A Great Day

Dad had a pretty good night. He slept off and on and experienced little pain. He has an epidural as well as a cpak that delivers pain med when he pushes the button. He used the cpak minimally last night throughout the day.

The morning was filled with visits from nurses, aides, respitory therapists, pain management team, wound care team, physical therapists, student nurses, and even a doctor or two! They have all been helpful and ever so kind. The director of nursing came in and Dad told her she is doing a good job hiring, explaining that all his nurses have been caring, informative, helpful and so very nice. Dad is, as always kind in return. He enjoys talking with all who come in and it has been fun to listen to him as he asks where they are from, how long they have been in the profession, where they live, etc. He even gives them advice now and then :).

Dad was looking forward to a liquid diet today when the doctor gave him the grave news that he will not be able to eat or dirnk for about a week. Ugh! After that he tried to bribe, trick or tease the staff to give him some food. When they would ask if there was anything else he needed he would ask for a menu, a hamburger or even a glass of water -and he hates water! They wouldn't take the bait! He is doing okay with it though, says he is not hungry in his stomach, just in his mind.

Dad continues to amaze us with his stamina. One nurse commented that she never would have guessed dad was in his eighties- because of his looks as well as his physical shape. They got him up for a walk at 8:30 this morning. He took off like a bat out of heck and it was hard to keep up with him! Three quarters of the way around the floor, someone commented on his speed and he did a little two step in response! He went on four walks and figured he covered 5/12 of a mile. He boasted to the night nurse of his accomplishment and then said he thinks it should be worth some food stamps! (Still trying to get food one way or another:) )

Dad looked forward all day to watching the Celtics beat the Lakers and was pretty disgusted with the game. However, he still enjoyed commenting on the officiating. I guess you could say the only disappointing thing about the day was the Celtics miserable defeat, but hey, there's always the game on Thursday to look forward to.

Mom sends her love to all and thanks you all for your love and continued support. - Dayna