conference. Called a little later, again expecting to talk to his nurse, but was put right through to Tom.

He sounds a lot stronger than yesterday -- he's still getting more blood to replace what's been lost.

Friend on his way over to work on the floor.

I'll call Clipper Harbor later about picking up his stuff after I deal with the taxes and then I can take his anti-glare yellow goggles, talking clock, etc. over to him. He probably won't need the clothes for a few days.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 08:05 AM

Linn-

(expletives deleted)

Very scary episode. One would wish that the rehab folks at Clipper Harbor would have noticed the black stools, among the many other tasks they are supposed to monitor, well before Tom's BP dropped to that abysmal level.

Would be nice if you could postpone taxes, though I realize that it's almost as much work to apply for an extension. You've got more than enough stress in your life right now.

Back to my taxes.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 08:53 AM

Right, Charlie -- it's not any more real effort to actually get the taxes filed (a free service at my credit union) and get the refund, than it is to file an extension. We don't have much income; our taxes are very simple. It's just that I've not efiled before (another thing Tom always took care of) and this is a lot less aggro. So getting that taken care of this morning will actually be eliminating some stress.

You have no idea how much I hope I can sort of take tomorrow "off" -- and only have to spend some time with Tom, not checking other stuff off lists. I HAVE to work on Friday (10-3) and I'll put in an appearance at The Press Room session in order to give everybody news (and, I hope, collect a few hugs -- I need them), but I'll probably leave early to visit with Tom and then go home and collapse.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,Meg
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 09:01 AM

HUGS! HUGS! HUGS! hugs, hugs, hugs. Large and small.
Sending you lots and lots of hugs. White Light too.
Thinking of you both.
Meg

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 10:50 AM

adding my cyber-hugs to those Meg sent

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,jennifer
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 11:04 AM

Linn -- keeping track of everything on fb and mudcat. Hang in there! And take care of yourself too!

Have you both in my prayers, and sending much love and hugs. Sounds like Tom's in the right place NOW.

jennifer, in DC

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 12:04 PM

Does this mean that Tom will have start rehab all over again? He must be ready to run away TO home.
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 12:09 PM

No! Let's see him well enough to go home with trips to PT or a PT coming to the house! I can't believe it's been a whole month!

{{{{{{{{{{{{{{LINN}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 05:23 PM

Ayuh...8 o'clock tonight will be four weeks. Arghhh!!!

Accomplished day, starting early. Partial repair of our floor (in anticipation of Tom coming home) before we ran out of time. I had to head out to our credit union to get our taxes efiled. That's done -- one more thing checked off the list. Then went to Clipper Harbor to grab Tom's clothes and tackle. Another check mark.

Treated myself to some calamari for lunch on the way to the hospital, then realized when I continued the drive exactly how exhausted I am. My brain is totally fried.

So I stayed with Tom for a couple hours. He's looking good, had some more blood dripped into him, and he said he really would like to be home -- probably won't need too much more PT after he recovers from this (or so he thinks, for what that's worth). He's also itchy to do some cooking. (But, keep in mind, he hasn't had any food since yesterday...)

I left right after they wheeled him out at 4 p.m. for the gastro look-see procedure. His nurse said calling him at 7 tonight would probably be better than 6.

I need to pop a couple aspirin for an annoying but mild headache, and go upstairs and veg out.

I sincerely hope that the only thing I really need to do tomorrow is go spend some time with Tom...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Celtaddict
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 05:53 PM

Linn, I am so glad things are finally heading in the right direction for Tom; what an ordeal, one thing after another. (I follow on FB too.)
Many hugs to you both!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 06:42 PM

Virtual hugs from me, too.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 07:26 PM

Just talked to Tom's nurse...and to Tom. He's in for a night of, uh, "housecleaning"...they're doing a colonoscopy in the morning.

Evidently they didn't find anything bleeding higher up. I asked Tom if he'd been sedated through the procedure. He said no, just probably Valium or some other calmer. Then he said it only took 3 minutes...so I think he was VERY calm. They told me the procedure would take about an hour...

I've had trouble staying awake until now (not quite 7:30 p.m.), so I'm going to shut down the house, crawl into my jammies and hit the hay very early.

Goodnight...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 07:38 PM

LOL.....Yeah.....A 3 minute scope. Bet he'll wish for a 3 minute colonoscopy too.........I had one one time where I crapped on the Doc's shoe. He wasn't happy as I obviously hadn't been "properly flushed" so I had to do the golightly stuff again. I don't mind the scoping as much as I do drinking that gawdawful stuff.They gave me flavor packets once which just made it taste like lemon or orange gawdawful stuff.


Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Jeri
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 07:39 PM

He's had a lot of "look sees" because of the larynx stuff, so maybe it wasn't a big deal for him.
Colonoscopy prep is a pain in the... well, you know. It may be mitigated by having the prep in a hospital and not having to move a lot to have movements. Still, I'd think it will be a fairly miserable night.

Sleep well, Linn.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 07:55 PM

"Still, I'd think it will be a fairly miserable night."

Nah... the stuff they give ya these days cleans ya out in short order and ya get a good night... if ya can sleep in the first place, of course.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Nancy King
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 08:18 PM

Glad things seem to be going in the right direction -- finally! Let's hope the trend continues! Keeping you both in my thoughts --

Nancy

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Jeri
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 08:19 PM

It didn't happen with me, Gnu, but it sounds like I wasn't the norm.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 09:09 PM

Gross! Kool-Aid with texture followed by endless trips (runs) to the bathroom.
Poor Tom. He can't run fast these days. Depends?
I hate colonoscopies.
My first was done with me awake and the doctor a proctologist to the NY Comedy Community. Ask me about the old lady whose son wore a chicken on his head. And I was not drugged then.
Tha last one was done under anaesthesia. I awoke to a roomful of people farting loudly and longly.
Did I mention I hate colonoscopies?????
The indignities of old age vs. colon cancer. I'll take the embarrassment and a glass of Kool-aid please.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 09:10 PM

Irony - the thread under this is entitled Santorum drops out of race.
Says it all.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 Apr 12 - 10:41 PM

I think everyone I've ever spoken to who has experience the colonoscopy says the prep is worse than the procedure. I sure thought so.

I hope they are able to rule out anything else and get that man home pretty soon!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 08:01 AM

Hope so too Maggie.....

Jeri might recall back in '99 when, after just going through the hospitalization for the aortic dissection, I went straight back the next day for an intestinal bleed that took a couple of days (and a load of blood) to find. I had two of everything but on the second barium x-ray they saw an irregularity in my small bowel which turned out to be a carcinoid tumor. They took out about a foot of small intestine and all has been fine since.

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 08:13 AM

Spaw-

"an irregularity in my small bowel which turned out to be a carcinoid tumor."

In your case they got it right in time. That would have been easy to miss.

Some day you should send those medical folks a thank-you, if you haven't already done so.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 10:18 AM

I have Charley and I have with most of those who have been involved in my numerous "near death" experiences over the pastdozen years......and I have aalways tried to thank the many nurses who are the heart and soul of the medical world.

I have also been lucky except for one disastrous problem in 2010 to have had many fine docs including one of the foremost heart surgeons in the country and two PHP's that have both been there through it all.

With the exception of the botched surgery, partially the responsibility of a jackass anesthesiologist, I have been on the very best end of the medical profession.........and I am indeed grateful and have let them know it.


Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 11:12 AM

I hope I've tricked my body and brain into thinking I've had some rest while lolling in bed with a cup of tea and a book this morning (and a cat! Don't forget the cat!) while I was also on the phone with Tom's nurse (Cindi! Cindi's back!), Tom, Dr. Blitzer's office, Dr. Thompson's office, making an appointment for an oil change for my car and letting Jim, who used to teach with Tom, know about the situation, etcet.

Despite my bagel and tea earlier, I'm famished. Maybe because I rather forgot to eat anything last night. So now I'm cooking up something immediate as well as planning another multi-meal cookup for later.

Thanking those people who often have thankless jobs IS important! Besides thanking Kathleen (Tom's day nurse at Clipper Harbor on Tuesday) over the phone for getting Tom to the ER on Tuesday, I made a point of seeing her personally after I collected Tom's stuff. That being said, I also let everybody there know that I don't think very highly of their tame doctor who refused to check anything important on Tom's condition on Tuesday (after almost 4 days of it not being addressed).

Anywho, Tom -- first talked to Cindi this morning who reported that James, his night nurse (also familiar from Tom's last stay there), reported that Tom got through the colonoscopy prep last night in record time. I asked Cindi if he got a certificate and she said she'd make him one. Fastest time on record , in their experience. Tom was sleeping, but I talked to him a bit later. He asked what the game plan was and sounded not completely on top of things as I had thought (which is totally understandable), so I went through everything in detail that has happened since Tuesday (and this weekend) and what is being planned -- including the colonoscopy that he has by now had. And that I had a few things to wrap up around the house this morning and would be over to see him early afternoon.

Now I should call work and reassure them that I will be there tomorrow from 10-3. I'm pretty sure I'll be alone in the shop, so taking the day off would be very problematic.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 11:56 AM

Ach! Just started to do some cleaning things around here and have realized exactly how PHYSICALLY tired I am, too. Thought it was just my overloaded brain.

Still, I need to clean out the blue cabinet so I can restore it to its place between the wall and the post -- moved yesterday to replace part of the deteriorated subflooring. Probably a bunch of the stuff inside can be taken to Goodwill...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 01:04 PM

I just called the ICU to talk to Tom (it's 1 p.m.) but they've JUST brought him back and are getting him settled.

