Well Mooma Jane is doing really well. She might not think she is, but all of the nurses tell her she is doing really great. In fact she looks just like she normally does sans pink or blue sweater and black pants.
PT came down to give us exercise instructions yesterday. She did go up and down four stairs twice! The only problem is she had the Vulcan death grip on the rail. She was scolded by the therapist for her death grip, she is suppose to use her abs and her legs, but she doesn’t think she has strength in there. She does, we just need to remind her how to use those muscles. As for her lap record when I left she had done 6 (a personal record for her) and was walking on her own, with aid of only an arm! She does look down at the floor a lot so we need to reminder to hold her head up high.
She said she has no appetite yet, but after she finished her laps I gave her a cookie as promised and she gobbled that thing right up, so it looks like bribery will be the key to her exercising. When we spoke with the Dr’s nurse practitioner she said she was on schedule and will hopefully get out Wednesday or Thursday. So we can begin scheduling visitors when she gets out.
In other news, there are some things I need to help Mama Jane recover. If anyone has a baby monitor, could we borrow it? We have a cowbell for Mooma to call but at night she might need more than a bell to raise the farmer.
I am also in need a bike air pump to pump my tires so I can run away. No rush on these things but I will forget if I don’t say something now.
Also we need to remind Jane that she got the valve to live a better life, and that she has to work to recover, that there will be painful days, but some pain is good pain. The road to recovery is long and hilly, and she cannot fear what might happen, just face it will the love and support of her family and fiends. (I think I read that in a book) The fear of what might happen is our biggest obstacle right now, and it is one that I am having a hard time pushing her over.
THANKS
P
Posts
Jane, you know what? We older ladies grip the rail and look down even when we haven't had heart surgery. We understand your hesitancy to look up and walk with your head held high. Anyone who has had a major fall or major surgery can empathize.
ReplyDeleteHOWEVER, as you know, you must push yourself to "obey" your team so that the days you wake up and realize there's less pain and more strength will come faster and faster. Six laps is great--try for at least seven today and eight tomorrow. Just think--there are no long halls at home, just walks in the neighborhood among the spring flowers. Isn't that a nice thought?
I'm so looking forward to seeing you in early May. Paige, write me in for the night of May 5th and then for several days or as long as you need me after the 17th when I return to DC from Denver.
Now, Paige, you should have known bribery is the key for Miss Jane. Just look at Mr. Henry. Can there be any doubt? PS - A Berger cookie would work for me, too. When will she be allowed a glass of wine?
ReplyDeletePaige, We have a baby monitor!! You are welcome to it!
ReplyDeleteJan Jones
703-329-1831
Hi Jane,
ReplyDeleteIt sounds as if you are really getting a work out these past few days. Keep up that positive spirit. We are all cheering for you! Just think when you get home the Cherry Blossoms will also be blooming -- a sure sign of springtime and renewal for both of you.
We love you lots,
Linda & Conn
Jane,
ReplyDeleteI know the temptation of gripping the staircase, but this is not the Titantic. There are people there to catch you, this is the time to experiment -- try an extra lap or an extra step and then demand your reward. Cookies are cool, but find out when you can have champaign! All the walking you do, you have more strength in your legs and your abs then you think you do. Even if it runs contrary to your instincts, it will work.
love,
carole
Jane,
ReplyDeleteHang in there! I'm sure it's quite physically demanding to do your exercises, but in the words of Jane Prugh "this too shall pass". You wrote that to me in a card 17 years ago when I was coping with my concussion at Duke. And you were right (despite what my sister says). It sounds like you are doing wonderfully with your laps so keep up the good work. Even though you're on land and not in the water, you are our own Moochael Phelps.
Go for the gold, but it's ok if in these first few days you only reach silver. Or Berger (which frankly sounds better than gold to me anyhow). Give yourself some time and be patient with yourself! You will be back at the beach walking Henry in no time!
Love,
Emily
OK Paige, Family and Fiends? Freudian slip, perhaps? :) I'd like the wizard definition myself.
ReplyDeleteIn education, we refer to bribery as positive reinforcement. Berger cookies are perhaps on the very top of the most desired reinforcers. Thus, having started there, you may have to move to wine, as per Marlyn's comment. I am happy to help with any and all of the bribes/reinforcers.
Janie--love to hear you are so mobile. You've already got Jack beat and with a far more intense surgery. Well done my competitive friend.
Sitina sends kisses and Mooma Jane love. We can't wait for the next update.
xxoo
A vignette for Jane: When I told Emily about Henry's protestations over your absence, she reminded me of the story of Cinder's statement re: Emily's recent marriage to Brendon. They came home to discover the determined pup had very carefully peed on Brendon's side of the bed which she never had done before nor has she done since. So there! No telling what Mr. Henry will do next. Hurry home.
ReplyDeleteThree cheers for Jane! Hip Hip Hoorah!
ReplyDeletexoxoxox Lizzie
Six laps and 4 stairs - pretty soon you'll be running a marathon! We so glad you're feeling better and moving through the halls. We can only imagine how many new friends you've made. Tim and I are both looking forward to seeing you up and about the neighborhood as soon as you're ready.
ReplyDeletePaige - I think we have a bike pump - will check tonight when I get home. If not, I know Jim and Becky behind us do as they're avid bikers.
Best to all and holler if you need anything.
Angie and Tim
Keep up the good work Jane! I know it's hard to walk and work through the pain, but we're all rooting for ya!
ReplyDeleteRachel M
Keep up the good work Jane! I know it's hard to walk and work through the pain, but we're all rooting for ya!
ReplyDeleteRachel M
Yipee!Eleven laps,that's great.
ReplyDeleteThose udder folks better mooove over when they see you comin'!
Thanks for sharing your experiences- Jane are a wonderfully compassionate and giving human being- you have spent so many years giving to others- now is the time to take care of you! My thoughts are with you all- I will be excited to give you a big hug on your next adventure out to WA!
ReplyDeletelots of love,
Debbie Z.