Health Update
I realize I have not updated since August 26th. My surgeon and I decided to go the conservative route and take antibiotics rather than surgery. September was uneventful as I was on bed rest the first half of the month and then doing rehab the second half. It is incredible how weak bed rest can make a person.
The groin wound is finally healing and is even filling in nicely. When they have to change the wound dressing, it is still painful. The groin is the worst place to have an open wound. Terry got all the equipment they said we would need when I came home. The shower chair and the walker have been the most useful. The wheelchair is not as helpful.
The day I came home from the hospital, I was tired, and after several tries, we realized I couldn’t get up the steps from the garage. As I was headed for the front steps, I fell and slammed my back into our cement planter. Our brother and sister-in-law came to help. I have had more pain in the back than the groin. The bruises are multi-colored, and the back is getting a bit better. After the first day fiasco, we rented a ramp for the garage steps, allowing me to leave the house.
Two more incidents occurred within the first 24 hours, but those are better discussed in person. I have been home for three weeks now, and I am stronger. I can feel my endurance getting better. I only leave the house for medical appointments. I can’t do much for myself; it is like taking a toddler somewhere. Home health care has been great. The wound nurses, shower assistant, physical therapist, and occupational therapist.
I still rest a lot, but I am awake for more hours. I am working on submissions to conferences for 2023. I am hooked up to a wound vacuum, allowing the wound to heal faster. I hope to be in good shape to enjoy the holidays. Being on bedrest in the hospital and resting these last few weeks has given me a lot of thinking time. It has been a wake-up call as to just how precious life is. I talk about that quite a bit, but I think it hit home with a bigger punch. Four surgeries, three stents, and numerous blood transfusions made for quite an adventure.
I am positively looking toward the future and will resume business activities in 2023. I am thankful for the many cards, gifts, messages, and calls I received. I also was sent an e-card signed by IIBA people on all the continents except Antarctica. I especially thank my best friend, Angie Wellman, who was here for two weeks when I had surgery. She was with Terry in the waiting room and spent many hours by my bedside. We still talk and text several times a week.
My husband, Terry, is owed special kudos for how helpful he has been. I am sure he will be happy when I am more self-sufficient. It is hard to look across the room and see an item you need. There is no way to go over and get it with the walker and the wound vacuum. I am doing good with PT and maybe will be able to shed the walker in the upcoming weeks. Until next time, please keep your glass at least half-full.