His nurse, Cindi, will call me when she can.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 02:23 PM

Just talked to him on the phone and I'm almost out the door -- heading over to see him.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 06:11 PM

Yeehah! Good news!

Tom was sitting up and very alert when I got there -- quite a change from Saturday through yesterday. And he not only had already had some physical therapy, he was ready to move out of the ICU to a real room on the 3rd floor. He had told them he didn't want to be moved until after I got there.

Got a full report from his nurse -- they found three polyps this morning and snipped them off. Only one needed to be cauterized. They didn't find anything that was bleeding and figure the blood may have been from the gastritis they found yesterday (which no one told me about).

Anyway, it looks as if he may be coming home soon -- from the hospital without going back to rehab.

He's now in room 353 at Wentworth-Douglass Hospital in Dover, NH -- the phone right to him is 603-609-6353. Hey! And no roommate!

Tom, I think, has more energy right now than I have -- I've been absolutely wiped out all day. Somebody turned the gravity way up. Maybe it's the weather, maybe it's the hectic schedule I've had lately, maybe it's the relief...

I'm again going to be fairly early -- besides, I have to work tomorrow. Then check in at The Press Room and relay the news to those not on Facebook or Mudcat. And THEN I can go see Tom. (And maybe get to bed early again, too.)

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 06:12 PM

Good thing I copied that last post -- it didn't "take" and I had to post it again. I wouldn't have had the energy to rewrite it...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 06:32 PM

Tom home... that sounds good.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: maeve
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 06:52 PM

Yippee! Go read yourself to sleep, Linn. Love to Tom.

Maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Jeri
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 07:02 PM

Linn, you've been running on adrenaline, and I hope you get a chance to really rest soon. I'm glad things are starting to look better... BOY am I glad!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 08:00 PM

applause from here too......

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Celtaddict
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 08:11 PM

Great to hear!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 12 Apr 12 - 09:08 PM

Indeed it is!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 13 Apr 12 - 12:05 AM

Giving thanks for the improvements and Tom home, as well as Linn getting time to just collapse in a heap and restore herself.:-)Oh, joy!!

luvyakat

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 13 Apr 12 - 06:07 AM

Well, the next few days are going to be interesting and I still have stuff to juggle... Now, if only the hospital will let me in on THEIR plans...

I don't know when Tom is being released. I don't know whether that will be to home or to rehab.

I still don't know if Tom can get in and out of my car...in and out of the house.

I work today, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Today and Sunday I work alone -- I can't just up and not be there.

And there's still some work to be done on the floor, although that can be worked around even if Tom is home. It just complicates it a bit.

At least I don't have to worry about his health! Yesterday truly he sound better than he has since he broke the fibula in the first place. I wonder, too, how long the bleeding had been taking place.

Linn

At least I

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 13 Apr 12 - 06:15 AM

good to have good news about Tom, now all we need is news is that you are well rested.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: mouldy
Date: 13 Apr 12 - 07:15 AM

Brilliant news! Now take care of yourself so that you can continue to take care of Tom

Andrea xx

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 13 Apr 12 - 08:28 AM

Good news. Tom must be exhausted by all this too.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 13 Apr 12 - 08:36 AM

Sounds like a long weekend but hang in there.

Judy is stressed out herself today, it being the last day of the current legislative session. No one really knows what the final endgame will be for the supplemental budget. And we do need to focus on our current draft of taxes, and do a recording session with a friend this evening, and I need to get a new replacement window installed upstairs, and a cat's so hungry or bored right now!

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 13 Apr 12 - 08:40 AM

When I called this morning he was in the middle of having the cast changed. And then he decided he needed the shoe and the sweat pants that I have in my car (after picking them up at Clipper Harbor) NOW.

I explained he can't have them now, or even before I get there probably around 6 tonight. Even if I left the house right now (and I can't because I have things like packing my lunch and finishing getting ready) I couldn't get to the hospital and then to work on time -- and I'm opening and working alone today until I'm relieved at 3, so I just can't.

And, believe me, he CAN live until late this afternoon without his moccasin...and they're not going to be releasing him today.

Ach!

Mary, Tom doesn't seem exhausted at all. He's got way more energy than I have, maybe even more than he usually has. Definitely way more than he's had since he broke his ankle.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 13 Apr 12 - 06:43 PM

Well, yes...they DID release him today -- back to rehab. I didn't find this out, of course, until after I had been at work for a couple hours. Fortunately it was a quiet day (the doctor was off at her other office at the other end of the mall where they were having an "Eyeglass Extravaganza" this weekend), so I was able to spend as much time on the phone as I had to.

Okay, folks, new phone number -- 603-749-2936, room 504 at Langdon Place at Dover. I made them promise not to try to kill him...

The good news is that I transported him there -- he got into my car with minimal difficulty at Wentworth-Douglass and the most significant problem he had in getting out at Langdon Place was the wheelchair there didn't have feet supports and Tom had trouble keeping his feet off the ground. That was quickly taken care of and he was wheeled into a very pleasant, well-designed double room where he had the choice of beds -- he may be alone all weekend.

The other good news is I was able to borrow a very nice "rollator" (rolling walker with a seat) for him to use when he gets home. And his goal is to be home by this time next week. He REALLY wants to be home and in familiar surroundings.

Langdon Place is a bit more convenient for me to get to after work, less than 4 miles from Rte. 4. It seems like a nice place -- physical therapy facilities, and I really like how the rooms are laid out. Less people in wheelchairs parked in the halls, too. Perhaps a bit less understaffed?

Way too tired to go back to Portsmouth to the Press Room session -- I'd let some of the other principals know I probably wouldn't make it and to let those not following here or Facebook what's happening.

I probably won't stay here at the computer any longer than it takes to eat supper. I'll call Tom in about 45 minutes to say goodnight, then probably turn in early myself.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 13 Apr 12 - 07:31 PM

Linn-

Nice to hear that things are moving along at a less frantic pace, and with the promise of better times to come.

Did they ever determine the source of the internal bleeding, or did I miss that report.

Judy is still hostage to the Legislature until about 10 pm this evening. We decided, sanely, to postpone our recording session with our friend. She's a storyteller and she's created some great Downeast stories.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 13 Apr 12 - 09:01 PM

Tom must have really been hitting the rehab if he was able to get in and out of a car. So good to hear he is feeling better. Maybe by July he can join us for Jed's concert and a some music later. Tom's concertina, Kendall's mandolin, Jed's banjo. Jeri on fiddle. Could be like old times.
Mary

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 13 Apr 12 - 09:43 PM

I, too, think it is great that Tom was able to get in and out of the car. I'm glad you were able to get the rollator, too. Progress!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bill D
Date: 13 Apr 12 - 10:09 PM

I worry...and I'm sure YOU do, about how it will go when Tom IS home, and you have to go off to work. I know many things will be easier when he is where he knows where things are...etc. But full mobility is quite a ways off. Is there anyone who can be there...even part of the days when you are gone?

(I read regularly, but don't say much.....)

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 14 Apr 12 - 09:02 AM

I hate it when I've composed the perfect lead in my head and when I sit here to start writing the post it's just gone...

Charlie -- upper GI gastritis (which they didn't tell me about at the time) and 3 polyps in the bowel which were taken care of. No sign of bleeding -- they seem to think the blood came from the gastritis. Took a bunch o' blood to fill him back up again.

Mary, he was doing great with his physical therapy when this problem hit and stole a week away from rehab. It was just so damned unnecessary!

When I talked to Tom before bedtime last night, he was very unhappy. His dinner was less than optimal (granted they'd thrown something together for him because he'd just gotten there) and, after the "evaluation" he suspected some of what they are doing or have planned for him is more concerned with sucking money from Medicare than helping get Tom on his feet again (literally).

I slept disjointedly last night, but I may have actually worked some stuff out while I was lying there awake (with a purring cat in my face and another on top of me). One is that I can't let things get out of our control like last week. If that means I have to be rude, forceful and aggressive, so be it. I cannot assume that just because they are medical people that they know what they are doing and that it is best for Tom. Second is I need answers, a plan, more information and I NEED IT NOW!!!

Tom's problems of the past four weeks are not the result of his broken ankle but of the medical/rehab system. (ICU psychosis, his internal bleeding setback of the past week and the time it took to address it). He needs to get HOME where he can sleep well and eat well (bad food and lack of dentures has taken its toll -- he's lost 15 pounds) and be in familiar surroundings. He needs to be able to get to the dentist and get the new dentures in the works.

What he does NOT need is an open-ended plan with no goal set for release and the establishment not communicating their plans with either of us. I am fucking fed up!!! Even when I ask, I've not been given answers. Nobody seems to actually KNOW anything.

I've got to call NH ServiceLink for advice on Monday -- and Tom's primary care, and the social worker at Clipper Harbor and whoever else I can think of. (Again, I'll be working Monday, but I won't be alone, so it's do-able.)

I've got to find out who, exactly, I have to talk to at Langdon Place today. And I'm laying down the law -- Tom polishes the skills he needs to get in and out of the house and car THIS WEEK. And he's released to home by the end of the week. Or I want some pretty strong reasons why not.

Now that he's not losing blood hand over fist, his energy and outlook are still very good and he desperately wants to get on with life. He has plans to work on the writing projects he's got going and other things that need to be done. He needs to be at home with me and I need him to be home with me.

You know, I've been with Tom through a lot of medical stuff. This has been by far the worst. Much worse than his heart surgery (replaced aortic valve, repaired tricuspid, double bypass, defibrillator installation -- valve job, tune-up and some electrical work and now he'll never play football again). Far, far worse than the cancer surgery, the loss of his voice, his vision loss and vascular adventures. I can handle a lot, but it's the unnecessary bullshit that's really getting to me.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 14 Apr 12 - 09:21 AM

I am seconding your frustration sister. my daughter Hil has been getting the same sort of run around, wrong diagnoses and questionable care that's causing more problems than it fixes. The US healthcare industry is in it for the bottom line.   At least you are there to play advocate for Tom.   Wish I could be for Hilary.


