Monday, October 3, 2011

Waiting on myself

I used to have a difficult time being on the puny list when I was taking care of Elbert. Not too long after he was diagnosed with Alzheimers, I found out I had colon cancer. He could still be left alone at that time and I had lots of people in and out seeing about the both of us so that worked out pretty well. That was 10 years ago.


Elbert helping me up the front steps after my cancer surgery

Then, a couple of years later I had one total knee replacement. He was some worse by that time and although the doctor suggested I go to a rehab place to get my therapy out of the way, I knew I had better go home as soon as I was released from the hospital. I could tell my absence disturbed him. Even when I got home he couldn't figure it all out. But, he was able to help me with my exercises.

I'm listening to music in my own bed after knee surgery. And, get a sweet kiss.

One year later I had the second knee done. A little tougher for the both of us. I needed him to be helpful and he could not comprehend what I was saying. So, we struggled through that. Again the family helped tremendously.

The therapist has me walking down the sidewalk in front of my house.

I am so thankful that those serious surgeries are behind me. And, I think I am pretty healthy for an ancient old woman. However, just recently I have been having some Fall allergy issues (infected sinuses, sore throat etc) and I was thinking that I am dealing with getting better pretty well. No extra stress that caregiving always put on me... I just lay in bed and didn't care if I got up or not. I watched way too much football on Saturday, all stretched out on the couch. But, that was okay. I rested, took my medicine and this morning I felt well enough to join Shirley at Hardees for our Monday biscuit. I bet by tomorrow I will be raring to go.... somewhere, anywhere, nowhere. Just raring!!

6 comments:

Peggy said...

Hi Latane,your cancer was before I knew you online and I dont think I read about it on the blog.You have put some major surgeries behind you over the years and come out smiling.
You had what my children used to call 'a slouch on the couch day', great for recharging the batteries!

Carolyn said...

Glad you are having time to spoil yourself!!! You've earned it! Think positive and happy thoughts! :)

ain't for city gals said...

Hello friend...I am so glad life is treating you a little bit better these days...you deserve it. Glad you are getting out and doing things with your friends and helpig others...that really is the key. Also, it is important to talk about your husband with someone ...they don't just disappear when they pass...they are still such a big part of our life.

Dolores said...

Loving these sweet photos of you and Elbert...so much love is shown!

I didn't know you'd been through your own series of health issues.

Now you can enjoy your beautiful family!

Dolores said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
A Colorful World said...

Glad you are feeling better Mom! I know you are thankful that you went through the colon cancer and both knee surgeries before Dad got really bad. I have strained an "overworked" knee today--well yesterday--but it is getting better with some rest. Just got too exuberant with the unpacking at one point! I look forward to hearing about your outing today!