Long week...

Oh my, it has been a long week Dad having new symptoms and issues.

First about Mom...she is rocking along pretty status quo.  Her abdomen is getting even bigger (she calls it her pregnancy!) and she is swollen from her toes to above her knees,  Fortunately, she has adapted well to liquid morphine and takes it most of the time without hesitiation, so she stays comfortable.   Since Mom hasn't had any drainage from the tube that is in her chest wall, the nurse is talking to the Hospice doctor about taking it out.  For weeks we have been told that Mom would have to go to the hospital to have it removed,  The nurse is now thinking that it could be done right here at home.  We should have an answer about that on Monday when the Hospice doctor comes to check Mom and Dad.  The drainage tube isn't casuing any discomfort, but it is difficult to keep it bandaged, the bandaging causes itching, Mom has gotten a yeast infection under the bandage because it is dark and damp...a breeding ground for bacteria. So, it is an unnecessary aggravation to Mom.  I pray that the doctor will approve letting the nurse take it out (as long as it is safe for Mom, no doubt!)!  That will make Mom so happy!  Little things mean a lot!! From the fullness of his grace we have all received one blessing after another. John 1:16


Dad's bladder cancer has reared its ugly head and caused him issues.  He has always had some bladder issues off and on since his stroke, but they have been much greater this week.  He has been suffering this week with pain, and we now, after a couple of different attempts, have found a pairing of medications that is helping.  We also catheterized him, which has helped relieve a  lot of his problems. After having to get up at least once, and sometimes three times in a 30 minute period of time throughout the night, we may have found the right combination of care for him.  I am anxious to see how he does tonight.  Not only will this be a huge benefit for Dad, but it will also allow Mom a better night's sleep, of course. 

A friend of ours told my husband Ollie once that growing old is not for wusses!  I know now exactly what he meant!!  God bless Mom and Dad, they are enduring so much!  Through their faith, they remain strong!
It is through faith and through the power of all of the prayers being said for them that they make it through each day. 

Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. If you do this, you will experience God's peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. And now, dear brothers and sisters, let me say one more thing as I close this letter. Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned from me and heard from me and saw me doing, and the God of peace will be with you. Philippians 4:6-9



Amen!