Today was mom's last day of her "long cycle"! She is doing good but she is still weak. It's been a long journey so far. We've experienced and learned so much about this disease and the emotions thereof. I so hope that the efforts of the treatments results in good news for us all.
In about a month, she will receive an x-ray and see the doctor to determine the next course of treatment(s). She may only need to go once a week or twice a week, it all depends on the tumor.
She wants to go to the funerals of Uncle Bob and Aunt Kathy but she is too weak and still susceptible to germs. She is sad about this but hopes to be able to attend their burials (if there will be burials) in the upcoming warmer months.
It's ironic how mom is trying to make sure that I am emotionally okay as we have experienced so much these last few months with her cancer, two deaths in the family within days of each other, my surgery next week, my step-son to move in with Dan and I this month and the added workload because my boss left. My stress level is very high and although I'm not dealing with a terminal illness, my mom is and she is STILL encouraging me and making sure that I am alright and still being my rock. Not thinking of herself...as always. I love you so much mom! But don't worry about me, I said, I will be fine!
I hope she will be too.
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Road To Recovery
I spoke with mom today. She is getting better and better with each passing day.
She's been eating soft foods like eggs and yogurt and continuing to get down as much liquids and Ensure as she can. She also has been doing a little bit more of physical activity which is good as well.
She is currently on a 10-day antibiotic to help her system ward off any germs.
Next week she has an appointment with her doctor. We will see where she is at. She may be able to complete the remaining 3 days of radiation next week. And THEN maybe we can get a picture of the tumor after that to see if it shrank. What a long process this has been.
She still isn't up for visitors but I suspect it may be okay to call her now, especially now that she has her voice back....well almost! It's alot better than what it was.
Nothing more to report for now!
Monday, March 11, 2013
Finally Home!
Mom came home today!
She was eating and drinking more at the hospital and her levels were up. She was getting better and better each day. She had been in the hospital since last Wednesday. I know she was glad to be home. Her voice is coming back more and more each day.
I'll have to ask her if she wishes to receive any calls but I know she still doesn't want any visitors. She doesn't want anyone to see her the way she is.
I haven't gotten any more details. I should have more tomorrow or the next day.
She was eating and drinking more at the hospital and her levels were up. She was getting better and better each day. She had been in the hospital since last Wednesday. I know she was glad to be home. Her voice is coming back more and more each day.
I'll have to ask her if she wishes to receive any calls but I know she still doesn't want any visitors. She doesn't want anyone to see her the way she is.
I haven't gotten any more details. I should have more tomorrow or the next day.
Friday, March 8, 2013
Slow Recovery
Visited mom today. She was eating! She was digging right into her soup, I was ecstatic!
Her dinner menu was on the table and I noticed the soup was New England Clam chowder. Mom doesn't like that. I wondered if she knew what she was eating so I asked her. She thought it was some kind of onion soup! She reached for the menu and I took it from her and said, "Hmmmm, let's see. Don't know." I knew that if she knew what it REALLY was, she probably wouldn't eat the rest of it, so I changed the subject.
She ate the whole bowl! And she polished off a bottle of Ensure. She also had some eggs and a little bit of pancakes for breakfast and some soup for lunch. I was so very happy to hear that!
Mom seemed better today. She no longer has the hoarseness sound when she tries to speak. She whispers now. She told me the doctor said she had an infection in her throat caused by the radiation and it can be a very painful experience. He had the same condition when he was in Germany (I have no more details on that) and so he could relate to her pain level. I'm glad of that.
She's still receiving antbiotics and Potassium. The doctor hadn't come in when I was there so I don't have details of her vitals. She did say that her blood pressure was high and I told her that was actually a good sign as it seems her body is heading towards "normal" (the doctor had said that as well). Mom had high blood pressure before all of this.
She's getting a little antzy, as I had anticipated but knows how important it is for her to remain in the hospital.
I told her how everyone misses her and sends their love, thoughts and prayers. I asked her again if she wanted any visitors, but she said no. She misses everyone as well.
She didn't get much sleep again last night between having to use the bathroom every hour and the nurses coming in to do vitals and take blood. But she's hanging in there.
I told her how very proud of her I was before I left. I hate leaving her all alone there, it breaks my heart. I can't wait until she is better for her, and for the rest of us. I refuse to think or believe that she will not get better.
I'm trying to hang in there emotionally. I'm going to work a few hours tomorrow to try and make up some time lost this week. And then hopefully rest up some on Sunday. I have a beautiful patio set to put together, and it's going to be a nice day outside to enjoy it. A couple of glasses of wine will make it all the better!
Her dinner menu was on the table and I noticed the soup was New England Clam chowder. Mom doesn't like that. I wondered if she knew what she was eating so I asked her. She thought it was some kind of onion soup! She reached for the menu and I took it from her and said, "Hmmmm, let's see. Don't know." I knew that if she knew what it REALLY was, she probably wouldn't eat the rest of it, so I changed the subject.
She ate the whole bowl! And she polished off a bottle of Ensure. She also had some eggs and a little bit of pancakes for breakfast and some soup for lunch. I was so very happy to hear that!
Mom seemed better today. She no longer has the hoarseness sound when she tries to speak. She whispers now. She told me the doctor said she had an infection in her throat caused by the radiation and it can be a very painful experience. He had the same condition when he was in Germany (I have no more details on that) and so he could relate to her pain level. I'm glad of that.
She's still receiving antbiotics and Potassium. The doctor hadn't come in when I was there so I don't have details of her vitals. She did say that her blood pressure was high and I told her that was actually a good sign as it seems her body is heading towards "normal" (the doctor had said that as well). Mom had high blood pressure before all of this.
She's getting a little antzy, as I had anticipated but knows how important it is for her to remain in the hospital.
I told her how everyone misses her and sends their love, thoughts and prayers. I asked her again if she wanted any visitors, but she said no. She misses everyone as well.
She didn't get much sleep again last night between having to use the bathroom every hour and the nurses coming in to do vitals and take blood. But she's hanging in there.
I told her how very proud of her I was before I left. I hate leaving her all alone there, it breaks my heart. I can't wait until she is better for her, and for the rest of us. I refuse to think or believe that she will not get better.
I'm trying to hang in there emotionally. I'm going to work a few hours tomorrow to try and make up some time lost this week. And then hopefully rest up some on Sunday. I have a beautiful patio set to put together, and it's going to be a nice day outside to enjoy it. A couple of glasses of wine will make it all the better!
Thursday, March 7, 2013
More Hospital Time
I visited mom in the hospital today. Elisa was there too.
Mom's CBC levels are still low so we continue to wear masks when visiting mom. She got down a 1/2 of a banana today and some pudding. Her throat is the root cause of all of this and she still is having pain. She tried to drink a liquid form of pain reliever only to gag and throw it up. She tried again and she was able to keep it down.
Her heart rate was 100 (was 132 yesterday) so it is going down as she becomes more hydrated. She received an IV of Potassium and later Magnesium. She is receiving antibiotics and medicine for her upset stomach.
She didn't sleep that much last night. And apparently when she was sound asleep, she was awakened by a nurse who wanted to take some blood. Why on earth could that not wait??
The doctor came in and took her vitals and her temperature is back to normal. They don't know for sure still if she has an infection but they are continuing her on antibiotics just in case.
They plan on keeping mom until Monday or Tuesday...unless she starts eating more and feeling better, then she may be discharged earlier.
I have my surgery scheduled this month (Septoplasty) and my stress level just went up a notch. My boss put in his notice and I'm concerned about my co-workers having to cover me in my absence...and there's my recovery and what that entails...worrying about mom and taking care of her and her medical finances...finding time to take care of my house...lack of vacation time to cover my surgery/recovery time...so many things on my mind. And Just like mom, I'm thinking about things that I don't have to yet that is months away. But I know I'm surrounded by a wonderful support system so that helps. But sometimes I feel overwhelmed. Like today. But I'll get through it. I have to.
Okay, I'm done whining, lol.
I'll keep you posted on how mom is doing. I plan on visiting her again tomorrow after work.
Mom's CBC levels are still low so we continue to wear masks when visiting mom. She got down a 1/2 of a banana today and some pudding. Her throat is the root cause of all of this and she still is having pain. She tried to drink a liquid form of pain reliever only to gag and throw it up. She tried again and she was able to keep it down.
Her heart rate was 100 (was 132 yesterday) so it is going down as she becomes more hydrated. She received an IV of Potassium and later Magnesium. She is receiving antibiotics and medicine for her upset stomach.
She didn't sleep that much last night. And apparently when she was sound asleep, she was awakened by a nurse who wanted to take some blood. Why on earth could that not wait??
The doctor came in and took her vitals and her temperature is back to normal. They don't know for sure still if she has an infection but they are continuing her on antibiotics just in case.
They plan on keeping mom until Monday or Tuesday...unless she starts eating more and feeling better, then she may be discharged earlier.
I have my surgery scheduled this month (Septoplasty) and my stress level just went up a notch. My boss put in his notice and I'm concerned about my co-workers having to cover me in my absence...and there's my recovery and what that entails...worrying about mom and taking care of her and her medical finances...finding time to take care of my house...lack of vacation time to cover my surgery/recovery time...so many things on my mind. And Just like mom, I'm thinking about things that I don't have to yet that is months away. But I know I'm surrounded by a wonderful support system so that helps. But sometimes I feel overwhelmed. Like today. But I'll get through it. I have to.
Okay, I'm done whining, lol.
I'll keep you posted on how mom is doing. I plan on visiting her again tomorrow after work.
