There are so many ups and downs in how Mom is doing that I’m surprised from one visit to the next. Yesterday, Mom was generally alert when I arrived. When Helen came for a visit, Mom perked up and Helen had a very nice conversation with Mom. I volunteered to go with a Sunrise group for a lunch and movie outing. Near the end of the movie, I got a call from a Home Health nurse who saw Mom and wanted to let me know she was concerned because Mom’s oxygen and pulse levels were low. I got back quickly and Lucinda was there also pretty quick. Mom was lying on the bed and breathing seemed not quite right. We watched during the afternoon and Mom’s breathing became more steady. Sarah came late in the afternoon and Mom gave her a big smile and Sarah also had a good conversation with Mom. When we left about 7:00, Mom was still resting on the bed.
Today, when I arrived about 9:00, Mom was dressed and sitting in her chair. I woke her up and she seemed to be doing ok. I opened a letter from Jean and gave it to Mom to read and she began to read it aloud. The first efforts involved some repetition and moving around on the page, but then she started over and read the entire page and a half letter aloud. I believe she understood what she was reading and enjoyed it. Then we looked again at pictures Dwanda had sent and listened again to a voice message that Craig had left.
Hospice came about 10:00 and re-evaluated Mom and approved Mom for Hospice services. Mom talked with the Hospice nurse and social worker and even joked with them once. One of the immediate benefits of Hospice is that they will order a wheelchair for Mom and that will be a big help for the staff to work with Mom. Hospice is a great organization and the services they provide makes a real difference in the lives of people like Mom and for their families.
Then Holly, one of Helen’s ministers came with her harp and gave Mom a private serenade of good harp music and hymns. Mom seemed attentive and though she closed her eyes briefly, did not go to sleep and thanked Holly. After the last piece, Mom and I both clapped in appreciation.
Did I mention that this was an incredible morning? Mom is still not eating and that is still a concern. But it was still an incredible morning.
Unbelievable!!! Sounds like a positive day!