BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008

Subject: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 11:58 AM

Well, several of our folks are either under the weather, under the knife or under the table, so I reckoned it was about time to re-open the Recovery Ward.

Come on in, take your clothes off, lay back in the nice soft beds or take a seat in one of our brand new, heated, padded PortaPotties which come with gerbil bottle for water, foot rest, book rest, grab bar and selection of reading materials, but more importantly, a mini fridge full of toilet paper.

Nurse Ratched is off duty at the moment so it's a good time to get settled. I'll be round shortly with the soothing ointments, cooling balms and green jello.

The Doctor is IN.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 12:06 PM

Sign me up!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 12:16 PM

Do you have a Burns Unit?
For those of us still a little delicate from yesterday's jollification.

Wee sleekit coo'erin; tim'rous beastie.
Oh whit a panic's in thy breastie.

Fair fa' yer honest sonsie face
Great chieftain o' the pudden
Abune them a' ye tak yer place.

When chapman billies leave the street, and drouthy neighbours, neighbours meet.

3rd degree I think.

G.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 12:29 PM

3rd degree I stink?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Amos
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 12:35 PM

This should be a permanent wing of the NYCFTTS, Liz.

"Hi, my names Amos. I'm a Mudcatter."

"Hiiiiiii, AMOS!"

"I used to tell myself I didn't have to read the threads, I could quit anytime I wanted to, and it was entirely my choice, whether to post or not. But thanks to this group here, all you good people, I have learned something important. That is just a justification, for a problem I am not willing to face. So now I am, and I am here to say, I have a real problem. I can face that now. And I am going to turn myself over to a higher power, recognizing I need help. I am thinking of choosing Catspaw or perhaps Bobert as my higher power.... What do you think?"

"BAAAAAAAD ideaaaaaa, Aaaaamos!"

---

I can see it now....Just wait until Guest-Guest gets up to the mic. "Hi!! My names bleeep and I'm a Mudcat flamer...."



A

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: maeve
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 02:31 PM

It'd be worth it to sign in, Dr. Liz, just for the entertainment promised by the line-up so far. A cooling balm for my forehead, please, and cherry jello for good behavior. Mine, that is. Those three ahead of me are stuck with lime.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 02:46 PM

Cherries are good for the headache. Jello? Too much sugar.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Rapparee
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 03:28 PM

They'll call me yellow jello, tomorrow, I'll eat it tomorrow, it's only a day away.

Then Monday they're going to turn me inside out so they can have a good look. I understand it's a new procedure -- the doc reaches waaaaaaaaay in, grabs your lips, and yanks. The procedure is reversed when he's finished.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 03:37 PM

Mellow yellow jello?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 03:37 PM

fellow

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Don Firth
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 03:44 PM

Since I'm a mellow fellow, I'm gonna bellow "Mellow Yellow," then eat my yellow jello. . . .

Don Firth

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 03:48 PM

Hello mellow fellow singing Mellow Yellow while eating yellow jello

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Don Firth
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 03:53 PM

Hello!

Don Firth

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 03:58 PM

Can I book a bed from Tuesday onwards, please?
And make it king size, I am 6'4" ...

MudGuard

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 03:59 PM

What happens in Jello stays in Jello.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 04:02 PM

Where's my Highland Park IV?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Amos
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 04:30 PM

Don't eat yellow jello, fello. It was green when it left the hospital kitchen...



A

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 04:30 PM

Or yellow snow

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Megan L
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 04:31 PM

SKELP

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 04:59 PM

Sorry Megan, the SKELP ward is three down and one across.

I don't do yello jello and the cherry jello is all mine.

MudGuard, the extension to your bed is being welded on as I type, it was a bit difficult getting that amount of mattress but I think we've managed.

Rapaire - ask the doc if he'll at least buy you dinner after.

Gnu - you're in the bed by the door, furthest away from snow shovelling.

Amos - This always has been a wing of the NYCFTTS, that's why the doors only open from the outside unless you have the special code.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Megan L
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 05:02 PM

Hell lassie how am i supposed tae find ma way aroon in here oor big hospital his twa ward his n hers

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bill D
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 05:12 PM

Highland Park should never be administered IV! My taste buds would move to the Orkneys in protest.


....and where was this ward 2 weeks ago when I really needed it? Hmmmppff! There I was, delicate areas all sore and tender, and no soothing balms from Nurse Ratched to......oh, wait..maybe it worked out for the best.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 05:36 PM

Oh Bill, if I'd known I'd've been there with the cayenne balm and the digital camera!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Rapparee
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 06:14 PM

Yes, but never before with a daisy!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 06:18 PM

I believe the flower in question was a daffodil.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Megan L
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 06:20 PM

I knew her a long time ago nice lassie so wis her sisters rose and lily

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 06:35 PM

What insurance do you take? Can I get my Chemo done there?

You can drop all the balms. Balms away! 30 Seconds Over Gilead!....

And spare me the Hickory Smoke Cure, like they offered at that place in Smithfield VA.

Does your Oncologist do more than tell me who's on call on a given night?

What's the graduation rate from these beloved Halls Of IV?

"Te-ell me why-y, the IV twines......."

Do these folks also recover sofas?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 06:38 PM

They only go sofa and no further Sev.
But Andy can arrange a tallboy for you.

and


3 Chairs


Hip hip ............


Got 2 new ones thanks.

G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 06:46 PM

Does your Oncologist lose his flavour on the bedpost overnight?

Chintz or Damask?

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 06:48 PM

Meagn said H E double hockey sticks! Ma!!!!!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Amos
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 06:48 PM

Severn,

Like a tree skelped in winter storms, you are indomitanle, bloody, but unboughed. And occasionally revealing your inner sap. While the rest of us work a longue day, you go off chaising rainbows.


A

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Rapparee
Date: 26 Jan 08 - 10:46 PM

Tomorrow I shall be abdominal. Moreover, it's supposed to snow (really!), so I can be the abdominal snowman.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 05:26 AM

Why not have a navel display while you are at it?


toot toot

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Megan L
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 05:37 AM

If you dont take the medecine nurse ratchet will send for granny dom

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: GUEST,Nurse E. Nuff
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 07:04 AM

Reports for duty, takes a swift look around and..

*walks quickly over to take Megan by the hand. "Now, look here, dearie, I'll show you where that SKELP ward is.. don't fret, you won't be that far away from your friends here.. and don't listen to that Liz, she may be in charge, but she's not responsible".

*leads Megan away down the corridor with a warning remark to the rest of the inmates "And you lot, if you feel something running DOWN your legs, wipe it off. If you feel something running UP your legs, relax and enjoy.........


















............. it will likely be one of the resident cats come to share a freshly caught mouse with you".

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 08:33 AM

Got room for me in here? I'm still trying to shake a series of bugs that have been bothering me since Christmas and could do with a few days of complete rest.

Just keep that Nurse R away from me - her tender ministrations I DO NOT need.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Megan L
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 09:48 AM

Or think you are a freshly caught mouse

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 09:58 AM

Jacqui, come in, but don't take my king-size bed! I'll need it in two days. Andy/MudGuard

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 10:17 AM

That's OK Andy - at 5'2" I don't need a big bed. I will have a Sleep Number bed if there's one going though.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 10:20 AM

They don't let you stay in bed long, after an operation these days Andy.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: GUEST,Nurse E. Nuff
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 10:22 AM

But he'll stay long in bed.

Mouse to mouse resuscitation? Not in my shift!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Megan L
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 10:27 AM

Mwahhhhhhhhhhhhhh you canny be everywhere nursie

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 10:53 AM

And I have heard that when a nurse says "Now it's time for us to go to bed", they don't really mean what they say ...
(Ok, with some nurses, this lie could be interpreted as merciful ;-))

I really hope I stay long in bed - imagine if I get shorter in bed, then my feet wouldn't touch the floor and I'd have big problems walking ...

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 01:06 PM

Damn! Nurse Intervenous De Milo here just missed yet another vein. If she'd been Charlie Parker's girlfriend, he'd have never lived long enough to become a legend!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: GUEST,Nurse E. Nuff
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 04:21 PM

Rapaire, if you require further information on the procedure you're about to undergo, I suggest you contact Kendall. He claims to have performed that particular procedure on a bear so should be able to fill you in on the ins and outs!

Giok, your Highland Park IV was ready to be administered, but one of the doctors (I think it was the one in charge of Rapaire's procedure or possibly MudGuard's) purloined it and is presently in a sorry state in the staff room. I'm so sorry, but I did manage to get you a navel display instead.

Severn, your complaint against nurse De Milo has been duly noted and will be brought to the attention of the management asap. Meanwhile, should you so wish, feel free to call her out by slapping her soundly round the ears with a rubber glove. If you do, prepare yourself for a duel on IVs at dawn which seems to be her preferred duelling method.

Liz..!!! That bed for MudGuard needed an extension lengthwise. No need to weld another bed to the side of it as well...

Laxatives, anyone?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: GUEST,Dr. Ling
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 04:45 PM

Hi,

I recommend traditional Chinese medicine for everyone!

Oh, you wonder who I am? My name is Dr. Ling and I come from China.
My full name is Dr. Hea Ling

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 04:59 PM

Ahhhhh! The Missing Ling, at last!

What, pray tell, does the I-Ching recommend other than no Scra-Ching?

My best to your wife She-Ling and all your Sib-Lings at home.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 05:03 PM

Wee Ling

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 07:33 PM

May I please claim some anesthetic to ease the aching of my shoulder due to the atmospheric pressure (ayuh, I can predict the weather) and exercises to enable me to reach up further than the top of my head?

I was just checking the description of the hardware embedded in my shoulder --

"For anatomical, stable reconstruction of complex fractures for early mobilisation."
"- Avoids soft-tissue irritation due to the rounded shape of plate conforming to the profile of the lateral head of the humerus"
"- Prevents subacromial impingement due to a short cranial end to the plate and countersunk screw heads"
"- No loosening of screws in relation to the plate"

Don't want any subacromial impingement.

Cask strength Laphroaig has worked in the past -- might I be allowed a new prescription?

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Jeri
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 07:37 PM

No, you don't want subacromial impingement. I got that, and I don't even have any hardware in my arm. Knee, yes, but not arm.

I'm Bat Goddess's official taster. You can never be to careful, you know.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Rapparee
Date: 27 Jan 08 - 07:39 PM

And I'm Jeri's official taster. It's a clear liquid, after all.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 28 Jan 08 - 05:42 AM

Oh dear... oh deary deary me....

I need to book into the Quarantine ward.... Unclean! Unclean!

Went to bed perfectly healthy last night after an invigorating day in the fresh air, and today I woke up hardly able to breathe. My chest feels like an elephant has taken up lodgings and my head has a woodpecker in it trying to get out. Heaven only knows where the badger has crapped, but I can taste it every time I cough. I'm a one person zoo.