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
A Little Hospital Time
I called mom this morning to see what time Dan needed to pick her up to get fluids at the chemo center. I could not believe how badly she sounded. She totally lost her voice but she was able to tell me she couldn't swallow. I was VERY concerned to say the least and a little shaken up by this. My gut was telling me something was wrong and it was more than what Elisa told me last night.
I called Dan and told him how scared I was and I told him I was leaving work to go with him because I had a bad feeling and felt she may be admitted to the hospital.
When I got home, I called the clinic to let them know what was going on. This was 9:30. She was scheduled to get fluids at 11am. My gut was telling me not to wait. I told the doctor what was going on and he said to bring mom in right away.
When we got there, they took her vitals. She lost more wait (currently 39 pounds lost now), her blood pressure was 118/78, her heart rate was high at 132 and she had a temperature of 100. They wanted to get her blood work done and get fluids in her stat. She was so dehydrated, it took them 45 minutes to find a vein they could use. It was so painful for her as they kept trying different sites on her arms and hands. Her platelets were so low too that her blood would not coagulate, she bled too easily. At one point after they got the needle in, she was bleeding out and it got on the nurses' pant leg and all over the floor and of course mom's hand.
She went through an entire liter of fluids before she felt the need to use the bathroom. They gave her saline and also potassium fluids.
The doctor came in to ask mom some standard questions and to discuss what she had eaten/drank since Monday which wasn't much at all. The doctor and I encouraged mom to stay overnight in the hospital as we all felt it was in her best interest. This way they can give her pain meds to help her eat as her throat was so very sore she couldn't swallow. And if they needed to, they would feed her intraveneously. The doctor feels she may have an infection.
Mom was admitted to the hospital today. What is unnerving is that she is only a few doors down from where the room her brother passed away in a couple of years ago. She said that she remembers walking down this hallway every day to visit Wayne and remembering seeing everyone in their rooms and never thought in a million years, she would end up as a resident herself.
Mom will spend a couple of nights there. She will be receiving a platelet transfusion and possibly a blood transfusion as well. Visitors must wear masks as mom has nothing in her body to ward off infections. The nurses must wear masks, gloves and a gown. Mom doesn't want any visitors, so please don't ask me what room she is in. Nor is she taking any calls right now.
I had to leave mom as Dan and I were with her all day talking with doctors, getting her blood work done, fluids in, getting things from her house for the hospital stay...and the dogs had to be let out. We didn't get home until 5pm. I'm glad she was admitted to get the care she so desperately needs but I'm also sad because she is not home. I feel like she is far away although I know, realistically, she is not. I miss her already.
Elisa has the next two days off which is good. At least she can visit mom during the day and I can go visit her after work.
Hopefully this will end up being a good thing for mom. She needs to get better. At least she will have round-the-clock care for the next 48 hours....
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Not good....
Last Tuesday, mom's throat was very sore and she was just having a very difficult time eating and drinking. She took it upon herself to stop treatments the rest of the week in the hopes that she would feel better to be able to drink and eat more. She was barely getting one bottle of Ensure down a day and some gatorade. As the days wore on and the weekend approached, she wasn't doing much better.
On Monday, she went to the chemo center to get some fluids hoping it would make her feel better. They drew blood to get a CBC (white and red blood cell count). It was very low. Lower than it was last time when she almost ended up in the hospital. They decided she would not receive any more treatment this week. She only had 3 more days of radiation left to finish this cycle.
On the way home she told Dan (who took her and cared for her at the clinic) that it felt like her arm was wet through her coat. Didn't think anything of it until they got home. Come to find out, the clinic didn't apply enough pressure to the part of her arm where they gave her fluids. She was bleeding! Dan had to call Elisa when they got home and have her re-bandage the spot where the needle was and Dan took mom's coat and clothes and put them in the washer.
Then today I get home and Dan tells me that mom is worse and that I can't call her. I called Elisa. She said when she talked to mom earlier over the phone, she grew very concerned as she could hardly understand mom. As if mom couldn't breathe. Then Elisa went over there.
Mom's throat is so sore now (even more so) that she can barely speak. She can't drink or eat at all. The Gatorade hurts her stomach. Her chest is purple from the radiation and she looks very bad. Mom called the clinic and they are having her come in tomorrow for more fluids and steroids (which she did yesterday). Dan is going to take her tomorrow. I'm very worried. She could end up in the hospital at this rate. Not sure what to do. I've tried so hard to tell mom several times to force whatever she needs down her throat, do whatever it takes no matter how hard it may be. I almost feel like she's giving up. She is so worn out now...not only physically but I think emotionally now too.
On Monday, she went to the chemo center to get some fluids hoping it would make her feel better. They drew blood to get a CBC (white and red blood cell count). It was very low. Lower than it was last time when she almost ended up in the hospital. They decided she would not receive any more treatment this week. She only had 3 more days of radiation left to finish this cycle.
On the way home she told Dan (who took her and cared for her at the clinic) that it felt like her arm was wet through her coat. Didn't think anything of it until they got home. Come to find out, the clinic didn't apply enough pressure to the part of her arm where they gave her fluids. She was bleeding! Dan had to call Elisa when they got home and have her re-bandage the spot where the needle was and Dan took mom's coat and clothes and put them in the washer.
Then today I get home and Dan tells me that mom is worse and that I can't call her. I called Elisa. She said when she talked to mom earlier over the phone, she grew very concerned as she could hardly understand mom. As if mom couldn't breathe. Then Elisa went over there.
Mom's throat is so sore now (even more so) that she can barely speak. She can't drink or eat at all. The Gatorade hurts her stomach. Her chest is purple from the radiation and she looks very bad. Mom called the clinic and they are having her come in tomorrow for more fluids and steroids (which she did yesterday). Dan is going to take her tomorrow. I'm very worried. She could end up in the hospital at this rate. Not sure what to do. I've tried so hard to tell mom several times to force whatever she needs down her throat, do whatever it takes no matter how hard it may be. I almost feel like she's giving up. She is so worn out now...not only physically but I think emotionally now too.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Getting Weak
Mom is very weak because she can't eat. Her throat has been getting raw/sore again and it's very difficult for her to swallow.
I had to edit my last post....Mom lost 36 not 26 pounds in 6 weeks! Guess I don't do math very well. :)
Mom decided to skip radiation for the rest of the week. I told her I didn't like the idea. She's weak because she needs to drink more Ensure for the vitamins, minerals and protein. She's concentrating more on just Gatorade and staying hydrated but I told her that wasn't enough. Elisa and I are frustrated. Why can't they just give people shots of this stuff so they don't have to worry about getting the necessary nutrients!
Elisa has the day off tomorrow so she is going to try to push mom to get her treatment tomorrow. I told mom that if she fails to go the rest of the week, she then needs to tack on two days next week. Her last day was supposed to be Monday. I told Elisa to push mom to drink more Ensure too. Elisa and I will be there Saturday and will push mom more. She only has a few more days left, she has to hang in there and do what is necessary.
Mom was throwing up the other night too, which doesn't help. Will let you know later how things are going...
I had to edit my last post....Mom lost 36 not 26 pounds in 6 weeks! Guess I don't do math very well. :)
Mom decided to skip radiation for the rest of the week. I told her I didn't like the idea. She's weak because she needs to drink more Ensure for the vitamins, minerals and protein. She's concentrating more on just Gatorade and staying hydrated but I told her that wasn't enough. Elisa and I are frustrated. Why can't they just give people shots of this stuff so they don't have to worry about getting the necessary nutrients!
Elisa has the day off tomorrow so she is going to try to push mom to get her treatment tomorrow. I told mom that if she fails to go the rest of the week, she then needs to tack on two days next week. Her last day was supposed to be Monday. I told Elisa to push mom to drink more Ensure too. Elisa and I will be there Saturday and will push mom more. She only has a few more days left, she has to hang in there and do what is necessary.
Mom was throwing up the other night too, which doesn't help. Will let you know later how things are going...
Monday, February 25, 2013
Last day of chemo....for now
I walked through the door this morning to pick up mom for her long day of treatment. I wasn't prepared to see mom the way she was.
I hadn't seen mom in over a week, but talked on the phone with her virtually every day. She looked thinner and more of her hair was gone. I also noticed that her eyes looked different somehow. Upon closer inspection, it seems the medication she is taking is causing her eyes to dilate and she has less eyelashes. It's amazing, however, how she really hasn't lost that much of her eyebrows or other body hair. I'm sure that will change in the coming weeks.
Mom's last day of chemo was today. For now. We saw the doctor and her blood pressure was normal and she weighed 172 pounds. She has lost 36 pounds in about a month and a half. But her mentality seems good and her attitude as well which I am grateful for.
I spoke with the person in Accounting to pull her help in trying to get an answer from Social Services as to the status of mom's Medicaid application. She was able to get through. The application was still sitting here waiting to be processed? Seriously??
The bottom line is this: Mom qualifies but she must meet $600 in out-of-pocket medical expenses each month before she qualifies for Medicaid for that month. So it's like having to meet a deductible first. Katrina (the Accounting person) said she had never heard a high pay down like that before. She has seen as low as $14 up to $200. She wondered how they came up with that figure. I told her that it may be from a chart I saw on their website. She printed it out and found a dollar amount that could be a factor (the amount on the chart is deducted from total income and the difference is the pay down amount). She and I were outraged that mom's pay down of $600 was so high. It constitutes about 1/2 of mom's total fixed income. For real?? But you can help low income families with 8 kids and provide everything for them virtually free but can't help and elderly person on a fixed income who pays her bills each month on time and has a mortgage and sustains herself on a limited monthly income?? I thought Medicaid reimbursed you for medical expense and didn't realize that this is how it worked. Katrina said mom was better off paying the 20% Medicare doesn't cover as it would be much cheaper. I tend to agree. In any case, I will be giving Katrina a copy of the application and backup documentation so that she can look at it more closely and try to help. At least social services is also trying to get Part D for mom to help cover the cost of prescriptions as she doesn't have coverage right now.
