Wish the news was better but life is what it is. In the last few days I had been told by three of the staff at the hospital that Elbert was not going to get better. My gut feeling yesterday morning was that they were telling me the truth and they just confirmed what I already knew in my heart. Elbert had gotten severely dehydrated at Magnolia Manor and had been rushed to the hospital. It's been a devastating struggle so far.
I kept trying to see the doctor yesterday but it never happened. So, with what I knew and what I was being told I asked the nurse to put a request in for 'comfort care' for Elbert on his chart. The Doctor this morning said I had done the right thing. That is always reassuring to know we have done what we needed to do even if it is a difficult decision.
He had been in a 'step-down' unit but today they moved him to a regular room. The antibotics are gone as are any of his regular medications. He is being given halladol to try and keep him calm and morphine. And, we sit and watch and wait......
He has not been responsive to conversation on much of a level for quite awhile. But, amazingly enough, the last couple of days he has talked our heads off. He has tons of 'junk' as the cute little nurse puts it, in his throat so he is gurgling loudly. Hard to make out a lot of all this talking he's doing but we have understood all we need to. He has told us he loves us. He puckered up and kissed Marie on the cheek this morning. He smiled when told he is expecting a great-grandbaby and even arm wrestled with Shirley (He got her, too). It seems that he is doing all he can to make sure we know that we are loved. And, I know he feels the love he is being showered with. But, there comes a time in life when life must cease. I know that God will watch over me and the family as he gathers Elbert in His arms. I have already told God that it's 'okay' if He takes Elbert home.
On the other hand, Elbert is getting combative and very restless. He's hard to handle and we are getting worn out already but the end of the journey is yet down the road.
Elbert and I should have made it to our 60th wedding anniversary in December. It looks like we won't.
8 comments:
Oh dear....words can not tell you how I feel for you right now, Latane. BUT..All of this is in God's plan for you and Elbert. My heart goes out to you. I hate to see you go through this. But you are a strong woman with a strong and faithful family so I know you will accept what happens and continue to be in God's arms.
Oh, my! This is not the update I expected to hear. I made that "comfort care" decision four times for my aunts and mom. It never became easier. I am so sorry that you are going through this difficult time. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I'm sending love and hugs your way.
Latane, I'm so sorry. I'll be thinking about you and Elbert.
well, spit. I wish I could give you more hope, but reality is here.
love you. Judi
you are on my heart
Hi Latane, sometimes words are not enough is a song title and so very true here.Know you are loved and we are all praying you and the family get strength to face whatever comes.
I'm so sorry it's to this point. Thinking of you and Elbert.
Oh Latane.....this is so heartbreaking for you and your family. I'm so sorry ...
My thoughts and prayers are with you .....
Alzheimer's is such a dreadful disease at any stage, but this is the one we dread the most.
Love, hugs and prayers to you!
Post a Comment