We thought this would be a good way to keep you all updated on Mom's health status since her hospital stay a couple of weeks ago. Please feel free to share with others who we may not have email addresses for.
In early April Mom was hospitalized with pneumonia and vertigo. She managed to postpone the worst of her symptoms till after her two California grandsons got up to Portland for a visit. But after their visit she landed at Providence Hospital for several days. It was recommended at the hospital that she go to a Skilled Nursing Facility upon discharge which, understandably, Mom did not want to do. So we moved her to a nice Assisted Living unit at Bonaventure Senior Living in Gresham. (She had already moved inot an independent living apartment at Bonaventure so this was a simple move to a different floor.) She is well cared for at Bonaventure with a combination of staff from Bonaventure and from Providence.
Of course, and as always, Mom remains astute and attentive. We've set her up with a lap top so she still surfs Facebook and checks her emails. (Writing email replies is difficult on the lap top keyboard but she definitely receives your notes so please keep them coming!)
Unfortunately Mom's body is not cooperating. She is no longer able to stand or walk and is on oxygen 24/7. Mom has also had a couple of small "cardiac events" since she's been out of the hospital. Some days she feels like getting up into her recliner and other days she stays in bed. Her unit is beautiful and sunny, with a view of Mt. Hood on a clear day.
Karen is with her daily (and is my super hero)! I fly up from the Bay Area just as often as I'm able. Aunt Shirley visits every day and her Portland grandsons are so good about dropping in to see her. As are the rest of the Portland family. Mom is very anxiously awaiting the return of her damaged hearing aid so that she'll actually be able to hear what people are saying to her!
Thanks to all of you who have reached out through email and Facebook. Mom really does love to hear from everyone. Please send me a message (either through email or Facebook) if you'd like her mailing address.
CaringBridge is a nonprofit social network dedicated to helping family and friends communicate with and support loved ones during a health journey. Learn more about CaringBridge.