I kept looking at mom today and remembering the pretty, vibrant woman who used to be and wished still was. Emotionally I'm fine until I see mom. It's so difficult to remember how she used to be and how much, physically, she has changed. Like I have said before, I never noticed mom ageing...until this happened. She's looking frail and old to me. I want to turn back the clock. I see pictures on the wall and see her in various stages of her life and one picture of her in particular. As I stand there and look at the picture of her smiling, I say to mom, "I am this age now that you were then." It's so weird because as I see her age more than ever, I too see myself age. It's unnerving.
I told mom how proud of her I am. She has come a long way and has handled it emotionally and physically overall, very well. She's clinging onto hope that she is beating this thing or at least giving it a good beating, lol.
Two weeks from today she goes in for a two-week follow up. The doctor may do a cat scan to determine where we are at with the cancer mass. The weekly xrays she was getting at the radiation center was only so they could determine where/how to apply the treatment...not to see if the cancer was shrinking.
So we will have to be patient a little while longer. I hope we get good news in the long run.....
I hadn't seen mom in over a week, but talked on the phone with her virtually every day. She looked thinner and more of her hair was gone. I also noticed that her eyes looked different somehow. Upon closer inspection, it seems the medication she is taking is causing her eyes to dilate and she has less eyelashes. It's amazing, however, how she really hasn't lost that much of her eyebrows or other body hair. I'm sure that will change in the coming weeks.
Mom's last day of chemo was today. For now. We saw the doctor and her blood pressure was normal and she weighed 172 pounds. She has lost 36 pounds in about a month and a half. But her mentality seems good and her attitude as well which I am grateful for.
I spoke with the person in Accounting to pull her help in trying to get an answer from Social Services as to the status of mom's Medicaid application. She was able to get through. The application was still sitting here waiting to be processed? Seriously??
The bottom line is this: Mom qualifies but she must meet $600 in out-of-pocket medical expenses each month before she qualifies for Medicaid for that month. So it's like having to meet a deductible first. Katrina (the Accounting person) said she had never heard a high pay down like that before. She has seen as low as $14 up to $200. She wondered how they came up with that figure. I told her that it may be from a chart I saw on their website. She printed it out and found a dollar amount that could be a factor (the amount on the chart is deducted from total income and the difference is the pay down amount). She and I were outraged that mom's pay down of $600 was so high. It constitutes about 1/2 of mom's total fixed income. For real?? But you can help low income families with 8 kids and provide everything for them virtually free but can't help and elderly person on a fixed income who pays her bills each month on time and has a mortgage and sustains herself on a limited monthly income?? I thought Medicaid reimbursed you for medical expense and didn't realize that this is how it worked. Katrina said mom was better off paying the 20% Medicare doesn't cover as it would be much cheaper. I tend to agree. In any case, I will be giving Katrina a copy of the application and backup documentation so that she can look at it more closely and try to help. At least social services is also trying to get Part D for mom to help cover the cost of prescriptions as she doesn't have coverage right now.
I kept looking at mom today and remembering the pretty, vibrant woman who used to be and wished still was. Emotionally I'm fine until I see mom. It's so difficult to remember how she used to be and how much, physically, she has changed. Like I have said before, I never noticed mom ageing...until this happened. She's looking frail and old to me. I want to turn back the clock. I see pictures on the wall and see her in various stages of her life and one picture of her in particular. As I stand there and look at the picture of her smiling, I say to mom, "I am this age now that you were then." It's so weird because as I see her age more than ever, I too see myself age. It's unnerving.
I told mom how proud of her I am. She has come a long way and has handled it emotionally and physically overall, very well. She's clinging onto hope that she is beating this thing or at least giving it a good beating, lol.
Two weeks from today she goes in for a two-week follow up. The doctor may do a cat scan to determine where we are at with the cancer mass. The weekly xrays she was getting at the radiation center was only so they could determine where/how to apply the treatment...not to see if the cancer was shrinking.
So we will have to be patient a little while longer. I hope we get good news in the long run.....
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Last Week of Chemo
Well this is mom's last week of chemo (well last day is Monday, 2/25).
Mom is doing well so far. Her blood pressure, blood count and weight is good. She just needs to remember to really push the proteins and fluids because of the chemo as it takes so much out of a person.
She is still getting radiation every day. Her last day is around March 4th. I didn't know this until I spoke to mom the other day, but apparently she has been getting x-rays every Monday and the doctor hasn't told her anything. And she didn't bother asking because she just wants to get her treatment and leave.
So when I am with mom next Monday for her long day, I plan on asking her doctor why he hasn't said anything about the x-rays. Maybe it's how they do things around there and won't discuss it with mom until this phase of treatment is over. Either way, I want to to know what is going on.
We are still waiting to hear from Social Services about mom's Medicaid application. I called last week and it still did not go through the eligibility process yet. Yeah, take your time....while mom is struggling to pay her bills.
I haven't had much time to write lately, my apologies, but not much has changed with mom.
Until next time folks... :)
Mom is doing well so far. Her blood pressure, blood count and weight is good. She just needs to remember to really push the proteins and fluids because of the chemo as it takes so much out of a person.
She is still getting radiation every day. Her last day is around March 4th. I didn't know this until I spoke to mom the other day, but apparently she has been getting x-rays every Monday and the doctor hasn't told her anything. And she didn't bother asking because she just wants to get her treatment and leave.
So when I am with mom next Monday for her long day, I plan on asking her doctor why he hasn't said anything about the x-rays. Maybe it's how they do things around there and won't discuss it with mom until this phase of treatment is over. Either way, I want to to know what is going on.
We are still waiting to hear from Social Services about mom's Medicaid application. I called last week and it still did not go through the eligibility process yet. Yeah, take your time....while mom is struggling to pay her bills.
I haven't had much time to write lately, my apologies, but not much has changed with mom.
Until next time folks... :)
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Broken Machine
Well, mom had several days (since last Tuesday) with no treatment so that she could get well enough to resume treatment. She has been feeling much better...more each day.
She went yesterday to resume her radiation treatment only to find when she arrived, that their machine was broken. She went to get her blood work done and she was due to arrive today for treatment. The machine is apparently still broken!
Mom's frustrated as she wants to resume her treatments. The sooner she gets all of it done, the better. Right now she kind of feels like she is in limbo with her life and she just wants this part of the "cancer phase" behind her. Can't say that I blame her.
Her blood work came back with very good results. She is continuing to concentrate on strengthening herself inside and out. What a HUGE difference between this week and last week. She seems so healthy and alert!
Well, nothing else to report. 'Til next time, have a good night!
She went yesterday to resume her radiation treatment only to find when she arrived, that their machine was broken. She went to get her blood work done and she was due to arrive today for treatment. The machine is apparently still broken!
Mom's frustrated as she wants to resume her treatments. The sooner she gets all of it done, the better. Right now she kind of feels like she is in limbo with her life and she just wants this part of the "cancer phase" behind her. Can't say that I blame her.
Her blood work came back with very good results. She is continuing to concentrate on strengthening herself inside and out. What a HUGE difference between this week and last week. She seems so healthy and alert!
Well, nothing else to report. 'Til next time, have a good night!
Saturday, February 9, 2013
Hair
Went over to mom's today to clean the house. I walked in as Elisa was cutting mom's hair. She needed to cut it before shaving it off.
As I was standing there watching, I was thinking here we are. Another step in in the life of cancer. One I never thought we'd be at in a million years when t came to mom. And yet there will be so many more steps to take.
Elisa took the shears and we both looked at each other, and then the process of shaving mom's hair off began.
You could see some bald spots where clumps of hair had previously come out. Mom is taking this process better than Elisa and I.
As I was continuing to witness this, I couldn't help but notice how frail mom looked. She suddenly appeared old to me....again. Twice in one week this hits me. And so the parent has become the child while the child has become the parent. Life does come full circle.
I asked mom how it felt for her hair to be shaved off and she just shrugged her shoulders. Didn't really bother her. She said it would grow back. She just wanted it off so she could shower, lol. She hadn't showered in a few days because it just kept coming off. She was waiting for Elisa to shave it. She's taking it alot better than we are that is for sure. To lighten the mood I said, "Gee mom, you're lookin' like a 67 year-old lesbian!". LOL. That brought a giggle out of her. We all started laughing. (I think Elisa was shocked I said that, lol.)
Elisa left some hair on her head, it's not completely shaved off. I told mom that it looks better when all that hair is away from her face.
As soon as Elisa was done, mom jumped in the shower. I began to clean the whole house for her. She feels better now that she is clean, the house is clean (and no hair laying around). She feels a little weak today but much better than she was feeling the beginning of the week.
Well...time to get ready for my much needed date night with Dan. Movie and dinner sounds good to me. Been awhile since we have gone out and had fun together. Need to get my mind off of things for a little while.
As I was standing there watching, I was thinking here we are. Another step in in the life of cancer. One I never thought we'd be at in a million years when t came to mom. And yet there will be so many more steps to take.