I need a hug and IV honey, rum and lemon, easy on the lemon.

coff coff coff.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 28 Jan 08 - 05:42 AM

Laphroaig like Kathleen Winsor is 'Forever Amber', Rap.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 28 Jan 08 - 07:40 AM

So it has bits of tree and long dead insects in it? Very glad I don't drink the stuff!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 28 Jan 08 - 11:56 AM

I also need a notebook.... to the relief of those I live with, I have no voice now.

I'm not a happy bunny.


:(

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 28 Jan 08 - 11:57 AM

Bugs Bunny?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 28 Jan 08 - 12:58 PM

Geez, sorry Liz -- equal parts of honey, lemon and brandy warm. Wonderful for the throat, gentle enough for a babe in arms. (Older doctor "prescribed" it to my doctor uncle for his young daughter back in the late 1950s. Works.) Oh, and after enough of the medicine, you really don't care...

Haven't been out much in the past month or so, but I managed to pick up a cold (probably at The Press Room; sigh) and spent last week fending it off with Airbornes and Cold-Eze. Seemed to work wonders. Kept the symptoms fairly mild. Alas, swallowed enough snot that my tum's a bit iffy, though.

I think I'm really glad I've not had to participate a lot in winter this year.

Oh, cask strength Laphroaig with three finger-flicks of water in it -- brings out the flavor.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 28 Jan 08 - 02:04 PM

Can someone please keep Liz locked far away from my kingsize bed, please? I don't want to get post-surgery infections ...

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 28 Jan 08 - 05:47 PM

Damn. My plan has been scuppered... someone saw through my ruse....

Bugger... back to the nurses uniform and the shaving kit....


LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 28 Jan 08 - 05:50 PM

Not the Brazilian again Liz please.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Rapparee
Date: 28 Jan 08 - 05:59 PM

At least they didn't have to shave any part of me today. I didn't even feel it when they yanked the EKG leads off, ripping most of the chest hair away at the same time.

"Nurse, be a bit careful with that razor! GOOD LORD! Look what you've done to the poor man!"

"Aw, bugger off! Shouldn't have been pointing it at me like that anyway!"

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Megan L
Date: 28 Jan 08 - 06:15 PM

Rapaire Skelp men cant help pointing their mamies never telt them it wis rude

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Rapparee
Date: 28 Jan 08 - 07:37 PM

Megan, as the young woman from the Glens once said to me, "I dinna like the gleam in yer eye nor the tilt o' yer kilt."

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 29 Jan 08 - 09:36 AM

Tis no the tilt o' the kilt, more what his sgian'll dubh!

LTS - that phrase book is really proving it's worth.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 05:03 AM

Out of the way, give me a clear path to my kingsize bed!
Why is there no red carpet? Management!!! I have a complaint!

And now, quiet please, and no snoring! The man in the kingsize bed needs some sleep!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 05:07 AM

SO glad to see you here Andy... well, not glad that you need recovery, but that you made it to recovery... Oh you know what I mean.

We want a full report as soon as you're done snoozing. I'll try not to wake you with my coughing.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Megan L
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 05:14 AM

Granny Dom fits LTS with a gag so her coughing wont disturb big man with bed or was that man with big bed ah well* wanders aff lukin for someone tae skelp

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Rapparee
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 08:39 AM

Six feet four requires a "big" bed? Why, out here that's the average size of the puny little babies. Of course, with love and care they get better and grow up big and strong. That means that beautiful women have to wait on them hand and foot, attending to their every need.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 08:46 AM

Obviously the women are shorter then!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 11:10 AM

Ok, full report (all times are GMT - General Munich Time):

Tue, 6:00 I woke up in panic - did I sleep too long?
Tue, 6:05 Don't panic, there's more than an hour till I have to leave the house, and there is no need to prepare breakfast as I am not allowed to eat it anyway.
Tue, 7:15 Left my flat
Tue, 7:55 Arrived at Hospital
Tue, 8:25 Finally made it through the queue at the reception office
Tue, 9:00 Was sent up to my room. No king-size bed. Filled out complaint about this.
Tue, 9:10 They checked whether I was worth being operated by checking whether I was alive (Blood pressure 140:80, Temp. 37.2°C, Pulse 72)
Tue, 9:20 Nurse threatens to shave me.
Tue, 9:21 Doctor arrives and saves me from shaving, asks personal questions (do you drink alcohol ...).
Tue, 9:29 Nurse comes back with shaving kit - shit, doctor saved me only temporarily.
Tue, 9:30 Nurse only shaves area from upper thighs to navel - pheew, my beard is safe!
Tue, 9:45 Have to change from pyjamas to some piece of cloth they call OP shirt. Open at the back, and with sleeves not fitting my bicepses ...
Tue, 9:55 Got some nice socks to go with the shirt (but the color did not really match ...). And nurse rammed some needle in my leg and pushed some fluid stuff into it. And I had to swallow a "I don't care for nothing at all" pill.
Tue, 10:00 Nurse forced me into bed.
Tue, 10:05 I am getting hungry. And thirsty.
Tue, 11:00 Two nurses (must be cowards, not daring to come alone) appear and push me around with my bed.
Tue, 11:05 End of hospital bed voyage. Have to crawl on a 2m wide belt, which transports me into operating area.
Tue, 11:08 Get deposited in a corner of the preparation room. Different nurse rams a different needle into my hand.
Tue, 11:10 some masked man (some Al-Qaida-Fighter? Maybe my surgeon?) asks me whether I recognize him. I ask him "How should I when you are maskerading?".
Tue, 11:30 another journey while I am lying down. Some room with bright lamps. Someone asks me where I would like to go on holiday and so on. I know the bastards, they only want to distract my thoughts from their trying to kill me with anesth ...

Tue, 12:30 I nearly jump up as someone calls my name. It's one of these masked Al-Qaida fighters. Ha! Got her by surprise, she got a shock from me nearly jumping up!
Tue, 12:35 Time for another journey. Back to the belt. And into my (still no king-size) bed. This then gets shoved into another room.
Tue, 12:45 Slowly, the effects from the Al-Qaida poisoning attempts wear off.
Tue, 12:50 There must be high water in the hospital, I realize they have started building a sand sack wall on my stomach.
Tue, 13:15 Nurse in wakeup room doesn't like me, she phones other nurses to get rid of me.
Tue, 13:25 Two nurses (not of Al-Qaida, these are not masked) take me with my bed back to my room.
Tue, 13:30 I am still hungry. And thirsty. Although they feed some cheap stuff into my arm (must be cheap, the stuff comes in a plastic bag)
Tue, 13:35 Room service appears, with a choice between fennel and peppermint tea. I do not want to start vomiting, thus decide against fennel.
Tue, 14:04 Room neighbour (also Hernia) comes back from operation. He gets no choice of tea - as I took peppermint, only fennel is left ...
Tue, 15:30 Doctor comes (not my surgeon) to check whether Al-Qaida was successful killing me. Notes down another failure.
Tue, 16:30 Nurse comes, ask bed neighbor whether he wants to try standing up. Hey, that's unfair, I was back from OP first!
Tue, 16:35 Neighbor has got up, but is now in bathroom corner vomiting. That's fast punishing for queue-jumping!
Tue, 16:45 Hiqh water seems to be gone, sand sack is removed. And I am allowed to get up. Nurse (a beautiful, but tiny one - 1m55/ 5'1") is afraid as I am taller sitting down on the bedside than she is standing up. She fetches reinforcements.
Tue, 16:50 I can get up. And walk around the room. Without vomiting (making nananaanaaananaa sounds to the queue-jumping bastard!). Am allowed to get out of that op shirt and into my pyjamas. And to get at my mobile phone - my parents must be half-dead waiting for my call.
Tue, 17:02 made it back to my bed, was just trying to call my parents when I got interrupted by a knock-knock on the door. It's my mother! I stop attempt to call them on mobile.
Tue, 17:10 use my mother as support to go to toilet (as far away as possible without using the staircases). Successfully relieved me of some of the peppermint tea.
Tue, 17:40 dinner arrives, my mother leaves. (Reminds me of some old Johnny Walker advertisement - "Was kommt, wenn der Tag geht? Johnny Walker" roughly translates to "What arrives, when the day leaves? Johnny Walker")
Tue, 17:45 shock when looking at room service delivery: three slices of untoasted toast, some cream cheese and two see-thru slices of "Gelbwurst", some cooked meat sausage. Although I don't like it, I eat it all, as there is no alternative.
Tue, 18:30 another doctor comes to check whether we are still alive. Btw, there has a third "hernia" arrived.
Tue, 19:30 Nurse checks again whether we are alive. Gives out sleeping pills.
Tue, 19:45 We agree to turn off lights, we are all tired (someone has stuck knifes into us, so please understand!)
Tue, 20:00 The snoring battle begins.
Wed, 04:14 My bladder demands a trip to the toilet. Make it there and back all on my own!
Wed, 06:30 another nurse comes to check on our lives. I am mighty hungry! (I only got that weak excuse of some starters for all the previous day!).
Wed, 06:44 I am proclaimed as winner of the snoring contest by my room mates.
Wed, 07:05 Nurse comes to remove the needles from our hands (and checks on our lives again). Promises that breakfast will arrive soon.
Wed, 08:02 Finally, breakfast arrives. 3 rolls, Salami, Emmentaler cheese, curd cheese (?), butter, strawberry jam, honey.
Wed, 08:20 Made my way almost through breakfast, only half a roll, some butter and honey is left when my surgeon arrives to check on me.
Wed, 08:22 gives me a shock, says I should stay another night.
Wed, 08:23 I tell him I want to go home. So he pulls out that tube dangling from the knife wound. And allows me to go home if I don't make the way on my own. I promise my father will pick me up. He says that's ok!
Wed, 08:30 Finished with breakfast.
Wed, 08:40 Finished with dressing and packing.
Wed, 08:45 Having said good-bye to my bed neighbours I leave a "thank you" or "Merci" and say good by.
Wed, 08:50 arrived at Administration.
Wed, 09:12 leave admistration after paying a 10-Euro-per-day fee. The bastards count my stay as two days!
Wed, 09:14 call my father to pick me up.
Wed, 09:32 father arrives.
Wed, 09:50 father delivers me at my flat. I just posted on several forums that I have survived, then went to bed to catch up with some sleep.
Wed, 15:50 I wake up in time for my "traditional" 16:00 tea.
Wed, 16:15 I start typing this report while drinking tea.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 11:37 AM

Sounds highly amusing.
Glad to be home then?
G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 11:55 AM

Yes, glad to be home again. A bed of 6'4" is not really big if you are 6'4" yourself ...
And although I won the snoring contest, the two bed neighbours were not bad themselves ...

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 02:57 PM

Can I just have a script for some Benadryl, please? The person in the next cube from me here at work decided this morning that she should marinate herself in some gawd awful lotion that I think is supposed to smell like raspberries and I'm having a bit of an allergic reaction to it. I'm itchy and headache-y and I can't breath through my nose.

Scary part is, I work for a hospital and my office is supposed to be a 'fragrance free zone'. So much for that idea!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 02:59 PM

I laid on the sofa and coughed a lot... not nearly so exciting as your saga Andy... so glad you were able to escape. Now take it easy, don't try bending or running for anything and let your mother pretend you're her baby again....

