Yesterday was long and tiring simply because there was a lot of waiting to be done. At least she is home. Though in typical fashion her transport arrived earlier than her equiptment. (Not typical for the various agencies involved… but Mum being early.)
The day started with meeting the hospice (Optimal) representative in Mum’s room. I nice chap named Richard who genuinely had our interest at heart. I was naturally nervous before the meeting but that was put to rest quickly. He would handle her discharge and I was told to go home to wait.
Karen met me at home for company and moral support. She even went out and picked up sandwiches for lunch. It was great having her there. Being an RN she could chat with the EMTs when they arrived with Mum. Mum was a little agitated on the gurney but once the air matress was set up and she was back in bed she settled down. She even announced that she would go to sleep.
After Karen left another friend, Vye came by. She asked what was needed and directly went out to buy 2 pillows so that Mum’s hands could rest on them.
Richard (from Optimal) who is also an RN came by to check up on Mum and install the oxygen unit. He then gave me instructions for Mum’s care. This included how to administer medication and the timetable for home care and nurse visits. He then looked me straight in the eye and asked me,”Are you up for this?” My answer was, “Yes… I’ve been caring for her all this time… why should I stop now.” We chatted for a bit and I was told the medication would arrive after 5 PM.
At 5:30 Airplane Jayne came by with dinner and a chat. Soon after she left the medication arrived at about 7… not a moment too soon as Mum was experiencing discomfort. This subsided as soon as I gave her the medication.
A little later Mum was restless again… just as my friends Aileen and Tony arrived to visit… as well as Shookie. They helped me calm her and we administered her next dose. Once she settled down and fell asleep we went outside and chatted. It was great having them around and the support was greatly appreciated.
Yes, company at this time helps me a lot… so if you are in the Big NO feel free to visit. Shookie offered to come in again this morning to help. I am very thankful for this… as I am thankful for everyone who has come by… just to hang. Many have offered help in anyway… right now I will take your company.
It’s 7:30 in the morning and Mum is resting. Once this blog is posted I will go back in to be with her.
BTW… keep those stories coming in (see post below)