Elisa took the shears and we both looked at each other, and then the process of shaving mom's hair off began.
You could see some bald spots where clumps of hair had previously come out. Mom is taking this process better than Elisa and I.
As I was continuing to witness this, I couldn't help but notice how frail mom looked. She suddenly appeared old to me....again. Twice in one week this hits me. And so the parent has become the child while the child has become the parent. Life does come full circle.
I asked mom how it felt for her hair to be shaved off and she just shrugged her shoulders. Didn't really bother her. She said it would grow back. She just wanted it off so she could shower, lol. She hadn't showered in a few days because it just kept coming off. She was waiting for Elisa to shave it. She's taking it alot better than we are that is for sure. To lighten the mood I said, "Gee mom, you're lookin' like a 67 year-old lesbian!". LOL. That brought a giggle out of her. We all started laughing. (I think Elisa was shocked I said that, lol.)
Elisa left some hair on her head, it's not completely shaved off. I told mom that it looks better when all that hair is away from her face.
As soon as Elisa was done, mom jumped in the shower. I began to clean the whole house for her. She feels better now that she is clean, the house is clean (and no hair laying around). She feels a little weak today but much better than she was feeling the beginning of the week.
Well...time to get ready for my much needed date night with Dan. Movie and dinner sounds good to me. Been awhile since we have gone out and had fun together. Need to get my mind off of things for a little while.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Vast Improvement
My sister called to tell me how much better mom is feeling. What a huge difference since Monday. She was eating, drinking and wouldn't stop chatting, lol. Yeah, I told her how I knew mom was getting better because when I picked her up yesterday, she was chatting away on our way to the radiation center.
I called mom myself to get a first-hand account on how she is doing. Yep, she was being chatty and upbeat. My god, it was as if she was back to normal. So good to hear. She's been eating and drinking more and my sister had to stock her up on more Gatorade for fear she may run out. Awesome!
Mom hasn't been sleeping well but her medication gives her the ability to eat and drink. She takes a liquid numbing medication for her throat and then two Percocet's with yogurt. This takes away the pain so she can get food and liquids down more easily and she said this is helping.
Her hair is falling out more and more each day. Elisa will be shaving mom's hair off tomorrow evening. I hope it won't upset mom too much or be too much of a shock. If there is any brighter side to this, at least she doesn't have very long hair...that would be worse. And just think of the money she'll save as she won't have to get perms, cuts or haircoloring. :) And mom being mom, she said no sense vacuuming until she gets her hair shaved. Okay, you must be feeling better if you are worried about that, ha ha.
If any of you wish to reach out to mom, this week is a good time to do that. After this weekend, it's back to radiation every day and she may not be up to talking. She begins chemo treatments again on 2/18 for that whole week.
It's about half over mom. Hang in there!
I called mom myself to get a first-hand account on how she is doing. Yep, she was being chatty and upbeat. My god, it was as if she was back to normal. So good to hear. She's been eating and drinking more and my sister had to stock her up on more Gatorade for fear she may run out. Awesome!
Mom hasn't been sleeping well but her medication gives her the ability to eat and drink. She takes a liquid numbing medication for her throat and then two Percocet's with yogurt. This takes away the pain so she can get food and liquids down more easily and she said this is helping.
Her hair is falling out more and more each day. Elisa will be shaving mom's hair off tomorrow evening. I hope it won't upset mom too much or be too much of a shock. If there is any brighter side to this, at least she doesn't have very long hair...that would be worse. And just think of the money she'll save as she won't have to get perms, cuts or haircoloring. :) And mom being mom, she said no sense vacuuming until she gets her hair shaved. Okay, you must be feeling better if you are worried about that, ha ha.
If any of you wish to reach out to mom, this week is a good time to do that. After this weekend, it's back to radiation every day and she may not be up to talking. She begins chemo treatments again on 2/18 for that whole week.
It's about half over mom. Hang in there!
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Road to Small Recovery
Took mom to her treatment. She seemed better than yesterday, much to my relief. She seemed to have a little more energy and she was talking better and her thought process seemed clearer.
We learned that her CBC levels were very low so the radiation center decided to cease her treatment until Monday to allow her body to heal. She has no immunity right now to ward off any infections so no one who is ill can visit her right now.
We went to the chemo center where mom received 2 liters of saline mixed with sugar and salt to balance electrolytes. She was talkative and seemed to have more energy. I could see her eyes! They didn't seem half-closed and her pallor looked much better. I was so relieved! She almost seemed like her old self.
So the nurse and I kept telling her over and over again how important it was to keep eating and drinking. I asked mom, "Don't you feel better than you did yesterday? Do you feel the difference?" To which she replied to both questions, "Yes." I said, "That should be the motivator to make you want to continue to eat and drink more and force yourself to even if you don't want to. Just remember how tired and worn out you felt and how close you were to ending up in the hospital." I advised her to get more intravenous fluids on Friday to hold her over the weekend just to be on the safe side and probably at least 3 times a week until all of her treatment is completed. Can't hurt.
So when we got home, I made sure she took her medication, drank some Gatorade and ate some dinner.
She seemed almost like she was in a good mood tonight. Thank you lord.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Close Call
I called my mom's chemo center this morning because I have been concerned about her deteriorating health. I know that with treatment, there are side effects but this just seems different some how. I then spoke with a very kind nurse in the radiation unit. We talked for about a half hour about mom's condition. I told her I felt mom wasn't getting enough fluids and eating enough despite of what she tells me. I feel as though she is holding back what she is really feeling and going through. She just sits in her recliner...alone...in silence....doing nothing but looking like she is at death's door. It's not sitting right with me. And I also told the nurse how mom is always saying she wants to suffer in silence. And that I was concerned about her emotional welfare as well.
After I spoke with the nurse, I called mom. She didn't answer. I was worried because she didn't sound that great last night. I left a message to call me so that I could make sure she was alright. Half hour goes by...nothing. I know she must be up by now.
I just had this feeling and couldn't shake it. I called my sister to see if she could go check on mom at lunch. She couldn't (her work sucks as far as I'm concerned). Dan couldn't because he was at a seminar. I called a close family friend but she was waiting for a serviceman. I was going to leave work but decided to call mom one more time. She answered!
I asked mom why she didn't call me back. She sounded loopy and she's barely talking. She tells me two different reasons that didn't make sense. I asked her if she wanted me to go to radiation with her (frankly, I didn't think she could take herself either) and she said yes.
I picked up my mom and when I walked in the door, there she was sitting in that recliner...alone...in silence, looking worse than when I saw her the other day. Oh my god, I don't like this AT ALL.
On the way to her treatment I asked mom what she ate today. She said one yogurt, 1/2 Ensure and some Gatorade. In my mind I'm thinking, that is not enough!
While we are waiting for treatment, a nurse stepped out into the waiting area. I read her tag to see if it was the same person as the one I spoke to this morning, but it wasn't. However, the nurse I spoke earlier this morning did say something to the effect of having someone talk to mom when she got there and make it seem like they do that with all of their patients so that it doesn't seem like we are sneaking behind her back (thank god she doesn't read this blog.) :)
She asked how mom was feeling. I told her how much mom ate today. And the nurse told mom that she needs more than the 200 calories she ate today and how important it was to be sure to eat and drink enough liquids. That you don't want to end up in the hospital. She told mom that she would like to chat with her after her treatment. Mom of course rolled her eyes because she just wants to get out of there afterward, and told the nurse what was on mom's mind..didn't care because I said that yes, would because it's important for her care.
After the treatment, mom got weighed, had her blood pressure checked and heart rate.
Mom lost a pound since yesterday and the nurse shook her head at mom about this because she told mom that she weighed her with a gown yesterday and today weighed her with clothes and shoes. Not good. Then it took three tries to take her blood pressure because the nurse couldn't hear anything through the stethoscope. The nurse had mom stand up to do it. It was low yesterday and dangerously low today (they didn't specify the stats). They reiterated to mom more strongly how important it was for her to drink and eat more and if she doesn't, she would end up in the hospital by the end of the week!
Because mom's throat is so sore, this is the reason why she's hardly eating or drinking and it also feels like there is a lump in her throat constantly. She received numbing medication which seems to help so she can get food and liquids down. She was also prescribed Percocet (oxycodone) for the pain. She took one but said it didn't work.
We were then supposed to go get her blood work done afterward and mom asked if it could wait until tomorrow. I was about to argue with her when the nurse said, how about if we get someone to come to you, will you do it then and mom said yes.
So they got the blood work but we won't know until this week what the results of her CBC levels are (white and red blood cell counts).
The doctor came in and told her if one of the Percocet's didn't work then she should take two. In fact, she should take two every four hours. She can take up to 12 per day. (I had no idea the dosage so I was glad I was there to hear this.)
Mom will be getting fluids at the chemo center tomorrow before her radiation treatment and I will be taking her and staying with her while she does. I also want to speak with the nurses there and make sure I don't miss any important information on her care or how she is doing tomorrow.
It was a silent ride home as I knew that it was very difficult for mom to talk.
When we got home, I crushed two Percocet tablets and mixed them with some chocolate pudding. I told mom to eat the whole thing (the nurse recommended this to get it down easier). I then made her some boxed mac n' cheese. I gave her about a cup and told her to eat the whole thing as it would contain about 1000 calories (can you believe it's 350 calories per 1/4 cup??). She had 2 1/2 glasses of Gatorade while I was there. I looked into the fridge, I didn't see any evidence of her eating or drinking adequately. The food and liquids I brought over last week were barely touched. The dishes I washed last week were still in the strainer so I know she hadn't been cooking herself anything either. I told her I thought she was fibbing about eating and drinking and she better make sure she starts doing it more. She said she honestly thought she was eating and drinking enough and clearly she wasn't and was so glad I was there or lord knows what may have happened today.
