we are still going to wait to get the x-ray and/or MRI as his sternum is healing up well on its own (as is the typical case). we are very thankful for that. his knee only swelled a very little and the doctor did not think it was broken, but maybe that the ligaments or tendons got pulled. we will hopefully be able to get n in the car to check it out in the next few weeks. as of only a few days ago, n has started to shuffle around in his REI moon boots i got him years ago. this is a huge step for all of us! he also got himself in the shower last night, which shocked me, since he had been waiting for me to come in and help him. it was his second shower in three weeks and he'd been trying to get my help all week, but i'd been getting home too late. he threw down the towels on the tile and just went for it. that was another amazing leap that has given us all a glimmer of hope.
wally has been helpful for the most part, foregoing her precious afternoon naps by n's side. she does not seen to be intimidated by the wheelchair, but she runs when she sees that oxygen tank turning the corner. funny gal. my mom, a.k.a. franco, came for a week and was an incredible help lifting n in and out of bed several times a day, helping him on and off the toilet, up several times a night, etc. etc. she was full of God's grace to help in a desperate situation. there has not been a single hour of down time for any of us since this happened, but it's getting a little better each day as n is literally taking strides towards more independence.
you really don't know how much it takes to care for a person until they lose the ability to do even the simplest things like put on socks, grab a plate out of the cupboard, turn on the sink, move a around a corner or through a doorway. multiply that by a number of other major and minor tasks and you don't stop moving. i imagine having kids is similar. you are always waiting for the next thing and your day is scattered into constant interruptions. lots of people says illness is always hardest on the caregiver, but i totally disagree. it's very trying, but i don't think i could endure the patience, emotional strength, and physical endurance it takes to wake up everyday feeling sick and dependent on others. not to mention losing my ability to walk and get things for myself. i am grateful to be able to hustle into another room and grab something. n now has to plan ahead or wait until the right time to ask someone to wheel him through the narrow doorway to get his glasses etc. he is humble and patient beyond words.
i was an emotional mess while my mom was here, but i think it was good for me. she was a great friend and mom-in-law to n, also. they played crosswords at each meal. n's newest diversion since he can't swim or walk or get much needed relief in any other distraction. he's had an AMAZING attitude! what a man.
johnny flew back in the night before my mom headed back to CA. i don't have words to say how johnny and hilary are caring for us, but it's been incredible. johnny is the absolutely most amazing caregiver for his son, and all of us really. he allowed us girls to have a few hours out together which was pleasant... i think. can't actually remember, but i know i just love my two mommas very, very much. i am blessed with an amazing family. i just wish i could see my franco more often!!!thank you, everyone, for your kind words and prayers on comments, emails, facebook etc. regarding the last post and our 5 year anniversary etc. it means a lot to hear from you. what a miraculous journey it has been. i praise God for another year with my beloved husband.