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: skarpi
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 03:29 PM

what ? against Fennel ?? what about that Brennivín you drank
last February ???' thats fennel :>)


all the best Skarpi

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 04:09 PM

Skarpi, that's something different - it doesn't taste like fennel.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Megan L
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 04:12 PM

You mean Brenavin has a taste :)

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 04:13 PM

A lot more taste than some people I know Meg.
G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Megan L
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 04:19 PM

:p Dauvitt and I had enough good taste to meet up with the delightful Gunna and that giant she brought with her

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 07:44 PM

Well, evaluation appointment with physical therapy tomorrow morning.

Got a stunning printout of my latest x-ray (Tuesday a.m.) -- have scanned it and will send to people I want to scare. Will also bring it along to Friday's Press Room session and the gathering at Sinsull's on Saturday. (Not necessarily for scaring purposes.)

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 07:57 PM

Third day of Chemo. Dishrag days are here again for a while. Feel like homemade dirt. Much urination and feelings of nausea that never quite get there an all around weakness and lethargy.



Hope you're all doing well.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Rapparee
Date: 30 Jan 08 - 10:36 PM

Apart from sleeping off the effects of the happy juice and relieving myself of the air injected into my colon on Monday, things have been...okay. I felt pretty good yesterday, but that may have had more to do with being able to EAT SOMETHING!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 12:31 AM

Have slept remarkably well. Despite the fact that nobody reminded me of taking the pain killer pill in the evening.

I feel some pain when getting up/sitting down (i.e. when I use the abdominal muscles), but less than yesterday.
I try to use mostly the arms to push me up or let me down ...
It also hurts a little bit if I accidentally touch the band-aid covering the cut.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Wilfried Schaum
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 02:03 AM

Nice to read that you have survived, Andy. Your experiences reminded me of my own in hospitals (except military hospitals, where they keep always the same staff for you). It's the same the whole world over ...

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 05:53 AM

Severn, you take care of yourself... just keep saying - it will pass... or remembering the Wareham Wail or other such occasions... thinking of you.

Andy - keep up the good work!

Rapaire - never trust a fart, remember? NEVER TRUST A FART!!! There's a regretful incident relayed me by a friend who had a similar experience, that involved her forgetting she'd had a cup of tea and thinking there was naught but air.....

Bat Goddess - stop scaring people with pictures of you nekkid and skinless!

Skarpi - I think we concluded that Brennevin is caraway flavoured. Fennel is more licquorice. It's much enhanced by the addition of some sloes.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 07:18 AM

And be careful with farts when there are burning candles around - farts are combustible (don't try to use them for jet propulsion!)

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 04:08 PM

This afternoon I got adventorous (following doctor's orders to walk a bit) and made my (very slow) way to the nearest supermarket. And I survived. And found the way back home!

Now the cut/scar starts itching. And the re-growing hairs are itching as well.

I'm allowed to take a shower tonight. But I think I give the cut/scar another night's time to heal before I do that - I don't go out tonight anyway ...

How is the rest of you? Making progress?

Liz, still coughing?

Can someone please explain "dishrag days"?
Severn, it sounds awful - but I do not really understand the term. I know enough English to understand "day" (1/7 of a week ;-)) and "dishrag" (cloth for washing up plates and cutlery). But "dishrag days" doesn't make any sense to me ...

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 04:20 PM

Hello I am looking for the fellow serving Lemoncello Jell-o on the back of his yellow cello (cellophane) mellow cello (chello).
I'll go away now...

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 04:22 PM

Andy ~ "dishrag day" - feeling like something that's been soaked in soapy water then rubbed around a dirty greasy pan, then left on the side to dry, all limp and wrung out.

I'm still coughing, the pills are working though as I can breathe within 5 minutes of a coughing fit... thank you for asking.

And Andy - I can testify that the regrowing hairs will be considerably more annoying and painful than any surgical procedure.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 04:44 PM

Andy,

Liz got it pretty much dead on. A series of days when you don't even want to get up and walk, but with the constant need to urinate, you have to anyway. Bloated and empty and verging on nausea at the same time, as different meds play tug of war inside you. You feel like about 2/5 of a human being. And since the anti-nausea meds somehow work better on a full stomach, You feed yourself anyway.No fun at all.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 04:46 PM

Well keep telling yourself it's all in a good cause, and remember we're thinking of you Sev.
Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 05:10 PM

Severn, that sounds really awful! Hope it will be better soon!
And Liz, thanks for the English lesson!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 31 Jan 08 - 07:19 PM

Progressing...

Had a good session with the physical therapist this morning, a nice chap named Geoff. After filling out all the paperwork, etc., multiple questions and explanations, he did some really nice manipulation (shut up) and got me to relax and trust that he wasn't going to hurt me. Showed me some exercises to do, made some suggestions about how to thin out the scar tissue from the incision, introduced me to the pool where for the first few weeks I'll be spending about a third of our sessions. (No, I am NOT going to buy a swimming suit -- or be seen in one! I've already got a pair of shorts "ruined" by a pool and I'm sure I can find a loose shirt-like thingie to wear that's also expendable.)

First sessions start in two weeks -- I still can't drive and Tom is working for the next two weeks. (Since I'm not bringing in any income, I can't interfere with his two-week gig!)

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Wilfried Schaum
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 02:07 AM

Bat Goddess - esteem yourself lucky when you can lift your arm as high as your head. After 3 months of daily PT I wasn't. Reading your posts I just remember one day before Xmas when I sat crying on the table and despaired of any recovery. Then the therapist asked me: How could you move your arm when they took off the cast? - Not at all. - And how now? - Better. After half a year of hard training my broken arm was more agile than the sound one; it's the only one I can use to scratch my back up to the shoulderblades.

By the way - I got more than giggles from the nurses when I asked: What's this PT you're rolling me to? Public Torturehouse?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 07:43 AM

more than giggles?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Micca
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 08:54 AM

Linn, and Andy you have to wtch out for those Physical terrorists!! Mine warned me about coughing , after abdominal surgery, but omitted to mention the effect of sneezing!!! the 3rd sneeze in the set resulted in my passing out!!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 01:45 PM

Aha, Wilfried! I NEVER had a cast -- which causes muscles to atrophy.

For two days I just had a sometime sling keeping the two ends of the humerus from slopping around too much, then I had the surgery to install the hardware. No cast either after surgery and I only used the sling for awhile to stabilize the arm while riding in the car and as an indication for other people to stay the hell away from the arm. (Didn't work much -- they hugged me anyway.)

Two weeks later (original appointment was for one week) when the staples came out, the surgeon gave me some basic exercises to do -- mostly letting gravity work for me. And "Power Putty" or something (better than a tennis ball) to help work and loosen the muscles.

Still, it took close to a month to be able to raise my arm high enough to put in my contact lenses, for example, or put backs on my earrings. (I'm so vain.)

Geoff the therapist gave me some stretching type exercises yesterday (especially since I can't get back to see him for two weeks). Everything is stretch to the point of discomfort, not pain.

My terror through this whole ordeal has been that I would no longer be able to take baths -- ever. Now showers are for getting clean, but baths are for R&R -- MY R&R -- with a margarita and a book and no one (except, perhaps, a cat) to disturb me. I'm "goddess shaped" and my knees are shot (technical medical term), so to get out of the bath tub I have to push with my arms to take the stress off my knees. (Even before I broke the arm I knew that if I ever stopped, I probably wouldn't be able to do it again.)

So I asked the surgeon the other day and he said after the bone has healed I should have no problems getting out of the bath. I said I also intended to lose some weight and he said, "I'm glad you brought that up." So...get the right arm healed, I've been back working with weights on my GOOD arm to strengthen it, and, most importantly, actively work at losing some weight -- not only for my arm and my future bubble baths, but for my knees as well.

The arm therapy is going to take a lot of work. Straight out to the side is the highest my left arm will go right now. (And I can just barely reach across my chest with it -- makes getting deodorant on a bit complicated.) But the experts all agree that I should be able to raise my left arm almost as high as the right.

(Now if I can just get it to stop hurting like hell when rain is coming -- like right now.)

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 02:18 PM

Awww, Sev. I wish I could piss for ya, buddy. And, them "anti-nausea meds somehow work better on a full stomach"? Double "Awww"! Can't you get some of that "medical merrywanna" to bring on the munchies? They got it here, in pill form, by prescription, I heard. And, you can also get the free range, organic stuff, too... ya just gotta know which taxi driver to call, I heard.

Paging Ms. Nurse Maryjane...

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 04:55 PM

Can you jam the deodorant into a drawer and roll your arm across it that way? I managed to do that when my frozen shoulder was at it's worst and I couldn't reach across myself. We have a tallboy - a short wardrobe which was the perfect height for it.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 05:13 PM

Jamming deodorant in your drawers is not really what the makers had in mind, was it roll on or aerosol?
G.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Micca
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 06:44 PM

Neither ball nor aerosol Giok, it was for her armpits!!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 01 Feb 08 - 06:48 PM

Your mind works like mine mate, sad innit?
G ¦¬]

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 02 Feb 08 - 04:44 AM

Sorry gents, the sad old man ward is two down and round to the left. This is for people who are sick in body, not mind.

Hope we're all recovering nicely, Nurse Ratched is due back on Monday so be warned!


LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 02 Feb 08 - 08:19 AM

My cold seems finally to be giving up - hips are aching with the weather we're having but that I can cope with.

Find me a quiet spot with a TV. I'm going to sit and watch Salems Lot this morning, all four hours of it.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 02 Feb 08 - 08:21 AM

What's TV?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Megan L
Date: 02 Feb 08 - 08:36 AM

Send the grumpy auld men doon tae ma ward lassie ah'll skelp their bahookie till their lugs ring. It might knock some sence intae them but a doot it they hivny got that auld withoot loosin whit grey cells they hid.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 02 Feb 08 - 01:32 PM

Neither roll-on nor aerosol -- stick. Not that I'd put any of it in my drawers ;-) even if I had a highboy. No, impossible logistics around here -- but a good idea! Been working on a LOT of workarounds until I can raise the arm higher that straight out from the shoulder (and allowed to lift anything heavier than a coffee cup). As it is, with the stick deodorant, I can just barely reach the right armpit -- and, believe it or not, can use my right hand to get the lower part of my underarm covered.

I'm schlepping 6 pillows, a bolster and a neck pillow so I can sleep at Sinsull's tonight. Sigh. I feel as if I'm going on safari!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 02 Feb 08 - 01:38 PM

Seamus will love all those pillows.
G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: bfdk
Date: 02 Feb 08 - 03:09 PM

Not to mention Alice..
B

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 02 Feb 08 - 10:06 PM

I wish I could sleep with pillows again. In a bed, or even just on the couch. Sometime soon, I hope.

Or on a big, comfy, nurse. Yeah, I wouldn't be able to roll my head to the side if... ah, er, she cradled.... ah, er.....

