So we know that there will be lots of ups and downs along the way and a couple steps backward for large jumps forward and we don't want to jinx things -- but Mom's operative phrase for this afternoon has been "Pinch Me".
As in, "I can't believe things are going so well". In the last 24 hours she has:
- gotten a strategy that has her pain under control while dialing way back on the narcotics
- had a PT and OT session
- has gone for multiple walks around the floor
- has gotten rid of her catheter, has had a wonderful shower, gotten her hair washed, brushed her teeth and gotten to put pajama pants on (don't underestimate the power of those last four in feeling more human again)
- has found out that she doesn't need to wear her neck brace when she's in bed (allowing for more comfortable reclining and also for being able to see a tv/computer/ipad screen a little more
- has regained some of the strength in her left arm (the surgeon nicked/beat up on some of the major nerves to it, greatly weakening it and causing pain...hopefully only temporarily)
- has been able to start eating a little more than just liquids and so has gotten a little more strength/energy back
- has had a wonderful long nap thanks to the increased comfort of her bed now that she has her foam pad (thank you! thank you!)
It's kinda crazy. And I know there will be really rough days ahead, maybe even before she's discharged. But we'll take it for however long it lasts.
Sounds like at the moment, best guess is Monday for discharge...I think it mostly depends on a) when she regains all her swallowing ability and b) whether they want her to do a little more PT. Plus I think they just want a few more days to keep an eye on her and how the nerve pain and strength comes and goes.
Thanks all for all your good wishes and energy. Something's working, that's for sure.
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