February 15
What a roller coaster!
I came this morning, all set to take Norm home. They can’t find the problem, he’s upset being in the hospital, he just wanted to go home.
Hospitalist said the bronchial biopsy revealed a fungus-unknown whether mold or yeast. Cultures would tell.
Norm’s BP dropped overnight. The doctors thought he might be in septic shock. If his BP didn’t go up, a trip to ICU for several days.
Norm is understandably frustrated. His anguish is apparent in his tears and wails. I promised him I would take him home Monday if they had not found anything. I said in the afternoon, he said 9 am.
Psych came to talk to him. They picked the right doctor, one who also had an engineering degree, fit very well with Norm’s mind. He summed up Norm’s issues. It helped Norm to speak of some of his fears. One big one, he doesn’t want me to have to deal with him as an invalid, like his grandmother who abused him.
Someone came from physical therapy and gave him a list of exercises to do. He’s in a better frame of mind. He feels that the staff is listening to him.
His brother and sister are coming in this week, they will also help with the attitude. It will be good for them to see him and show him support and love.
Right now I’m taking a breather from the emotional roller coaster ride, just some gentle hills before the climb and drop. No immediate threat of death, and his self-diagnosis of being an invalid debunked by physical therapy. He’s still strong, just no endurance.
I have renewed hope.
Where’s the joy?
I am thankful that two specialists were able to encourage Norm today.
I pray for wisdom for the doctors as they make decisions about Norm’s treatment moving forward.
I rejoice in these moments of reprieve when I can get a little rest.
Where’s the joy? Family and friends who support and encourage me.
Weeping may endure for the night, but joy comes in the morning. Psalm 30:5
TRICIA LATHROP 