The weeks are just flying by and Spring is almost here. Gord is still steadily improving each day. Apparently today the representative from the Halver Jonson Center is coming to see him. They gave me a pretty liberal time frame for the visit....9am - 9pm. I am sticking around the place today just in case I manage to be present when he arrives. It should/could be an exciting day...but so far it is 1:41pm and no word.
Gord has been experiencing some tingling in his leg today and I couldn't get a clear indication if his arm was involved as well. I hope it was!!!!That is our biggest task now - to preserve the integrity of his right arm until such time that the brain starts to instruct it again. I spoke to one of the best physiotherapists in Calgary this morning and he is willing to guide me on what to do for Gord. We are waiting until next Wednesday to see if he requires a cortisone shot or not.
We are now on a "Regular" diet now so we can eat lunch and dinner in the Cafeteria now on a regular basis. It's good to be classified as "regular".
I don't have much to report today.....the weekend is upon us so we can wander the empty halls and try to fill the days. Visitors are most welcomed on Sat and Sun!
I will leave a note on the door if we are wandering around.
Take care and have a great weekend.
Love
Sheila
PS. We have a representative in Maui as of yesterday. Daughter Andrea and toddler Declan are staying in Unit 607 for the next 10 days or so. You will recognize Declan on the beach by his flaming red curly hair.....stop by and say hi. He is only 17months and is working on perfecting the Aloha Shaka hand sign and doing the Hula.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Wed Feb 25th
I think everyone is getting on with their lives (which is a good thing) because I am not getting any comments!!!Hopefully there isn't a problem with the system.
My cell phone is : 780-842-8950 and email is sheilabosch@hotmail.com
We are settling into a good routine now with Gord doing all his physio, speech and occupational before lunch. If you drop by ( sorry Glen and Lorne) we will be down the hall doing our "thing". Gord is around at lunchtime and then usually has a snooze in the afternoon. At 3:30 he is up in his wheelchair and it is a great time for visitors right through to about 7pm when he goes back to bed. By then he is pretty tired and asleep by 8pm at least.
As I said before if anyone wants to join us in the Cafeteria for dinner you are most welcome. You can bring in food from the outside if you prefer. Be prepared to share if it smells good! Give me a quick call to let me know if you are coming and we can meet you in the cafeteria area.
Hope your weather is better than ours! -31 with wind chill coming in today....BRRRRR
Love
Sheila
My cell phone is : 780-842-8950 and email is sheilabosch@hotmail.com
We are settling into a good routine now with Gord doing all his physio, speech and occupational before lunch. If you drop by ( sorry Glen and Lorne) we will be down the hall doing our "thing". Gord is around at lunchtime and then usually has a snooze in the afternoon. At 3:30 he is up in his wheelchair and it is a great time for visitors right through to about 7pm when he goes back to bed. By then he is pretty tired and asleep by 8pm at least.
As I said before if anyone wants to join us in the Cafeteria for dinner you are most welcome. You can bring in food from the outside if you prefer. Be prepared to share if it smells good! Give me a quick call to let me know if you are coming and we can meet you in the cafeteria area.
Hope your weather is better than ours! -31 with wind chill coming in today....BRRRRR
Love
Sheila
Monday, February 23, 2009
Monday's news
Well we survived the weekend and Gord managed a whole game of crib with his brother Richard and sis in law, Vonnie....his numbers are there now we just have to work on his words. Each day he is getting brighter and brighter in his eyes and it is so good to see.
We had a beautiful dinner on Sunday evening which was cooked by Richard and Vonnie and Jenna and brought in to the dining room where we all met to eat. Gord can have lunch and dinner down in the cafeteria if anyone wishes to join us on any day. Outside meals can be brought in as well. It is quite pleasant in the dining room.
As this is the start of a new week I am told that I should see great improvement in his strength by the end of the week. He is doing so well pulling himself up on a pole in physio, his room, and the bath house. Very promising...and he once again lifted his right leg for me! I know these are just little things but they all are adding up.
I really don't have a lot to talk about....mainly because I don't have any complaints! EVERYONE is happy about that.
My project now is to create a photo album of Gord's life and all his activities to be able to review with him and give him the words and language connected to what he does in his normal life. He needs to be able to speak words of things that he is familiar with. At the present time those words come out all mixed up.
If anyone has pictures of Maui or the lake or family or friends or Spartan Controls from the past or present - please bring them in.
All for today,
Love to all
Sheila and Gord
PS The BIG meeting is March 6th with all the therapists etc. to decide what we will do so hang in there for the announcement!
We had a beautiful dinner on Sunday evening which was cooked by Richard and Vonnie and Jenna and brought in to the dining room where we all met to eat. Gord can have lunch and dinner down in the cafeteria if anyone wishes to join us on any day. Outside meals can be brought in as well. It is quite pleasant in the dining room.
As this is the start of a new week I am told that I should see great improvement in his strength by the end of the week. He is doing so well pulling himself up on a pole in physio, his room, and the bath house. Very promising...and he once again lifted his right leg for me! I know these are just little things but they all are adding up.
I really don't have a lot to talk about....mainly because I don't have any complaints! EVERYONE is happy about that.
My project now is to create a photo album of Gord's life and all his activities to be able to review with him and give him the words and language connected to what he does in his normal life. He needs to be able to speak words of things that he is familiar with. At the present time those words come out all mixed up.
If anyone has pictures of Maui or the lake or family or friends or Spartan Controls from the past or present - please bring them in.
All for today,
Love to all
Sheila and Gord
PS The BIG meeting is March 6th with all the therapists etc. to decide what we will do so hang in there for the announcement!
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Thank you for the wonderful surprise delivery!
What a lovely surprise to arrive home to Peter and Kathy's last night to have Peter hand me the magnificent quilt so lovingly crafted by all of you. I know Judy must have orchestrated this incredible feat and all the messages are amazing. I brought it over this morning and spread on Gord's bed and we read all the messages. What a great idea to physically show the love and support that is out there for us. THANK YOU SO MUCH! The Aloha spirit lives!!!!!
It is currently mid afternoon on a Saturday and the weather is sunny and fairly warm so we have been up to the roof garden and felt the warm rays. Gord is looking good today and seems to be getting a little more of his energy back. When he does get to nap he looks very peaceful so of course that makes me feel good. I think he has reached the place of "acceptance" now and understands there is a process we have to go through to achieve full health and mobility.
Last night Richard and I played shuffleboard and pool and Gord watched for a while then we got him sliding the thingamajig down the table. He was pretty good for a one armed guy!
These outings are good but usually quite short lived. It really is like having a toddler that needs naps, distractions, projects, snacks, meals, and more naps.....and at the end of the day I am worn right out!!! Andrea was just here visiting with Declan and I told her I am living the same life as her with a toddler -only 60 years older! Who would have ever thought that would happen.
Gord and I thank you again for all the loving thoughts coming our way and look forward to seeing ALL of you within the next year or so. Remember, if you ever want to come and visit at Sylvan Lake this summer, we have an extra house with 3 bedrooms!
I know we will be sticking close to home so visitors will be very welcomed.
Have a wonderful day....
Love to all
Sheila and Gord
It is currently mid afternoon on a Saturday and the weather is sunny and fairly warm so we have been up to the roof garden and felt the warm rays. Gord is looking good today and seems to be getting a little more of his energy back. When he does get to nap he looks very peaceful so of course that makes me feel good. I think he has reached the place of "acceptance" now and understands there is a process we have to go through to achieve full health and mobility.
Last night Richard and I played shuffleboard and pool and Gord watched for a while then we got him sliding the thingamajig down the table. He was pretty good for a one armed guy!
These outings are good but usually quite short lived. It really is like having a toddler that needs naps, distractions, projects, snacks, meals, and more naps.....and at the end of the day I am worn right out!!! Andrea was just here visiting with Declan and I told her I am living the same life as her with a toddler -only 60 years older! Who would have ever thought that would happen.
Gord and I thank you again for all the loving thoughts coming our way and look forward to seeing ALL of you within the next year or so. Remember, if you ever want to come and visit at Sylvan Lake this summer, we have an extra house with 3 bedrooms!
I know we will be sticking close to home so visitors will be very welcomed.
Have a wonderful day....
