The Leg

Mike became so calm last Tuesday evening when I rolled him outside. He sat and studied his leg the entire time. That left leg is usually in constant motion and often has scrapes and skin tears on it. After my last blog, a friend sent me a link to Limbkeepers and I ordered a pair of leg sleeves. Will take them this week and see if it helps to protect that battered leg.

I made an unexpected trip to see him because he had been moved to the long-term hall the day before and I wanted to check on him. He was doing much the same as always and has great nurses and CNAs on that hall. The reason for the move was that his roommate, dear Mr. B. had died on the previous Saturday. I was sorry to learn of this on Monday morning and miss him, yet am glad for him that he now breathes easily and walks with Jesus. When I saw him the Wednesday before his passing, he was struggling so to breathe and sounded bad. I brought him ice cream and banana bread, 2 of his favorites. He said he couldn't eat much, but he was sure going to try to eat the ice cream and he did, but I don't think it stayed.  It was really different to go there and not see Mr. B whom I had come to love.

Mike and Mr. B were on the short-term hall or rehab wing. Mike was moved there because Mr. B didn't want to move when he was done with rehab and became long-term, so they asked me if I minded Mike being moved there. It was a good move at the time and I was thankful for all that Mr. B did in looking out for Mike. Mike is now in a room with Mr. P. whose wife comes every day. They are from India and don't speak a lot of English, but are kind and the Mrs. often takes the Mr. outside also, so we've seen a lot of each other when I'm there.

The good part of Mike's move is I know almost all of the nurses and CNAs on that hall and they seem more permanent. He's been receiving good care, but I do happen to think these are some of the best at the facility and continuity is so helpful. Somehow I think he'll get better care on this side.

Tomorrow is Mike's 63rd birthday. I plan to go for a short visit while a friend of Mom's comes to visit her. According to the nurse, the medication has gotten into his system and he is doing better at night, plus one of the CNAs told me they have not had any problems with him since he came to their side. I'm so thankful for this reprieve from agitation and stress however long or short it may be. Thank you so much for your prayers for Mike and for me.