Here's me hoping that it all get's sorted pronto and that you really give em what for!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 14 Apr 12 - 11:00 AM

More than anyone needs to know about gastritis:
http://www.emedicinehealth.com/gastritis/page8_em.htm

Apparently it is common in surgery patients over 65. Stress, meds,smoking,coffee/caffeine and alcohol are key triggers. Hopefully, Tom's caretakers are paying close attention looking for symptoms of internal bleeding so they can avoid last week's drama.

Like Bill, I wonder if Tom will be able to function safely when he first gets home. Something to add to the list, Linn.
M

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 14 Apr 12 - 11:55 AM

Linn-

Thanks for the further update, and give them Hell if you think it's appropriate, and flowers when they do good.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 14 Apr 12 - 12:36 PM

Mary, Bill -- Tom will NOT be going upstairs to the bedrooms and bathroom for some time. Not until he can safely negotiate those stairs.

By the time he's home, he won't need someone constantly there. He'll be able to maneuver between bed (the couch), the commode, the table, the computer...even stand in the kitchen and fix some food. (Though I'll relieve him of everyday cooking for awhile.)

And I only work approximately 18 hours a week as it is -- that's the major reason why I need to find another job, but haven't been able to do much in that line while Tom needs so much and so much attention.

Just driving everywhere to and from Tom, and everywhere else I need to go is so time-consuming. EVERYTHING takes so much more time than you think and it just nibbles away at the day. I'm driving about 3 times my normal daily miles -- that's expensive both in time AND gas.

I'm looking forward to sometime again being able to eat a normal meal -- mostly I'm shovelling something in my mouth while I'm here at the computer (as I am right now). And a few minutes later I can neither remember what I ate or even that I DID eat. And every time I ask Tom about his meals (except in the hospital) he says, "Well I had some wonderful [whatever] but I couldn't eat it because it had toxic levels or sodium" or it would tear up his denture-less mouth to eat it.

I just talked to him again a little while ago and he's changed his mind about wanting to leave immediately. He had a good-tasting breakfast and the coffee, while not up to his standards (or as good as the k-cups he could have anytime at Clipper Harbor) is passable. He still wants to be home SOON.

Ach! Just threw out a bunch of stuff that was in the blue cabinet. That SHOULD make me feel good (but it's just not as satisfying as it should be). Laundry drying, dishes dealt with, information located, car emptied (while still in my nightshirt -- good thing we're not right on the road).

It's only noon and I'm (still) exhausted.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 14 Apr 12 - 02:43 PM

"Stress, meds,smoking,coffee/caffeine and alcohol are key triggers."

I don't drink coffee so I should be just fine.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 14 Apr 12 - 06:26 PM

Stress, meds, coffee...three out of five, not bad.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,Weaver
Date: 15 Apr 12 - 02:41 AM

Hey Linn,
Glad Tom is doing better. He will improve quickly oce he gets home. You sound so tired and frustrated, no wonder why what with all the bull*****.
Thinking of you both.
Dianne

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 15 Apr 12 - 07:07 AM

Strange dreams last night...Bill Shatner...Nancy Reagan... Nancy Reagan?!?

Well, fell asleep last night after watching about four episodes of "Boston Legal", drinking a couple glasses of port and eating a couple cream horns...

Was too tired to post yesterday when I got home from Langdon Place. He's settled in, the food isn't that bad and he's worked out alternatives when the scheduled meal is disagreeable or too hard on his mouth. His room is much more quiet than Clipper Harbor and organized in a more comfortable plan. The halls are quieter, too. I talked to his nurse earlier and found out the name of the person who will oversee Tom's progress and I'll talk to her on Monday. And I met his therapist today. She's only there on Saturdays, but she'll pass information on to the others. She's aware he wants to concentrate on stairs and other things to get him home, that he's aiming for next weekend.

He spends his time in a chair, not in bed -- that's a major improvement over last weekend. I brought him the phone number of the dentist who did his dentures and Tom will call him on Monday and get that in the works.

After work today, I'll swing over to Clipper Harbor and pick up the clothes that were in the laundry when I picked up Tom's things the other day. Then, of course, I'll go over to see Tom.

Another busy day...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Ebbie
Date: 15 Apr 12 - 12:08 PM

Perhaps I missed it - is there a GOOD reason that Tom's dentures can't be found?

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 15 Apr 12 - 07:32 PM

Ebbie, the "good" reason that Tom's dentures can't be found is that Wentworth-Douglass Hospital will pay for a complete new set. Haven't a clue as to how they got lost in the first place -- they were in a plastic container with Tom's name on the top and in a drawer under the sink in ICU room 6. You would THINK they would try to find the proper owner before they threw them out...or maybe they went home with the next occupant of the room, and they didn't contact the hospital when they were discovered. Who knows. But Tom will get a new set out of it, though nothing for the discomfort and inconvenience and limitation on what he can eat until the new set is ready.

I realized this morning exactly how FRIED I am after this busy and nerve-wracking week. I'm physically very, very tired. Gravity is turned way up. But my mind must be frazzled, too. I had to pick up some necessities on the way to work this morning, and when I was backing out of the parking place, a person suddenly appeared behind my car. I slammed on the brakes...but missed and hit the gas. He managed to dodge out of the way, but it scare the bejaysus out of me! Shook me up quite a bit. God definitely was looking out for both of us. Made it to work otherwise uneventfully. (I couldn't have quite taken anything else...) And, while there were a few clumps of people who all decided to come in at once, it wasn't a half bad day.

Picked up Tom's clothes at Clipper Harbor (and talked to the nurse who actually wanted to get him to the ER last Saturday or Sunday) and then ping-ponged back the other direction to see Tom. Langdon Place is only about 6 miles longer than my regular commute home.

Just couldn't deal with fixing a proper supper tonight, but I found enough stuff to nibble on that didn't take any real prep time. (Well, maybe I should cook up a couple eggs...nah, takes too much time.)

Early to bed, I think.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 15 Apr 12 - 07:46 PM

Tomorrow is another day, and hopefully one with continued improvement. Sleep well.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 16 Apr 12 - 11:28 AM

Happy Patriot's Day, Linn.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 16 Apr 12 - 06:10 PM

Well, I sort of took today off. Realized on my way to work how gravity was cranked up to high, and, if I could, I'd fall asleep behind the wheel. The rollercoasterness of last week really dragged me out. Originally thought I'd stick it out at work til four, but my co-worker suggested I go home and take care of myself.

Left work after about an hour (but not until I made a sale -- 2 pair -- right off the bat). Checked in with Tom on the way home. He's in a pretty good mood -- he'd had good physical therapy before I got there and the promise of more in the afternoon.

Got home and didn't even turn on the computer, just went upstairs and took a nap. And when I woke, I read...with a cat on my shoulder purring in my ear and another at my feet. I'm just refusing to think about all those things I'm juggling right now in my head and life. I took today off. And it will be another early night. And tomorrow is another day.

Made myself the supper I didn't have the energy to make last night. Talked to Tom and he's pleased with the physical therapy plan that he discussed with the therapist this afternoon. No, he might not be home this weekend. But probably by the next weekend after his cast is changed again. The really GOOD thing is that there IS a plan. I think it was the previous open-endedness that was so wearing on both of us. And he's being encouraged to get out and move around in the wheelchair. There's a computer down the hall and he may be checking in here sometime soon. (!!!) Tom talked today with the dentist that did his dentures, so that's in the works (and I didn't have to do it!). He did manage to destroy another pair of the yellow goggles that help him see in interior daylight. He's exceptionally hard on them -- that's three pair now, two from the NH department for the blind and this pair that I bought about a month ago (for twenty bucks). Ach!

Nope. I didn't make any of my planned phone calls today (except for a couple to track down where a wheelchair might be rented -- and now Tom tells me he probably won't need one by the time he comes home). And, other than visiting Tom (and posting here and Facebook), I didn't think about ANY of this whole thing all day.

I think tonight's another early night. Maybe I'll be back to whatever passes as normal by tomorrow.

Tomorrow's another day...
Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 16 Apr 12 - 07:35 PM

Linn-

Sounds like a very worth while day. There's a lot to be said for stepping back and recharging one's batteries.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 16 Apr 12 - 08:13 PM

Sheesh! Considering that last night I wrote, "Sleep well," I'm especially glad that you did not fall asleep at the wheel this morning!

I'm glad to hear that there is a physical therapy plan.

Get plenty of rest. At home. In bed!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 16 Apr 12 - 09:07 PM

I'll second that!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 17 Apr 12 - 09:09 AM

Ah! Good morning! Talked to Tom and, besides dealing with his dentist so I don't have to, he's asked me to bring his insurance card info enlarged so he can call them. That's two things I don't have to do...

Got a couple phone calls to make before I head to work. Since I'm working 11-7 today, Tom suggested I not stop over to see him after work.

But I'll talk to him when I can during the day and, of course, call to say goodnight.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 17 Apr 12 - 07:51 PM

I talked to Tom. I went to work. Talked to Tom some more. He suggested I not stop and see him after I left work at 7 p.m. I'm home. About to call Tom and say goodnight.