Love to all
Sheila and Gord
Friday, February 20, 2009
Blog from Fanning Center
Finally, I have a moment to sit down and get a blog spot off to you. The past couple of days have been full and very busy. Yesterday (Thursday) started off with a very grumpy Gord and after a little chat with one of the nurses AND a nap, he came around to the more normal guy we know. We are still getting adjusted to the being in bed time and being in the wheelchair time interspersed with physio and speech therapy and meals. It really is a workout! On our walk around the facility, we found this computer station and I read the blog comments to Gord. He totally understood what I was reading him so if you have any messages to convey to Gord go ahead and write them in the comments. I will read to him. (Still don't know if he can read them himself so I will experiment). We also put on his jacket and went for a stroll through the cement garden in the front of the building. The sun was warm on his skin and he enjoyed it. After that, to kill time and stay away from his room (which was his request) we ventured to the 3rd floor where it is very quiet and peaceful. With his new chair that tilts back and has a headrest, we sat in front of the greenhouse in the sun and just dozed a little. Later that afternoon while we were in his room waiting to get back to bed, Stacy phoned from Columbia. They had a good conversation and he was only off a little on the country she was in. He asked how it was in Australia. He knows now.
In the early evening we strolled down to the main floor and sat in the cafeteria area and people watched. While there, a volunteer clown danced in playing a guitar and singing. We joined in and had a few tears of joy and sadness that were evoked from the words of the songs that related so much to us.
Every day Gord is getting stronger and stronger. It truly is a miracle! Thank you all for your prayers and moral support through this most interesting adventure.
And thank you to Ron and Diane for the wonderful evening last night and the ribs! I am going to give Gord his tonight.
I would also like to report that on Friday (today) Gord enthusiastically did his 30 minutes of physio and seemed to enjoy it. He stands easily now from the chair to the pole. He also walked down the railing quite confidently. I notice his right side is quite deficient in the eyesight and hearing but hopefully that will come back.
His right arm still is not moving at all but his right leg is. I keep telling him that if he can get his leg going and strong, the arm will come and he will be able to do so much when he can walk. The aphasia is still happening and so is the frustration of me not understanding. I am really trying hard to zero on the subject he is trying to express but it will take me some time I'm afraid. I never was good at charades......
So it makes me feel good to be able to relay good news to you all.....
Have a wonderful day - again.
Much love
Sheila
In the early evening we strolled down to the main floor and sat in the cafeteria area and people watched. While there, a volunteer clown danced in playing a guitar and singing. We joined in and had a few tears of joy and sadness that were evoked from the words of the songs that related so much to us.
Every day Gord is getting stronger and stronger. It truly is a miracle! Thank you all for your prayers and moral support through this most interesting adventure.
And thank you to Ron and Diane for the wonderful evening last night and the ribs! I am going to give Gord his tonight.
I would also like to report that on Friday (today) Gord enthusiastically did his 30 minutes of physio and seemed to enjoy it. He stands easily now from the chair to the pole. He also walked down the railing quite confidently. I notice his right side is quite deficient in the eyesight and hearing but hopefully that will come back.
His right arm still is not moving at all but his right leg is. I keep telling him that if he can get his leg going and strong, the arm will come and he will be able to do so much when he can walk. The aphasia is still happening and so is the frustration of me not understanding. I am really trying hard to zero on the subject he is trying to express but it will take me some time I'm afraid. I never was good at charades......
So it makes me feel good to be able to relay good news to you all.....
Have a wonderful day - again.
Much love
Sheila
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Amazing Happenings!
It is now Wednesday and I am happy to report that the pressure is off and I can finally take a deep breath! Gord is settling into his new room and the staff are lovely. All his helpers came in to introduce themselves when we arrived and through the remainder of the day were so kind and gentle with him. A couple of them have a good sense of humour and had him laughing and joking. I see only great things to come. After we arrived and I had time to think about it, I realized that being released from the hospital had many implications. We are in the next stage of getting closer to home. Gord is practically off all medications and his assigned Dr. Addison will ease him off everything as time progresses. I believe we are on the list to be interviewed for Halvor Johnson in Ponoka and that would be okay as well.
Watch out - every time I ask for a change it happens almost too fast. They have told me I would have atleast a couple of days notice when we move again.
Now the real work begins for Gord. He has a place in the dining room with other stroke people and will learn to eat etc. by himself. I am not allowed into that room - under any circumstances (made very clear to me). There is a board in the hall that shows all of Gord's activities during the day. There is also a board that we have to record on where we have taken him for a walk (to the cafeteria or the roof top garden). I also was signed up for the Handi Bus so that if we are there long enough, Gord can go visiting to friends for dinner etc. or even go to a mall. THAT really gave me a lift when I realized I may be able to take him out of there occasionally.
Slow and steady......
The other good thing is that the girls suggested I not come in until 10am as they would be very busy with Gord getting him ready for the day, having breakfast with his new friends etc. He is either going to really love the dining room scene or hate it. It will be interesting. We can also eat together in the pod near his room when it is appropriate but for now I think he needs to be away from me and gain his independence back. You should see him wheel himself around in his wheelchair with his left foot - the only issue is his right visual area is blocked so he runs into things! We will work on that.
Interestingly, the drive to the Fanning Center takes the same amount of time from the house as it did to get to the Foothills. I took Deerfoot Trail last night to come home and it took me 7 minutes. BONUS! (of course outside of rush hour!)
Talk soon,
It's a GREAT DAY
Love
Sheila
Watch out - every time I ask for a change it happens almost too fast. They have told me I would have atleast a couple of days notice when we move again.
Now the real work begins for Gord. He has a place in the dining room with other stroke people and will learn to eat etc. by himself. I am not allowed into that room - under any circumstances (made very clear to me). There is a board in the hall that shows all of Gord's activities during the day. There is also a board that we have to record on where we have taken him for a walk (to the cafeteria or the roof top garden). I also was signed up for the Handi Bus so that if we are there long enough, Gord can go visiting to friends for dinner etc. or even go to a mall. THAT really gave me a lift when I realized I may be able to take him out of there occasionally.
Slow and steady......
The other good thing is that the girls suggested I not come in until 10am as they would be very busy with Gord getting him ready for the day, having breakfast with his new friends etc. He is either going to really love the dining room scene or hate it. It will be interesting. We can also eat together in the pod near his room when it is appropriate but for now I think he needs to be away from me and gain his independence back. You should see him wheel himself around in his wheelchair with his left foot - the only issue is his right visual area is blocked so he runs into things! We will work on that.
Interestingly, the drive to the Fanning Center takes the same amount of time from the house as it did to get to the Foothills. I took Deerfoot Trail last night to come home and it took me 7 minutes. BONUS! (of course outside of rush hour!)
Talk soon,
It's a GREAT DAY
Love
Sheila
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Our Experience
Having spent the past weekend with Dad, Jackie and I feel that we would like to share our experiences. When first seeing him we were elated to see how far he had come since the last time we saw him. We feel that he is aware of who we are as well as where we live. We were amazed at how infatuated Dad was with his Grandson Daniel, he would totally block out his surroundings and fully focus on him. He would grab Daniels hand and he even cheated in a wheelchair/stroller race in the hallway. Quite obviously his sense of humor is still fully in tact.
From what we witnessed this weekend Dad is aware of what is happening to him as well as completely aware of his surroundings. While talking with him I asked if he remembered helping me with a project I had been working on this summer (finishing the basement of our house) he thought for a moment and then replied "oh yeah". I told him that I had finished it, and he said "all of it?" I told him yes and then he asked if I had done suspended ceilings. Obviously he was aware of the project I was talking about as well as some of the details surrounding it.
While helping Dad eat supper one evening he only wanted to eat some of the meal, mainly the BBQ pork and did not want to eat the potatoes or beans that were on the plate. I thought I would sneak some potatoes on the fork with the pork and after a few bites he looked at me and quite angrily said "just the meat!" On top of that I was trying to get him to eat some of the bread that was on the plate. He really didn't want it but I kept pushing the issue. So Dad finally relented and I handed him the piece of bread, he threw the bread back at me and started to laugh. Again clearly his sense of humor is still very present.
We did notice some frustration from Dad. Several times throughout the weekend Dad would be trying to tell us something and it wouldn't come out right, at this point he would grit his teeth and shake his head. (Anyone who has spent time around a Bosch man knows this look). At one point Dad looked over to me and asked "what am I doing here?". I tried to explain the situation that had brought him here and he stated that he wanted to leave. I asked him where he would like to go and he said "the lake". I told him that he could go to the lake as soon as he got a little better, he responded with the the same frustration I mentioned before.
At one point we were walking around the hospital with Dad and while passing one of the windows a sunbeam hit him and he let out a relieved sigh. We stopped for a few minutes in the hallway and then found a very sunny spot in the chapel, there was also a fantastic view of the mountains. We sat there for about 15 min and every time we asked if Dad would like to go he would say "just a few more minutes". While sitting in the sun we noticed Dad trying to move his right arm. He was pulling with his shoulder and kind of grunting. It was great to see his determination.