She was looking and feeling better by the time I left. She said she was feeling a bit better too. She had more color in her cheeks, her eyes were more open and she was more alert and talking more. All I can say is never ignore your gut instinct. Phew, close call today.
After I spoke with the nurse, I called mom. She didn't answer. I was worried because she didn't sound that great last night. I left a message to call me so that I could make sure she was alright. Half hour goes by...nothing. I know she must be up by now.
I just had this feeling and couldn't shake it. I called my sister to see if she could go check on mom at lunch. She couldn't (her work sucks as far as I'm concerned). Dan couldn't because he was at a seminar. I called a close family friend but she was waiting for a serviceman. I was going to leave work but decided to call mom one more time. She answered!
I asked mom why she didn't call me back. She sounded loopy and she's barely talking. She tells me two different reasons that didn't make sense. I asked her if she wanted me to go to radiation with her (frankly, I didn't think she could take herself either) and she said yes.
I picked up my mom and when I walked in the door, there she was sitting in that recliner...alone...in silence, looking worse than when I saw her the other day. Oh my god, I don't like this AT ALL.
On the way to her treatment I asked mom what she ate today. She said one yogurt, 1/2 Ensure and some Gatorade. In my mind I'm thinking, that is not enough!
While we are waiting for treatment, a nurse stepped out into the waiting area. I read her tag to see if it was the same person as the one I spoke to this morning, but it wasn't. However, the nurse I spoke earlier this morning did say something to the effect of having someone talk to mom when she got there and make it seem like they do that with all of their patients so that it doesn't seem like we are sneaking behind her back (thank god she doesn't read this blog.) :)
She asked how mom was feeling. I told her how much mom ate today. And the nurse told mom that she needs more than the 200 calories she ate today and how important it was to be sure to eat and drink enough liquids. That you don't want to end up in the hospital. She told mom that she would like to chat with her after her treatment. Mom of course rolled her eyes because she just wants to get out of there afterward, and told the nurse what was on mom's mind..didn't care because I said that yes, would because it's important for her care.
After the treatment, mom got weighed, had her blood pressure checked and heart rate.
Mom lost a pound since yesterday and the nurse shook her head at mom about this because she told mom that she weighed her with a gown yesterday and today weighed her with clothes and shoes. Not good. Then it took three tries to take her blood pressure because the nurse couldn't hear anything through the stethoscope. The nurse had mom stand up to do it. It was low yesterday and dangerously low today (they didn't specify the stats). They reiterated to mom more strongly how important it was for her to drink and eat more and if she doesn't, she would end up in the hospital by the end of the week!
Because mom's throat is so sore, this is the reason why she's hardly eating or drinking and it also feels like there is a lump in her throat constantly. She received numbing medication which seems to help so she can get food and liquids down. She was also prescribed Percocet (oxycodone) for the pain. She took one but said it didn't work.
We were then supposed to go get her blood work done afterward and mom asked if it could wait until tomorrow. I was about to argue with her when the nurse said, how about if we get someone to come to you, will you do it then and mom said yes.
So they got the blood work but we won't know until this week what the results of her CBC levels are (white and red blood cell counts).
The doctor came in and told her if one of the Percocet's didn't work then she should take two. In fact, she should take two every four hours. She can take up to 12 per day. (I had no idea the dosage so I was glad I was there to hear this.)
Mom will be getting fluids at the chemo center tomorrow before her radiation treatment and I will be taking her and staying with her while she does. I also want to speak with the nurses there and make sure I don't miss any important information on her care or how she is doing tomorrow.
It was a silent ride home as I knew that it was very difficult for mom to talk.
When we got home, I crushed two Percocet tablets and mixed them with some chocolate pudding. I told mom to eat the whole thing (the nurse recommended this to get it down easier). I then made her some boxed mac n' cheese. I gave her about a cup and told her to eat the whole thing as it would contain about 1000 calories (can you believe it's 350 calories per 1/4 cup??). She had 2 1/2 glasses of Gatorade while I was there. I looked into the fridge, I didn't see any evidence of her eating or drinking adequately. The food and liquids I brought over last week were barely touched. The dishes I washed last week were still in the strainer so I know she hadn't been cooking herself anything either. I told her I thought she was fibbing about eating and drinking and she better make sure she starts doing it more. She said she honestly thought she was eating and drinking enough and clearly she wasn't and was so glad I was there or lord knows what may have happened today.
She was looking and feeling better by the time I left. She said she was feeling a bit better too. She had more color in her cheeks, her eyes were more open and she was more alert and talking more. All I can say is never ignore your gut instinct. Phew, close call today.
Monday, February 4, 2013
Having To Be Forceful
6:30 pm
I called my sister because I was so excited to tell her about my tax refund amount.
My sister didn't work today because she couldn't sleep due to mild personal issues. Anyway she spoke with mom today. Mom didn't want to go to radiation. She was giving excuses and said things like, "Well some people don't go because of the weather." She's understandably just plum worn out, weak, tired. And her throat is really bothering her. She's been eating pudding and she said she's drinking but we really don't know. We are taking her word for it. Mom doesn't open up when she is in misery. She closes herself to others because she doesn't want to burden anyone. We are trying to tell her that she needs to open up to people. She is not a burden. I thought about how mom must be feeling. Would I feel the same way?? I probably would. But stubbornness runs in our family and we have to try and get through to her.
Then I was told that mom is beginning to lose her hair. This saddens my heart so much. I don't know why. Maybe because it's another god awful milestone of this treatment. Her throat is really sore and the nurses are going to prescribe a numbing medicine for her. Thank god my sister was home because when she realized that mom was trying to avoid going to radiation today, she actually made my mom go. When she got there, mom was sitting in the recliner with no TV on, just sitting there like a zombie. This is becoming too frequent and worrisome. Mom is also supposed to get blood work done at least once a week but after treatment today when Elisa said let's go get it done, mom insisted on going home. Mom said on the way home from treatment, "I can't wait until this is all over for me...for everyone." What did she mean by that I wonder? Does she feel like a burden? Is she giving up? My sister didn't press my mom about this since my nephew was in the car and he was clearly upset because mom had also been gagging on the way home like she was going to throw up.
I heard enough and told Elisa I needed to get off the phone so I could call mom.
I was half angry and half frustrated when mom picked up the phone. I told mom that I just got off the phone with Elisa and that she told me what happened today. I then proceeded to tell her, in a very forceful voice, "Mom, don't you want to see your grandkids graduate? You have to BEAT this thing mom and the only way to do that is to continue with your daily treatments, getting your blood work done and making sure you eat and drink as much as possible. And you have to TRY to get more exercise. If you need help you CALL me. If you need a ride you CALL me. If you need anything you CALL me, do you understand??? My phone is on all the time.". Her weak responses to these were "yeah". I told her, "I'm going to call the center every day and make sure you went and if you didn't or don't, I'm going to stay with you to make sure you do! I know it's hard but you have to do this. I don't understand what you must be going through but I see it. You have to beat this mom!".
We ended our call and it didn't take long for me to break down. It is SO difficult to see her like this. She was always my rock and my rock has become sand. Now she must lean on me, I want her to, she needs to.
My mom was always the first person I called when I was excited about something. I wanted to tell her about my awesome tax refund but couldn't because she just doesn't have the strength for emotions or anything else. It killed me. I wish I could take this illness upon myself so that she doesn't have to suffer. I broke down. My heart is so heavy. Not a good day for either of us I suppose.....
I called my sister because I was so excited to tell her about my tax refund amount.
My sister didn't work today because she couldn't sleep due to mild personal issues. Anyway she spoke with mom today. Mom didn't want to go to radiation. She was giving excuses and said things like, "Well some people don't go because of the weather." She's understandably just plum worn out, weak, tired. And her throat is really bothering her. She's been eating pudding and she said she's drinking but we really don't know. We are taking her word for it. Mom doesn't open up when she is in misery. She closes herself to others because she doesn't want to burden anyone. We are trying to tell her that she needs to open up to people. She is not a burden. I thought about how mom must be feeling. Would I feel the same way?? I probably would. But stubbornness runs in our family and we have to try and get through to her.
Then I was told that mom is beginning to lose her hair. This saddens my heart so much. I don't know why. Maybe because it's another god awful milestone of this treatment. Her throat is really sore and the nurses are going to prescribe a numbing medicine for her. Thank god my sister was home because when she realized that mom was trying to avoid going to radiation today, she actually made my mom go. When she got there, mom was sitting in the recliner with no TV on, just sitting there like a zombie. This is becoming too frequent and worrisome. Mom is also supposed to get blood work done at least once a week but after treatment today when Elisa said let's go get it done, mom insisted on going home. Mom said on the way home from treatment, "I can't wait until this is all over for me...for everyone." What did she mean by that I wonder? Does she feel like a burden? Is she giving up? My sister didn't press my mom about this since my nephew was in the car and he was clearly upset because mom had also been gagging on the way home like she was going to throw up.
I heard enough and told Elisa I needed to get off the phone so I could call mom.
