Jeanne’s Story

Site created on January 31, 2019

How did we get here?  Leading up to Christmas, Mom suffered from increasing shortness of breath.  As women, particularly nurses, are inclined to do, she offered a million and one reasons for the shortness of breath.  A few days after Christmas Mom finally agreed to seek medical attention.  She received a working diagnosis of congestive heart failure and began a course of medical management.  More often than not, the diagnosis of congestive heart failure includes a diagnostic process to evaluate for underlying causes.  In this case, that process was taking entirely too long.  An unplanned trip to the local E.R.  (yes, Ruth tricked her!) and subsequent hospitalization ensued which put Mom on the fast track to a diagnosis and plan.  The situation was more complicated than anticipated, and thanks to a family friend, we benefited from an immediate transfer of care to the Mayo Clinic.  A thorough review of medical records and supplemental testing resulted in a lengthy discussion. All options were prayerfully considered.  With a desire for the best possible quality of life, Mom elected surgery.  So here we are, the night before surgery, in Rochester MN.  We are fortunate that we live so close to Mayo Clinic - one of the best cardiology programs in the country.  We are also blessed beyond measure with the love and support of our family (both near and far) and so very, very many friends!  

Newest Update

Journal entry by Ann Hoscheit

Yesterday I enjoyed a cup of coffee with a dear friend.  He asked how Mom was doing and shared how much he valued the updates...then there was nothing!  I said, "do you know how many times I've intended to go back to Caring Bridge and write an update?"  Well clearly, my road to hell is paved with good intentions!  But alas, here is an update!
Mom did, in fact, start cardiac rehab the first week of March and has been an amazing compliant and impressive patient!  The family took turns driving her to cardiac rehab and she worked for a solid hour three days a week!  Each visit she increased her efforts and quite honestly, is a cardiac rehab RockStar!  
While at home she has certainly enjoyed the visits, cards, treats, etc.  But if I'm perfectly honest, I think she enjoys Sophie (Ruth's dog) visits the most!😀 
Nick is busy planting and I think Mom is well enough to worry about the weather and getting planting done 'on time'. He and Beth have made sure someone keeps an on her and provided many yummy meals and desserts.   Mary has made numerous visits to Caledonia and she is a WORKER BEE when she is on-site!  No worries about cleaning house, meals, laundry when Mary is in town!  Ruth was Mom's primary mode of transportation until Grandma Jeanne felt ready to drive again!  Yeah Mom!  There is not enough room to list all of the things Ruth has done to help during this recovery (sometimes ignoring her own limitations to get 'er done)!  Lynn and her girls (Megan and Abby) have also been great support - driving, visits, chores, etc.  All this to say - it took a village and thank goodness we are blessed with a great village!
Mom is down with a bit of a cold this week and we've actually had to insist that she skip cardiac rehab and rest.  Of course, no one is surprised!  I think she heard rumors of a Cardiac Rehab Celebration and doesn't want to miss out on that, haha. 
Joe and I will return on Memorial Day for two weeks and so excited, as they say in the south, "to hug her neck" and see how she is doing with our own two eyes.  
Apologies for the void on this site but as they say 'no news is good news' and I think there's been plenty of good news!  Thank you for your continued prayers and kind words.  There is not a day that goes by when someone doesn't ask, "How's your Mom?"   We sincerely hope that we can be there for YOU no matter what joy, pain, struggle or challenge comes your way!
We have so much to be thankful for - and the blessing continue as we celebrate Abby's graduation on May 31st! 
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