It's been quite the week. Mom was to have been discharged from the skilled care unit of Edgewater on Wednesday. However on Tuesday she was exhibiting some strange behavior and by 2PM of the next day I met with senior level staff and voiced concerns about her release.
We combed through her records and the staff found several things that led them to believe she may have a urinary tract infection (UTI). That doesn't sound like a big deal however, it can cause elderly folks to lose cognitive ability. She was approved to stay a few more days.
By Thursday morning the staff was faced with my Mother calling out to her Mother and saying they were going on a picnic.
If was off to the hospital at Mercy West Lakes.
The ER physician called not only the UTI correct but also expressed concern about several other medical issues and she was admitted.
The hospital staff pumped her full of some strong antibiotics and by 2PM she was sitting up, having a meal and wondering what all the fuss was about. Do you remember yesterday, Mom?
"Of course I do."
Do you remember calling out for your Mother and asking about packing up dishes?
"Why would I do that?"
We talked about what had gone on. She shook her head and said, "I was really looney huh?"
Yes.
It's tough to see your parents age and become infirm. My Father z"l didn't go through any of that. He died of a massive heart attack 26 years ago last week. So, this is a new experience and one that so many of you have gone through or will.
Kindness and committed health care professionals can make all the difference. Yesterday as the ER Doc was visiting with me and telling me, "We are going to do everything we can to help your Mother recover. After all, it is your Mother." I offered my thanks and tears welled up in my eyes. She said, "Michael, my name is Lynn. We all have a Mother and I get it. We are here for her and for you."
Thank you...all.
And...so it goes.
(Photo: Mom and her grandson, Aaron at a Chanukah meal - December 2012)
Comments