All in all we had a great weekend with Dad and we are excited to hear that he is out of the hospital and in a facility that will be pushing him in his recovery. We want to thank the people who are drastically changing their lives in order to help Dad with his recovery. Obviously Sheila who is by Dads side day in and day out. My sister Stacy who balances full time work, raising a two year old son and spending time with Dad every night. Dad's brother Richard who is constantly pushing Dad by forcing him to sing, or do the alphabet or just spend time with him. Dad mentioned to us that he missed Richard when Richard hadn't been in for a few days. Richards wife Vonnie who has been great with providing meals for Dad, spending countless hours at the hospital and supporting the family as a whole. I also want to thank Richard's daughter Jenna for making some Valentine's Day cookies for Dad, although Jackie ate most of them. Dads brother Gary and sister Diane who have made the trip from Lloydminster to Calgary several times, I am certain Dad enjoys your company.
For those of you that havn't had the opportunity to see Dad we want you all to know what great progress he has made. Although I am certain the progress seems slow and sometimes frustrating for those who are closest to him you can tell that with Dad's determination he will not rest until he recovers from this.
Darren & Jackie
From what we witnessed this weekend Dad is aware of what is happening to him as well as completely aware of his surroundings. While talking with him I asked if he remembered helping me with a project I had been working on this summer (finishing the basement of our house) he thought for a moment and then replied "oh yeah". I told him that I had finished it, and he said "all of it?" I told him yes and then he asked if I had done suspended ceilings. Obviously he was aware of the project I was talking about as well as some of the details surrounding it.
While helping Dad eat supper one evening he only wanted to eat some of the meal, mainly the BBQ pork and did not want to eat the potatoes or beans that were on the plate. I thought I would sneak some potatoes on the fork with the pork and after a few bites he looked at me and quite angrily said "just the meat!" On top of that I was trying to get him to eat some of the bread that was on the plate. He really didn't want it but I kept pushing the issue. So Dad finally relented and I handed him the piece of bread, he threw the bread back at me and started to laugh. Again clearly his sense of humor is still very present.
We did notice some frustration from Dad. Several times throughout the weekend Dad would be trying to tell us something and it wouldn't come out right, at this point he would grit his teeth and shake his head. (Anyone who has spent time around a Bosch man knows this look). At one point Dad looked over to me and asked "what am I doing here?". I tried to explain the situation that had brought him here and he stated that he wanted to leave. I asked him where he would like to go and he said "the lake". I told him that he could go to the lake as soon as he got a little better, he responded with the the same frustration I mentioned before.
At one point we were walking around the hospital with Dad and while passing one of the windows a sunbeam hit him and he let out a relieved sigh. We stopped for a few minutes in the hallway and then found a very sunny spot in the chapel, there was also a fantastic view of the mountains. We sat there for about 15 min and every time we asked if Dad would like to go he would say "just a few more minutes". While sitting in the sun we noticed Dad trying to move his right arm. He was pulling with his shoulder and kind of grunting. It was great to see his determination.
All in all we had a great weekend with Dad and we are excited to hear that he is out of the hospital and in a facility that will be pushing him in his recovery. We want to thank the people who are drastically changing their lives in order to help Dad with his recovery. Obviously Sheila who is by Dads side day in and day out. My sister Stacy who balances full time work, raising a two year old son and spending time with Dad every night. Dad's brother Richard who is constantly pushing Dad by forcing him to sing, or do the alphabet or just spend time with him. Dad mentioned to us that he missed Richard when Richard hadn't been in for a few days. Richards wife Vonnie who has been great with providing meals for Dad, spending countless hours at the hospital and supporting the family as a whole. I also want to thank Richard's daughter Jenna for making some Valentine's Day cookies for Dad, although Jackie ate most of them. Dads brother Gary and sister Diane who have made the trip from Lloydminster to Calgary several times, I am certain Dad enjoys your company.
For those of you that havn't had the opportunity to see Dad we want you all to know what great progress he has made. Although I am certain the progress seems slow and sometimes frustrating for those who are closest to him you can tell that with Dad's determination he will not rest until he recovers from this.
Darren & Jackie
The Best Move Yet!
On the heels of the last post, which showed the quick decline in the situation for Gord at the Foothills, I am so pleased to be reporting (as requested by Sheila) that Gord has just been moved to the Fanning Centre! I just received the call from an elated Sheila to inform me of the big news. As usual, the staff at the Foothills gave Gord and Sheila only about 5 minutes warning to prepare for the big move, but it was a situation they were only too happy to accommodate. Gord will now have the opportunity to receive greater attention as he strives for his most important move yet, his move toward a full recovery!
Here are the necessary details for those who would like to visit Gord:
Carewest - Dr. Vernon Fanning Centre
722 -16th Avenue (N.E. Calgary, not far from Deerfoot Trail)
Gord is on the second floor in a private room - room #209. He is in a wing called 2 EAST in the YELLOW POD (the area is divided into 4 pods).
Visiting hours are between 10am and 8:30pm. Sheila did explain though that Gord will likely be kept quite busy through the day with his new rehabilitation program. Also, to anyone who has taken a hit from the Foothills Hospital's parking rates, you'll be happy to know that Sheila said it only costs $1.50 for an entire day at the Fanning Centre!
Lastly, I just wanted to add that I saw Gord yesterday and he looks fabulous, the best I've seen yet. He truly is making impressive strides in his recovery. I, like many of you, read this blog everyday for the latest details and each day I am amazed by all the support he and Sheila are receiving from both family and friends, I know it is making all the difference!
Laurie Bell
(Sheila and Gord's daughter-in-law)
Here are the necessary details for those who would like to visit Gord:
Carewest - Dr. Vernon Fanning Centre
722 -16th Avenue (N.E. Calgary, not far from Deerfoot Trail)
Gord is on the second floor in a private room - room #209. He is in a wing called 2 EAST in the YELLOW POD (the area is divided into 4 pods).
Visiting hours are between 10am and 8:30pm. Sheila did explain though that Gord will likely be kept quite busy through the day with his new rehabilitation program. Also, to anyone who has taken a hit from the Foothills Hospital's parking rates, you'll be happy to know that Sheila said it only costs $1.50 for an entire day at the Fanning Centre!
Lastly, I just wanted to add that I saw Gord yesterday and he looks fabulous, the best I've seen yet. He truly is making impressive strides in his recovery. I, like many of you, read this blog everyday for the latest details and each day I am amazed by all the support he and Sheila are receiving from both family and friends, I know it is making all the difference!
Laurie Bell
(Sheila and Gord's daughter-in-law)
Monday, February 16, 2009
Not sure how far down a down day can go!
We are now in Room 1032A
Well, once again the rug has been pulled from under us. With literally one minutes notice we were shuffled out of our 2 person room into a 4 person room one floor below at about 8pm tonight. Needless to say it was a panic situation getting everything packed up and when we arrived on the 10th floor the nurses are asking who is this and why is he here - no one told us he was coming....great communication. Thanks to Vonnie, Richard and Jenna who stayed around to help me move I did not have my nervous breakdown until I got in the car tonight!
So we sat in a waiting room while they prepared a bed for Gord in the "ward". He was falling asleep in his wheelchair and not a happy camper. Who said our hospitals "care" for the patients or take their best interests to heart???? I don't think care is in their vocabulary. Sorry Shelley but tonight was brutal and I am going to speak my truth. To top it all off here is a direct quote from our Health Minister Ron Liepert in today's Herald: "Damn it all, I'm sick and tired of people whining about not enough health-care facilities in the city". I am wondering if he has ever had a loved one fall ill and have to go through the He-- I have gone through with Gord. It honestly feels like we are an inconvenience. The nurse today sighed loudly every time she had to come into our room to help with something. Nice....makes everyone feel good.
And get this.....Gord has a curtain that can be pulled right around his bed. The wheels on the track squeek so loud it is unnerving. I cannot believe that in this day and age they would not know about WD40! Guess I have to do something about it. Problem is, every time I make a squeek, everyone has it out for me and I am not a popular person to have around. Makes it very difficult to get the best for my guy.
I just hope he sleeps tonight. Every move is an adjustment and he really is sensitive to it.
Now for the good news! Prior to the move announcement, we had a great card game going in the room with Gord, Vonnie, Richard and Jenna playing "Fish". Gord knew what they were playing and did very well. He knew what his cards were and who to ask for cards. It was amazing!