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 03 Feb 08 - 04:35 AM

Gnu - you wouldn't be able to roll your head if you were in traction either, which is where you will be if you make a suggestion like that to Nurse Ratched, who, whilst formidibly well endowed, is rather short in the sense of humour department.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 03 Feb 08 - 07:14 PM

Seamus slept at the foot of the bed. I was visited by Freddie just after I retired to my seated position in bed propped up by pillows. I motioned him into my lap, but he just stared as if to say, "Where's Mom? And who, exactly, are YOU?!?"

I'm having something interesting happen and I haven't a clue as to why. I've had "age spots" on the backs of my hands for some time now. One in particular on my right hand has been both large and dark. An hour ago or so I looked down at my right hand and noted that the large one (that had a bit of a scab in the corner from my scratching at something) was noticably paler that it had been even two days ago. And that all the others seem to be fading substantially as well.

Now I DID get several remedies -- on Friday from a friend who is an herbalist -- to encourage bone healing and to discourage pain. But the only one I've started using consistently was a homeopathic remedy for pain.

Of course, I'm also massaging vitamin E oil into the incision scar.

What's causing the age spots to fade? I am, of course, ecstatic! It's a major improvement in the appearance of my hands.

Or is it being in the Mudcat Recovery Ward?!?

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 03 Feb 08 - 07:18 PM

Have you changed your glasses Linn?

G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Rapparee
Date: 03 Feb 08 - 10:39 PM

Low light? Lack of sunlight might also do it -- I think they're basically melanin.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 04 Feb 08 - 01:38 AM

As far as I know, the "age spots" are caused by a lack of vitamin E. As you are providing additional vitamin E, this might help to reduce the lack of vitamin E and thus reducing the age spots.

Btw, I am recovering quite well. The cut is healing, it doesn't hurt or itch anymore. And the swell has almost vanished.
It's also much easier to stand up/sit down now.

What about progress with the other patients?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 04 Feb 08 - 05:47 AM

Still coughing but it's no longer green. Huzzah for penicillin.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: maeve
Date: 04 Feb 08 - 07:17 AM

A nasty-tasting granulated herbal formula seems to be taking the edge off the migraines; poetry and new tunes have begun to emerge for the first time in a few years. Must be the good compnay and good nursing here in the Recovery ward!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: GUEST,LTS pretending to work
Date: 05 Feb 08 - 05:01 AM

WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!!!

Back at work for the first time in nearly 3 weeks... it's not nice here!

I want my duvet.

And an IV of cherry juice please.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 05 Feb 08 - 03:05 PM

Glad to hear you are doing well, MudGuard!

I am doing okay. Slept on my left side on my couch for a wee bit two nights ago and the progress I had with the facial "droop" and eye twitching and eye weeping and lip twitching regressed. Back to sleeping in the Lazy-Boy chair for a few more days (?), at least.

But, the lines on the left side of my forehead are still "gone". I think the nerve damage was caused during the stone removal attempt prior to the gland removal surgery. Of course, when I questioned the doc about the odd procedure he used during the stone removal attempt (trying to crush the stone with his figers???), he said people pay big money for Botox injections for that. And, I thought, I wonder if I hit him with a right cross directly on that nerve, would he thank me?

Don't mind me... just whining... and wondering.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 05 Feb 08 - 04:37 PM

A couple of days of gnaws-ya (from the inside) watching over two bowls on Super Sunday, and today having my CT and PET scans cancelled, but not until after I had the Barium.

"Barium? He ain't dead yet!"

Hope you all are doing well. Heading toward my good week......

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 05 Feb 08 - 04:56 PM

Jeez, that's a bummer. You could have done without the Barium Necessities ♫
G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 05 Feb 08 - 05:20 PM

Aw shit, Sev... I mean... oh, you know. Damn. I hope things get moving again... wait, I mean...

Well, you know... my thoughts and prayers are with you each and every day. Not a finer gentleman in all of Mudcat.

I hope you are able to go Pro Bowlo next weekend without a weak end.

Drink lots of water and walk slow, eh?

g

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 05 Feb 08 - 06:45 PM

And never trust a fart! Especially an old fart like Gnu.

Nurse Ratched will be round with the bed pans in about 10 minutes.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: GUEST,nurse ratched
Date: 06 Feb 08 - 02:21 AM

Sev, unlike that reprobate Giok, you will be given my very bestest care!
LTS, it's nice to be remembered

n.r.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 06 Feb 08 - 11:36 AM

Wait! I thought gnu said he wanted "Deadpan Humor"!

Or maybe it was Cap'n Hook that wanted it.....

Or was he the one the Barrie-um was meant for?

Thanks, Nurse! Kesey references are an improvement over queasy references,.


.....Feeling a bit better today, folks, thanks!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 06 Feb 08 - 12:06 PM

Good news Sev.
Did you mean bed pan humour?

G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 06 Feb 08 - 12:26 PM

What is in a barium?
In an aquarium, there is aqua (water).
In a terrarium, there is terra (earth).
In a barium, there is a ba? As far as I know ba is not a Latin word.
So what is in there?

;-)

Btw. by looking that up I found the word
baro, baronis = baboon, booby
This sheds quite a new light on the title of "baron" ;-)

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 07 Feb 08 - 12:05 PM

this afternoon I was at the doctor's. He pulled the rope out of my wound. And, as there was a tiny amount of pus, he put some wet rags (soaked in some infectant called "dis") on the wound and fixed them with some sellotape stuff ...

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 07 Feb 08 - 02:26 PM

You're 'o peeein style bed pans? They don't look at all "comfy" to me. I think I'd rather get on some pot than....

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 07 Feb 08 - 04:31 PM

Thanks for sharing Andy... pass the bucket please.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: GUEST,LTS pretending to work
Date: 08 Feb 08 - 08:56 AM

Someone prepare the trauma unit - if the annoying little a**hole sitting opposite me doesn't stop bitching about management and actually do the work he's paid for, he's going to need emergency surgery to repair the new a**hole I'm going to rip him.

LTS - functioning on 3 hours sleep but not functioning very well....

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 08 Feb 08 - 09:03 AM

Liz - ask Nurse R to pay him a visit. That'll shut him up for good.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 12 Feb 08 - 04:24 AM

As there is no activity here any longer, I think this institution can be closed again to save money for the health care institutions.

I silently left a few days ago when I increased my mobility from 5% to 98% (I was allowed to ride my bicycle again).

As noone else seems to be here, I switch off the light!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 12 Feb 08 - 07:57 AM

Where did my post go? I can's see a thing.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 12 Feb 08 - 08:47 AM

Got a CAT scan and a PET scan today and neither one says "Little Friskies on it......

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 12 Feb 08 - 09:33 AM

But, are ya feelin a little frisky at all? Enquiring mindless want to know.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 12 Feb 08 - 10:56 AM

Ah bliss.... moved offices today so the little a**hole mentioned above is no longer anywhere remotely near my desk, and we have a whole new manager to rip him a new one should he venture a) down to our spur or b) away from his own desk!

Anyhoo... been shifting furniture and stuff for the last 2 days (don't ask, poor porters have enough to do, as well as being from Lancashire) so I need a massage and a muscle rub... and a little something for the vertigo that's manifested itself today. Usually it's a little more benign but I've been up and down in that lift so many times I think I'm on elastic.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: GUEST,Nurse E. Nuff
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 05:59 AM

*enters the ward, flicks on the light, takes a swift look around and bustles into activity.

Oy, you!, Yes, you, MudGuard, was that you switched off the light in here? Get back on your training bike! No lazy beggars around on my shift! And if you still have problems with pus, I'll get you a nice maggot dressing in a minute. That'll soon set you right, dear boy.

*marches over to rattle the beds containing Rapaire and Giok.
Get up, you wasters and layabouts, it's time for some action here. This ward must be prepared for tomorrow when we may expect the Queen of Tacky Gifting to grace us with her presence. I want this place to be all ship-shape for her arrival, so extricate yourselves from those bedsheets and set to work with the rest of us!

*tiptoes to the next bed down the line, bends over the occupant and whispers:
Severn, my dear, if you're feeling frisky enough we could do with a few choice puns to greet Ms Sins when she gets here.

*turns to a figure caught busy stuffing chocolates into her face.
Liz, dear, the Christmas Tree Shop left-over storage is in the basement, next to the Skelp ward. If you're not coughing too hard, could you nip down there and take a look around. See if there's anything that'll go with either an all-pink theme or an angel theme? That's a girl! You can get Megan to help you with the decorations, if you can prize her out of the Skelp ward. Do leave a little space for whatever Jacqui may bring in, though, I'm sure we don't have anything that can match her choice of decorations.

gnu, DON'T try to sneak that 'hran in here.. it's banjos we want for Sins, not bodhrans!

*disappears down the corridor, still issuing commands left and right

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 08:07 AM

I won't. Last time I did, someone tried to use it as a bed pan.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 12:01 PM

Wire brush and Dettol.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 12:17 PM

Severn, what you need is a Lab report. I'll have Jacqui sent Seamus over promptly.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 12:39 PM

And a fetching fellow he is, too!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 12:44 PM

I can get you a cat scan already....

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 12:52 PM

Hello all. Just stopping by to map out a private room for me and Seamus. Queen size bed or better yet king size. Seamus likes to stretch out.
And a shelf or two for my collection of crap - gifts for the nursing staff.

Gotta run now. Gnu - you pee in that banjo and I will put Alice on your bed.
Later all...

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 01:11 PM

You promise?

Go get 'em tiger!!!!! I'll be sayin extras for ya tonight... and tomorrow night... and....

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 04:21 PM

It's amazing how quickly those banjo parts rust...better watch out for the sharp edges. OUCH! Nasty place to get a cut, gnu.
Nurse!!!!
Gary needs a tetanus shot in his peeper (courtesy of Becca).

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 04:27 PM

LOL...I don't think I like the way that was phrased....

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 06:02 PM

If you lot don't start behaving Nurse Ratched will be round to sort you out!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 14 Feb 08 - 06:24 PM

"Behaving"? What the hell is that?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 15 Feb 08 - 09:30 AM

It's all very well saying behave, but you have to stipulate 'well' or 'badly'....

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 15 Feb 08 - 06:52 PM

Nasty place to get a cut? Huh? Did I not miss sommat? Becca... YOU don't? How do you think I feel? Not to mention wee peeper... he has withdrawn into himself.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 16 Feb 08 - 05:45 AM

I can't get my winkle out, isn't it a sin
The more I try to get it out, the further it goes in
I can't get my winkle out, isn't it a do-er
I can't get it out with an old bent pin
Has anybody here got a skewer.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 16 Feb 08 - 07:48 AM

LOL...pass the banjo, er, bedpan

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 16 Feb 08 - 11:47 AM

The difference between the two?

