Thursday, July 23, 2009

Don't read this!

I knew you would!! I'm just going to complain a bit here, so you can stop here if you'd like... consider yourself warned!!

I usually like to keep this blog upbeat, and I really do have alot of fun things to write about right now.... my friend from Florida is here visiting, it's SO good to have her here!! I'm all done with year end closing of the books at work, and I feel the stress completely lifted... rejuvenated!!! I have some weekend getaways and a vacation planned for very soon!!!

However, I did receive a bit of news today that threw me for a loop... I didn't go to work today, because I was at the hospital for the most part of the night until 3:00 a.m. with my mother (AGAIN!).

They CT scanned her, and suggested that we think about alternative living arrangements for her.... she shouldn't be alone anymore.

She has osteoperosis and very bad degenerative disks in her lower back that are effecting the strength in her legs, that's the reason she keeps falling, her legs are just giving out from under her.... and the pain meds are causing other problems for her.

My mom is VERY petite.... she's only 4' 11" and weighs just over 100 pounds. (I hate to think about what I'm in for, in my later years).

So, I have some daunting tasks ahead, I'm sure. I think we'll first look into finding someone to stay with her at home whenever we can't. We'll see how that goes. It'll take someone with ALOT of patience, that's for sure!! I love her, but she DOES demand constant attention!!

HEY!! Maybe a little scooter, and just someone to check on her every morning... I could go at night!! Hmmmm!!

If you're still reading.... Wish me luck, will you?

Thanks,
Joann

18 comments:

  1. That is very hard news to accept. I do hope you can find someone to stay with her when you can't be there for her. It makes a whole world of difference for them. It's very difficult to find someone you can trust. It is also expensive. I'll be praying that you find a good way to deal with it all.

    'On Ya'-ma

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  2. keeping you and your mom in our prayers

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  3. I have a close friend that has osteoporosis, and her lower back lost bone growth. Her last surgery, the doctor tore her sciatica nerve. She is only 36 years old. The doctors said she will live with the pain the rest of her life.

    I understand your frustration, during this tough time in your life. I will be praying for your family!

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  4. (((Joann))) I know its hard when you need to make decisions like this. How does your mom feel about the whole thing?? Do you have siblings that can help with the decision making?? Her safety, of course, is of utmost importance. However, you need to also consider yourself and your needs and don't feel selfish about them. It could be very taxing to be there at night and try to work the next day. Just consider any and all options very carefully......

    glad you are having some good things, too, happening with friends visiting and work not being stressful and a vacation coming up!

    betty

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  5. Hi Joann,
    Good luck with your mom ... I'm sure this is a tough time for both of you.
    Best,
    Marty

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  6. depending on her insurance she may qualify for home help....

    keeping you all in my prayers....

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  7. I hope that you can find something that puts everyone at ease. My thoughts will be with you.

    btw, this isn't a 'whine'. You did well and thanks for sharing this part of your journey.

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  8. Dear Joann, sorry that you are having this trouble with MUM. do hope that a solution can be found that will be suitable for you and Mum.
    much love Sybil xx

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  9. thoughts and prayers are with you Joann.


    Melanie

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  10. I'm totally sending you good vibes, hon. I hope all will work out.

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  11. Wishing you luck with finding a solution that works for everyone. Sorry to hear you were in the ER once again with your mother. (Hugs)Indigo

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  12. Sorry to hear your mom is not doing so well, Joann. Oh by the way, being thin and frail is a bit of a risk-factor for osteoporosis.

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  13. A scooter would be a good idea. They also have walker type things with chairs attached. Good luck with it. Contact a home health company for help.
    Changing your music to happy songs might help too.
    I just stopped by to see if you would tell me the name of the personal quote in the puzzle...I think it starts with the letters NO...but I'm ending up wishing you good luck with your Mom.

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  14. I had a similar problem with my Mom and it wasn't easy. I wish you luck, sweetie!

    Jimmy

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  15. I wish you luck. Whatever it takes to take care of the Mom is what should be done.

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  16. Gee Joann, what about her nursing needs? yikes! good luck sweetie
    hugs,natalie

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  17. I'm sorry to hear this. Situations and decisions like this can be so difficult. Seems we always end up second guessing what we've decided anyway. I wish you luck with this and I hope you can come up with a solution that makes everyone happy and comfortable.
    xx

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  18. (((JoAnn))) Sorry to hear about your mom! I'm glad she didn't break anything-I assumed she broke a hip or something. It's hard. My mom has had a few episodes herself. Prayers to you and your mom. She sounds like a tough cookie-she'll be ok. Hugs - Julie P.S. I will try and call you.

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