It was a pretty uneventful day and I'm pretty damned pleased with that!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 17 Apr 12 - 08:03 PM

Actually I forgot to mention I had a really nice conversation with the social worker from Clipper Harbor who had called and left a message last Friday. She wanted to know how we thought Tom's stay there could have been improved. And I think she really wanted to know what they did wrong and how they can improve things should such a situation happen again. I also think she was very happy both that Tom is doing well and is healthy again and that we're not suing them. (And that I called her back and wasn't screaming at her.) She had enjoyed meeting him and talking with him and genuinely likes him and is interested in him.

I made several suggestions not only about recognizing and addressing a serious health problem developing during a stay, but also about dealing with a patient's vision problems, such as people identifying themselves when they come in. Tom can only recognize people by their voices -- he can't SEE well enough to recognize them visually and when there is a constantly changing parade, it can be very confusing.

Told her all about (actually just adding to what she and Tom talked about) his involvement with folk music and the Portsmouth Maritime Folk Festival, the Press Room sessions and, too, how he and I met at a pre-Christmas client party at Fishtraks recording studio, back when it was in the third floor of a private residence at Rye Beach.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 17 Apr 12 - 10:57 PM

Hooray for your "uneventful" day. I wish you more of them.

As a sighted person who is awful at remembering names and faces, i think medical people should always identify themselves (name, position, perhaps quick reminder of what we last talked about) to all patients!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 18 Apr 12 - 03:33 AM

good idea, ChantyLass.

sandra (seconding the wish for another uneventful day)

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 18 Apr 12 - 02:27 PM

Just got home -- put on about 55 miles but got a LOT accomplished: saw wild turkey in neighbor's yard down the hill, oil change, breakfast, treat for Tom, spotted a couple red-winged blackbirds in the marsh between Newmarket and Durham, saw Tom (went over meds with his nurse, game plan with nurse from social services, met his physical therapist), picked up CD of x-rays from his surgeon, gas in the car at the least expensive place around (and on my way!), groceries and back home again. More floor work set for tomorrow so I need to move some stuff and pull up the middle piece of particle board. Got a few "keeping life on an even keel" things on to-do list before I can do that, though.

Think we got Tom's meds straightened out and, since he's not been requiring any pain meds, maybe he can start taking half a sleeping pill again without the vivid, threatening dreams. His PCP will go over the list after he's home, too, to eliminate anything he no longer needs, etc.

The social services nurse had to run through some simple questions to evaluate Tom's mental state, etc. Mostly simple...I certainly couldn't do the one that required him to count backwards from 100 by 7s. (She said she couldn't either.) It was primarily about the attempt (he went back to 93) and following directions. When asked to write a sentence, he wrote, "Workers of the world unite. You have nothing to lose but your chains."

The really good news is we have a PLAN for Tom being released to home. It will probably happen a week from Saturday, the day after his next appointment with Dr. Blitzer and his cast being changed again.

And -- this is a BIG ta-dah! -- this Saturday I'll take him to the monthly Press Room sea music singaround. I may need a couple strong guys to help, but one way or another we'll get Tom and a wheelchair (well, maybe just a walker) up the one granite step into The Press Room and into his proper seat presiding over the session.

Speaking of which, I had best announce the April sea music singaround in a thread of its own.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 18 Apr 12 - 02:42 PM

The Press Room! Good show!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 18 Apr 12 - 07:15 PM

Sweaty and dirty...over half way through pulling up the section of particle board subfloor that will be replaced tomorrow by plywood. Yanking the nails, of course, too. And all from a standing position because I can't find my garden kneeler which would make life a bit simpler (and be easier on my back).

This is to make the house a bit safer for Tom when he gets home -- no rugs or worn spots in the floor to trip him up.

Breath caught. Back to work!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 18 Apr 12 - 08:21 PM

It's up! And my back is still holding up okay. Quick sweep up tonight and shut off the cellar lights and I'm heading upstairs to bed to read and slow down. It's way later than I'd like it to be.

Just called Tom to say goodnight.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: maeve
Date: 18 Apr 12 - 08:24 PM

Sweet dreams, Linn.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 19 Apr 12 - 05:14 AM

Bed too late. Up too early.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 19 Apr 12 - 07:49 AM

Linn-

Way too early! I'm feeling achey just reading your posts.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: maeve
Date: 19 Apr 12 - 07:52 AM

Sorry your sleep was short. We're usually up by 3:30 or 4, so your short time is sleeping in from our perspective. Best wishes for the right sleep for your restoration!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 19 Apr 12 - 06:33 PM

But I didn't get to sleep until after 11... (Back in the '80s, we generally arose at 4 -- Tom to get to his teaching job in Massachusetts, me to get to work by 6 a.m. so I could leave at 2 p.m.)

This morning Jeff and I (mostly Jeff) got another section of plywood down. (I did my part before he got there.)

This afternoon Tom and I and three physical therapists (count 'em, THREE! -- I think they just wanted an excuse to be outside in the sun) practiced getting into my car from a wheelchair and back out again several times. It got a bit easier each time, too. Then I took Tom for a ride, a long loop to enjoy the weather and all the flowering trees and shrubs. Everything is over a month early, all blooming together. The trees that aren't white, or pink, or red were leafing out in chartreuse.

Headed first to Dover Point Road at the other end of the road that Langdon Place is on, then turned back towards downtown Dover, up past the hospital and on towards Somersworth. Then turned around and stopped at McDonald's to get Tom some coffee. He was tired by that time with his practicing and the PT workout he got this morning, so we headed back to Langdon Place.

Not sure if it was the weather or MY exertions of this morning, but I was pretty tired, too. Came home and took a nap.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 19 Apr 12 - 06:42 PM

more good news

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 19 Apr 12 - 06:54 PM

Even the good stuff takes a lot of energy, esp. when you've been dealing with so much uncertainty and other stuff as you have, Linn. Keep resting as often as you can. That ride must've felt so good for both of you!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 19 Apr 12 - 09:20 PM

It sounds like a wonderful excursion. How fortunate that you had the time and enough energy in spite of lack of sleep to do this on a day with such beautiful weather.

Again, sleep well. At home. In bed.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Apr 12 - 11:53 AM

Another biggie accomplished -- got Tom's car (unregistered since last September) cleaned out and all of the important papers pertaining to it corralled.

Now we just have to convert it to little green pieces of paper with dead presidents on them.

1996 Saturn wagon, in case anyone local is interested. In really good shape, though it needs a little brake work.

Mostly going to wait to deal with it until Tom's home.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 21 Apr 12 - 07:03 AM

Left The Press Room at 7:30 last night -- way too tired to stay later.

Gotta get the rest of the stuff from Tom's car out of MY car so a wheelchair will fit in the back.

Hate to say it, but I'm tired already and I've been up for less than a half hour.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 21 Apr 12 - 10:58 AM

I called Tom at 8 this morning and, I think, he could tell how exhausted I was. He just called me back (10-ish) and suggested I NOT take him to The Press Room this afternoon, if for no other reason than that wheelchair is pretty heavy and I have to horse it in and out of the car (after I empty the stuff in the back of my car that I cleaned out of HIS car yesterday...).

Well, actually, I'm completely drained. My brain is fried and I think I may actually have picked up a bug, too, on top of everything else. I've been so completely exhausted...

Today I'm just incapable of doing ANYTHING or going ANYWHERE. The session will have to go on without either Tom or me. I'm going back to bed, turning the phone off and praying I can get back to sleep for awhile. Maybe it will help.

I have to work tomorrow, but I'll see if I need to arrange to take part or all of Monday off so I can cope better with working Tuesday. I really need to be in better shape when Tom comes home because that's not going to be what I'd call "easy" either. (Though it will involve a LOT less driving all over hell and gone...)

Sorry. This whole ordeal has made Tom's heart surgery back in 2004 look like a walk in the park. For me, at least. Maybe it's just that I'm eight years older...

I'm going back to bed.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,Weaver
Date: 21 Apr 12 - 11:42 AM

Glad to hear that you got Tom out for a ride. Having a great trip, bu you two are on my mind. Sending good karma.
Dianne

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 21 Apr 12 - 04:52 PM

Slow down. Breathe. If you don't take care of yourself, you won't be able to take care of Tom.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 21 Apr 12 - 08:01 PM

The Press Room shanty session is over by now...but I'm as tired as I was at 10 this morning. Read, under-reacted, slept...only know I slept because I dreamed...at Pete Hale's, in front of a computer, looking at cassette tapes in a drawer while talking to Pete who was out of sight in the dining room eating something before going to an engagement...a female cat appeared with white gloves and a '50s-style white women's purse and a pillbox hat with a veil...and nobody found it unusual... Ach! Dreams!

There's a certain amount of guilt that I didn't accomplish anything today other than reading... That's my upbringing: Midwestern, Germanic, Lutheran and, yes, Republican, dammit. (But Papa, my maternal grandfather, was not only a Democrat, but idolized Roosevelt; he was a true New Dealer. And he looked a lot like Lyndon Johnson...)

I'm eating a second supper...a fried ham sandwich. Not quite 8:00, but I'm going back upstairs to bed.

Hope the session went well... Talked to Tom. Sorry that, not only did I not get him to the session today, but that I'm worrying him with my dragged-outedness.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 21 Apr 12 - 10:58 PM

Linn, it's to be expected. This is one effed up AFGO and it has lasted a LONG time. It's catching up to you and your bod is making you pay attention (I know you know this.:-) Do NOT beat yourself up...life goes on whether it ALL gets done or not. Rest, refresh, restore, rest, again, darln'. It's okay not to be superwoman!

luvyabuncheskat

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 22 Apr 12 - 08:42 AM

well said, kat

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 22 Apr 12 - 10:36 AM

I hope somebody reports yesterday's doings on the April Press Room shanty session thread...so I can report it to Tom as well. He's decidedly feeling left out...of LIFE, not just Mudcat and The Press Room sessions.