I was half angry and half frustrated when mom picked up the phone. I told mom that I just got off the phone with Elisa and that she told me what happened today. I then proceeded to tell her, in a very forceful voice, "Mom, don't you want to see your grandkids graduate? You have to BEAT this thing mom and the only way to do that is to continue with your daily treatments, getting your blood work done and making sure you eat and drink as much as possible. And you have to TRY to get more exercise. If you need help you CALL me. If you need a ride you CALL me. If you need anything you CALL me, do you understand??? My phone is on all the time.". Her weak responses to these were "yeah". I told her, "I'm going to call the center every day and make sure you went and if you didn't or don't, I'm going to stay with you to make sure you do! I know it's hard but you have to do this. I don't understand what you must be going through but I see it. You have to beat this mom!".
We ended our call and it didn't take long for me to break down. It is SO difficult to see her like this. She was always my rock and my rock has become sand. Now she must lean on me, I want her to, she needs to.
My mom was always the first person I called when I was excited about something. I wanted to tell her about my awesome tax refund but couldn't because she just doesn't have the strength for emotions or anything else. It killed me. I wish I could take this illness upon myself so that she doesn't have to suffer. I broke down. My heart is so heavy. Not a good day for either of us I suppose.....
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Weak and Tired
Visited mom yesterday to celebrate Elisa's birthday. She's been very weak and very tired. Even though she hasn't had any chemo since Monday (but continues daily radiation), she has been making sure she goes to the chemo center for extra fluids.
She said although no more nausea, it has been very difficult for her to do anything without feeling like she ran a marathon. I fear she will severely struggle with treatment the next 3-4 weeks.
I've been keeping her stocked up on Gatorade, Ensure and yogurt and continue to encourage her to drink and eat as much as she can even if there is no urge to do so and to try to do some physical activity to help salvage some of her muscle strength. She just seems totally out of it. She has her good days and bad days thought. She seemed better the other day but I guess that is the way it goes with treatment...up and down.
It's so difficult to see her like this. A woman who was always active and running around to a frail woman who just sits in her recliner most of the time...with no tv on or playing games on the pc. She's been sleeping alot lately. I'm worried..guess that will never stop.
I truly pray that after all the agony of going through this treatment, that it will payoff in the end and she will be in remission.
Oh, I mailed the application for Medicaid on Monday. I hope we find something out soon. Will keep you all posted.....
She said although no more nausea, it has been very difficult for her to do anything without feeling like she ran a marathon. I fear she will severely struggle with treatment the next 3-4 weeks.
I've been keeping her stocked up on Gatorade, Ensure and yogurt and continue to encourage her to drink and eat as much as she can even if there is no urge to do so and to try to do some physical activity to help salvage some of her muscle strength. She just seems totally out of it. She has her good days and bad days thought. She seemed better the other day but I guess that is the way it goes with treatment...up and down.
It's so difficult to see her like this. A woman who was always active and running around to a frail woman who just sits in her recliner most of the time...with no tv on or playing games on the pc. She's been sleeping alot lately. I'm worried..guess that will never stop.
I truly pray that after all the agony of going through this treatment, that it will payoff in the end and she will be in remission.
Oh, I mailed the application for Medicaid on Monday. I hope we find something out soon. Will keep you all posted.....
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Dehydration
7:30PM
Just got home not too long ago and just called mom.
She didn't sound good at all. She went for her radiation treatment today and she's been feeling nauseous and dehydrated because she keeps throwing up. She sounded weak and a little out of it (thick-tongued) and slow-thinking.
After her radiation treatment she went next door to the chemo center and asked for fluids to help with this. Didn't work. Now she fears she may end up in the hospital because of the dehydration. I encouraged her to continue drinking as much liquids as possible. I asked her if she wanted me to come over and stay with her but she said no. If something happens, she'll call Elisa since she does live 1 minute away. I told her are you sure and she said yeah. I told her I would have my phone on...I always do even at night in case of emergencies.
It's so frustrating not being able to help someone who is suffering....especially someone that I am close to as much as I am to my mom. And here I thought no chemo for awhile would help. It seems it may be the radiation that is worse...not the chemo.
Just got home not too long ago and just called mom.
She didn't sound good at all. She went for her radiation treatment today and she's been feeling nauseous and dehydrated because she keeps throwing up. She sounded weak and a little out of it (thick-tongued) and slow-thinking.
After her radiation treatment she went next door to the chemo center and asked for fluids to help with this. Didn't work. Now she fears she may end up in the hospital because of the dehydration. I encouraged her to continue drinking as much liquids as possible. I asked her if she wanted me to come over and stay with her but she said no. If something happens, she'll call Elisa since she does live 1 minute away. I told her are you sure and she said yeah. I told her I would have my phone on...I always do even at night in case of emergencies.
It's so frustrating not being able to help someone who is suffering....especially someone that I am close to as much as I am to my mom. And here I thought no chemo for awhile would help. It seems it may be the radiation that is worse...not the chemo.
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Day 9
1:05pm
Mom is on her last bag of fluids. We've been here on "Day 9" as the nurses call it, since 8 this morning.
We had to see the doctor (rather the colleague of mom's oncologist whom we never seem to see) this morning before mom began her long day of treatment. Her blood pressure was good, but she lost 7 pounds since last week.
The doctor is encouraging her to try to eat more...especially high caloric and high protein foods. We are going to stop by the store and get some yogurt. Mom has been eating peanut butter and eggs, continuing with the ensure and gatorade. She has lost all sense of taste. The doctor said she is doing good with her fluids though and to keep it up as hydration is key to avoiding side effects caused by her treatment.
After seeing her doctor I told mom to go ahead as I wanted to talk to the doctor alone. As stated previously, the doctor wasn't mom's oncologist...it was a colleague of his whom we have seen twice now.
Last week during mom's second day of treatment, her oncologist came to see mom. He sat down. I introduced myself. He looked at me but that was the only acknowledgement I received.
He told mom that he hoped that it will work, blah, blah and blah. Then he proceeded to give her a lecture on how important it was to ensure she makes her payments. That they are a small business and they do afterall, provide the medicine that will hopefully help her heal. I was totally dumbfounded. Did I just hear him correctly?? Was he just trying to feed a guilt trip to my mom and making sure he gets paid?? Really?? This is her second day of treatment and she just found out she has cancer you dumbass.
Mom likes her doctor so I didn't make a scene. What I should have done was pulled him aside and I didn't. Why didn't I? I feel terrible about that.
So this morning when we saw his colleague, I told her what happened. Her mouth just dropped open. I told her that I thought that was the most inappropriate bedside manner I had ever seen from a doctor and that his role is to be a caregiver to his patients...not talk about payments. We know what our financial obligation is and already spoke to the billing department (as is procedure on your first day of treatment). I told her that if he wants to discuss anything about payments, then he can discuss it with me. Mom doesn't need the added stress on top of what she already has. I also told her how caring and thoughtful I felt she has been with my mom but felt otherwise about him. I said I may be reading him wrong, but he doesn't seem like the caring type to me. You can do what you want with this information, I just thought someone should know. Poor thing kept apologizing and of course she couldn't say anything detrimental to me but her eyes told me everything and I knew she totally agreed with me.
If I ever catch him saying any kind of crap to my mom like that again, he will have me to contend with. I'm just so frustrated with myself for not doing that in the first place!
Later, mom asked me why I wanted to speak to her alone, "Did you want to see how long I have to live?". I looked at her incredulously and said, "No. I just had questions about your doctor." I know mom won't read this blog, so I know she won't find out. But even if she does, I'm sure it won't be too big of a deal for her. I just want her to focus on herself and getting better and that's it.
Mom won't have chemo again until the week of February 18th. But she will have radiation every day. I just hope that this will give her the break she needs to get a little of her appetite back and a little energy.
Mom seems lethargic most of the time....doesn't want to or can't do much of anything. The doctor encouraged her to push herself to do a little more physical activity as it is important to keep the muscles active as the treatments eat away muscle...hence the importance of having to eat a lot of protein.
4:08pm
I'm home now. Cooked mom scrambled eggs, washed her dishes and hung out for awhile with her. She ate some pudding and is continuing to drink alot of liquids.
As stated earlier, she doesn't have any chemo for the next 3 wks, only daily radiation. They told her, however, that if the side effects were becoming too much, for her to come in so that they can give her liquids...which could contain steroids for nausea and vitamins and minerals. Today they gave her some potassium with her treatment as it was a little low because of the chemo. Since she has to have daily radiation and the building is right next door, it wouldn't be an inconvenience for her. Some patients resist doing this, and find themselves coming in to get hydrated and feel much better for it. So I told mom NOT to be stubborn and make sure she does this if she feels she needs to.
I think she is emotionally a little better knowing she has a break from chemo for 3 weeks. Maybe she will be able to eat a little more going forward.
My apologies if my thoughts seem scattered. I'm trying to write down as my thoughts come to me and unfortunately, may seem like I am jumping around.
I'm so thankful that the nurses there are so nice and thoughtful. Aside from mom's oncologist, I am impressed with how mom is being treated at the cancer and radiology centers.
Mom will be driving herself to radiation this week. But I did tell her that if she sees the weather and doesn't want to drive due to snow, to let us know. I don't want her stressing out over something like that (and she would).
Mom is on her last bag of fluids. We've been here on "Day 9" as the nurses call it, since 8 this morning.
We had to see the doctor (rather the colleague of mom's oncologist whom we never seem to see) this morning before mom began her long day of treatment. Her blood pressure was good, but she lost 7 pounds since last week.