No-one is proud of playing the bedpan.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 16 Feb 08 - 11:49 AM

That was either a bum note, or a diminished turd.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 16 Feb 08 - 02:38 PM

LOL Damn it! Everytime I stop coughing someone makes me laugh. Jacqui - does Nurse Ratched have a supply of Amian? I would really enjoy a good night's sleep complete with psychedelic dreams.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 16 Feb 08 - 04:33 PM

Well, I could play a bedpan with my tipper, so choose yer weapon, eh?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 17 Feb 08 - 09:58 AM

What's a tipper? Is that the same as a peeper? :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 17 Feb 08 - 10:08 AM

Some guy's peepers don't have covers, that's because they've been visited by the tipper, Becca.

G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 17 Feb 08 - 11:17 AM

Please and feel free to offer tips to the nurse (before she sedates you for no apparent reason) but don't, under any circumstances gnu, tip the bedpan.

It'll be like those confused nights in pubs when you use the waitress and tip over the spitoon.

Or it might be like "raries". If you've come a long way to tip one, there's probably no stopping you.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 17 Feb 08 - 11:21 AM

I miss the old spittoon!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Megan L
Date: 17 Feb 08 - 11:39 AM

Ony mair misbehavin aroon here an ah'll send Granny roon tae gie ye aw a bed bath. An shes no awfy fussy whaur she sticks the loofa

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Feb 08 - 11:45 AM

Whoa. . . listening to the rebroadcast this morning of A Prairie Home Companion. Make room for the young blind pianist who was on the program. He'll need to let his nerves settle after a Chopin fantasy and etude. He kept going, but lots of mistakes. The kind of thing he might want to beat himself up over. Make the room dark, and a nice pallet for the dog, please. He'll get beyond it after a little reflection.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 17 Feb 08 - 12:30 PM

"Etude, Brut-al?".

Develop "a 'tude", and it's almost like having stage prescence, so you might get over live anyway.

And try to aim better next time, Giok! Like one of those Belchin' Phlegmish Masters. Make that sucker rings when you hit it!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 17 Feb 08 - 04:27 PM

Becca, a tipper is a wooden spoon used to beat the bohdran. Peepers are frogs.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 17 Feb 08 - 04:52 PM

But can't you use peepers to beat things a well Mary?

G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 17 Feb 08 - 06:04 PM

I thought peepers were eyes - things you peep through....

Boy does that explain a lot of things in my life!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 18 Feb 08 - 11:06 AM

Hey! Just got back from my first physical therapy session AND (and this is the really important bit today) survived driving down our driveway to the house.

Believe me, I did NOT want to have to walk down the driveway. (But Tom just left to drive the car back up to the road and walk down himself.) It's ice -- with today's rain (and heavy fog) on top of it. And since the temperature is over 50 degrees F., what's under it is most likely turning to MUD. Arghhh!

But the therapy session was really good -- especially the pool part. Besides being 92 degrees F., I think it has higher buoyancy than normal, but I could be mistaken. I was having trouble keeping my tush and legs down so my shoulders would be under water for the exercises. My feet kept wanting to rise off the bottom. (This part of the pool is about 4 feet deep.)

Then, of course, was the land part -- stretching muscles that I was having trouble relaxing. He's pretty gentle, but I've got a cold pack on my shoulder right now and I think I'll bring one along with me on Thursday to use on the 45 minute drive home (chaufferred by Tom).

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 18 Feb 08 - 04:06 PM

Good to hear things are progressing well, Linn.

Speaking of good news... YEEHAW!!! I have just returned from the Slicer-Dicer and, he is pleased with my progress, even as slight as it is, as it gives hope that the nerves will continue to awaken and/or regenerate. AND, the pathology reports are ALL negative!! The duct, the gland, the lymph nodes, the vocal cords... no tumours, no cancer.

The lump of scar tissue around the duct from the first operation has gone down and may disappear completely or it may (probably) not. But, hey, when yer as good lookin as me, it don't make no never mind.

However, on a sad note, I must inform you all that there will be Bodhran playing going on all night.

To all who posted in threads here at The Café and PM'd and phoned me, thanks. The last five months have been a bit rough (although not anywhere near as rough as for some other 'Cats) but your support and advice has meant a great deal to me.... sincerely, thank you all.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 18 Feb 08 - 04:26 PM

You didn't take my advice gnu, 'cos you're still here ;)
Thankfully
G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 18 Feb 08 - 10:37 PM

good news from Bat Goddess & gnu

yah!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 19 Feb 08 - 11:41 AM

GIOK! CELLAR!

Good news, gnu. And you too Linn. Keep up the good work.
SINS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 19 Feb 08 - 12:07 PM

Good news here, too. CT and PET scans show that the recovery is going on as well as at all possible. Should knock this stuff out or enable the immune system when it bounces back to keep what little remains in remission.

Something to think about while I'll have to feel like an absolute dirtbag for about a week.....

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 19 Feb 08 - 12:08 PM

Good news for you all. Keep up the good work!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 19 Feb 08 - 12:12 PM

Wonderful Severn, really pleased to hear it. I better start polishing up a few puns in preparation for a joust then. I will lose it of course, but as they say, "It's not the winning, it's the taking part". Yeah right!!

G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 19 Feb 08 - 02:04 PM

GREAT news, Sev!!!! Just one more to go after this one. Hang in there buddy. We're all pullin for ya.

Go ahead.... be my guest.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 02:09 AM

yah, Severn

ward is getting empty-ish again?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 08:11 AM

Severn,
I truly admire you for handling these horrors with such grace and humor. I wish I could make it all go away.
Mary

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 08:27 AM

Mary,

You seem to have a support group out there that may be even bigger than mine, full of loyal people of humor and wisdom and good advice who will back you up all the way, even through the most depressing days of treatment. I'm proud to be in the ranks of these folks and will offer what I can. Good luck with it all. Keep in touch.

Even through the drain of funds, the activities you'll miss, the moments of boredom and lethargy and depression, you'll come out of it all standing, grinning and stronger than ever. We know the stuff you're made of!

Hang in there!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 08:37 AM

That makes two of you Severn. You are both much loved Mudcatters, with many friends and well wishers.
You will both come through this with even more friends, due to your positive attitudes.

Regards to both.

Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 09:21 AM

Amen to that Giok.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 10:05 AM

What are you doing out of the cellar, Giok?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 10:38 AM

He's obviously trying to regain your good favour Mary - he did say nice things about you and Sev there!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 11:21 AM

Oh dear, has my subterranean subterfuge been subverted?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Amos
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 11:51 AM

I haven't checked in to the ward because I yam toughing it out. But if I could get a stiff drink, that would help -- say a double shot of single malt on the half-shell?


A

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 03:36 PM

a stiff drink? Are you thinking of liquid viagra?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: MudGuard
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 03:37 PM

Btw, congrats for the encouraging test results!

Keep on fighting, and you will win!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: bfdk
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 04:03 PM

Mary, I'll second what Severn said (and say the same to him, too). Just think of what nice goodies dear friends may place in your garden while you're away in hospital!
Bente

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 04:06 PM

I went to Goodwill this afternoon.







Hehehehehehe................

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 04:22 PM

I love leaving things in gardens....muhahaha

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 05:10 PM

So do my cats...


Bruahahahaaaaaaaa!!!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Becca72
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 05:32 PM

Ewwww, Liz. Not THAT kind of crap!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 20 Feb 08 - 07:53 PM

I called my GP's today for a followup on the WHACK of blood and urine tests I submitted Monday past. Lori answered, with a very husky voice... a cold?... the flu? Yes, I can get you in first after lunch (the best appt time other than FIRST in the morn) on March 3. Oh, and a prostate exam, too, please? No can do.... the review is just a quick deal... can't do a prostate exam in the visit as I am squeezing you in. ????

I know Lori, so I thought she was joking about Squeezing me in and I joked back. I said, "Well, I'll bring my own swipe and be ready to wipe my ass, so that should cut the prostate exam time down to less than a minute." Complete silence... from the new lass, Gloria... Lori took another job. And, now, Gloria and I are good friends.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 21 Feb 08 - 03:20 AM

Oh Gnu... you do pick 'em!

Just as well it wasn't Nurse Ratched, she'd've made you do it yourself!

Oddly enough, I know a few managers who can do it visually, their heads are so far up there.....

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 21 Feb 08 - 11:41 AM

gnu - down the basement with Giok. Honestly!

And move another bed in here next to mine. Ebbie will be joining us soon. I'll keep her bedpan warm...

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Amos
Date: 21 Feb 08 - 11:43 AM

Oh, he does them himself every week, at least, but he doesn't have the certificate, so he can't provide official results. Pity, really. It would save all kinds of money and he could have prostate exams every morning.


AQ

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 21 Feb 08 - 03:24 PM

SINS... with Giok? Kendall's cellar is much closer. Either would be fine, of course, and both of them together even better, especially if Amos joined us with his assinine humour.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 21 Feb 08 - 03:34 PM

Assassinine g

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 21 Feb 08 - 03:41 PM

Prostidigitation? I am just hoping my new GP is sleight of hand and slight of hand.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 21 Feb 08 - 03:41 PM

Terry... quick... get the 200th post!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 21 Feb 08 - 03:42 PM

He's not here

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 21 Feb 08 - 03:56 PM

Better assinine than cat-o'-nine!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 21 Feb 08 - 07:08 PM

You cut to the quick, Sev.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: GUEST,LTS pretending to work
Date: 22 Feb 08 - 09:24 AM

Whipped in quick with that one!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 22 Feb 08 - 09:31 AM

The thong is gone, but the malodour lingers on ♫♪

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 22 Feb 08 - 10:48 AM

I feel crappy today. I picked up my biopsy slides and was treated with such sorrowful care that I think they thought I was going to die on the spot. Pity is truly offensive! Made me very angry.

I am not even ill never mind dying. Damn!

Tirade over. Thank you for the opportunity to vent.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 22 Feb 08 - 12:04 PM

Dishrag-dirtbag days have started again and will be around for about a week or so, and I'll be feeling a bit listless both to starboard and to port. Lots of naps. But just one more treatment to go.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 22 Feb 08 - 12:14 PM

Soon be gone today hair tomorrow time Sev. You'll be OK mate.
G.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 22 Feb 08 - 12:42 PM

Sleep as much as you can. It makes the time go faster.
One more treatment and you will be fine by the Getaway.
M

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 22 Feb 08 - 01:23 PM

I need a bit of space in the ward please - I caught SINSULL's cold and am feeling rather sorry for myself right now, particularly since it's come with laryngitis so Kendall and I are a matched pair so far as speaking is involved right now.

Chardonnay drip please and butter pecan icecream.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 22 Feb 08 - 01:59 PM

I could teach youse two some sign language. My ex and I used a lot of sign language. Fer starters, close your fist and face the palm side of your hand toward you and extend... wait... nah, youse don't need to learn what I little I know.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 22 Feb 08 - 02:02 PM

You caught the cold from me???? Not Judy???? I don't think so.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 22 Feb 08 - 05:06 PM

Same symptoms as yours Mary. Timescale fits as well - if it had been Judy's I would have got it Friday, when Dennis went down with it.