Me? I'm a bit more rested this morning than I was yesterday. Sigh. The better to go to work and deal with the retail world before going to see Tom after 5 p.m.

This ordeal is really dragging out way too long. And a lot of it is like being nibbled to death by ducks. And the other parts demand way too much attention to keep the medical/rehab establishment from killing him while in their clutches. Arghhhhh!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 22 Apr 12 - 12:54 PM

Keep the faith.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 22 Apr 12 - 07:14 PM

My work day went smoothly, made one decent sale early in the afternoon, got my weekly report and a couple little "housekeeping" chores done, and had a nice talk with an older man during the latter part of the afternoon. He was killing time, but made the passage of time until closing quite enjoyable for me, too. And no one interrupted us.

Drove through the rain to see Tom for a bit. He's now got a roommate, but that's not so bad because the room layout is much better than either the hospital or Clipper Harbor. You don't have to walk through someone else's space to get to Tom.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 22 Apr 12 - 08:54 PM

Any progress on the dentures? It would be nice if Tom could have them before going home.
Any word on the release date? Not tomorrow I hope. Noah's ark is due in port any minute.
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 23 Apr 12 - 08:19 AM

Tom's got an appointment the morning of May 11 with the dentist who did his previous dentures. Couldn't get anything before that. We'll leave right from there (Portsmouth) and head to Connecticut for the weekend.

I woke up this morning NOT feeling totally exhausted. What a concept! First time, I think, since Tom recovered from Clipper Harbor trying to kill him. Unbelievable how much that episode dragged me out. (Tom, since getting more blood inside him, has had a LOT more energy than I have.)

Guess I'm alone at work today, though, so it's a good thing I'm more or less back to normal energy level. Hope it's not a totally crazy Monday, though, as it so often can be.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 23 Apr 12 - 08:22 AM

Oh, Mary, for the past almost a week we've been figuring Tom will be released next Saturday, the day after his next appointment with Dr. Blitzer and another new cast. If there is a good reason why he's not ready on Saturday, it will be the following Wednesday, as I work Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 23 Apr 12 - 09:11 AM

Here's hoping for early release next Saturday.

I had dinner at the Press Room Sunday evening on my way back from NEFFA. It's just not the same place without the gang, although our favorite bar tender described a lively gathering the day before (which Ernie has described in more detail on the Press Room thread). Incidentally, this evening Steve Carrigan interviews me (7 pm on WSCA) about my songwriting and singing.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 23 Apr 12 - 03:06 PM

Interviews you on the Western Silvicultural Contractors' Association website?

Ya gotta link? Can we hear it?

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 23 Apr 12 - 10:47 PM

gnu-

I'll provide a link to the radio program recording when Steve Carrigan posts it to Facebook. My wife said the show sounded quite good. Well, it felt good to me as well, and Steve is certainly familiar with my songs.

I'm finally back home. Our two cats seem quite pleased to have another slave available.

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 23 Apr 12 - 10:53 PM

Too late to post -- didn't get home until after 8 (after work, seeing Tom, errands, etc.) Again gobbled supper in front of the computer. I think it was the Chinese I picked up on the way home.

Job problem shaping up for tomorrow. I don't officially even HAVE my schedule for past tomorrow, but unofficially (and accidently) I've found I'm scheduled for Friday -- a surprise, as I've not regularly worked Fridays since a year ago in June -- and I CAN'T as I need to take Tom to see his surgeon and get his cast changed.

I don't see why this is MY problem.

Probably a shoot out with the district manager tomorrow -- this is the guy who threatened to fire me for calling out 3 shifts in a row when Tom broke his ankle, despite my calling my manager (who has since fired for totally unrelated issues) before following the EMTs and Tom to the Emergency Room.

I'm getting really tired of all this unnecessary bullshit. I am sick to DEATH of all this unnecessary bullshit.

I am really trying to calm down enough to sleep to be well rested before going to work tomorrow.

Linn

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 24 Apr 12 - 08:56 AM

not easy to sleep with such bullshit in your life.

I hope by now you have managed to rest & start to recouperate.

love from sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 24 Apr 12 - 09:53 AM

I'm not sure I'll start to recouperate until after Tom is home...and, maybe, a bit more mobile again.

I've been dealing with the job bullshit since the beginning -- remember, the district manager threatened to fire me for calling out three shifts in a row (including calling my manager at 8:30 at night before following the EMTs and Tom to the emergency room).

Since several days later he fired my manager (for unrelated reasons), things have been somewhat chaotic since.

Wish me luck today with keeping my cool while talking to him.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 24 Apr 12 - 08:34 PM

Didn't kill anyone today.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 24 Apr 12 - 09:15 PM

That's a start.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 24 Apr 12 - 10:09 PM

Well, that's good news!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 25 Apr 12 - 08:25 AM

It's a new brighter day!

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 25 Apr 12 - 06:49 PM

Spent today decluttering -- sorting out some of the BIG stuff that's been building up in the wrong places. Originally it was so I could move the table, map chest and small bookcase that's on top of a piece of subflooring so that could be replaced, but I think, after re-assessing the situation, that the damage can be suitably fixed for Tom's arrival home without actually doing that.

Anyway, it was satisfying. Threw out some of the cellar stuff to make room for some of the excess chairs and stools from upstairs. Schlepped flower pots and planters up and out onto the deck because I have several friends interested in them. Pretty much cleaned out the corner in the kitchen, which means it can be temporary (and I DO mean temporary!) storage for some small antiques we plan to sell.

All of this should have been done long ago. Glad it's getting done now.

De-accessioning some of Tom's tools, too, that he won't be using.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 26 Apr 12 - 05:21 AM

well done.

last week I had friend visiting & moved stuff so she could use no. 2 chair (normally a storage space) & straightened up the stuff which needs to live on the floor (mountains become lava flows!) & vacuumed. Place was so lovely, I should have taken a photo!!

After she left I started bringing back stuff I needed (like pen & pencil containers that live on the table, crafty stuff I'm doing ...)

Today I stepped carefully over the jigsaws & other stuff on the floor ...

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 26 Apr 12 - 07:14 AM

Oh, Sandra! Your home sounds sooooo much like ours!

I just KNOW people do not truly LIVE in all those gorgeous, uncluttered rooms in the shelter magazines.

A lot of our clutter is stuff acquired at yard sales and was intended to be resold...but for some reason, that never happened. Then there's the stuff that was just too good to throw away or, maybe, "we just might need that someday..." Both Tom and I are Yankees (him by birth, me by choice) and "waste not, want not" rules our life.

The table gets cleared off for Thanksgiving and Christmas...I can usually find a chair under a pile of something when someone visits.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 26 Apr 12 - 07:38 AM

I live in a 4 room apartment (bedroom, living room, kitchen & bathroom) so really don't have enough space for all my hobbies & interests.

not that I plan to have less interests, or less stuff

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 26 Apr 12 - 08:22 AM

There ain't no clutter around here!

Well, maybe on my computer desktop. And there's a pile of invoices from three years back that have not been sorted into their folders and placed in their cabinets which can't be accessed anyway because of all the CDs and boxes of miscellaneous patch chords and other electronic accessories blocking their drawers. And there's about a dozen books with post-it stickies awaiting scanning for a new and exciting illustrated children's book titled The Rodent Mariners piled on the futon. And more CDs are blocking access to the Cicely Fox Smith literary works which I need for final proofing of The Complete Poetry of Cicely Fox Smith scheduled for release by Little Red Tree Publishing in Mystic at the end of May.

No clutter here. Just essential work space!

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Ebbie
Date: 26 Apr 12 - 11:39 AM

I have two anti-clutter methods that work. Mostly. I got rid of stuff and I put up shelves.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 26 Apr 12 - 01:41 PM

I work on the theory that if you've got a lot of interesting stuff to look at, no one notices the house is a total mess. And stuff is neatly stacked and shiny surfaces are fairly often shiny. (It helps the illusion.)

Stuff expands to fit whatever space is available.

My other theory of housekeeping can be summed up in one word: tarps. Lots of things can be tarps -- tablecloths, bedspreads -- as long as they look nice and cover things us.

There is NEVER enough work surfaces or shelving for books.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: GUEST,ChanteyLass
Date: 26 Apr 12 - 05:51 PM

For a few moments I thought I'd wandered into the declutter thread by mistake! I'm avoiding that thread until I'm ready to deal with my own clutter!

I had lunch today with a group of people. One said she was trying to declutter. She had bought 3 new PJ sets and had thrown out 3 old, worn ones. I said that might be clutter substitution rather than decluttering! I also said that every time I cleared away a pile of stuff, it somehow grew back--with different stuff!

Anyway, Linn, I hope both you and Tom are having a good day.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 26 Apr 12 - 06:12 PM

The nice social services nurse is trying to convince Tom to stay in rehab for a couple more days of physical therapy after his cast is changed tomorrow.

He's REALLY ready to come home and I'm REALLY ready to have him home!

But we'll ask Dr. Blitzer for his opinion tomorrow after the x-rays and cast change, etc.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 26 Apr 12 - 06:23 PM

"The nice social services nurse is trying to convince Tom to stay in rehab for a couple more days of physical therapy after his cast is changed tomorrow."

Do it. She's a nurse.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 27 Apr 12 - 11:16 AM

Gotta go change out of my outdoor grungies and into something acceptable both to take Tom to Seacoast Orthopedics to see Dr. Blitzer, but also to wear to The Press Room after I take Tom back to Langdon Place.

