Hey, Remember Me?

UPDATE: Unfortunately, "no news is good news" does not apply. My sister called at about 10:30 to say that mom was on her way to the hospital in an ambulance. She had been found in the night on the floor and despite seeming well, by breakfast she was complaining of pain and that was that. I'm awaiting updates and will keep you posted. :(

I have been M.I.A. for over a week! Last week my mother went into her new retirement home after being at my sister's for a month. My niece stayed over for the first night and nurses checked in regularly. I couldn't believe it but I got a call saying mom had been admitted to hospital that very first evening! What a disappointment.

X-rays showed a mild pneumonia but as you might imagine, I just didn't feel comfortable not being there. We all know the elderly (mother is 91-1/2 now!) can have a hard time getting over an infection and in her weakened condition, I was just so worried about her. I got this news in the afternoon and DH, DD, and I left as soon as we were able to get the dog in the kennel. My family left the next day but I stayed with my sister for a week to visit mom in the hospital and offer support to my poor sister who has been dealing with this. I know how it feels as I did it for 13 years and when there is illness it is absolutely very stressful.

I have never been away for that long without my hubby and not on vacation. I also didn't have a car so it was challenging for me. Add to that the emotions of seeing mom uncomfortable and confined to a hospital bed and it was not a very pleasant situation. After 5 days the patient was discharged and we got her back to her 'new' home and settled. We hired care workers for the times we couldn't be there but that will take a bit of adjustment on mom's part. I stayed with her the first night back and I didn't sleep at all. She was very weak and disoriented and she is struggling with her breathing. It was not a good start.

However, the next few days saw much improvement. She has been eating well and feeling better. The services we've arranged have made her feel more secure and at home and we have been visiting 2-3 times a day. She came back to my sister's for an afternoon getaway and everything seems to be stable. I really needed to come home so my hubby and kids came to get me. We spent a couple days together there and now I am finally back!!!!! I was so excited to see my dog and since I'm still unpacking my house and organizing, it felt awesome to walk through the door again! It smelled so nice. Last night I had a wonderful soak in my tub and a pretty good sleep in my own bed. There is a ton to do to catch up with my life and I'm hoping to reschedule my missed appointments. One of those was to install my new cutting table countertop so that was a real bummer to have to cancel.

Mother spent her first night last night without a family member sleeping over so I was a little anxious. I'm hoping it all went well. She had the same caregiver tuck her in as dressing her for breakfast so that continuity perhaps provided a bit of security for her. This has been the most stressful year of my life I think! I am looking forward to working on some new-old machines I've rescued and sharing them with you. I am excited for some fall baking too. I don't know but this summer just slipped away and was one of the weirdest ones yet. I'm keeping my finger's crossed for a more even keel in the autumn!

Here are some gorgeous roses I found for my mum as a house warming. Mauve is her favourite colour and these were just the right shade! It was a massive bouquet!

Comments

[Ann Bawol Megargle]

Angie, this is Ann Bawol in Michigan, it's been awhile since I've commented. I faithfully read your blog every day, and keep up with your life. I too have an elderly mom, and I so want you to know you are in my thoughts. You're strong Angie-girl! Don't forget that. Best wishes for all to be well with you and your mum. Ann

[Diane]

Angie so sorry your mom is not doing well. Lets hope she will pick up soon and be doing better. It is hard when our parents age but we all get through it some how. Those roses are lovely I am sure they brightened her day. I was missing your blogs, thinking you must have been very busy. Take care.