Saturday, July 16, 2022

8:06 PM

Hello! I keep seeing the analogy of a drop of water a day hoping to eventually fill the bathtub.

  Larry's brother came from the Island and saw him for the first time today. Larry had a few awake moments with him. It is a shock for each person to see Larry for the first time, in the state that he is in.  Not that we are getting used to seeing him this way, but we are able to look beyond the feeding tube in his nose & I.V. shunts/catheter in one hand & the other arm. The toughest thing to witness, (as I say ea. time) is his heaving to cough up.  Thankfully today, after re-positioning, he got an hour of uninterrupted sleep. When he coughs, his eyes open. It's not exactly a relaxed conversation we have. "Oh wow!" is his most common response to whatever I tell him about someone who has sent him a message.

  The occupational therapist was assessing Larry when I arrived, to make a rehab plan for him. Rehab today, meant helping him lift his elbow off the bed, squeezing his fingers together & answering questions about where he is, the date, etc. He always answers "No!" when asked if he hurts anywhere. Although, today, as he lay there, he would slide his feet a little and raise his hand (which wasn't tied down). He shrugs his shoulders and says (whispers) would we please rub them, also his back is starting to bother him. When he is repositioned, it is never on his side, so back rubs aren't in the picture right now. Stroking his forehead and face seems to have an instant calming effect & he falls right back to sleep. It is so exhausting for him and for us to witness his distressing attempts to clear his lungs. I have no idea when that's supposed to improve, but tonight would not be too soon.

 Larry's surgeon stopped by for a quick visit. He said this is the 'medical' stage. The medical team works hard to help him not get bed sores, blood clots & covid.

  Larry did say a couple of sweet things, even if it was just by raising his eyebrows or giving a squinty smile with his eyes.

I am so grateful for the outpouring of love for Larry and for me. I relay every message to him that comes in. He is very grateful, I know, for all who are also helping me in practical ways.

 It was Larry's friend's birthday today, the 3rd bday for someone since in hospital. I sing happy birthday to that person, & Larry joins me in his heart. Feel free to let us know when your big day is, & we'll salute you too.

  I've slept fairly well for three nights now, and It sure has made a difference.

 Take care of yourselves and your loved ones and perhaps even someone who needs you to hear them. (Don't know why I just said that, but it is meant for someone, I'm sure.)

God bless you. xoxo