When we went for our walk this afternoon with his cousins, we went to the deli again and this time he did not want french fries, he pointed to the menu and wanted a garden burger. I got it for him and he happily devoured 1/2 of it. Once again, empowerment. When he was finished and tired of the conversation he said clearly : "Well, let's go!".
If anyone out there has any influence to get him into the Brain Trauma Center in Ponoka please HELP me. Marnie called me today, Ruth and I thank you so much for the connection.
To Ralph and Donalda - any help you can give would be appreciated.
I will try my best to get the paperwork started as quickly as possible.
Til later......
Love
Sheila who is almost at the breaking point!!!!
Well, once again the rug has been pulled from under us. With literally one minutes notice we were shuffled out of our 2 person room into a 4 person room one floor below at about 8pm tonight. Needless to say it was a panic situation getting everything packed up and when we arrived on the 10th floor the nurses are asking who is this and why is he here - no one told us he was coming....great communication. Thanks to Vonnie, Richard and Jenna who stayed around to help me move I did not have my nervous breakdown until I got in the car tonight!
So we sat in a waiting room while they prepared a bed for Gord in the "ward". He was falling asleep in his wheelchair and not a happy camper. Who said our hospitals "care" for the patients or take their best interests to heart???? I don't think care is in their vocabulary. Sorry Shelley but tonight was brutal and I am going to speak my truth. To top it all off here is a direct quote from our Health Minister Ron Liepert in today's Herald: "Damn it all, I'm sick and tired of people whining about not enough health-care facilities in the city". I am wondering if he has ever had a loved one fall ill and have to go through the He-- I have gone through with Gord. It honestly feels like we are an inconvenience. The nurse today sighed loudly every time she had to come into our room to help with something. Nice....makes everyone feel good.
And get this.....Gord has a curtain that can be pulled right around his bed. The wheels on the track squeek so loud it is unnerving. I cannot believe that in this day and age they would not know about WD40! Guess I have to do something about it. Problem is, every time I make a squeek, everyone has it out for me and I am not a popular person to have around. Makes it very difficult to get the best for my guy.
I just hope he sleeps tonight. Every move is an adjustment and he really is sensitive to it.
Now for the good news! Prior to the move announcement, we had a great card game going in the room with Gord, Vonnie, Richard and Jenna playing "Fish". Gord knew what they were playing and did very well. He knew what his cards were and who to ask for cards. It was amazing!
When we went for our walk this afternoon with his cousins, we went to the deli again and this time he did not want french fries, he pointed to the menu and wanted a garden burger. I got it for him and he happily devoured 1/2 of it. Once again, empowerment. When he was finished and tired of the conversation he said clearly : "Well, let's go!".
If anyone out there has any influence to get him into the Brain Trauma Center in Ponoka please HELP me. Marnie called me today, Ruth and I thank you so much for the connection.
To Ralph and Donalda - any help you can give would be appreciated.
I will try my best to get the paperwork started as quickly as possible.
Til later......
Love
Sheila who is almost at the breaking point!!!!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Sunday = French Fry Day
I know this will be hard to believe, but honestly, it happened. Today when I got to the hospital Gord was half way through his breakfast and when I walked in I took over from the nurse who was feeding him. After getting cleaned up after breakfast and waiting about 15 minutes, I asked if he wanted to go for a walk in his wheelchair. He said loudly and enthusiastically "Let's go!". I grabbed his runners and socks, got them on, and could hardly hold him back to wait for help to get into the chair. We walked down the usual corridors and when we got to the main floor, he insisted on going outside. It was about -15 at that point and he just had on a t-shirt so I thought - "not now but get his jacket pronto so we can go outside when he feels like it!" The last thing we need now is pneumonia! My diversion from this thought was to go down the hall by the delicatessan. As we passed by, the aroma of deep frying filled the air and Gord motioned to go into the food area. I complied, and as we passed the counter where they issue the food he grabbed onto the counter and stopped the chair. I asked if he wanted a hamburger or something. He said no and then I asked if it was the french fries and he said Yes! Oh Boy....totally against my food principles...but I thought this may give him a sense of empowerment. We got the fries, ketchup and gravy and went to a table and happily ate the whole serving by himself. Needless to say he was humming a tune all the way back to bed.
After lunch Darren and Jackie came to play and I left the hospital. It is early evening and I am going to head back to get him ready for bed and all tucked in for the night. He really knows that he wants to go home to his own space and creature comforts and I can think of nothing better than sitting with him in front of a nice warm fire in the fireplace up at the lake. It is our goal to be sooner than later! Everyone keeps saying it is going to be a very long time for rehabilitation - like a year - is that really true? I guess we will see. On Tuesday I will start negotiating. Wish me luck.
Have a great day everyone.
Love
Sheila
A big THANK YOU once again to Janet and Ron Kuchinka for the fabulous soup and valentine cookies! I would phone you but I don't have your number! Please email me at sheilabosch@hotmail.com
Vonnie, thank you for your beautiful tasty cookies and the strawberries! You are so sweet and thoughtful. Ron and Diane for your thoughtfullness of getting a rose for me from Gord for Valentines. Dean and Judith, the tulips are precious, and I thank you so much for brightening up Gord's room.
After lunch Darren and Jackie came to play and I left the hospital. It is early evening and I am going to head back to get him ready for bed and all tucked in for the night. He really knows that he wants to go home to his own space and creature comforts and I can think of nothing better than sitting with him in front of a nice warm fire in the fireplace up at the lake. It is our goal to be sooner than later! Everyone keeps saying it is going to be a very long time for rehabilitation - like a year - is that really true? I guess we will see. On Tuesday I will start negotiating. Wish me luck.
Have a great day everyone.
Love
Sheila
A big THANK YOU once again to Janet and Ron Kuchinka for the fabulous soup and valentine cookies! I would phone you but I don't have your number! Please email me at sheilabosch@hotmail.com
Vonnie, thank you for your beautiful tasty cookies and the strawberries! You are so sweet and thoughtful. Ron and Diane for your thoughtfullness of getting a rose for me from Gord for Valentines. Dean and Judith, the tulips are precious, and I thank you so much for brightening up Gord's room.
Friday, February 13, 2009
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY EVERYONE
It is the evening before Valentine's Day and I am happy to report that Gord is continuing his singing. He started when we were returning to the 11th floor after therapy and now he joins right in with any song that is being sung. Quite funny! In fact, his brother Richard and I had tears rolling down our cheeks late today, as the three of us tried to get through the alphabet song. Gord got most of it and made up the rest. He laughed so hard he cried. What a great sight to see.
Today he refused at first to doing his walking at first, but after a lot of coaxing and cajoling, he finally relented and got up and did the longest walk yet.....giving the victory sign to the speech girls as he passed their doorway. In Occupational therapy he knew the time on the clock and placed all the numbers in the correct order on the face of the clock. (velcro numbers). He managed other tasks extremely well. We are very proud. He is even talking about the lake now and I keep telling him that as soon as he can walk we are out of there. Today he was really trying to get his right leg to move. He is so much more aware of what is going on. I really cannot believe what I am seeing.
The "Speech Assessor" returned at my request and re-evaluated Gord and has changed his meal plan to more textured food and even sandwiches. He is swallowing very well which is an excellent sign.
My next task is to get us moved to "a bed by the window". (There is actually a book by that name). We are missing so much of what is happening outside when we can't see through the dividing curtains.
I am taking a few hours off on Saturday and Sunday while Gord's son Darren spends time with him. He will be thrilled to see him and also to see Jackie again. We are at the point where Gord can go to the deli/cafeteria in his wheelchair and sit with people in a social setting and perhaps have a little snack. I will try set that up for Darren's visit this weekend. It opens up a whole new realm for Gord to experience and gets him out of his room and away from the TV!
Will keep you posted on how it goes.
Love to all
and sorry about the candy kisses this year in Maui, girls!
Sheila and Gord
Today he refused at first to doing his walking at first, but after a lot of coaxing and cajoling, he finally relented and got up and did the longest walk yet.....giving the victory sign to the speech girls as he passed their doorway. In Occupational therapy he knew the time on the clock and placed all the numbers in the correct order on the face of the clock. (velcro numbers). He managed other tasks extremely well. We are very proud. He is even talking about the lake now and I keep telling him that as soon as he can walk we are out of there. Today he was really trying to get his right leg to move. He is so much more aware of what is going on. I really cannot believe what I am seeing.
The "Speech Assessor" returned at my request and re-evaluated Gord and has changed his meal plan to more textured food and even sandwiches. He is swallowing very well which is an excellent sign.
My next task is to get us moved to "a bed by the window". (There is actually a book by that name). We are missing so much of what is happening outside when we can't see through the dividing curtains.