Still, can't complain too much - right now my lovely husband is cooking dinner for me.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 23 Feb 08 - 02:07 PM

Another major milestone!!!

My body had started rebelling at the (boredom?) of only one major sleep position -- sitting upright in bed propped up by pillows (one bolster, 7 bed pillows and a horseshoe-shaped neck pillow) or propped up on my right side, but still for all practical purposes "seated". And my tush didn't like having all my weight on it not only for the 8-9 hours of sleep, but then for all the normal daytime sitting (such as here at the computer).

So started experimenting on Wednesday or so. Tried lying horizontally on my stomach with my arm hanging down on the side of the bed. Okay, I guess, but I was afraid if I woke in the middle of the night (to change positions perhaps?), I'd forget my arm was broken and do something painful or damaging. Then I tried lying horizontally on my right side with my arm resting on top, on the left side of my body. Uh uh. Gravity pulls the arm back towards my head and it's painful. No go.

Then yesterday I tried the third option. My bolster has flat surfaces, one of them is angled. I turned it onto the larger flat surface, which gave me sort of a ramp to elevate the top part of my body. Stuck a pillow to continue the ramp and support my body. Stuck a pillow for my head on top. Lay down on my right side and supported my arm with a pillow on my left (top) side. IT WORKED!!! It's sort of halfway between sitting upright and sleeping in a normal horizontal position.

Slept that way last night. Wasn't perfect. Woke after a couple hours with my arm aching and needing to be in another position. Rolled onto my back needing to support my arm on another pillow, but it worked out fine. Was back in the original position again before morning and then back to the back position. BUT IT WORKED!

So -- down to the bolster and 3 (maybe 4) bedpillows. WOW! I feel like I'm getting closer to "normal" (whatever THAT is).

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: maeve
Date: 23 Feb 08 - 06:42 PM

Wonderful news, Linn. Thank you for keeping us up to date on your continuing recovery.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 23 Feb 08 - 07:32 PM

Linn. That's great! Having a good night of sleep is something we take for granted until we can't. I know. The parotid surgeries sure made me appreciate such problems.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 23 Feb 08 - 07:55 PM

Well, I'm not sure I've arrived yet at "good sleep", but I am, I think, on my way.

And thanks for the encouragement!

Recovery is taking a LOT longer than I had thought. (Doesn't it always; sigh.)

Another encouraging thing was Thursday's physical therapy. The pool is heaven, but I saw the most progress during the "land" part of the stretching by Geoff, my therapist. I was amazed at how far up he had my arm. (But he did say, "You can't do this by yourself yet." ) But it was soooo encouraging that the stretch had been possible. At least now I know that there WILL, indeed, come a time when I can raise my arm past my shoulder.

Thanks again!
Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: maeve
Date: 28 Feb 08 - 11:10 AM

If Ebbie will be joining our star patients in the Recovery Room, we'd best tidy up and open the door!

Nurse!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 28 Feb 08 - 04:36 PM

I hope there's room for me - I still have a cough - it's been 4 weeks now, even after a course of antibiotics for the chest infection. Trouble is, I've got a concert coming up next weekend...

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: maeve
Date: 29 Feb 08 - 06:34 AM

Somebody kindly tuck Liz in and hook up the chocolate mousse IV. We've got to get rid of that cough.

Skarpi should be in soon with his recovering knee (and the rest of him, I trust), so let's get a comfortable bed ready, and put his guitar within reach. What would you like to eat- and drink- Skarpi?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 29 Feb 08 - 07:11 AM

Just don't let Skarpi give that pickled shark recipe (or any of the finished product) to the kitchen staff.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: maeve
Date: 29 Feb 08 - 07:49 AM

I guess if Skarpi wants pickled shark I'll catch him a shark and pickle the poor thing. Let's just keep it out of the IVs, eh? Liz won't want any cross contamination in her Mousse IV.

Come to think on't Liz won't want any Iv messing with her chocolate mousse.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 29 Feb 08 - 08:16 AM

I have a jar of the said pickled shark pieces in my fridge. To whom shall I forward it?

G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: maeve
Date: 29 Feb 08 - 09:42 AM

Skarpi has posted in his hospital thread. He is home and heading off to rest, and surgery seems to have gone well. He is not looking forward to 2 weeks of recovery time, but seems to be in good spirits.

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 29 Feb 08 - 11:19 AM

I dunno...I think pickled shark sounds good, but, then again, I like just about anything pickled. (Don't start!)

Finished off a jar of pickled fiddleheads last night. Haven't had any pickled herring since New Year's. Thinking about a pre-luncheon snack of pickled beets.

My ancestry's German -- pickles are a vegetable (even fish).

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 29 Feb 08 - 11:27 AM

Um... ya might wanna go over the shark recipe in detail before you have a bite. Hmmmm... and after you have eaten sommat else. But, not too soon after.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: skarpi
Date: 29 Feb 08 - 12:11 PM

so I am in recovery unit now ?

I cant do anything at moment #$#%#$#

skarpi

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 29 Feb 08 - 12:18 PM

Um, Brevinnin, Skarpi?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: maeve
Date: 29 Feb 08 - 12:19 PM

Yes, Skarpi. You are supposed to recover. That means that you have to rest and maybe listen to some good music. Gunna gets to take good care of you and bring you nice things to eat. Be good!

maeve

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 29 Feb 08 - 03:23 PM

Maeve,

Even if you caught and pickled the shark for Skarpi, I don't think it would be aged enough in time.

Think more in terms of "kim-chee (sp?) with a single dorsal fin".....

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 29 Feb 08 - 03:52 PM

But it doesn't taste as good as Kimchee :)

G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 29 Feb 08 - 08:41 PM

It does if you pickle the sharks in a tank of gin with a bit of lime juice. They swim around happily until they the alcohol takes over. Once they float to the top, they're done.
It works on Linn too although she prefers a magharita bath.
IV of Jack Daniel's here if you please and no open flames!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 01 Mar 08 - 04:02 AM

coff coff coff.

Brennevin for me and no bloody shark!

I agree, it was 'interesting' but definately an acquired taste.

Sorry Skarpi, for insulting your national heritage and your stout efforts to teach the southerners some culture (everything is south from Iceland, except maybe Alaska), but I'm afraid it's come to nothing.

coff coff coff.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Re-cat Montgomery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 01 Mar 08 - 07:51 AM

As I have never tasted the shark dish in question and have none in my possession, as does Giok, I've merely been referring to the long pickling process. Maybe if we sent the shark down to the Fer-Mental Hygene Ward for a little Shark Therapy they could speed up the process a little bit. After all, one of the lab retrievers who works down there told me that the gang in that unit, through Hickory Smoke Therapy, was recently able to to successfully administer the previously mentioned famed "Smithfield Cure" for a hog even AFTER it had died!

You can't miss the place. It's right behind the cafeteria.

What was the name of that doctor/curate in charge again?.....

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 01 Mar 08 - 08:25 AM

Giok is also undergoing a long pickling process Severn, very enjoyable it is too.
Hic *#!

Slainthe.

G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 01 Mar 08 - 08:34 AM

I just need to crawl in for a day or two right now. That cold is still hanging on and I'm tired. Kendall's colonoscopy, with the attendant fasting and purging on Wednesday/Thursday and two trips to Boston Tuesday and Friday have just about done me in. Snuggly bed please, Chardonnay drip and butter pecan ice cream.

And keep that coff away from me Ms Squeak!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 02 Mar 08 - 03:16 AM

Can someone make room on their bed for a poorly kitty?

Yesterday morning Shadowcat was observed to be wobbling, rather than walking, she'd vomited and the litter tray bore traces of dire ear. Her gums were very pale and her eyes wouldn't stay still but twitched from side to side. She seemed to have trouble focusing and was very confused and disorientated.

We knew she wasn't at all well when we managed to get her into the travelling basket with no fuss and not a single hiss or scratch. This is a cat who usually has to be immobilised and poured into the basket. So, we whisked her off to the vet and it seems she may have suffered a small stroke (how ironic - a cat stroking, rather than stroking the cat) or else has an inner ear infection. According to the vet, her eyes aren't reacting as they should but her kidneys are fine (urine was at the green end of the dipstick) so she wasn't a candidate for euthanasia as we'd feared. We're treating both diagnoses, she got a broad spec antibiotic for the inner ear and is on steroids to boost her up a bit. She's lost some weight but she was never a big cat - 4kg is about her heaviest (about 8lb UK pounds) she's down to 2.80kg or 6lbs at present.

Anyhoo, she was inspected, injected and ejected to our care where she has made good progress. She refused to come out of the basket for several hours (another first, she's usually clawing her way out as we walk up to the front door) but she did drink some water put nearby, and had some fish for her lunch. She'd recovered enough to glare at us as we ate our dinners and ate her own as usual. She was back upstairs on the bed with me last night and seems much better today but still needs careful attention. I'll let you know how she's feeling when I give her her pill tonight.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 02 Mar 08 - 06:30 AM

I'll make room. I haven't had a kitty or dog for years. The only pet I've had recently was was on Friday morning. I was reading my email and having my first tea when something caught my eye... a large, green spider walking across my old backup monitor. I petted it with a kleenex and took it swimming. I would normally have put it outside, but, seeing as it was -23C at the time, that would have been cruel.

I hope kitty makes a full recovery soon.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 02 Mar 08 - 08:18 AM

Kitty can come and snuggle with me too. Give her a get well hug from me, she is a lovely cat.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 02 Mar 08 - 08:48 AM

A quick dose of Cat-A-Tonic and the kitty will be fine. (The hair of the cat as scratched me?)

If Seamus can wander around giving me Lab reports, we certainly have room for a cat.

Sorry I can't help you any further on it, even though I got admitted to the hospital partly because I was a vet....

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 02 Mar 08 - 06:03 PM

Poor kitty. There is room here on the pillow. And a little Jack Daniel's if you like.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 03 Mar 08 - 03:45 AM

She's much better today thanks, the steroids have kicked in and she's almost frisky... well, as frisky as a 20yr old cat can ever get.

She's selecting her favourite bed at the moment... watch out for the cat scan.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 03 Mar 08 - 04:26 AM

Another success story. Good news.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 03 Mar 08 - 11:03 AM

Soooo, sucker for punishment that I am... just got back from a meeting with the "diabetes nurse" (none - just something I wanted to do as a preventative measure) and an appointment with my GP. The whack of blood tests were all okay to excellent. And, the prostate exam went well. Ah, I mean, he didn't feel anything untoward. I did, rearward.

Now, all I have to do is start eating properly, lose weight, cut down on the beer, exercise, stop smoking... oh dear!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 03 Mar 08 - 12:14 PM

gnu - is there any point in living??????

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 03 Mar 08 - 02:40 PM

Spring... which seems as far away as those other things right now.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 10 Mar 08 - 10:59 PM

Starting my Sixth and last Chemo round. Then it's a few months to wean myself off the effects permanently.

I checked with the on-call-ogist to see who's on call this week.

For the nurses, they have "Mary Ellen Cauterize" again, tending all wounds, as well as Nurse Ratched, Intervenous De Milo and most of the old favorites.