The doctor is encouraging her to try to eat more...especially high caloric and high protein foods. We are going to stop by the store and get some yogurt. Mom has been eating peanut butter and eggs, continuing with the ensure and gatorade. She has lost all sense of taste. The doctor said she is doing good with her fluids though and to keep it up as hydration is key to avoiding side effects caused by her treatment.
After seeing her doctor I told mom to go ahead as I wanted to talk to the doctor alone. As stated previously, the doctor wasn't mom's oncologist...it was a colleague of his whom we have seen twice now.
Last week during mom's second day of treatment, her oncologist came to see mom. He sat down. I introduced myself. He looked at me but that was the only acknowledgement I received.
He told mom that he hoped that it will work, blah, blah and blah. Then he proceeded to give her a lecture on how important it was to ensure she makes her payments. That they are a small business and they do afterall, provide the medicine that will hopefully help her heal. I was totally dumbfounded. Did I just hear him correctly?? Was he just trying to feed a guilt trip to my mom and making sure he gets paid?? Really?? This is her second day of treatment and she just found out she has cancer you dumbass.
Mom likes her doctor so I didn't make a scene. What I should have done was pulled him aside and I didn't. Why didn't I? I feel terrible about that.
So this morning when we saw his colleague, I told her what happened. Her mouth just dropped open. I told her that I thought that was the most inappropriate bedside manner I had ever seen from a doctor and that his role is to be a caregiver to his patients...not talk about payments. We know what our financial obligation is and already spoke to the billing department (as is procedure on your first day of treatment). I told her that if he wants to discuss anything about payments, then he can discuss it with me. Mom doesn't need the added stress on top of what she already has. I also told her how caring and thoughtful I felt she has been with my mom but felt otherwise about him. I said I may be reading him wrong, but he doesn't seem like the caring type to me. You can do what you want with this information, I just thought someone should know. Poor thing kept apologizing and of course she couldn't say anything detrimental to me but her eyes told me everything and I knew she totally agreed with me.
If I ever catch him saying any kind of crap to my mom like that again, he will have me to contend with. I'm just so frustrated with myself for not doing that in the first place!
Later, mom asked me why I wanted to speak to her alone, "Did you want to see how long I have to live?". I looked at her incredulously and said, "No. I just had questions about your doctor." I know mom won't read this blog, so I know she won't find out. But even if she does, I'm sure it won't be too big of a deal for her. I just want her to focus on herself and getting better and that's it.
Mom won't have chemo again until the week of February 18th. But she will have radiation every day. I just hope that this will give her the break she needs to get a little of her appetite back and a little energy.
Mom seems lethargic most of the time....doesn't want to or can't do much of anything. The doctor encouraged her to push herself to do a little more physical activity as it is important to keep the muscles active as the treatments eat away muscle...hence the importance of having to eat a lot of protein.
4:08pm
I'm home now. Cooked mom scrambled eggs, washed her dishes and hung out for awhile with her. She ate some pudding and is continuing to drink alot of liquids.
As stated earlier, she doesn't have any chemo for the next 3 wks, only daily radiation. They told her, however, that if the side effects were becoming too much, for her to come in so that they can give her liquids...which could contain steroids for nausea and vitamins and minerals. Today they gave her some potassium with her treatment as it was a little low because of the chemo. Since she has to have daily radiation and the building is right next door, it wouldn't be an inconvenience for her. Some patients resist doing this, and find themselves coming in to get hydrated and feel much better for it. So I told mom NOT to be stubborn and make sure she does this if she feels she needs to.
I think she is emotionally a little better knowing she has a break from chemo for 3 weeks. Maybe she will be able to eat a little more going forward.
My apologies if my thoughts seem scattered. I'm trying to write down as my thoughts come to me and unfortunately, may seem like I am jumping around.
I'm so thankful that the nurses there are so nice and thoughtful. Aside from mom's oncologist, I am impressed with how mom is being treated at the cancer and radiology centers.
Mom will be driving herself to radiation this week. But I did tell her that if she sees the weather and doesn't want to drive due to snow, to let us know. I don't want her stressing out over something like that (and she would).
Monday, January 28, 2013
2nd Week
Well, mom began her 2nd week of treatment today. The weekend was so-so for her. She's eating scrambled eggs, spoonfuls of peanut butter, Ensure. But the Ensure shakes seem to be producing too much mucous and it is uncomfortable for her so I will be doing a google search for soft, non-dairy, high-protein food alternatives for her. Any suggestions are welcome.
Tomorrow morning we meet with the doctor and then mom begins her "long" day of chemo and radiation. Mom's dreading the long day. I don't blame her.
She seemed better today. She received radiation but no chemo. I guess we will have to see what the remaining week brings.
Tomorrow morning we meet with the doctor and then mom begins her "long" day of chemo and radiation. Mom's dreading the long day. I don't blame her.
She seemed better today. She received radiation but no chemo. I guess we will have to see what the remaining week brings.
Saturday, January 26, 2013
Weekend Rest
At mom's right now. Earlier we completed the social services application for Medicaid. Waiting on a document from AARP before we can mail it in.
Mom is a little less tired this morning. She went to bed at 8pm last night and got up at 8am this morning. However, she got up several times during the night to use the bathroom as the liquids are going right through her. And she has been nauseous at night and having diaharrea.
I picked up some Ensure (outrageously expensive), protein bars and Gatorade. Her throat is still sore from the radiation, so she won't be able to eat the protein bars. She is, however, drinking Ensure and Gatorade which is good. It looks like she lost more weight. She has yogurt and pudding too. She won't be able to eat alot of solid foods for awhile.
Mom also has bruises on her arm where they attempted to place IV's. Apparently they couldn't find a good vein in those spots.
She's resting right now. And understandibly doesn't want to do much. And for those of you who are Facebook friends, she isn't on the computer that much now. She may after all of the treatments, but has no interest right now.
I asked mom how she felt about her first week of treatment overall. She said, not good. She can't wait for it to be over. She has 25 days to go.
Elisa wants to spend the night every Saturday but mom doesn't want her to. Mom said she'd like to suffer alone. We are trying to tell her that it isn't healthy for that kind of mentality but if that is what she wants, we shouldn't go against her wishes. But we will continue to tell her how important it is that she NOT be alone all the time. She said right now she is just takng it day by day.
So I will be here a couple more hours. Mom said that was fine. I don't want to overstay my welcome. As far as Elisa....as I type this, she is still trying to convince mom to let her stay. Good luck with that. Stubborness runs in our family. :)
Mom is a little less tired this morning. She went to bed at 8pm last night and got up at 8am this morning. However, she got up several times during the night to use the bathroom as the liquids are going right through her. And she has been nauseous at night and having diaharrea.
I picked up some Ensure (outrageously expensive), protein bars and Gatorade. Her throat is still sore from the radiation, so she won't be able to eat the protein bars. She is, however, drinking Ensure and Gatorade which is good. It looks like she lost more weight. She has yogurt and pudding too. She won't be able to eat alot of solid foods for awhile.
Mom also has bruises on her arm where they attempted to place IV's. Apparently they couldn't find a good vein in those spots.
She's resting right now. And understandibly doesn't want to do much. And for those of you who are Facebook friends, she isn't on the computer that much now. She may after all of the treatments, but has no interest right now.
I asked mom how she felt about her first week of treatment overall. She said, not good. She can't wait for it to be over. She has 25 days to go.
Elisa wants to spend the night every Saturday but mom doesn't want her to. Mom said she'd like to suffer alone. We are trying to tell her that it isn't healthy for that kind of mentality but if that is what she wants, we shouldn't go against her wishes. But we will continue to tell her how important it is that she NOT be alone all the time. She said right now she is just takng it day by day.
So I will be here a couple more hours. Mom said that was fine. I don't want to overstay my welcome. As far as Elisa....as I type this, she is still trying to convince mom to let her stay. Good luck with that. Stubborness runs in our family. :)
Friday, January 25, 2013
Fatigue
Today Dan took mom for her chemo and radiation. Mom looked tired. She hasn't been sleeping and was up last night with the dry heaves. I think she may be looking forward to the weekend so she can take a breather from all of this. Dan told me he brought her a plant to help cheer her up. My heart just melted! Couldn't ask for a better man than the one God gave me.
Because mom is becoming more nauseous, they gave her more steroids with her chemo. This is like a catch 22. It will help with her nausea but keeps her up at night. If you've ever taken Prednisone, you know what the side effects are like. It's a strong stimulant and makes you feel like you had 5 pots of coffee. You get antsy and can't sleep. It's awful.
Mom still doesn't have an appetite. This concerns me immensely. Dan tried to talk to her about this and encouraged her to at least try to get down some Ensure. He even stopped to get her some Gatorade (bless his heart) so that she would have something in her stomach and help give her a little bit of strength. When I called her later, I also tried to encourage her to eat and asked her if she knew the importance of making sure she eats. She did but all she wanted to do was go take a nap. She sounded very lethargic. And mom never napped before...just goes to show how much this is taking a toll on her already. I tried to entice her to eat by asking her if she wanted any of her favorite foods, but a no go.
It tears me apart to see mom go through this and especially not eating. I plan on visiting her tomorrow. I want to make sure she rests and is eating something. And she may need some stuff done around the house, I don't think she has the energy to do it herself.
I can't say enough about my employer. I missed time at work this week for mom's treatment. To make up some of the time, I planned on working tomorrow. They would not hear of it. They insisted I spend time with mom and not to worry about my time. I started to tear up. Jody (the President), kissed me on the head while her husband actually thanked me for being such a good employee and that I'm a good person and I need to be with my family. My boss was also involved with this and told me to go spend time with my mom. I feel so blessed to work there and to know these people as well as my other co-workers who have also been very supportive. I very much appreciate all of you!