I am taking a few hours off on Saturday and Sunday while Gord's son Darren spends time with him. He will be thrilled to see him and also to see Jackie again. We are at the point where Gord can go to the deli/cafeteria in his wheelchair and sit with people in a social setting and perhaps have a little snack. I will try set that up for Darren's visit this weekend. It opens up a whole new realm for Gord to experience and gets him out of his room and away from the TV!
Will keep you posted on how it goes.
Love to all
and sorry about the candy kisses this year in Maui, girls!
Sheila and Gord
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Quieter day today
I guess it is to be predicted that Gord will have an up day followed by a down day. He really was tired today but did rally around to sing Happy Birthday to Vonnie! We were trying to think of songs to sing because he chimes in with all the right words when we get started. It was really very cute. At the end of Happy Birthday he added "and happy more"....
I feel kind of silly relating all these little landmarks but I think it may help others who find themselves in my position some day to have hope and never give up. I have certainly met people in worse situations than mine on Gord's ward and some of my time is spent comforting them as well. It makes me realize we are all in this together.
If you get a chance to look up Aphasia it will explain what Gord is going through right now. It is so difficult to interpret what he is trying to say but he sure has a lot to get out. Sometimes he just talks away with his hand waving in the air like he is really trying to get something done. I try my best to help him figure out what he wants me to know. It is a challenge for sure!
Well, I am off to bed.....it is snowing and going down to -17 tonight....brrrrrrrrrr.
Love to all
Sheila
I feel kind of silly relating all these little landmarks but I think it may help others who find themselves in my position some day to have hope and never give up. I have certainly met people in worse situations than mine on Gord's ward and some of my time is spent comforting them as well. It makes me realize we are all in this together.
If you get a chance to look up Aphasia it will explain what Gord is going through right now. It is so difficult to interpret what he is trying to say but he sure has a lot to get out. Sometimes he just talks away with his hand waving in the air like he is really trying to get something done. I try my best to help him figure out what he wants me to know. It is a challenge for sure!
Well, I am off to bed.....it is snowing and going down to -17 tonight....brrrrrrrrrr.
Love to all
Sheila
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Day 2 of an upright Gord!!!
Thank you all for the absolutely postively uplifting enthusiastic messages in the comments section. Tom and Red especially, I love the idea of the bronzed shoes dangling from the motorhome dash.
Gord walked again today and also performed amazingly in the speech therapy. He is just getting clearer as each hour goes by. I am going to get a laptop to take in to him to show him photos, and perhaps see if he recognizes email etc. Who knows? If I don't try, I will never know and what if, just what if he remembers how to move about on the computer. It would be wonderful as he loved to read the newspaper etc. on the computer and if he had access to a keyboard he may be able to express himself as he wishes. It is worth a try.
We have been moved to Room 1122 as of this afternoon. It is on the "other side" of the hallway and we don't have a window etc. Hopefully this is a very short temporary place and we will just make the best of it. I lodged my complaint about being moved but was told- sorry - we have to juggle 8 people and you are one of them. (and the inference is that I don't think they really care if we are comfortable or not as long as it is convenient for them). It just makes me fight harder to get Gord out of this hospital.
Thank you to Vonnie for the steak and potatoes that Gord devoured tonight. He kept saying "mmmmm" as he ate each mouthful!
Thank you to Rick and Pam Anderson for the visit and the Spartan outfit for Gord to work out in! He will be the best dressed guy in the gym.
Thank you Shelley for your love and tender kindness to Gord. It was wonderful to see Gord lift his right leg off the bed by himself tonight. He also moved his right arm. You are the only one who is able to elicit those responses and as hard as I try, I can't seem to accomplish what you can. You truly are a fabulous healer and I thank Deepak every day for introducing you to us.
I know you will be by our side until we get Gord on his feet and talking!
So that's all for now,
Off to bed for a good night's sleep with a smile on my face.
Love to all
Sheila
Gord walked again today and also performed amazingly in the speech therapy. He is just getting clearer as each hour goes by. I am going to get a laptop to take in to him to show him photos, and perhaps see if he recognizes email etc. Who knows? If I don't try, I will never know and what if, just what if he remembers how to move about on the computer. It would be wonderful as he loved to read the newspaper etc. on the computer and if he had access to a keyboard he may be able to express himself as he wishes. It is worth a try.
We have been moved to Room 1122 as of this afternoon. It is on the "other side" of the hallway and we don't have a window etc. Hopefully this is a very short temporary place and we will just make the best of it. I lodged my complaint about being moved but was told- sorry - we have to juggle 8 people and you are one of them. (and the inference is that I don't think they really care if we are comfortable or not as long as it is convenient for them). It just makes me fight harder to get Gord out of this hospital.
Thank you to Vonnie for the steak and potatoes that Gord devoured tonight. He kept saying "mmmmm" as he ate each mouthful!
Thank you to Rick and Pam Anderson for the visit and the Spartan outfit for Gord to work out in! He will be the best dressed guy in the gym.
Thank you Shelley for your love and tender kindness to Gord. It was wonderful to see Gord lift his right leg off the bed by himself tonight. He also moved his right arm. You are the only one who is able to elicit those responses and as hard as I try, I can't seem to accomplish what you can. You truly are a fabulous healer and I thank Deepak every day for introducing you to us.
I know you will be by our side until we get Gord on his feet and talking!
So that's all for now,
Off to bed for a good night's sleep with a smile on my face.
Love to all
Sheila
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Gord walked today
You would not believe what happened today. I give the credit to the physio girls who were so persistent with Gord and believed he could actually take steps today. He was supported by 3 girls with me following up behind with the wheelchair ready to catch him. It was truly amazing to see him upright and moving along the hallway with his left hand on the railing and a slider on his right foot.( The therapist moved his right foot with her foot but he got the hang of moving his hips). If I hadn't seen it I would not have believed it. He walked the 30 foot rail 3 times! They also had him do a ring toss game at the end of the last walk. He got 2 rings on the pegs. At that point he threw his left arm up in the air as a victory sign.
In the morning Gord also attended a speech therapy class with Dr. Kathy and I as witnesses. He did so well. When asked to count to 10 he did that and kept on counting all the way to 20! He also recited all the days of the week. We tested his reading ability and it looks like he can read some words. His mood was good all day today and he ate very well. Things are progressing so fast and I am so delighted.
Dr. Kathy was such a support today and I know Gord was happy to have her around with her positive personality! Thanks Kathy, we love you!
Tomorrow we go to speech class again in the morning and physio in the afternoon. I heard the girls talking about getting him on a walker soon! Will let you know what happens.
Stay well everyone,
Love
Sheila
In the morning Gord also attended a speech therapy class with Dr. Kathy and I as witnesses. He did so well. When asked to count to 10 he did that and kept on counting all the way to 20! He also recited all the days of the week. We tested his reading ability and it looks like he can read some words. His mood was good all day today and he ate very well. Things are progressing so fast and I am so delighted.
Dr. Kathy was such a support today and I know Gord was happy to have her around with her positive personality! Thanks Kathy, we love you!
Tomorrow we go to speech class again in the morning and physio in the afternoon. I heard the girls talking about getting him on a walker soon! Will let you know what happens.
Stay well everyone,
Love
Sheila
Monday Night With Dad
Hi all...Stacy here. Sorry for not writing more often but life is pretty hectic right now. I just wanted to let everyone know some of my observations from the past couple of days and especially last night.
Dad had a great weekend with a long visit with a couple of his brothers...Richard and Gary. You guys are just awesome and I know that Dad appreciates the teasing and the time that you have spent with him! He really has a great reaction when you guys are around and I think he knows that someone is there with a great sense of humor and that relaxes him.
Daniel and I also spent a lot of time this weekend and I have to say that Daniel really brings out smiles and joy from Dad. They played ball and Dad even teases Daniel and makes him giggle! It really is great to see that no matter what, they still have a strong relationship.
Last night when I got there, Dad was a little grouchy but I got him some cold water and a fruit smoothie and he really perked up after that. It was really nice as it was just Dad and I and we had quite a long talk. I told him that his son Darren was coming to visit this weekend and he said "Darren Bosch? Why is he coming". I told him that Darren and Jackie were just coming for a visit and he said "Okay good". I showed him a picture of Daniel and asked him who that little guy was and he said "Well that's Daniel". I haven't heard that before so it was just great!
When I went to leave last night, Dad actually called my name to get me to come back and I was so happy because I haven't heard that before either. I went back and we talked for a bit longer. Overall it was a great night last night and it seems like everyday is better and better!
