Sunday, July 8, 2012

Checking In

I just got back from visiting Cheryl in Denver.  I was scheduled to visit later this month, but a few days ago, she got the news that her cancer is spreading faster than expected and her liver function is failing.  I decided not to wait any longer to see her, so I got on a plane the next morning.  My visit with her was wonderful.  Her stroke recovery continues by leaps and bounds, and she is full of energy, so she kept me busy with projects and errands the whole time.  Her partner has returned to work full time, and Nurse Nick, who has been caring for her around the clock since she got sick, finally had to return to work in Baltimore the day I arrived, so my arrival was fortuitous. 

It also meant I had Cheryl to myself all day, which was delightful, if tiring.   She is mentally fine, but she has had some emotional and behavioral changes since the stroke, and has poor impulse control, which means she needs someone to keep an eye on her all the time.  She tends to forget she has physical limitations from the stroke, and has forgotten how to perform many everyday tasks, which can be dangerous--like trying to pick up a hot pan without a mitt or incorrectly using a sharp knife.  She is walking pretty well, but it is still dangerous for her to use the stairs alone or walk on uneven surfaces, and her right arm is still paralyzed.  Every evening is a party at their house these days, with friends dropping in, bringing food, and hanging out.  I really enjoyed spending time with her awesome friends and family. 

While I was in Denver, my father died.  He had been in the hospital for about three weeks, with an ever-increasing number of health issues.  By the time I left for Denver, he was no longer conscious.  My mom decided to remain with him while I went to Cheryl.  Mom is now on her way to Denver, and the KH and I are making funeral arrangements for my dad for later this week, after my mom gets home.

Things are, naturally, a bit hectic around here, but I hope to get back to regular blogging shortly.

21 comments:

Jean Baardsen said...

My thoughts are with you. I'm glad you were able to be with Cheryl. What memories you'll have. I don't want to offend by expressing my beliefs, but I imagine your dad will be waiting for your sister when her time comes.

Linda said...

So sorry to read about your dad. But it's wonderful that you got to spend time with your sister. Prayers being said for you and your family. God give you strength and peace.

Dawn in NL said...

My sincere condolences regarding your father! Your family are going through a tough time. I am glad you had such a satisfying visit with your sister. Thinking of you.

Sterkte
Dawn

Cynthia said...

Thank you for checking in. I am thinking of you.

Kelli said...

Blogging...who cares about blogging. It seems to me your priorities are on straight. Blog when you can.

I am so glad that you were able to spend quality time with your sister, that is such a cherished opportunity.

Please accept my sincere condolences in the loss of your father.

Sending you light and love. ~ksp

Tracy Purtscher said...

Love, hugs, and strength.

toni in florida said...

Huge and repeated hugs to you all. The only thing we need from you is a note if there is anything we can do to help you. Otherwise, don't worry about us. We'll be here, no matter how long it takes.

kmkat said...

{{{hugs}}} Sometimes life can throw you a bunch of curve balls AND a hurricane, all at the same time. Take care of yourself, too, lady!

Dr Christine Crawley said...

My thoughts are with you and your situation. x

Anonymous said...

My sincere sympathy for the loss of your father. My thoughts are with you and your family. Don't worry about us, we're here for you when you need us.

Strickmuse said...

Wishing you strength in these difficult times.

sophanne said...

Hi friend. We are here sharing in our thoughts of you some of the hard you are having. Now maybe it will be a little less hard.

Unknown said...

Blog if it helps, but otherwise don't fret over it. The passing of a life seems to bring endless details and loose ends that need attending to. And that's on top of everything else. Keeping you in my thoughts.

quiltyknitwit said...

Oh my, such sad news for you & your family. Sending good thoughts your way.

Bonnie said...

You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Susan said...

My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. It is so good that you were able to spend some time with your sister, and so hard that you were not able to be with your father! Blog when you can - we'll be here when you are ready. May God give you strength.

Melodye said...

I am so sorry for your troubles. Remembering you and your family in my prayers.

Amy S. said...

So, so sorry for your losses and troubles! Grieve and be good to yourself.

5elementknitr said...

I'm so sorry for your loss.
My FIL passed in June after about the same amt of time in the hospital - didn't make it any easier. If there's anything I can do....

I wish I knew you were in Denver, we could've had lunch together!!

Samantha said...

My thoughts are with you and your family; I am sorry to read of your father's passing and Cheryl's illness. I love the frog tattoos.

Bonnie said...

Have been checking every day to see if there are any more updates. Hope everything is going ok for your family.