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The Long and Winding Road…

~ An Alzheimer's Journey and Beyond

The Long and Winding Road…

Category Archives: Kobacker House

What a ride…

14 Friday Dec 2012

Posted by Ann Napoletan in End of Life Signs, HomeReach, Hospice, Kobacker House, Mom

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Mom slept so peacefully all night. Her breathing is perfect – any time I woke up, she sounded the same. Nice breaths, spaced at normal intervals.

The PSA is giving her a bath right now and is talking to her quietly every step of the way… making sure she knows exactly what is happening next and is not scared. Whether she’s awake or asleep, they talk to her constantly…nurses explain everything they are doing and comfort her gently as they go… the staff here is just incredible. What a gift they have.

Doc was in earlier and said she has a strong pulse in the tiniest artery at the lowest point in her foot. He said the process could take longer since her organs are so strong and healthy.

This morning, when I told her I loved her, she opened her eyes so very, very slightly, and a tiny tear came out. Could have been a fluke, will never know.  A few minutes later, she blinked her eyes – just once, but I’d like to think that was a sign. It was incredible that even during that apnea, when I talked to her, her breathing would immediately quicken. The nurse said that was her way of telling me she is here and everything is okay.

One minute at a time…

 

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…Short Update

13 Thursday Dec 2012

Posted by Ann Napoletan in End of Life Planning, End of Life Signs, HomeReach, Hospice, Kobacker House, Mom, Ruminations, Support system

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Had problems getting Mom’s pain controlled last night and had a “horrible nurse” experience. Thankfully, Nurse Ratchet II was reassigned and her replacement was great. Situation made its way back to the doc, who brought it up with me today and apologized, saying there was absolutely no excuse for her behavior. I’m glad it was “handled.” This woman doesn’t belong in any role involving caring for people and certainly not in a hospice setting.

It was a mostly calm day. Mom’s breathing returned to “normal” – after 30 to 40 seconds between breaths for a good long while, there is no more apnea. Blood pressure is still holding strong at 113ish/83ish. Such a roller coaster of emotion. I must continue to remind myself that she isn’t getting better – she is just moving through the various end of life stages…

Tonight, they gave her something to try and dry up the secretions in her throat to limit the “rattling” … it isn’t always effective, so we will wait and see, but so far so good. And the big thing is that I don’t want HER to be uncomfortable. If she’s relaxed and not bothered by it, we can deal. However, last night, it seemed to be adding to her distress.

A good deal of time today was spent reminiscing, smiling at the recollection of fond memories, and starting to plan her Celebration of Life. As one major aspect fell into place tonight, I am absolutely positive, without question, that she will be watching from Heaven with a HUGE smile on her face. We’re going to do this right, just as she would have wanted it to be.

We have such an amazing support system and continue to be overwhelmed by everyone’s kindness and prayers. Thank you for lifting us up. There is certainly a Higher Power carrying us through this… otherwise, I would have fallen apart long ago.

Tonight she is resting so peacefully. She really looks beautiful…

And as for Jess and I, we are much more peaceful tonight as well… we continue to watch and wait, until He is ready to welcome her Home.

bear

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Caregivers – As the Journey Comes to an End…

12 Wednesday Dec 2012

Posted by Ann Napoletan in Blogging, Caregivers.com, End of Life Planning, Hospice, Kobacker House, Mom

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Today on Caregivers — >   As the Journey Comes to an End: Planning

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