I sincerely hope I don't have too many more meals where I unthinkingly shovel food into my face as I sit at the computer (as I'm doing right now)...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 27 Apr 12 - 12:26 PM

Linn-

I have to agree with Dr. Gnu.

But it will be a great homecoming!

Is the floor refinished?

Love to join you at the Press Room but I'm still recovering from energy output at the NEFFA gathering last weekend. It's amazing how adrenaline carries one through such a weekend and then you crash...

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 27 Apr 12 - 08:13 PM

Well, it's been an eventful day, but I'm too damned tired to report fully until tomorrow morning.

Somewhat disappointing...new cast, but Tom still can't put any weight on the ankle for four more weeks. He's also advising against the Connecticut folk gathering over Mother's Day weekend -- too long in the car.

Good meeting and plans with the head nurse and his therapists. House visitation and assessment on Tuesday or Wednesday.

I'm exhausted. Bed now.

G'night.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 27 Apr 12 - 08:51 PM

Linn-

That's disappointing news but it's all important that ankle be properly healed.

Remember back when we were all immortal? Them was good days!

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 27 Apr 12 - 09:30 PM

Slow and easy, Linn. Take advantage of the support. Listen to those experts.

Yo, Tom.... you too. Get well. We're all pullin for ya bud.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 27 Apr 12 - 11:14 PM

What gnu said.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 28 Apr 12 - 09:43 AM

Well, Tom got a good night's sleep (finally!) and slept straight through until morning. Unfortunately, I didn't and I can't even blame it on the cats.

Still don't have time to report here -- I'm in the process of getting a bunch of stuff out of the car so I can put a bunch of stuff back INTO the car...

I'm taking the rollator over to Langdon Place; the therapists want to see it. And Tom can practice with it -- including in and out of the car with THIS rather than a wheelchair.

Then this afternoon I'm taking some miscellaneous cubic footage over to a friend's in Portsmouth who said she'd take the lot and anything she didn't want, SHE'D take to Goodwill. Looks like the kitchen cart isn't going to fit, though...

Maybe when I get home...

BTW, don't worry. If Dr. Blitzer says no travel there will be no travel. Even to this event. I WILL run the suggestions past Dr. B, but I have a feeling he won't approve any of the workarounds. He's conservative and I like that in a doctor. Neither of us want to take the chance of blood clots or any other complication that could interfere with Tom's healing or his life.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 28 Apr 12 - 10:49 AM

So there is good news - Tom's homecoming is in the works and he is sleeping through the night.
That's the best news in weeks.
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 28 Apr 12 - 01:16 PM

Yes, indeed!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 28 Apr 12 - 04:53 PM

Bit by bit . . . Progress!

I'm glad Tom got a good night's sleep. I wish you had, too.

I haven't slept through the night since I was pregnant, and my son is 34 years old!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 29 Apr 12 - 04:24 AM

what SINS said

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 29 Apr 12 - 06:19 AM

Well, the reality of it is the homecoming is postponed for at least another week and he's under doctor's orders not to travel -- specifically to the Connecticut folk gathering over Mother's Day weekend that we've been going to for over 20 years. AND he can't put weight on the ankle for at least another 4 weeks.

Okay, here's the report on Tom's appointment with Dr. Blitzer Friday -- new x-rays, brand new pretty blue cast (he could have had hot pink...or lime green...or any of about a dozen colors), and the knowledge that he can't put any weight on the ankle for another four weeks. AND Dr. Blitzer doesn't want him to travel -- spoiling long-standing plans for Mother's Day weekend.

That also means at LEAST another week in rehab. Tom was very, very depressed leaving Seacoast Orthopedics after the appointment. And the fact that through some medical snafu, his usual maintenance dosage of Welbutrin had been halved for the past six weeks certainly didn't help.

We sat in the car and talked for quite awhile before heading back to Langdon Place. (The other good news is he's having no trouble getting from wheelchair to car and back.)

And the other good news was, when we got back to Langdon Place, I had a nice talk with Kathy, the head nurse -- who had been just about to fax some of Tom's blood pressure info to Dr. Blitzer. First, we got the Welbutrin problem ironed out -- she speculated that somewhere along the line, an old dosage had gotten into Tom's records (despite the fact I hand out a printed sheet with Tom's meds and dosage and medical history and doctors to EVERYBODY from the EMTs that took him to the ER, to the hospital doctors and the rehab facilities). She agreed that Tom will heal a lot better not being dogged by depression. Then I joined Tom back in his room with Katie, his occupational therapist, and another of his regular therapists and we had a very productive meeting of the minds.

We'll probably do a home visit on Tuesday or Wednesday so they can find out exactly what Tom has to deal with to get in and out of the house so they can work on ways to do it. That's the only catch in his coming home -- once he's in the house, he'll be able to maneuver just fine. They also brainstormed about ways to safely get him to Indian Neck and back -- say in the back seat with his leg up and frequent stops. But I talked to another friend who is a nurse Friday night at the Press Room session and he says that probably wouldn't satisfy Dr. Blitzer; that Tom IS better off NOT traveling to Connecticut. And the issue is blood clots -- because he'd be more or less immobilized during a long car drive (even with his leg up in the back seat and frequent stops) it could be dangerous. And, disappointed as Tom is, he doesn't want to risk it. Anything that Katie and Jenn come up with would have to be okayed by Dr. Blitzer anyway before we'd do it, of course, and it looks like that probably wouldn't happen. But it made Tom feel better that everybody was working together to try to make the situation better.

Kathy came in, too, and added some more ideas, especially as far as making his continued stay in rehab better and even more focused on being able to leave.

Tom was, by this time, in a LOT better mood than when I'd wheeled him back into the room.

Yesterday, I headed over late morning and brought the rollator (wheeled walker with a seat) so the therapists can see what he has available and teach him how to best use it. Then I took Tom out for a ride. He's getting really good at getting between the wheelchair and the car and back again, but really wants to work with the rollator. Unfortunately, that probably won't happen until Monday.

After I left Tom yesterday I took a bunch of stuff that would otherwise have gone to Goodwill over to a fiddle-playing librarian friend and actually did a wee bit of socializing (outside of the Friday Press Room sessions). I'd woken up way too early (again) and was too tired to even think about a glass of wine, but a couple other friends showed up (vocalist and bodhran player and vocalist and cittern player) and we had a GRAND time all afternoon talking about Life, the Universe...Everything. (And petting the dog. Or, at least, ME petting the dog. He's a pound dog who came, believe it or not, with the name Schulz -- my name -- and he took to me much better than to most women, letting me rub his belly and tickle his ears and generally not stop.)

I really needed yesterday afternoon. I didn't get home until after 7 and called Tom, apologizing for calling him so late. He said he figured I'd get hung up and hadn't really expected the call earlier.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 29 Apr 12 - 08:51 AM

Linn-

Thanks for the long update. Clearly the healing has not been as rapid as we all would have liked to hear, and the threat of blood clots can not be ignored.

So sad about you folks missing Indian Neck but having been there once I know that it's a long, long drive and there would be temptations to sing all night, and possibly drink all night. Still it's sad to have to miss this great weekend. Have you thought about going on your own with another friend?

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 29 Apr 12 - 10:27 AM

No, Charley -- if Tom doesn't go, I don't either. Besides, he will still need a bunch of assistance around the house. Remember, he can't put any weight on his right ankle, plus he has vision problems. AND he can't drive...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 29 Apr 12 - 10:30 AM

Good catch on the Welbutrin Linn. Right now is a tough time in terms of depression for anyone let alone someone who has clinical depression to begin with. The feeling lies between sadness and anger as a very mean angst where you are slammed with the terrible realization, over and over, that you are no longer the person you were and are noww in constant need of assistance to do anything. Been there, done that, got the t-shirt........Tom probably has 3 or 4 of them.

Tell Tom I think of him a lot.........and he has all my best to heal soon and get back to whatever passes for normal in his life now. See, that's really the thing isn't it? Living with so much less than what you were and then losing more...........***sigh***.........Ask him if he can hear an occasional cheer from Ohio. I'm sending them!


Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 29 Apr 12 - 01:27 PM

Same here.

Really appreciated the update.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 29 Apr 12 - 06:52 PM

Sorry you'll miss your long-anticipated weekend, sorry Tom's not coming home sooner, but happy that one problem after another is being addressed.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bill D
Date: 30 Apr 12 - 12:47 AM

Two or three events missed for the sake of more healing will mean more confidence and appreciation of the next ones that feel 'right'.... but you knew that.

No trampoline lessons or clogging for awhile...ok?

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: jacqui.c
Date: 30 Apr 12 - 07:45 AM

Been keeping an eye on this thread. Glad to hear that Tom is improving.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 30 Apr 12 - 08:54 AM

It appears Tom will be home in time for Cinco de Mayo. Let the margaritas flow!
Will he have continued physical therapy at home? Or home visits from helpful professionals to see that he is keeping up his exercises?
Once he can put weight on his ankle, there must be other therapy to build strength without straining it.
What a damn nuisance! Tom, stay upright from now on!
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 30 Apr 12 - 07:15 PM

I know he'll have visits by the Visiting Nurses; don't know yet if he'll have any continuing physical therapy. There will be a home visit by his therapists (with Tom) on Wednesday. I have to go over there and pick him up (with the rollator, which he's been practicing on) and they'll follow us home and then not only find out exactly what he has to accomplish to get safely into (and out of) the house.

He really needs to stop scaring the bejaysus out of me on a regular basis... If I didn't love him so damned much, I could be seriously annoyed with him.

