we're back

Wow, didn't realize how long it has been since I posted last. Lots to catch you up on. Dad got settled into Avamere. It was a rough start at first as they didn't do things MY way. For those of you who don't know me that posed a huge problem for them. We did get over that hurdle and have reach some compromises. Fortunately for dad I know the system and I don't take no for an answer.

He started off with a room mate that isn't the most friendly. Add to this that the remote control works both televisions. The televisions are about 6 feet apart so competing volumes are interesting. A short sheet separates the two beds. The phones ring and Dad doesn't know whose phone is ringing. Interesting to watch him be a rule follower. Struggles with asking for things in part because he is trying to follow the rules as he thinks they exist. He also doesn't ask because he can't always find the words to ask for what he wants.

Continuing to have headaches. Doing therapy both physical and occupational with some reluctance. He has befriended one Physical Therapist named Lars. He even got Lars to walk him down the street to the local coffee shop. His charm and sense of humor get him bonuses.

Went to see the GI doctor to talk about the colon mass that he chose not to have surgically removed prior to the stroke. He has let 9 months go by so the GI doctor feels he should wait to recover a few more months. Dad doesn't want surgery so we will do a follow up colonoscopy in a few months to try to determine prognosis with and without surgery to make a treatment decision.

Saw the neurologist yesterday. He was overwhelmingly surprised by dad's progress. All are hopeful that he will soon be ready for an assisted living facility, We were able to get orders for a speech therapist to work with him to help with his aphasia( inability to word find) and reading. His inability to read may also be impacted by his visual field cut so we are also following up with and optometrist to talk about prism lenses or other treatment options. His visual field cut also affects his balance and ability to reach and hold things.

We were able to get both of the cats corralled an taken to Shane's house to foster. It was quite an adventure catching the kitten. Jason and I both were wounded and had a well needed intense laugh at each others attempt to chase and capture the wild one. Both cats are now scheduled to be spayed and neutered and can them visit dad at the center.

Had a brief scare when he was transported by ambulance this week to the ER for shortness of breath. His Oxygen level was at 80%. He had several tests to confirm that it was not his heart or a a blood clot. Treatment with inhaler resolved the problem. Likely it was his COPD causing the problem. We did learn that the facility didn't know that he needed a rescue inhaler and he had one in his drawer that he used prior to the paramedics arriving.

Packing up dad's apartment this week. Seems as dad stays busy healing, Jason and I stay busy with all of the other work to be done to support his healing. Everything is done best with a team.