I'm not going to call mom tonight. I don't want to disturb her. I will see her tomorrow and hope that she is well enough to go over the application from Social Services so that we can get that taken care of.
Love you mom! We're all here for you. Don't you worry about nothing but taking care of yourself!
Because mom is becoming more nauseous, they gave her more steroids with her chemo. This is like a catch 22. It will help with her nausea but keeps her up at night. If you've ever taken Prednisone, you know what the side effects are like. It's a strong stimulant and makes you feel like you had 5 pots of coffee. You get antsy and can't sleep. It's awful.
Mom still doesn't have an appetite. This concerns me immensely. Dan tried to talk to her about this and encouraged her to at least try to get down some Ensure. He even stopped to get her some Gatorade (bless his heart) so that she would have something in her stomach and help give her a little bit of strength. When I called her later, I also tried to encourage her to eat and asked her if she knew the importance of making sure she eats. She did but all she wanted to do was go take a nap. She sounded very lethargic. And mom never napped before...just goes to show how much this is taking a toll on her already. I tried to entice her to eat by asking her if she wanted any of her favorite foods, but a no go.
It tears me apart to see mom go through this and especially not eating. I plan on visiting her tomorrow. I want to make sure she rests and is eating something. And she may need some stuff done around the house, I don't think she has the energy to do it herself.
I can't say enough about my employer. I missed time at work this week for mom's treatment. To make up some of the time, I planned on working tomorrow. They would not hear of it. They insisted I spend time with mom and not to worry about my time. I started to tear up. Jody (the President), kissed me on the head while her husband actually thanked me for being such a good employee and that I'm a good person and I need to be with my family. My boss was also involved with this and told me to go spend time with my mom. I feel so blessed to work there and to know these people as well as my other co-workers who have also been very supportive. I very much appreciate all of you!
I'm not going to call mom tonight. I don't want to disturb her. I will see her tomorrow and hope that she is well enough to go over the application from Social Services so that we can get that taken care of.
Love you mom! We're all here for you. Don't you worry about nothing but taking care of yourself!
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Side Effects
Dan took mom to her chemo today. He said that she looked and sounded tired. Elisa picked her up.
I called mom when I got home to see how she was and how today went. She sounded very loopy. Mom has been taking pain medication and Ibuprofen to help with the pain in her neck. Ever since her "long day" on Tuesday, she has had a swollen neck, likely due to all the liquids she had that day and some since. The nurse said it appeared the swelling is going down but that they would keep an eye on it.
Mom was very tired yesterday. Her pre-treatment normal bed time was around 11pm every night. With everything that she has gone through, emotionally and physically, she now is experiencing fatigue. She was in bed at 8pm last night! She woke up at 1pm, took another pill (Ibuprofen) and went to sleep until 6:30 this morning.
Mom didn't have an appetite today. And her throat has a burning sensation (from the radiation). And with her fatigue, it seems some of the side effects are kicking in. We worry about her, especially being alone.
I'm glad mom will have 2 days to rest and recuperate after tomorrow (another day of chemo and radiation). She will undergo radiation on Monday. Then Tuesday, chemo (6 hrs...her "long day") and radiation.
Mom asked me in a weary, sad voice, "I wish you could be with me Tuesday". To which I replied, "Of course I will be with you mom. I'll take the day off." You can tell that perked her up a bit when she said, "You will? Oh good!". After we hung up, Dan had said she said the same thing when he drove her to the hospital today for her treatment. I didn't realize how much she wanted me to be there with her on her "long days". I have to admit, I missed being with her these past two days during her treatment..short or long. I wish I could take every day off, to be with her and support her. I am so grateful I have such an understanding employer. They have been wonderful during this entire ordeal.
After talking with social services the other day, the application for financial assistance came today. Now I will open it, review it and more than likely go see mom this weekend to complete it. The sooner the better.
I also got my flu shot today. Elisa already received hers (mom did months ago). It's important for those close to her to have the shot. Mom will be vulnerable and prone to infections and sickness so we all need to be as healthy as we can be.
Please keep us in your prayers. I know I pray a lot more than I used to.
I called mom when I got home to see how she was and how today went. She sounded very loopy. Mom has been taking pain medication and Ibuprofen to help with the pain in her neck. Ever since her "long day" on Tuesday, she has had a swollen neck, likely due to all the liquids she had that day and some since. The nurse said it appeared the swelling is going down but that they would keep an eye on it.
Mom was very tired yesterday. Her pre-treatment normal bed time was around 11pm every night. With everything that she has gone through, emotionally and physically, she now is experiencing fatigue. She was in bed at 8pm last night! She woke up at 1pm, took another pill (Ibuprofen) and went to sleep until 6:30 this morning.
Mom didn't have an appetite today. And her throat has a burning sensation (from the radiation). And with her fatigue, it seems some of the side effects are kicking in. We worry about her, especially being alone.
I'm glad mom will have 2 days to rest and recuperate after tomorrow (another day of chemo and radiation). She will undergo radiation on Monday. Then Tuesday, chemo (6 hrs...her "long day") and radiation.
Mom asked me in a weary, sad voice, "I wish you could be with me Tuesday". To which I replied, "Of course I will be with you mom. I'll take the day off." You can tell that perked her up a bit when she said, "You will? Oh good!". After we hung up, Dan had said she said the same thing when he drove her to the hospital today for her treatment. I didn't realize how much she wanted me to be there with her on her "long days". I have to admit, I missed being with her these past two days during her treatment..short or long. I wish I could take every day off, to be with her and support her. I am so grateful I have such an understanding employer. They have been wonderful during this entire ordeal.
After talking with social services the other day, the application for financial assistance came today. Now I will open it, review it and more than likely go see mom this weekend to complete it. The sooner the better.
I also got my flu shot today. Elisa already received hers (mom did months ago). It's important for those close to her to have the shot. Mom will be vulnerable and prone to infections and sickness so we all need to be as healthy as we can be.
Please keep us in your prayers. I know I pray a lot more than I used to.
The Beginning...
Over the holidays, mom wasn't feeling well. She had a persistent cough that just wouldn't go away. A family member convinced mom to get a chest x-ray. Maybe it was a chest cold? Maybe pneumonia?
Over a period of weeks, it was determined on Monday, January 8th, that she had cancer. We didn't know what type or how severe. We were convinced though that it had to be stage 1. Her doctor was sending her records to a cancer specialist who would review and do additional tests. We would not lose control of our emotions...we did not know what we were up against...yet.
On Wednesday, January 10th....the bad news. Mom had stage 3b lung cancer. The last stage is stage 4. WHAT?? She quit smoking 7 years ago. The specialists said it was due to second hand smoke. My uncle did smoke in the house for a few years after mom quit smoking. But come on! Wow. No way could this be happening. We can't lose our mom! It's so unfair! How did we miss so many stages?? What do we do now? How and when do you begin treatment? How do we pay for this? How will mom be taken care of? All these thoughts go through your mind, some that you don't or shouldn't have to think about yet...and don't end. It was a total shock to us all. But then again, anyone receiving news that they or a loved one has cancer IS a shocker, isn't it.
Mom, Elisa and I had to take several days for ourselves to let it sink in before we (especially mom) were able to tell close friends and family members. It was difficult but necessary.
And so mom's journey (as well as mine and Elisa's) begins.....
Mom is receiving two different kinds of chemo. One (on the "short days") is not as intense as the other given on her "long days".
Monday was her first round. Lots of paperwork to complete and the procedure took about 3 hours total. They gave her steroids to help with nausea and other things for pain. This round we call her "short days".
Tuesday mom had a 6 hour round of chemo. These rounds are called her "long days". This type of chemo is more potent and can hurt the kidneys. It takes longer to administer as they have to do the drip at a slower rate. She receives all her chemo through an IV in her hand. For this chemo they need to giver her a liter of saline to hydrate her body. Then the chemo begins and later a diuretic. Then another liter of saline. This is to have her body flush alot out to protect her kidneys as much as possible. The clinic at Clifton Springs provide comfortable leather recliners for the patients. Only one person at a time can be with each patient (we get very uncomfortable chairs, lol).
During the "long day", mom watched TV while I read all kinds of magazines as well as brochures on cancer. The time went by faster than than what we thought. Mom's only justifiable complaint was having to go to the restroom about every 5-10 minutes for an hour because of all the liquids and the diuretic. She's a trooper and she is doing very well. She is optimistic and handling all the information, treatment, schedules, schedule changes well. I'm very proud of her. She hasn't experienced any severe side effects...yet. Each person is different. She may experience none, some or all. Hair loss, fatigue, nausea, loss of sleep, constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite...just to name a few.
Today, mom had her first round of radiation. This only takes about 5-10 minutes. She also received chemo again today. It was a short day. Mom will receive radiation each day and chemo sporadically for the next 30 days (excluding weekends). Elisa is listed as the primary on mom's Healthcare proxy and I will be her Power of Attorney should it ever come to that.
We are taking it one day at a time. I've been in touch with Social Services to see if mom will qualify for any type of financial assistance during this difficult time. Surprisingly, they returned my call the very next day! They are sending me an application to see if mom can qualify for anything. She currently has AARP but that doesn't go into effect until August 1 and medicare only pays 80%.
Thanks to all of you who have helped or offered help and information thus far. We really appreciate it. Elisa and I are doing better and making sure we stay strong for mom. She was always there for us...still is...and we most certainly will be there for her.
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