I Graduated.......

The Therapists at the Radiation Center at LDS Hospital gave me this certificate today.

I cannot believe that 6 weeks have passed so quickly. I thought for sure I would get tired of going there everyday but I did not. Neither did my driver. Perhaps it was because I knew it was essential and also because the people that worked with me there were so friendly, gentle, compassionate, and supportive.

We met some people we knew for years, and met some new people who were there as others support team.

I did not have to have chemo.

I did not get fatigued as I was cautioned I might. I do have some burn that hopefully will heal before too long.

I learned things about radiation therapy I never knew. And marvelled at the equipment that has been developed.

The Therapists told me there would be a slight change in procedure this final week and I assured them that I trusted that they knew what they were doing. One said, "Oh no, we make it up as we go along". (What was I smiling at?)

I can only thank them for their love. And thank you also for your love, concern, and prayers. :o)

Much as I love them and am grateful, I hope I don't have to see them again :o), but I will, I have a follow-up appointment in a month. :o)

A Recommendation.......

....that I followed through on....


Melissa recommended this book,"The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society". I borrowed it from the library and found it most delightful and add my recommendation to Melissa's. You will find her review in her blog in February. I found it interesting in this book the amount of letter writing that took place and mourn the passing of "writing letters"

Usually as the family have suggested books I have looked at them and tried but couldn't get involved but this was different, perhaps because of the British connection.

Because of being incapacitated recently I have had several books loaned to me, I like mysteries among other types and my Visiting Teacher loaned me a Mary Higgins Clark book that I devoured and that has set me visiting the library more often of late. Her books are very tense, but enjoyable.

I learned at any early age to enjoy reading and my family always had library cards that were well used. Of course back then we didn't have TV and all the modern devices to amuse us. So reading was prime.

The problem I have with reading is; I can't lay the book down till it is finished so other things have to wait. Well, things like laundry, and shopping, and cleaning, and cooking etc.

What about you? read any good books recently?

January 2010

January 5th I went to LDS Hospital for a right hip replacement. I was nervous. But from the time we entered the hospital everyone was friendly, courteous, helpful and full of confidence. I began to relax. And by the time Lesley and Lilian arrived to give their Dad moral support we were ready for a party. Well, they partied. The first person to visit was a respiratory therapist and this shows my efforts to get my lungs moving.
In about 4 hours they had me up on my feet with the aid of a walker. I had to get physical therapy. Alan of course went with me for moral support for me and hopefully a learning curve for him. (to help me at home). Well, needless to say Alan was in great form. There were some others there who had had knee surgeries and with long broad elastic "reins" were attempting to lift their legs. Of course Alan starts singing, "oh, the Deadwood stage is a'coming on over the hill". It wasn't all fun and games but they did take care of me. Alan was able to stay at nights and it was a comfort to me to see him when I opened my eyes.
Coming home was quite traumatic as the car seat was a long way down. But we made it and I was able to tackle the stairs. I have never used crutches before but they were surprisingly easy to maneuver. And now I am beginning to go on one crutch.

For a few days I felt like I was on a roller coaster as I dealt with reactions to various drugs and taking pills on an empty stomach.
I have had a Physical Therapist visit me at home three times a week to teach me and encourage me in doing exercises. I have also had a home nurse visit twice a week with 24 hour on call service.
On Wednesday I have a follow-up visit scheduled with the surgeon.
Some neighbors brought meals and others came to encourage. Cory took G'pa to a car show while Lilian "tended" G'ma. Jeffrey and Melissa brought me a Jamba Juice :o)
What a great job Alan has done/is doing in taking care of me. He would have done it for me if possible and we have shed a few tears together as I hurt and he hurt for me. But we have also laughed a lot too.
I am grateful for Heavenly Father who has put into the hearts and minds of men to develop these procedures and other procedures to help us here on the earth.

Saturday night we all went to Lilian and Cory's to celebrate Alan's birthday and what a great way to celebrate my "coming out" of the house.