He suggested I not visit him tonight on the way home from work because it just takes too much out of me. (I sort of snapped at him this morning; too much stress for way too long. I'm just constantly on the verge of...I dunno. Something. Do I get a nice, comfortable nervous breakdown out of this sometime? I was promised one after he recovered from his heart surgery, but it never happened.) It was pretty much a typical Monday today -- not many sales, but CONSTANT phone calls, problem after problem interleaved with repairs and dispensing. For a while there I'd finish one phone call just to pick up the other ringing line -- back and forth, back and forth, while customers waited for me to fix their glasses or solve some problem.

Meant to call him as soon as I got home, but got distracted by posting here. Better go call him!

'Spaw, I read him your post -- he really appreciates it. Thanks!

Tonight I'm just going to nuke a frozen meal. It's not like I actually concentrate or appreciate any "fine cuisine" (and actually, I've been cooking some decent dinners) while sitting in front of the computer. I miss my dinner companion. (And I DON'T mean Rufus!!!)

Linn

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 30 Apr 12 - 08:38 PM

"If I didn't love him so damned much, I could be seriously annoyed with him."

Do I need to comment at all?

I have tears. That's beautiful.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 30 Apr 12 - 09:19 PM

Have something good to drink with your dinner. Unwind. Sleep well.I hope Tom sleeps well, too.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 01 May 12 - 08:25 AM

Actually I had a nice horseradishy bloody mary before dinner to wind down from the day -- and what I nuked was Healthy Choice Sesame Glazed Chicken which was rather quite nice (though the red bell peppers were a bit too abundant and I tasted them all night).

Talked to Tom for a few minutes a little while ago. He slept well, I think he said. Alas, a nasty thigh cramp woke me around 3:30 and, despite laying there with my eyes closed until 5, reading for a bit, then closing my eyes again until 7, I don't think I got any sleep after 3:30.

Gotta get the trash together to take up to the road (in the rain) for pick-up and spiffify the house in preparation for tomorrow's home visit. (Guess I better get the almost useless vacuum cleaner unclogged, too -- you might be interested to know I use a fencing foil for that task...) All mindless things, which is about all I can handle today, I think. And some phone calls. There always seem to be necessary phone calls...

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 01 May 12 - 09:36 AM

Good luck on the home visit.

My mother's old farm house was a challenge to the home-visiting physical therapist coordinator. The house is not the most accessible one in the world, and there's all that distracting artwork cluttering up the place. Some day we may need to nuke the entire kitchen ell; the sills are rotted, the studs are rotted as well, and all seven door frames are at, shall we say, unconventional angles. When we had the floor vinyl redone a few years ago, the contractor said "How do you expect me to level that?" We finally persuaded him to just relax and follow the contours.

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 01 May 12 - 12:00 PM

Just had a lovely surprise -- the arrival of a May basket from the Town of Nottingham!

It's a couple gallon sized splint basket with a bail (like an apple basket) and when I started unpacking it I found -- under the pot of pansies on the top -- everything from banana bread and homemade cookies, a pistachio Lindt chocolate bar, frozen cream of squash soup from What a Crock, blueberry preserves, spearmint goat's milk soap from Jenness Farm, Post-it notes, candy, small package of tissues, fancy Spring-ish paper napkins, tea towels, pancake mix and a small container of maple syrup (ayuh, I checked, it's New Hampshuh maple syrup), more crackers and cookies, a really nicely scented (and strong!) potpourri held on the basket by a decorated wooden clothespin, and even a berry/seed suet cake for wild birds.

What a delightful surprise on such a rainy May Day!

Called Tom immediately to tell him and unpack the basket so we found out together all of the treats it contained.

I had no idea the Town did this -- I'll have to see if we can get involved next year in preparing or delivering the baskets. Such a great idea! I don't know how many they deliver, Tom's tag said number 5 and our address.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 01 May 12 - 12:18 PM

wow - I've never heard of May baskets, are they a tradition in your neck of the world?

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 01 May 12 - 12:58 PM

Not really traditional around here, at least not in recent years that I've heard of...

My last experience with May baskets was back in the early '50s when I was about four years old in West Milwaukee, Wisconsin. My mother and I made little paper baskets and filled them with flowers and left them on neighbors' door knobs. Mom said that's what she and her friends used to do up in Stetsonville, Wisconsin when she was a kid.

Actually, now that I think about it, when I was in early elementary grades our school would have a May pole and we'd dance and weave the colored crepe paper streamers. Disappeared early in my life -- before age seven, I think.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 01 May 12 - 08:58 PM

Your May basket sounds wonderful, and it arrived during a time when you deserve a treat.

If you get leg cramps often, you might try drinking tonic water daily. My daughter-in-law, who is into all things natural, suggested it because the quinine is supposed to help. I drink diet tonic water with lime. I know this is just anecdotal and not scientific, but it seems like I get foot and leg ramps if a day goes by without my drinking it. (And I suppose you could add gin to it.)

May baskets in RI are often sold or raffled at May breakfasts. The first May breakfast was held on May 1 as a church fundraiser in Cranston, RI. Now many churches and civic groups hold them. The best ones (in my opinion) include eggs, bacon, baked beans jonnycakes, and apple pie.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 01 May 12 - 10:14 PM

How nice.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 01 May 12 - 11:39 PM

Nice town, Nottingham! What a wonderful thing to do. Glad to hear things are moving along.

We wove May baskets out of construction paper at school and at home, usually with a small pot of pansies in them. I always loved doing them.

At Caprilands in Coventry, CT, they have a real Maypole around which they dance every year. I really miss being able to go there.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Nancy King
Date: 02 May 12 - 12:04 AM

What a lovely surprise! And just when you needed it, too!

Been thinking of you....

--Nancy

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 02 May 12 - 08:08 AM

Just talked to Tom -- he's waiting for breakfast and is very achy...he thinks from sleeping wrong. Well, he slept "right" in that he got a decent night's sleep. Too bad the position didn't agree with him.

In about a half hour I head over to Langdon Place to pick up Tom and bring him and the rollator to the house -- with two of his therapists trailing along behind. Then they can see exactly what he has to contend with to get in and out of the house safely so they can help him do it. And, of course, see if there are any other suggestions they can make to help him live on the main floor for the next few months.

I'm REALLY looking forward to getting him home to stay! This seven week separation has been a really long haul.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 02 May 12 - 11:55 AM

Wow! It has been seven long weeks.

Wish it were sunnier today.

Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 02 May 12 - 02:01 PM

It sounds like Tom is getting pretty good care. The homecoming will be good for both of you. I hope all goes smoothly.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 02 May 12 - 02:53 PM

Charley, I wish it had been DRYER today! (But at least it wasn't actually raining.)

This morning was wildly productive. Picked Tom up and Katie and Phil more or less following us back to Nottingham. I backed the car into the spot next to the house so it would be easier for Tom to get from the car to the steps. Everything worked fairly slick. Tom got up the steps on his tush as planned (too bad everything is still wet from yesterday's rain) and into the rollator at the top of the stairs. From there he could swing around to the door and, while holding on to a walker while I got the rollator into the house, he as able to sit down into the rollator without having to step up the single step threshold. Voila! In the house.

After a little planning of Tom's life inside the house -- couch for a bed, commode, comfy chair, where he'd sit at the table (and on what), wheelchair vs. rollator access in kitchen to sink, coffee, stove, fridge, etc. -- they came to the conclusion that a wheelchair would be safer and more secure than the rollator.

So...Katie's project this afternoon is to find out whether what would be more practical (and economical): to rent a wheelchair for a couple months or buy one (that Medicare will probably pay for). So when Tom comes home is dependent on when we can get a wheelchair.

Tom had been most concerned about getting out of the house and DOWN the steps, but that went smoothly as well. And we used the wheelchair. I learned probably as much as Tom did about technique and procedures.

Then Tom and I went on an excursion on the way back to Dover. We stopped at Good 'n Plenty for lunch. The have excellent handicapped access (a long entry ramp) and the waitress was waiting at the door to find out why he was in a wheelchair. He was soooo hungry for corned beef hash. So he ordered from the breakfast menu and I had a mushroom smothered burger from the lunch menu. I cannot tell you how happy it made me to have Tom across the table from me at a meal! Seven weeks is a very very long time...

Got him safely back to Langdon Place after a leisurely lunch and then I dropped some stuff off at Goodwill on my way home, tearing up my hand trying to roll an unfinished plywood tabletop into the building with one hand (as my other was carrying in something else). I'll survive.

And on a further note of Spring, I counted at least 16 ladyslippers at the head of the driveway. They're not "ripe" (pink) yet, but they are definitely early development flowers. There will probably be a lot more than that. They're only about three weeks early...

Gotta go pot up some perenniel euphorbia for a friend and then start moving furniture and stuff around to make things even more easy for Tom to navigate.

We made major progress today!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 02 May 12 - 03:41 PM

Dang... nearly cried there. Good news.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 02 May 12 - 04:33 PM

Well, after a bit of a message flurry at Facebook, there's good news on the wheelchair front. I'm picking one up tomorrow -- a friend's mother needed a smaller one, so this one is up for grabs. After I pick it up (with maybe a bit of socializing and drop-off of euphorbias and a few other de-accessioned items in between), I'll take it to Langdon Place for them to see if it might need any adjusting or modification to best fit Tom.