As for the docs, it looks like Lance Boyles, Malcolm Funxion (Maj. Ret.) and Abraham Bortz as well as Drs. Howard, Fine & Howard.

Looks like we'll be in capable enough hands. I know I am. Nurse De Milo left hers behind with me after a goodbye hug. Hope she's got a ride home!.....

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Mar 08 - 11:24 PM

Good luck with that!

Nurse Ratched may need to have someone fix up a quiet corner for Gov. Spitzer. Seems he just shot himself in the foot. Big time.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 04:40 AM

Sev... good thoughts and prayers on their way.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: freda underhill
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 04:53 AM

yes, lots of good thoughts, Severn. I'll even keep that old hag Ratched chained up for a while.

fred

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: GUEST,Nurse Ratched
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 05:09 AM

Who are you calling an old hag? I'll have you in an NHS bedbath so fast your head will spin!

Mr Savage, get back in that bed and back on that IV of bourbon.

Nurse will be round with the big needle soon.

Nurse Ratched.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: freda underhill
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 05:16 AM

That old cow is developing multiple personality disorder - don't worry, Severn, she's all talk.

freda

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 07:24 AM

And she doesn't even know that Chemo patients are not supposed to have any liquor until treatments all over! I was given a wonderful Sheffield tankard as a get well present back in November that I can't use, alas, until I actually get well. Is this a Poison IV? Do I sense a malpractice suit here, Ms. Ratched? Can I see the administrator in charge? What was his name again?.....

'Til then:
"Hit the road Jack (Daniels)
And dontcha come back no more....."



"Glory Glory! Hallelujah!
'Til they lay my Bourbon down...."

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 07:55 AM

best wishes. Severn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 08:06 AM

So when can you have your first bourbon, Severn. Being declared healthy, I will be happy and proud to administer the initial dose. Even have a suitable tankard.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 08:13 AM

Sheesh Mary, I should think a sip will be enough to floor him after being abstemious for such a long time, a thimbleful will suffice to kick start him.

G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: GUEST,LTS pretending to work
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 08:25 AM

That Nurse Ratched - I'm pretty sure she was struck off a few years ago...

Sev, stiff upper wossname and all that, take care and I'll be ready with the getaway car whenever you are.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 08:31 AM

Good luck Sev.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 10:55 AM

Well, I was brave.

On Sunday I had Tom drive me up to the Nottingham school parking lot, figuring it would be empty and I could try out a few maneuvres and see if my left arm was a help or liability. Took the long way around rather than attempt the muddy morass down the hill from our driveway.

Anywho, the parking lot was full, but there was space down at the end for some "spearmints" (experiments). First of all, closing the driver's door was a problem -- I'm not supposed to lift anything heavier than a coffee cup and a yank on that door to close it would be a bit more than that. Okay, right arm workaround.

Drove a few times around the perimeter, then did a few Y-turns in each direction.

I don't really feel comfortable, but in a pinch, I can drive. In turning the steering wheel, the left arm seems to be more safely useful to hold the wheel in position so the right hand can turn it further. I'm also concerned about stamina and fatigue.

But I REALLY want to schedule a lunch with some friends in Portsmouth and, besides, Tom will probably be called for a project at Measured Progress sometime in the next few weeks.

Talked to one of my physical therapists yesterday and she made some suggestions. I think I need to push myself to the point of fatigue a lot more often -- more stretching and DOING things. I don't see the surgeon until April 4th.

I definitely would not consider driving in bad weather yet.

I don't know. I definitely feel I have more information than I had before I tried driving, but I can't say I'm comfortable with actually driving.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 12:39 PM

Getaway Car, Liz? What a great idea! you can drive us all (including the fair BatGoddess) to Maryland for the festivities. There I will present Severn with a suitable goblet and a bottle of bourbon (excuse me - sour mash) carefully disguised as prune juice.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 02:07 PM

Sounds like a crappy idea, Sins. I like it.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 07:15 PM

Er... someone else will have to navigate - I've got the directional talents of a stunned hedgehog (for hedgehog read 'potential roadkill with spines').

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 11 Mar 08 - 07:20 PM

I knew your flat mate.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 12 Mar 08 - 12:32 PM

Arghh! I'm tired of this!

It's snowing...and supposed to turn to rain this afternoon. My arm has been in growing pain since I woke up this morning (as the snow got heavier). I'm avoiding taking the heavy-duty pain killers because then I really can't get anything accomplished, so I've been chewing (not literally) high dosage ibuprohen.

Still, because of the pain, my brain isn't really at its peak operation and I really need to send out some resumes applying for a couple jobs and polish the cover letters that go along with them. I don't feel comfortable sending anything out until I can reread the cover letters when I'm feeling better.

When I hurt, nothing seems to function properly, especially my thought processes.

All I've managed to do today are the exercises prescribed by my surgeon and physical therapists. No, they don't amplify the pain; they usually make my arm feel looser and better. Today, they are neither loosening my tight and achy arm nor alleviating any pain.

I'm tired of this. Geez, I can tell the weather by looking out the window. I really don't need this internal barometer!

Yes, I AM whining (and I know it). Thanks for letting me do it here (she says, hoping she doesn't have to dodge bricks, snowballs and eviction notices).

It's "only" been three months...and most people I talk to (physical therapists, nurse practitioners) say the body doesn't get back to anything resembling "normal" for about 6 months. The trouble is, when I'm in pain I can't remember NOT being in pain -- even if it was just yesterday.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 12 Mar 08 - 12:40 PM

Sounds like you've reached a 'plateau' Linn, that's good, it means you're moving to the next stage. Keep the nasal protuberance in contact with the rotating carborundum implement, things WILL get better.

Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 12 Mar 08 - 12:43 PM

Chronic pain is a bitch. Pre-hysterectomy, I had severe cramps 21 days, one week off and then it started again. I was neveer without "protection".

Think hard - does it hurt less than it did originally? Try to see it in that light.

I will buy you some serious booze Saturday. Arrive drug free.
Mary

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Pistachio
Date: 12 Mar 08 - 01:17 PM

Sorry I've completely missed this Ward. SINSULL and Severn - greetings from this half of Hissyfit! At times the thread has had me laughing out loud - it really is the best medicine. Hazel, x.x.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 12 Mar 08 - 01:20 PM

Final treatment today. Quick stop in for a white blood cell shot tomorrow and then it's all doctor followups, a final set of scans, and theweaning off process. Meanwhile dishrag/dirtbag days are setting in. I hope I'm in good enough shape to venture down the road a few miles for a Martyn Wyndham-Read house concert tonight.

The real life nursing staff were all great.

They say it will tale three months to get fri od all the effects. Not sure when I'll go back to work, but I'll need one more year to get her through college and build up some of my drained cash reserves again.

But for now, I remain in the hands of those in here.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 12 Mar 08 - 01:22 PM

Stick with it Severn, you're on the last lap to rude health, [are puns rude?]
Hope the dish rag days are not too bad.

Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Peace
Date: 12 Mar 08 - 01:23 PM

It's gonna work out, Severn. Really. You are one gutsy guy.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Megan L
Date: 12 Mar 08 - 01:41 PM

Sins the car might not be a good Idea nurse squeeks set of to see a patient in John O Groats one day. She staggered back into the staffroom as the sun settelling us of her wonderous journey.

Squeeky on the road

The sun was just peepin ower the last field o oats
When Liz she announced "I must see John O Groats"
Poor Limpit said "Fine I can sleep in the car"
Lady P said "Och it canny be far"

And so they set of past Golspie and Tain
I swear they'd been safer to have gone by the train
Through Boat and through Doll till they reached Bettyhill
Where Haggis Panninis were a culinary thrill.

Tired o the drivin Liz went fur a paddle in the sea
It made her sae cauld she needed tae - refresh hersel
They spotted some Phesants and gied a wee peep
But they wurny sae chirpy when the caur wis rounded up by some sheep

We would send out search parties when the sun sank in the west
But Manitas stopped us saying "Its all for the best"
But his Laughter and song got stopped in its track.
For like the bad Penny she found her way back.
MHTBL.

*Heading for under the table with all due speed

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 12 Mar 08 - 03:25 PM

Poet Lorryate she is. Keep on truckin, Megan.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 12 Mar 08 - 07:06 PM

best wishes & hugs for the dishrag days, Severn

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 12 Mar 08 - 08:25 PM

And, I think I speak for everyone when I say, we would like to make sure the kitchen is clean and the dishrags are washed and tidy for when you are up to a good session, Severn.

You are truly what Mudcat is about. Although, there may be some few people (newbies?) who don't know what a treasure you are and how much you mean to The Café, many do... most do. I certainly do.

Not only are you a library of knowledge of folk and blues and beyond, but you are one good salt... generous with knowledge and generous with good will.

Thanks, buddy.

Now. Get finished with it all and get better. We need ya here. The puns suck lately!

Subject: RE: BS: Medchart Re:covert Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 12 Mar 08 - 11:00 PM

Aw, shucks! I can't be all that!

I thank all of you for yout continued support and friendship and for helping me keep together through all this!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: GUEST,LTS pretending to work
Date: 13 Mar 08 - 08:36 AM

Severn dear, keep smiling, at least you're still breathing.

Megan - thank you for that, a much needed a laugh today... Oddly enough, I went for lunch in our local 'Subway' place and saw they had haggis and hovered... but I opted for tuna and sweetcorn instead.

Now get back under that table.... beep beep beep beep!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 14 Mar 08 - 05:32 AM

Right. SINS and Sev and Bat Goddess have updated us fairly recently.

I am doing very well. The nerves are awakening/regenerating nicely. I can raise my eyebrow almost half of normal and I can shut my eye tight enough to stop using "No Tears" baby shampoo. I seldom have pain in my cheek and I am getting better at shaving with a razor (that's a VERY good thing). My lips work pretty good and I mostly only slur my speech for a while in the morning if I sleep on my left side. Still can't spit worth a darn but I'll learn to live with that.

Now... updates are required from Mudguard, Skarpi, Bill D, who else?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: skarpi
Date: 14 Mar 08 - 05:52 AM

Hallo all , I am doin fine recocery is slow but better everyday
goin to work in the end of March that mean 31/2 weeks off one week longer I though it would be so it should better by then .


all the best Skarpi

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 14 Mar 08 - 07:09 AM

I hurt my back yesterday, and I'm having problems, sitting, standing, AND walking. Just what I need ahead of a weekend of music and drink.
Can I have a bed prepared for Monday, when I shall no doubt be even worse.
Dalmore in my IV please Nurse Ratched.

G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 14 Mar 08 - 07:25 AM

Geez, Giok -- sounds like you're in desperate need of muscle relaxant which your country produces in such exquisite variety. Laphroaig? Tallisker? Highland Park?

Take care of yourself!

