On The Mend

Hello again, fellow travelers,

Thank you so much for the outpouring of support, the many kind and wise comments, and prayers!!  We had a wake-up call, and I feel that recovery is now finally underway.  I started feeling considerably better by Thursday afternoon and was up most of the day Friday.  I even walked the short distance to Erika's house Friday afternoon for a visit (Kathy was already there, and I rode back).  This morning we were up with the sun, surprised to see frost on the ground, but very thankful to feel well enough to get out of bed at a decent time.

In hindsight, we think that I just way overdid it the first few days out of therapy.  I was euphoric that the long ordeal was finally over, and I was over-anxious to get back to my normal life.  Unfortunately, we found out that it may be some time before we are able to determine the new "normal".  We also think that I allowed myself to become severely dehydrated.  Ever since this started, I have been balancing between keeping enough fluid on board and controlling the urge to "go".  I think I may have gone way too light on the fluids Tuesday morning knowing that I had a long ride to the hospital and some waiting time when I got there.  Our breakfast was also fairly light because we were in a hurry, and I was already starting to feel a little puny before we left.  The main thing is we have learned that I have limitations.  I feel much better now and will do all that I can to be able to keep it that way.

Notes to self: 

1.  Drink plenty of fluids. It is better to have to get up to "go" frequently than to not be able to get up at all.

2. Your body has been through a lot--even though it's invisible to us.  Relax and take it easy.  All the chores you see around you will still be there when you feel better.  The most important have been dealt with. Take short walks and rest often.

3.  Eat several light meals each day rather than trying to go right back to three squares.  Keep the food nutritious and you will likely live much longer.  

4.  Listen to your wife.  She has done an excellent job keeping you in line during your treatment.  Let her do the same during your recovery.    

 

Thank you again so much for your prayers, thoughts  and notes of support.  We honestly feel that all the positive energy kept me going during treatment and contributed greatly to my quick recovery from the latest setback.  Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers.  We have discovered that we still have a long way to go. 

HAVE A BLESSED AND HAPPY PASSOVER and EASTER!!

Shalom,

    Barry and Kathy