I just have to say thank you again to my family who has been there and doing great things for Dad and for Andres and I. Uncle Richard and Aunty Vonnie...wow I don't even know what to say other than you guys are just incredible! Uncle Gary...thanks for spending the weekend with Dad...I think that he really enjoyed the weekend because of the fun you guys brought in!
Mom and Aunty Gail...you know that I could not do this without your phone calls and e-mails!
Okay that's it from me for now...hopefully I will be able to write again tomorrow.
Stacy
Dad had a great weekend with a long visit with a couple of his brothers...Richard and Gary. You guys are just awesome and I know that Dad appreciates the teasing and the time that you have spent with him! He really has a great reaction when you guys are around and I think he knows that someone is there with a great sense of humor and that relaxes him.
Daniel and I also spent a lot of time this weekend and I have to say that Daniel really brings out smiles and joy from Dad. They played ball and Dad even teases Daniel and makes him giggle! It really is great to see that no matter what, they still have a strong relationship.
Last night when I got there, Dad was a little grouchy but I got him some cold water and a fruit smoothie and he really perked up after that. It was really nice as it was just Dad and I and we had quite a long talk. I told him that his son Darren was coming to visit this weekend and he said "Darren Bosch? Why is he coming". I told him that Darren and Jackie were just coming for a visit and he said "Okay good". I showed him a picture of Daniel and asked him who that little guy was and he said "Well that's Daniel". I haven't heard that before so it was just great!
When I went to leave last night, Dad actually called my name to get me to come back and I was so happy because I haven't heard that before either. I went back and we talked for a bit longer. Overall it was a great night last night and it seems like everyday is better and better!
I just have to say thank you again to my family who has been there and doing great things for Dad and for Andres and I. Uncle Richard and Aunty Vonnie...wow I don't even know what to say other than you guys are just incredible! Uncle Gary...thanks for spending the weekend with Dad...I think that he really enjoyed the weekend because of the fun you guys brought in!
Mom and Aunty Gail...you know that I could not do this without your phone calls and e-mails!
Okay that's it from me for now...hopefully I will be able to write again tomorrow.
Stacy
A big surprise!!!!!
So there I was standing in the hallway at the hospital on Monday afternoon having a chat with Dave and I looked down the hall and to my surprise and delight, there was Dr. Kathy walking toward us. At first I thought I was losing my mind because she belongs in Maui or Minnesota and Gord refers to her as his personal physician. Kathy had driven to Calgary all the way from Minnesota to find her friend Gord after having searched all of Maui and he was nowhere to be found. What a friend! We spent a couple of hours with Gord and he was so happy to see Kathy. His comment when he saw her was " Oh for heavens sake!". I'm sure he was confused about where he was at that point as well! We are on our way back this morning to spend the day helping Gord with his physio and to try and get the doctors to let Kathy view Gord's records. After all, she is his personal physician!!!
I spoke to his stoke nurse again yesterday (just before she leaves for a week on a conference) and she is thinking about giving Gord some anti agitation drugs. We are afraid he is going to try and get out of bed and end up on the floor. On Monday he managed to find the buttons that raise and lower the bed and put himself absolutely upright and could not figure out how to get it down again. He has been quite humorous interspersed with his grumpiness. He seems to be trying to figure out how to get things fixed and gets very frustrated when I can't understand what he is saying. He has come out with words that are not in the English language (so perhaps he is speaking in some other ancient tongue). My next quest is to find an interpreter.
Gord also spoke my name clearly for the first time and recognized his own written name. We are testing him each day for name, date, year, location, and asking what people are doing in pictures. I think he feels the picture thing is child's play and doesn't want to participate. Hopefully he will come around and have more fun with it.
The longer term prognosis looks like we will be at the Foothills for another few weeks and then relocated to perhaps The Fanning Center or the Brain Center at Ponoka. I am learning more about the Ponoka center and it looks like he would get wonderful treatment and attention there if we can get him qualified.
That's all for today so far.....talk later...
Have a wonderful day everyone
Love
Sheila
I spoke to his stoke nurse again yesterday (just before she leaves for a week on a conference) and she is thinking about giving Gord some anti agitation drugs. We are afraid he is going to try and get out of bed and end up on the floor. On Monday he managed to find the buttons that raise and lower the bed and put himself absolutely upright and could not figure out how to get it down again. He has been quite humorous interspersed with his grumpiness. He seems to be trying to figure out how to get things fixed and gets very frustrated when I can't understand what he is saying. He has come out with words that are not in the English language (so perhaps he is speaking in some other ancient tongue). My next quest is to find an interpreter.
Gord also spoke my name clearly for the first time and recognized his own written name. We are testing him each day for name, date, year, location, and asking what people are doing in pictures. I think he feels the picture thing is child's play and doesn't want to participate. Hopefully he will come around and have more fun with it.
The longer term prognosis looks like we will be at the Foothills for another few weeks and then relocated to perhaps The Fanning Center or the Brain Center at Ponoka. I am learning more about the Ponoka center and it looks like he would get wonderful treatment and attention there if we can get him qualified.
That's all for today so far.....talk later...
Have a wonderful day everyone
Love
Sheila
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Sunday evening....I am back from my adventure to the frozen north (or wherever) and I must say, the cabin was fffrreeeezzzzingggg when I went in. I very quickly found our clothes and checked out things and bolted from the house!!!! I visited quickly with Bryan and Arlene Parker who were caretakers of "the shoes". Getting Gord's shoes had been quite the task but he will finally be able to go to the "gym" properly attired. We will start in earnest tomorrow and I am setting a goal of 5 days in a row getting into that wheelchair and spending time in the gym.
His wonderful nurse, Richie, really quizzed him this evening on his speech and comprehension and it was quite cute to listen to. As of that conversation, Gord thinks it is October and it is 2008. He knows he is in Calgary and not Toronto or Vancouver. He knew his own name but says it very fast. He could not get my name out but went SHHHSHHHH Bosch. I asked him a few more times what my name was and he blurted out really loud....29th January!!! I didn't ask anything about birthdays but I suspect that was the only association he could make with my name. Very interesting to see how the brain works. Richie told me to request a speech therapist right away to encourage Gord to keep talking and making thoughts longer and louder. We have to jump on it while he wants to talk. It really is a miracle that he is talking like he is. No one expected this to happen - ever.....and he ate a fair amount today after having an upset stomach this morning.
I returned from my trip to the lake to find a wonderful gift waiting for me in the room. Ron and Janet Kuchinka so very kindly prepared a beautiful bag full of little freezer cubes and soups all labelled BOSCH. No one will be helping themselves to our things now!. Gord preferred Janet's chicken/carrots in broth to the hospital dinner. It was delicious and I want to send out a HUGE THANK YOU to Janet for all the work you put into preparing and packaging this food. The notebook with the colored pens and stickers is also an added bonus and adds fun to this whole process.
Last night I had a great dinner and visit with Elaine and Gerry Wood and returned home with homemade soup from Elaine's kitchen which is so delicious. THANK YOU Elaine! You have been so thoughtful and kind to us. We love you!
News Bulletin:
If there is anyone out there who is interested in owning a fabulous condo in the Kealia please let me know and I will set you up with my realtor, Lydia. I have made the decision to sell Unit 607 by July hopefully. I KNOW there is someone out there who needs to have it!!!!And the price will be excellent.
Have a wonderful day...
Love
Sheila
His wonderful nurse, Richie, really quizzed him this evening on his speech and comprehension and it was quite cute to listen to. As of that conversation, Gord thinks it is October and it is 2008. He knows he is in Calgary and not Toronto or Vancouver. He knew his own name but says it very fast. He could not get my name out but went SHHHSHHHH Bosch. I asked him a few more times what my name was and he blurted out really loud....29th January!!! I didn't ask anything about birthdays but I suspect that was the only association he could make with my name. Very interesting to see how the brain works. Richie told me to request a speech therapist right away to encourage Gord to keep talking and making thoughts longer and louder. We have to jump on it while he wants to talk. It really is a miracle that he is talking like he is. No one expected this to happen - ever.....and he ate a fair amount today after having an upset stomach this morning.
I returned from my trip to the lake to find a wonderful gift waiting for me in the room. Ron and Janet Kuchinka so very kindly prepared a beautiful bag full of little freezer cubes and soups all labelled BOSCH. No one will be helping themselves to our things now!. Gord preferred Janet's chicken/carrots in broth to the hospital dinner. It was delicious and I want to send out a HUGE THANK YOU to Janet for all the work you put into preparing and packaging this food. The notebook with the colored pens and stickers is also an added bonus and adds fun to this whole process.