More progress!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Elmore
Date: 02 May 12 - 04:44 PM

Read most of this thread. My wife and I have been undergoing similar difficulties. So, Bat Goddess, I wish you the best, and hope you and Tom have better days ahead.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: maeve
Date: 02 May 12 - 04:52 PM

Happy for you both, Linn.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bill D
Date: 02 May 12 - 05:27 PM

We LIKE progress! *visions of Tom across the table for many happy meals to come*

At some point, as he gets better, it may be easier to use the rollator than the wheelchair... I hope it would be possible to switch.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 02 May 12 - 05:38 PM

And now a wheelchair. Things are coming together well!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 02 May 12 - 06:07 PM

All good news and ladyslippers as well. Great!
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 02 May 12 - 06:20 PM

Forgot to say we both used an office chair on wheels to get around the house as a wheelchair was too tight of a fit, plus you can turn 360 on a chair. Rog used one at work which he just put his knee on and used his other foot to propel. We later found out they have specially made things that do the same thing only safer.

Good news!!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 02 May 12 - 10:04 PM

I'm glad you were able to get hold of a wheelchair so quickly. Things are looking up!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 03 May 12 - 05:42 AM

ditto

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 03 May 12 - 08:21 AM

Wonder if Tom would qualify for one of those electric scooters you see advertised. Medicare supposedly covers it 100%.
Might be worth looking into.
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 03 May 12 - 08:33 AM

Medicare pays? Wow.....I can't wait til I'm 65 so they can get me something. Reckon they'd pay for one of these? I would definitely be mobile! I could offer up my '85 Sabre in trade..................


Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 03 May 12 - 09:17 AM

Medicare, as I understand it, will pay for ONE mobility device during Tom's lifetime. We have absolutely nowhere to store one of those scooters, it won't fit in my car, and, the theory is he'll only need the WHEELCHAIR for a few weeks. Electric scooter is overkill. He'll be on his own two feet again and all an electric scooter would do is guarantee he'll never walk again. He WILL be able to put weight on the ankle, probably at the end of the month.

Meanwhile...I came downstairs for the second time this morning a few minutes ago and what do I find? Fresh cat barf on the rug and another spot on the floor. Not in a spot where I can let it dry and then brush it off.

I am soooo physically drained and I still have to move some furniture and take other things to the cellar for temporary storage before I can head to Portsmouth to pick up the wheelchair, drop off some other things, and go to Dover to, I hope, spring Tom.

I don't think he can get to the computer in a wheelchair before I do some more major rearranging, but I can do that when he's home...

I'm not whining (well, yes, of course I'm whining...), but Tom has way too much time right now (way more time than I have) to come up with more things for me to do that he wants done RIGHT NOW. They're usually not major things, but they are just One More Thing...and I'm so on the verge of just crumbling (which is NOT an option) that I snap at him and then he apologizes way too much and I feel guilty and...and...ach!

I think I need a vacation...or a nice neat Teutonic nervous breakdown (which, by the way, I NEVER GOT after Tom's heart surgery in 2004!)

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 03 May 12 - 09:40 AM

Tom's kvetching means he is feeling better. A good thing tho a nuisance. It beats having him unable to sit up in a chair.
Tell him to prioritize his requests and they will get done in their order of importance to him.
Then let him kvetch.
Visions of purchasing eight pillows to spec only to have Kendall dismiss them with "They're too hard."

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 03 May 12 - 11:34 AM

Another thought. Tom, although eager to be home, may be getting a little nervous about not being under the watchful eyes of doctors and nurses. He has been in their care for 7 weeks. So maybe a bit of TLC won't be out of order.
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 03 May 12 - 02:29 PM

You bought 8 pillows for Kendall?

Now, I am not the curious type. I don't wanna know what's in the box... I don't wanna know who that was on the phone... I just ain't the curious type. BUT... 8 pillows? for Kendall? YOU bought them? WTF?

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 03 May 12 - 02:47 PM

LOL gnu.
Post open heart surgery. He had to be propped up in bed. Special trip to the mall to buy multiple pillows just to have him decide they were too hard.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 03 May 12 - 02:49 PM

Ahhh... Mother Mary, full of grace... indeed.

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Charley Noble
Date: 03 May 12 - 06:06 PM

Linn-

Glad to hear than the home visit/inspection went as well as it did.

I'm not sure if you want or need a new suggestion for getting through doorways more safely but I'll offer it anyway. What I've done for my mother is screw in door-pulls on each side of the door frames. They're easier to grab onto than the door frame itself, and a whole lot better than grabbing onto the door itself which moves. And they're cheap and easy to install.

We also use some inside the house as well.

My mother prefers the 4-wheeler to her old walker for moving around her old farmhouse, and in her front yard. She also has a motorized wheelchair but only uses it for large public buildings such as museums. The 4-wheeler does sometimes get away from her if she doesn't set its brakes properly.

Cheerily,
Charley Noble

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 03 May 12 - 06:24 PM

Nah, Mary. I plan to ignore him... ;-) (Right.)

There are still plenty of things he will need my help doing. And I'll get stuff done for him a lot faster than the over-extended nurses and aides at rehab.

Okay, so here's today's report... (I didn't even turn the computer on when I got home at 2 p.m. but went right upstairs to try to nap. Never actually got it -- the tickling of Sabine's whiskers and Rufus's weight on my hip kept me from napping when I got home. I was physically wiped out after moving more furniture around this morning, then driving (again) all over hell and gone.)

Anywho, I left the house at a gallop at 10:07 so I could get a sausage McMuffin at the local "Scottish restaurant" before they stopped serving breakfast. Had a redwinged blackbird fly right in front of my car to show off his lovely wings as I merged from Rte. 4 onto the Spaulding. Found my friend's house and extricated the wheelchair uneventfully and then drove to another friend's house a short distance away where I'd intended to leave some potted perenniel euphorbia on her deck, but discovered she hadn't left for work yet, so was able to gab a bit over a cup of tea while petting her black schnauzer, Schulz.

Then on to Dover. Tom really wanted to come home today, but when I went to talk to the social services nurse, she said it would be a lot less complicated if she would have until lunch tomorrow to wrap up the releasing paperwork. That was actually fine with me because I was concerned that my extreme fatigue would make his getting into the house today perhaps a bit unsafe. And Tom went along with it. She really wanted him to stay until Saturday, but I said, no -- tomorrow. Tom can settle in tomorrow and I'll have Saturday off with him before I have to work on Sunday.

The wheelchair is actually a little smaller than the one he's been using at rehab -- not quite as comfortable (and the brakes work in the opposite direction), but probably better in the long run as it's 2" narrower and should be easier with which to navigate around the house.

Alas, we WON'T be going to the Press Room session tomorrow, though. One more exit and late evening getting back up the steps to the house would just be too much. But I'm sure we'll be there next week.

I'm having trouble keeping my eyes open (even though it's only 6:30), so, after posting at Facebook and sending a couple emails, I'm heading upstairs to read a bit then go to sleep early. And I can take it easy tomorrow morning, too, before breaking Tom out of rehab.

It will be incredibly good to have him home!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: gnu
Date: 03 May 12 - 06:29 PM

Tomorrow... tomorrow... welcome home, Tom!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 03 May 12 - 06:50 PM

I don't think I've explained how much work it is for Tom to get into (and out of) the house. It's quite a project -- he goes up the stairs to the deck on his rear end, and then can pull himself up by the railing to get seated in the wheelchair (with his feet down a couple steps). He can maneuver the wheelchair over to the door. At the door, he gets out of the wheelchair and stands with the walker while I get the wheelchair into the house. He then hops backward to the door and plants his tush back in the wheelchair. It's tightly choreographed . . . and definitely a two-person (him and me) procedure. He won't be able to do it without assistance for awhile -- probably not until he can put weight on the ankle.

Tiring, too.

Good night!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: katlaughing
Date: 03 May 12 - 08:06 PM

When he is stable enough, you might see if insurance(?) would pay for renting one of THESE, or you can hi-tech and use an office chair like Rog. He got really fast scooting around at work.

SO glad you will be together , again!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: ChanteyLass
Date: 03 May 12 - 11:27 PM

Linn, whine away. Then wine away!

Hooray for Tom's homecoming tomorrow!

Years ago with a broken foot too swollen to cast, I crawled up the steps from my carport into the garage, across the garage floor, and up a few more steps into my kitchen. Then I used a kitchen stool to haul myself upright so I could put the crutches under my arms. I reversed the process after a few days when the swelling had gone down enough for me to leave the house to get the cast.

Whatever works!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 04 May 12 - 09:47 AM

I'm trying to accomplish some small decluttering chores (see declutter thread) without wearing myself out before heading to Dover to get Tom...with a multiple stops on the way: post office to mail an item off the table to my cousin before it gets lost again, Mustard Seed for the incense I've been out of for months, Rite-Aid for a waist strap to more safely get Tom into the house, and Market Basket for BEER and lunch and supper fixings

A neighbor should be coming over sometime today to relieve me of some (or all) of the big flower pots on the deck that I've hauled out of the cellar. I just really don't need all of them anymore.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: SINSULL
Date: 04 May 12 - 10:29 AM

Time for a new thread: Home Again, Home Again Jiggity Jig?

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Jeri
Date: 04 May 12 - 11:48 AM

Still part of the adventure- the BEST part!

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: catspaw49
Date: 04 May 12 - 12:27 PM

okay....lol

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 04 May 12 - 03:16 PM

Okay! Last post here and I'll start another thread...

Tom is HOME! And got safely into the house (plastic bag around his cast, cat in the cellar) despite the general dampness. At least it wasn't actively raining when we got here.

Took a little maneuvering, but, despite slippery steps and deck (geez, isn't where this all started seven weeks ago?!?) he's in the house and only slightly winded.

Rufus is vacuum cleaning the wheelchair...walker...rollator...and more or less ignoring Tom. I'm sure Tom will have two cats fighting over him tonight.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Curmudgeon's Latest Adventure
From: maeve
Date: 04 May 12 - 03:19 PM

Well done indeed, Linn and Tom. I'm so happy for you both!