Today has been the best so far! Mom was able to help get herself out of bed and actually walk when she needed to get up (with someone on each side for support.) She was so cooperative and helpful, and extremely aware of what was going on. Mealtime was much easier and for the first time in quite awhile Mom drank enough fluids that she won't need the IV at night.
Physical therapy also went well, with Mom continuing to walk short distances at a time without the walker. We had a great conversation with her this evening where she told us her earliest memories and feelings about physical therapy. "You're sitting there and they're telling you what to do, and that this is for your best interest. I remember just screaming and screaming. It was atrocious!" She then expressed her approval about the latest plan where she can control how far she walks and when she needs to rest. She is so appreciative of her physical therapist's "desire to really make it work for me. He was able to put it in perspective and look at it from my viewpoint." Her insightful comments let us understand her feelings, and it was so wonderful to be able to communicate back and forth.
Mom and Cheryl and I were able to watch the Relief Society Broadcast tonight on my laptop, and enjoyed each other's company as we listened to the wonderful messages. Randy popped popcorn for us to munch on, and Mom was even able to feed herself a couple pieces of her favorite treat! Afterwards, Mom commented, "I was thinking of all the things Relief Society means in our lives - true love for Heavenly Father and all the joy He brings into our lives." Well said, Mother!
The day ended with me giving Mom a shower - our first try without a nurse. All I have to say is that it is much harder than it looks, and I ended up going home with very clean (but wet) shoes. Poor Mom was almost traumatized when the shower head didn't cooperate and sprayed out COLD water, but we smoothed things over afterwards with some warm blankets and a blow dryer for her wet hair.
We're looking forward to taking Mom home for a session or two of conference next week! The good times just keep on coming!
What a wonderful end to a most stressful week! Thanx for any and all pics. They help in seeing the progress.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun picture! It is nice to see Grammie doing better. It is so great that she is becoming more coherent and hence more cooperative. I am sure that there is a direct correlation there.
ReplyDeleteShe is lucky to have such a great family to take care of her.
Love you Grammie! Keep it up!