Friday, February 28, 2014

Dad Update

It's been a pretty crappy 2 weeks since Dad was released from ICU. He hasn't been feeling well at all. Today we went to see his doctor at geriatrics.

After going over all of his meds, she decided to switch some things around. Stopping some, adding others.

We also talked at length about his diet and appetite. Dad hasn't been eating much at all since he came home. She told us we needed to change the way Dad eats. No more Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner. He needs to eat about 5 times a day and even though he will only eat a little at a time, it has to be purposeful. He needs to focus on protein. She gave me tons of good ideas for snack size foods that are high protein or can be made that way by adding Boost to them.

We also discussed Hospice. I've been worried that I'm jumping the gun by talking about it. She reassured me that it wasn't too early. She said most people wait too long to bring in Hospice, sometimes until the last week or so of a patient's life. She said that although death isn't imminent with Dad, he is showing a negative trend in many aspects. She explained that Hospice would be good support for me and that some even offered Chaplain services. Mom & Dad haven't been to church in months; having someone come in and offer ministry would be wonderful.

We will go back in 2 weeks for a follow up. They drew blood today, so we'll see what that shows us. We're also tracking Dad's weight. She wants him to gain a pound a week.

I feel so relieved after today's visit. I feel much more in control of the situation and I like knowing there are goals for us to work toward with Dad's health.

Please keep the prayers coming. Dad isn't scared of dying, but he doesn't want to suffer. I pray for his comfort and for clarity & courage for myself.

I know I need to take care of myself and really am trying. I've told people to do the same, but never realized how hard it can be to actually do. My mind is consumed with thoughts of what needs to be done and what might happen. I'm doing the best I can to try to relax when I have time, but it's easier said than done.

12 comments:

  1. i was just sitting here thinking of texting you to see how it went. I'm so glad you were given encouragement - it sounds like this doctor is pretty wise. hang in there - one day (or hour!) at a time!!!

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  2. Wonderful to read thanks for sharing my sweet friend! Sending love and prayers your way. please hug Mr Glen for me

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  3. Glad to know you are feeling better about hospice, they are wonderful, Mother doesn't have them yet, but I have seen how great they were with my sister-in-law and my Mother-in-law. Suggestion, Mother was down to 102, I have been giving her extra boost and also mashing up a banana with a little bit of milk, she loves it, she has gain back some weight she is 108 this week. Will continue to pray for all of you. Love and Hugs to all. Evelyn Palmer Mast

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  4. I have been in your shoes. Its not a easy road and there are highs and lows. Those highs are incredible and those lows are earth shaking. Tell him you love him everyday. The bad days can be so trying on the mind, body and soul. My prayers are with you for strength and your dad for comfort.

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  5. Times like these are so hard. Having information that helps you feel more in control is so valuable. There are still many moments ahead to be cherished with your dad. I hope that you and he make the most of those moments and live out the specialness of your relationship to the fullest.

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  6. I will continue praying for all of y'all Amy ....love & hugs to all...Brandi

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  7. thank you for the updated lil cuz keep them coming please.

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  8. Praying for all of you!

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    1. Obviously I can't even spell my own name correctly!

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  9. Oh Amy *hugs* my heart goes out to you as you deal with all of this. Being hands on is so overwhelming. Hospice is good.. do not hesitate to take any help that is offered to you.

    Remember, that while this is something your father is going through, YOU are facing having to deal with your father going through all this which is very very stressful, so look for some help for yourself. Finding a professional to talk to about all of this can help you get some perspective - if nothing else it will help you not feel bad about any feelings you might have about the situation, or guilt that you can't 'do it all'..

    I spent months thinking my father was going to die.. I commuted to boston on a regular basis when he was in the hospital. It was only by the grace of God that he is still with us.

    take things one day at a time, take care of yourself first when ever you can.. (without your oxygen mask on, you can't properly help someone else put theirs on)

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  10. Sending comforting purrz. TW went through this with both ‘rents. It wasn’t easy or pretty. Have you thought of chroniclizing your journey on http://www.caringbridge.org. A few CB members have used it. It’s a support system.

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    1. I meant your Dad’s journey and yours as caretaker.

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