Hanging In There

Dad's first week at home is almost over...and it's gone pretty well so far. There's certainly a lot to learn and everything seems to take a long time...but we know with some practice the caregiving will become routine and go more smoothly. Right now everything's new and a little awkward but for the first week home, it's been good. I continue to be impressed with mom and how well she has picked up the art of nursing...she's incredible. Pretty worn out, but incredible nonetheless. There is a nurse that comes from 9 pm to 9 am every night which is an immense help.

As far as dad's spirits, he has good moments and bad. Overall he's adjusting well, but of course there's times when the reality of it all is overwhelming. We were told the first week would be the toughest, so with that in mind everyone's pretty thankful it's gone as well as it has. There have been a few trips to the coffee shop, trips to the hospital for dialysis, and he and mom have been out running errands as usual. When I talked to mom today, she and Pops were at the grocery store and she was having trouble finding him...he tends to take off down the aisles and she can't keep up with his speed.

When I'm not in Wisconsin I am always anxious to hear how the day went and if Pops is okay. Each day that passes is another hurdle cleared...and I'm so thankful that dad is doing well. There will always be days that are just plain hard, but for the most part, both mom and dad have a good attitude and are focusing on life ahead and forgetting what's behind. I know that Pops is anxious to find things that he is able to do, so pray that in the weeks ahead he would discover new possibilities, new purposes, new hobbies to fill his time. I know with all my heart that God has a purpose for him, so we pray that in time Pops gets a clear vision of that purpose. And if you think of it, pray for his kidneys....apparently he is on the verge of not needing dialysis. It would be huge for him if he could be done with it, so we pray he continues to make beautiful pee. And keep praying for his trach hole to close...he still loses air and it drives him crazy.

Thanks for the continued prayers, encouraging words, and electronic hugs. God continues to shine through this drama and we continue to praise Him. Onward and upward...