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 14 Mar 08 - 07:40 AM

Giok, injured backs are the pits - take care, & take appropriate painkillers with you. Good luck.

sandra

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 14 Mar 08 - 08:04 AM

How did you hurt your back, Giok? Not the spring lambs, I hope.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: GUEST,LTS pretending to work
Date: 14 Mar 08 - 08:13 AM

He SAID it was trying to lift a water carrier into his caravan but I have my doubts... it is lambing time and they can be very frisky when pursued by a Scot in French Tickler gumboots.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 14 Mar 08 - 08:55 AM

Not a pretty picture to imagine first thing in the morning Liz!

Giok - try doing some gentle stretching exercises - those usually help me when my back gets painful and might just get you through the weekend.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 14 Mar 08 - 09:16 AM

Thanks for the kind thoughts. I have done something to the lumbar region, and it's right in the centre just above hip height, so it affects just about every move.
Jacqui I shall start by stretching up to the bar for a pint of beer, and repeat it regularly for a bit, then see how I go from there if that's OK?

G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 14 Mar 08 - 11:15 AM

Good luck with it, Giok! I may have completed my Chemo treatments, but the cumulative aftermath from the last one is the whammy, the worst of all, so I'm pretty much immobilized myself. It'll only get better as the meds and toxins make their way out of my system. Until then, for today, I'm a dirty doormat.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 14 Mar 08 - 11:17 AM

Sev - (((xXx))) - you're still in our thoughts, and if you're a doormat, it's one with 'welcome' written all the way across it.

Rest up, keep a bucket on standby and it will soon go away.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Mar 08 - 12:56 PM

Well, good thing I went out last week to get the feel of driving and what I can and can't expect my arm to do. Tom's going back to work next week, so I'll have to start driving myself to physical therapy, etc.

AND...I have to drive to a job interview on Tuesday!!! (Yee hah!)

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 20 Mar 08 - 05:04 PM

It turns out that I couldn't hold in food for three days. When I finally made my Monday follow up doctor's appointment (God only knows how I made it there!), they hooked me right up to an IV and later sent me to Shady Grove hospital where I remained until March 19th including a night in the ICU (Peek-a-boo!).

Would you believe all this spiked my blood sugar to 1100? Now I have to function like a diabetic until they see if they can see if this is going to be a permanent condition. I see an endochrinologist tomorrow. I was issued a blood sugar count machine and will even have to give myself insulin.

So sorry if I've been out of touch......

I've been looking at new ways I may may have to live and eat.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 20 Mar 08 - 05:13 PM

Sheesh, you've certainly had a basinful of crap lately bro. Still diabetes is something loads of folks live with on daily basis, and lead a fairly normal life. I hope it's only temporary and just a reaction to all the chemo you've had.
Keep us posted, we're thinking of you mate.

Giok

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Donuel
Date: 20 Mar 08 - 05:14 PM

Jeez Louise Severn, Shady Grove is 6 minutes away, I coulda brought you some Curb Your Enthusiasm DVD's if I had known.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: skarpi
Date: 20 Mar 08 - 05:28 PM

oh men , Sev my thoughts and prayers are on its way my friend
i hope you get well and they can find this out.

Also hope you can start eat again you need that.

All the best Skarpi Iceland

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 20 Mar 08 - 05:39 PM

Awww, Sev! It's GOTTA be just temporary. Gotta be. Hang in there.

I mean... if they got you on an IV and yer sugar is up? After chemo? I think things will settle out. I know they will.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Alice
Date: 20 Mar 08 - 06:32 PM

Wow, Sev. We're all pulling for you.
Take care,
Alice

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 20 Mar 08 - 07:21 PM

Oh, Severn! You'd think enough was enough, eh?

They say adversity builds character...but, hey, you are enough of a character to begin with!

The diabetes is probably (I sincerely hope!) temporary -- a result of the medicos really screwing around with your body.

A friend of mine used to refer to all these character-building events as AFGO -- Another F%#king Growth Opportunity.

(I say it's spinach and I say to hell with it.)

Affectionately,
Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Sorcha
Date: 20 Mar 08 - 07:26 PM

Well, gee, I mean, you know, like...what can I say?
I also hope this is just temporary....you have to return the damn tankard you know......

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Jeri
Date: 20 Mar 08 - 07:30 PM

Sev, YEEEEESH!!!

My mom's blood sugar went up over 1000 after open heart surgery. They had her on insulin for a while afterwards. If the stress of surgery makes it skyrocket, the chemo and its side effects probably also do so. Just get through it for now. Do what you need to to get better, and we'll hope you're feeling yourself soon. (Not in public, hopefully.)

It should only get better from here.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: peregrina
Date: 20 Mar 08 - 07:42 PM

Wishing you recovery, health and strength.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Mrs.Duck
Date: 23 Mar 08 - 03:04 PM

Just make sure you get better soon, Severn. We'll be thinking of you. Just had to take Natasha in this morning too as she has a further bout of cellulitis in her leg and is on IV antibiotics. Life's a bugger ain't it!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: skarpi
Date: 23 Mar 08 - 03:19 PM

300

and I am gettin better

skarpi

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Bat Goddess
Date: 23 Mar 08 - 03:29 PM

Good news! -- Yesterday I did the first "real time" driving since December 10th!!!

Had to drive to my hairstylist's to get a desperately needed haircut before my Tuesday job interview (another piece of good news). Tom offered to drive, of course, but I insisted on going by myself because it's only 10 and a half miles there, a basically straight shot on a not too heavily travelled road. I wanted to get a feel for what my left arm would do on a fairly simplee drive before having to start driving the more complicated distance over pot-holed roads to physical therapy after Tom goes back to work next week. (Having him called for a project is also good news.)

I've still got quite a way to go to get the mobility in my arm back, but this is a major milestone on the way to getting back to something that resembles normal life.

Linn

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 23 Mar 08 - 04:48 PM

Lots of blood sugar testing, before and after meals, experimenting with diet regimens. Insulin shots two times a day. I'm surprised I don't leak like a sprinkler. Doctor follow-up on Monday. Scans on Tuesday.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 23 Mar 08 - 04:51 PM

Easter Sunday is a Holy day Sev.
G

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 24 Mar 08 - 01:24 PM

Good Friday... Easter Sunday... Scan Tuesday... I can't keep up.

Hang in there, Sev. The cheering section is practicing for ya!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 24 Mar 08 - 01:42 PM

Just imagine gnu with pom poms !

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Severn
Date: 24 Mar 08 - 04:22 PM

Hell, it took 4 days to get rid of all the sticky gunk on my arms from all the bandages and IV hookups left on my arms for 4 days previous.. One of the few uses I have for alchohol at the moment.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 24 Mar 08 - 05:06 PM

Yeah! Why is it that they send ya home with all that? I mean, they messed ya up, right? Why wouldn't they clean up their mess? I had no feeling on the left side of my head ater the "fun". Great to get home and look in the mirror and see a great bloody piece of tape over my left eye. Amongst some other stuff! I was not impressed... and I was impressed... for which I was not impressed. It's kinda depressing.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 24 Mar 08 - 05:23 PM

Oh dear - you guys are just falling apart.
Get some rest...;isten to some music...and don't complain out loud - Nurse R is back from vacation and carrying a huge, dull hypodermic.
M

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 24 Mar 08 - 05:28 PM

Yes, Mother Mary. Got The Corb Lund Band on full tilt and I am cooking a beef stew... and counting my blessings. And, I am even better than the last report.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Leadfingers
Date: 25 Mar 08 - 02:49 PM

Gawd !! But again , I give Hearfelt Thanks for MY state of fitness !
Wich is the longwinded version of 'refresh'

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 25 Mar 08 - 07:50 PM

Why use one word when a dozen will do?!

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 26 Mar 08 - 04:41 AM

Anyone mind if I check our boiler in? It's become a terminal case and needs all the support it can get.

Meanwhile, I'm wandering around the house in four layers of clothes and a bobble hat.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 26 Mar 08 - 05:43 AM

For the Canucks... bobble hat = touque. Save you the google.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 26 Mar 08 - 07:25 AM

But more importantly, a touque with a woolly ball or bobbles on it.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 26 Mar 08 - 07:53 PM

Surgeons.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Donuel
Date: 27 Mar 08 - 01:31 AM

Art or therapy I never know which, but apparently this is my season to gather stones together...

this is just for the pictures (don't buy it! I wanna keep it)
Wild Gems in a globe

eye candy and worry bead in one.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 27 Mar 08 - 08:07 AM

That is really beautiful but I simply can't afford it. I love opals - my birth stone. And I am painfully partial towards tiny bottles on chains. Where did you get it, Donuel?

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Donuel
Date: 27 Mar 08 - 10:13 AM

I assembled it with opals I bought from struggling Australian miners. I plan to make a true opal fluid filled kalidoscope and another larger globe of opals.

Tell me your favorite color or kind/shape of opal you like and I can make a custom opal for you with or without an inscription/natural shape/mudcat shape/guitar/intergalactic nebula/carved black power fist opal, a fish opal, a bird opal etc.
I don't have another hand blown globe but I do have small sturdy halogen bulbs that can be artfully transformed into a magnifying bottle for you.   
While I have made similar offers before the only items mudcaters have accpeted were free DVD's.

To every season turn turn turn.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Escapee
Date: 27 Mar 08 - 07:40 PM

Hang in there, Severn. I thought diabetes was the end of the world,and I've never been happier to be wrong. It's not real good for us but it's something we can deal with. It helped me to feel I wasn't alone, and I'll send some positive thoughts your way. Good luck.
SKP

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 29 Mar 08 - 06:28 PM

Chin up Severn, we're still rooting for you.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 21 Dec 08 - 11:28 AM

Time to reopen the ward, and welcome Mr Tom the famous Curmudgeon.
The nurse is preparing your malt whisky IV now sir. If you would just like to choose your berth.

XG

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: SINSULL
Date: 21 Dec 08 - 11:46 AM

Private room for Tom. He is a curmudgeon you know.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: jacqui.c
Date: 21 Dec 08 - 11:55 AM

And find him some really good cheese to help his recovery.

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: gnu
Date: 21 Dec 08 - 12:41 PM

Gosh... 2008 was quite a year for the ward. Hope 2009 is not so busy!

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 21 Dec 08 - 06:19 PM

Cheese? There's some Stinking Bishop in our fridge that's going to be in the garden soon if it continues to infuse everything else in there with the odour of ordure.... we're using the cat litter as an air freshener!

Get well soon Curmudgeon, and don't be haulin no snow til it's melted!

I found why my cough back in Feb wasn't going away... I had some tests done in March and May, after which I was diagnosed with Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver disease, or fatty deposits on the liver, which could develop into chirrosis. The liver was enlarged and so squashing everything up, hence I wasn't able to breathe properly.

I've since lost nearly a stone in weight (15lbs and counting), the coughing stopped, I don't feel nearly so tired or miserable and I can breathe again. I get retested in January to see how it's going.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 21 Dec 08 - 06:40 PM

Another triumph for Nurse Ratched

Subject: RE: BS: Mudcat Recovery Ward 2008
From: Sandra in Sydney
Date: 21 Dec 08 - 10:30 PM

congratulations, Liz