Last night I had a great dinner and visit with Elaine and Gerry Wood and returned home with homemade soup from Elaine's kitchen which is so delicious. THANK YOU Elaine! You have been so thoughtful and kind to us. We love you!
News Bulletin:
If there is anyone out there who is interested in owning a fabulous condo in the Kealia please let me know and I will set you up with my realtor, Lydia. I have made the decision to sell Unit 607 by July hopefully. I KNOW there is someone out there who needs to have it!!!!And the price will be excellent.
Have a wonderful day...
Love
Sheila
Sunday morning
I am just leaving for the hospital for a breakfast visit with Gord and when his brothers Richard and Gary arrive I will depart for the lake. Today I am finally going home to pick up things we will need here in town for the next while. I'm excited!
On Saturday Gord had a haircut which was much needed. Vonnie managed to get him into the wheelchair so that she could get at all sides. He looks great! Thank you Vonnie.
I was out on Saturday afternoon but from what I heard, Gord did well on his food and liquid intake. When I arrived in the evening he was quite cranky but I think that's a good sign that he is realizing where he is and that he doesn't want to be there anymore. Apparently he asked the nurse if he could go home. That will be a day of celebration, believe me!
Have a great day everyone!
Love
Sheila
I am just leaving for the hospital for a breakfast visit with Gord and when his brothers Richard and Gary arrive I will depart for the lake. Today I am finally going home to pick up things we will need here in town for the next while. I'm excited!
On Saturday Gord had a haircut which was much needed. Vonnie managed to get him into the wheelchair so that she could get at all sides. He looks great! Thank you Vonnie.
I was out on Saturday afternoon but from what I heard, Gord did well on his food and liquid intake. When I arrived in the evening he was quite cranky but I think that's a good sign that he is realizing where he is and that he doesn't want to be there anymore. Apparently he asked the nurse if he could go home. That will be a day of celebration, believe me!
Have a great day everyone!
Love
Sheila
Friday, February 6, 2009
Aloha Friday - again
Well another Aloha Friday and we look forward to a staffless hospital with hollow corridors for the weekend. I am sure I will hear the girls complaining yet again about how overworked they are and how there is just no one to help them. Of course, I know where the linens, mouth sponges, water, and best of all - HOT BLANKETS - are. The secret is out and a few of us wives are just delighted in our new find. The staff love it because we do all their work for them. Oh well this is my job for the next while so I may as well get to know all the ins and outs.
Today's events were pretty quiet. Gord had ripped the food tube out of his nose last night and told the nurse on very strong terms "DO NOT PUT THAT THING BACK IN". She backed off and did not reinsert it. Now we really have to be diligent in making sure he gets enough food and liquids into him so I am sticking a glass with a straw in front of him every 10 minutes for a sip. He is getting quite annoyed with me so we are going to try a kid's cup that he can hopefully manipulate himself. The 3 meals today were very forgettable so I cannot reiterate them in my very tired state. Needless to say the pureed turkey and potatoes did disappear at dinner tonight without much coaxing. We will try smoothies etc. tomorrow.
I have been warned yet again that we may be moving to the 10th floor. Not sure why they keep threatening me....guess it's just to keep me on the edge of my nervous breakdown! Nice....
Oh yes and I did attempt to shave Gord today with a razor and shaving cream. The electric one disappeared so in desperation I resorted to a straight razor. I was in there all by myself getting more and more frustrated because the razor felt like it was skipping across his face. I was terrified that I was cutting his face up so I kept cleaning off the shaving cream to check. Also to check I shaved my left arm to see how it worked. I may have to shave my other arm now. Anyway, while I was working away, and almost in tears I turned around to look in the hallway to see if there was a man around that could possibly help me. Lo and behold there was a good friend waiting patiently for the curtain to open. Well I just grabbed Kent and handed him the razor and said PLEASE take over.....I have made a total mess of Gord's face! End result was that he was just fine and Kent smoothed over all the spots I missed. Thanks Kent - you saved me today.
Note to Tom and Red.....wow your comment on yesterday's blog was amazing. Tom you are a fantastic writer! You inspire me. Keep it coming!
Love to all
Sheila
Today's events were pretty quiet. Gord had ripped the food tube out of his nose last night and told the nurse on very strong terms "DO NOT PUT THAT THING BACK IN". She backed off and did not reinsert it. Now we really have to be diligent in making sure he gets enough food and liquids into him so I am sticking a glass with a straw in front of him every 10 minutes for a sip. He is getting quite annoyed with me so we are going to try a kid's cup that he can hopefully manipulate himself. The 3 meals today were very forgettable so I cannot reiterate them in my very tired state. Needless to say the pureed turkey and potatoes did disappear at dinner tonight without much coaxing. We will try smoothies etc. tomorrow.
I have been warned yet again that we may be moving to the 10th floor. Not sure why they keep threatening me....guess it's just to keep me on the edge of my nervous breakdown! Nice....
Oh yes and I did attempt to shave Gord today with a razor and shaving cream. The electric one disappeared so in desperation I resorted to a straight razor. I was in there all by myself getting more and more frustrated because the razor felt like it was skipping across his face. I was terrified that I was cutting his face up so I kept cleaning off the shaving cream to check. Also to check I shaved my left arm to see how it worked. I may have to shave my other arm now. Anyway, while I was working away, and almost in tears I turned around to look in the hallway to see if there was a man around that could possibly help me. Lo and behold there was a good friend waiting patiently for the curtain to open. Well I just grabbed Kent and handed him the razor and said PLEASE take over.....I have made a total mess of Gord's face! End result was that he was just fine and Kent smoothed over all the spots I missed. Thanks Kent - you saved me today.
Note to Tom and Red.....wow your comment on yesterday's blog was amazing. Tom you are a fantastic writer! You inspire me. Keep it coming!
Love to all
Sheila
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Thursday's events
To begin, I am sitting at the computer eating some dinner while I gather my thoughts of the day.
All in all it was a good day. As predicted, things have changed in that we are not moving to another floor, and the surgery has been cancelled. The "Throat Assessor" finally arrived and of course I was downstairs on one of my rare trips to the coffee bar. When I returned, they were half way through the assessment, Gord had downed 2 little applesauce dishes and was drinking water with a straw. He was in heaven! We are told Gord will be offered 3 meals during the day and we can bring in anything we want but it has to be soft (pureed and liquid). We can flavour it up and try to get him to eat. Tonight's dinner arrived with much anticipation from brother Richard and myself only to watch Gord sleep through the dinner hour and when he finally awoke he was not very interested in pureed peas and carrots with pureed lasagna. Needless to say he balked at the mush and sealed his lips. Luckily he still has the nose feed so we can get water and some nutrients into him over the next few days. I am all for avoiding any invasive surgery if possible so let's hope he gets even more awake to enjoy 3 meals a day.
We also have a wheelchair with Gord's name on it and he quite enjoyed riding in it to the 3rd floor for some exercises. Unfortunately, the girls only managed to get him from the chair to this very large raised exercise mat where he immediately decided he wanted to lie down and not get up. We tried everything to get him up and he just would not. Finally with the promise he could go back to his own bed, he made the effort to get up. Stubborn????? Oh yes. We just have to get him using his stubborness in a good way to build up his weakened body.
The really great news of the day is that Deepak has arrived back in Calgary and he came in and planted a big kiss on Gord's forehead late this evening. Gord was so happy to see him! He was chatting away and Deepak seemed to understand him. I can honestly say AWESOME!!!!
Stay tuned for the next big adventure! Any food ideas would be very welcome....
Love to all
Sheila
All in all it was a good day. As predicted, things have changed in that we are not moving to another floor, and the surgery has been cancelled. The "Throat Assessor" finally arrived and of course I was downstairs on one of my rare trips to the coffee bar. When I returned, they were half way through the assessment, Gord had downed 2 little applesauce dishes and was drinking water with a straw. He was in heaven! We are told Gord will be offered 3 meals during the day and we can bring in anything we want but it has to be soft (pureed and liquid). We can flavour it up and try to get him to eat. Tonight's dinner arrived with much anticipation from brother Richard and myself only to watch Gord sleep through the dinner hour and when he finally awoke he was not very interested in pureed peas and carrots with pureed lasagna. Needless to say he balked at the mush and sealed his lips. Luckily he still has the nose feed so we can get water and some nutrients into him over the next few days. I am all for avoiding any invasive surgery if possible so let's hope he gets even more awake to enjoy 3 meals a day.
