Saturday, June 11, 2011

BACK HOME AGAIN

YESTERDAY Mr. Bob returned home by medical transport. The hospital stay was 14 days and the final hours were interminable. But at last the time and the paramedics arrived and we were on our way.



I was stunned to learn on the previous day that instead of coming home to our apartment, or even to a Respite Room, it was decided by the powers-that-be at the Manor, to put him into Skilled Nursing. In my mind, that's where people go who are on their way out. But it was explained that there he could have Physical Therapy and 24 hour care. Since he's on oxygen they can keep an eye on his count and truth to tell, I'm grateful for someone     else to do it. We can go visit 'round the clock and he's in a nice, private room and is regarded as special because as a team, we put together that Staff Directory, so all the nurses remember us and seem to be giving him extra special attention, a bonus we hadn't anticipated while compiling the book.







Susan goes home tomorrow afternoon. I couldn't have gotten through this ordeal without the help of our offspring. She/they advocated when Mr. Bob wasn't getting what we all considered proper care, although it may have been Mr. B who kept turning down the opportunity to receive sponge baths and a change of bed linen. He never wants to bother anyone. 



This morning he called from his room, suggesting going to the dining room for breakfast together. It came close to resembling an old fashioned date. He managed without oxygen, although dinner was a different matter because he was unhooked for a longer period. He really needs a small, portable tank to carry with him. Honestly, he's being treated almost like a rock star, as residents and staff members gather around to welcome him home. We're not at all used to such veneration.



                                                                                                                                       Margaret Elizabeth Sangster

10 comments:

  1. Bon Soir, mes amis
    I didn't realize Susan was leaving so soon - of course, she has a very active, important life to return to in Alaska but I, and the fans of this blog, learned how very important she is to you, as an advocate AND a loved one. There is nothing so valuable in moments when so much seems to be overwhelming what was a regu'lar life - she has, ergo, become a significant character in the blog. I personally rave about this blog - about all that your family has agreed to so generously share with others. Thank you. Thank you, Susan. I look forward to your next visit but know that Alaska calls. Safe trip.

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  2. Home is best
    Keep on keeping
    (as someone I know says :)

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  3. So pleased to hear the news that Bob is back with you again.
    One of our friends has a small oxygen tank and manages to get to the local club occasionally as well as his allotment (he is still driving but his wife looks after the tomatoes etc.)
    best wishes to you both.

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  4. Hi MAx ! Good to see you on the road again !

    A Non Y Mouse

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  5. Yes, it must be good to be home again. What does oxygen smell like?

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  6. So happy you are out of the hospital!

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  7. Hane y Roberto,
    Great news, we have been waiting anxiously.
    Let us know what we could do?
    El Franko y Susie

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  8. You know Bev has a portable oxygen pack she carries all the time on her shoulder. Check it out.

    Item two, you earned all this veneration (although it was not premeditated I'm sure) so lap it up. Call in your chips. Looking forward to seeing Mr. Bob today! Room #409

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  9. There's no place like home! So glad Uncle Bob is out of the hospital! Love, Shelley

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