We also have a wheelchair with Gord's name on it and he quite enjoyed riding in it to the 3rd floor for some exercises. Unfortunately, the girls only managed to get him from the chair to this very large raised exercise mat where he immediately decided he wanted to lie down and not get up. We tried everything to get him up and he just would not. Finally with the promise he could go back to his own bed, he made the effort to get up. Stubborn????? Oh yes. We just have to get him using his stubborness in a good way to build up his weakened body.
The really great news of the day is that Deepak has arrived back in Calgary and he came in and planted a big kiss on Gord's forehead late this evening. Gord was so happy to see him! He was chatting away and Deepak seemed to understand him. I can honestly say AWESOME!!!!
Stay tuned for the next big adventure! Any food ideas would be very welcome....
Love to all
Sheila
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
A Good Rest Really Helps!
Wednesday's news:
I arrived this morning to a very bright Gord and the day just got better and better with him having phone conversations with good friends and responding beautifully.
Then it all crashed down.
The physiotherapists came in, had him stand a couple of times and then inserted him in an ordinary wheelchair. Not sure where our "special" chair is but it is so typical of the promises that are made and not kept. I took him on a tour of the hallways and while we were out in the main hall, I noticed his right leg was off the footrest. I leaned down to put it back up and his leg was absolutely stiff. I looked at him and he was red in the face, hunched over and completely out of it. I screamed for help and a nurse passing by helped me bend his knee (which was rigid) to get it back on the footrest and I bolted back to the unit for help. I thought he was dead! It was horrifying. Good news is - he wasn't. We think his blood pressure dropped and he just couldn't take it. Needless to say after we got him back in bed he slept the afternoon away. He was still dozy when Stacy arrived this evening to relieve me. Now we have something else to pray for, and that is that today was not a setback! He was doing so well. And yes I do understand he will have good days and bad days. Let's hope for more good than bad.
Gord is being prepared for his surgery tomorrow to insert the feeding tube directly through his abdomen. They will send a scope down his throat and check for ulcers and general condition of the stomach. I guess it has a light on it and they watch for the light from the outside to find the most appropriate place to make the incision. The tube goes down his throat and then is pulled through the abdomen wall and has a little stopper on it so it won't slip out. Of course if Gord pulls hard enough it WILL come out so we have another thing to watch. He will be sore for a few days so I would ask the visitors be kept to a minimum until next week. We may be transferred to another floor (10th) to a ward - because they need the room. But then, most of the plans have not come to fruition so we may stay just where we are for a while.
That's all I have for now.
Have a great day everyone! AGAIN!
Love
Sheila
PS The days are getting longer, the sunsets are very pretty and the weather is fairly warm so I am having a pleasant weather experience here in Calgary.
I arrived this morning to a very bright Gord and the day just got better and better with him having phone conversations with good friends and responding beautifully.
Then it all crashed down.
The physiotherapists came in, had him stand a couple of times and then inserted him in an ordinary wheelchair. Not sure where our "special" chair is but it is so typical of the promises that are made and not kept. I took him on a tour of the hallways and while we were out in the main hall, I noticed his right leg was off the footrest. I leaned down to put it back up and his leg was absolutely stiff. I looked at him and he was red in the face, hunched over and completely out of it. I screamed for help and a nurse passing by helped me bend his knee (which was rigid) to get it back on the footrest and I bolted back to the unit for help. I thought he was dead! It was horrifying. Good news is - he wasn't. We think his blood pressure dropped and he just couldn't take it. Needless to say after we got him back in bed he slept the afternoon away. He was still dozy when Stacy arrived this evening to relieve me. Now we have something else to pray for, and that is that today was not a setback! He was doing so well. And yes I do understand he will have good days and bad days. Let's hope for more good than bad.
Gord is being prepared for his surgery tomorrow to insert the feeding tube directly through his abdomen. They will send a scope down his throat and check for ulcers and general condition of the stomach. I guess it has a light on it and they watch for the light from the outside to find the most appropriate place to make the incision. The tube goes down his throat and then is pulled through the abdomen wall and has a little stopper on it so it won't slip out. Of course if Gord pulls hard enough it WILL come out so we have another thing to watch. He will be sore for a few days so I would ask the visitors be kept to a minimum until next week. We may be transferred to another floor (10th) to a ward - because they need the room. But then, most of the plans have not come to fruition so we may stay just where we are for a while.
That's all I have for now.
Have a great day everyone! AGAIN!
Love
Sheila
PS The days are getting longer, the sunsets are very pretty and the weather is fairly warm so I am having a pleasant weather experience here in Calgary.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Getting Better each day
It is Tuesday evening, I am home and am enjoying a lovely hot bowl of potato leek soup that Elaine just dropped off. Declicious! Thank you.
It really is amazing that when I poured my heart out yesterday about the hospital situation, it seemed like "someone" was listening. This morning, a wonderful nurse named Richie came into the room to get Gord all "fixed up" and said "Today we are going to sit in a chair, perhaps roll through the hallways today and tomorrow, downstairs to the lobby to people watch! I was in shock - finally - some action! We did the stroll - lasted about 30 minutes which is great for the first day. In the afternoon I was greeted with a wonderful stroke nurse who will be our liason for the rest of Gord's stay. It has given me such a sense of relief to know that one person is heading the wellness recovery crew and giving directions. She has ordered the peg insert which should happen in the next day or two. It will give Gord relief (as well as me). The swallowing therapist still had not shown up before I left today but we are going ahead with the peg regardless. Gord will be put out for the procedure and while they are inserting the tube they will have a look around his stomach etc. She has a program outlined for Gord and I am so excited (once again) to embark on it.
I understand Gord had lots of visitors today, spoke on the phone a couple of times, told me had 5 fingers when I asked him and when I said how many toes do you have ....he looked puzzled and said I don't know. Interesting.
I had a great nap this afternoon and I feel better already. I am not going to the hospital this evening as hard as it is for me not to but a hot bath is calling me and a nice cozy bed.
Good night everyone and thank you so much for your wonderful supportive emails and blog comments. It warms my heart and really keeps me going. I truly love you one and all.
Love
Sheila
It really is amazing that when I poured my heart out yesterday about the hospital situation, it seemed like "someone" was listening. This morning, a wonderful nurse named Richie came into the room to get Gord all "fixed up" and said "Today we are going to sit in a chair, perhaps roll through the hallways today and tomorrow, downstairs to the lobby to people watch! I was in shock - finally - some action! We did the stroll - lasted about 30 minutes which is great for the first day. In the afternoon I was greeted with a wonderful stroke nurse who will be our liason for the rest of Gord's stay. It has given me such a sense of relief to know that one person is heading the wellness recovery crew and giving directions. She has ordered the peg insert which should happen in the next day or two. It will give Gord relief (as well as me). The swallowing therapist still had not shown up before I left today but we are going ahead with the peg regardless. Gord will be put out for the procedure and while they are inserting the tube they will have a look around his stomach etc. She has a program outlined for Gord and I am so excited (once again) to embark on it.
I understand Gord had lots of visitors today, spoke on the phone a couple of times, told me had 5 fingers when I asked him and when I said how many toes do you have ....he looked puzzled and said I don't know. Interesting.
I had a great nap this afternoon and I feel better already. I am not going to the hospital this evening as hard as it is for me not to but a hot bath is calling me and a nice cozy bed.
Good night everyone and thank you so much for your wonderful supportive emails and blog comments. It warms my heart and really keeps me going. I truly love you one and all.
Love
Sheila
Monday, February 2, 2009
In a bit of a rush today
Sorry about the brevity of this message but I wanted to let anyone that is trying to find me know that I am at the hospital on Monday night. Gord has ripped his feeding tube out every day and it is getting very dangerous to keep reinserting it! I am fed up with the lack of caring in the hospital and to basically save his life I am going to plant myself right beside his bed so nothing more happens to him. Stacy is there with him now and I have just come home to get my toothbrush and tidy up things since I won't be here overnight etc. The swallowing therapist did not show up today! Why? She was apparently too busy! OUCH....that really hurts. As you can see things are heating up ...again. I feel totally abandoned with no one to help me. I don't know WHO is actually taking care of Gord. They change the brain doctor every 5 days. No one seems to know what each other is doing. They are giving Gord blood thinners and I said to the nurse I didn't like that since he had a bleed NOT a clot. He said 'Oh' yeah you don't get thinners unless it's a clot. I will start that fight tomorrow!!!!!!
PRAY FOR ME PLEASE! And I am really beginning to resist going to the hospital - It is almost a month now...and I am sick of it. Sorry for the downbeat note but it's the reality.
Love
Sheila
PRAY FOR ME PLEASE! And I am really beginning to resist going to the hospital - It is almost a month now...and I am sick of it. Sorry for the downbeat note but it's the reality.
Love
Sheila
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