Sharon's Drawing at the Cabin

Sharon had brought Mom a drawing she had done while staying at our place on Whitefish Bay. Mom really loved to go up there even with knowing our dog was going too!

The picture was out the front window overlooking the water. Here's a picture I took I think last summer of the same spot..........

Creig

Our Hunting Heritage

Our mom loved the woods and especially loved the deer woods. Mom was proud of two of her great grandsons, Jake and Alex, each connecting with their first deer this fall. In the hospital she just beamed when told the news of each of these special events.

Jake connected with his bow and gave the deer a sporting chance taking it on the second shot. You'll have to talk to him to get the full story. This at 11 years old!

Alex shot his during the youth firearm hunt- I think with the same gun his dad shot his first deer with........sounds like another tradition! Alex is 14 years old........

Five Angel Flowers?

This is for our Grandchildren and our Children, and the “Child” in all of us.

In the winter of 2000, when Grandpa Perry was sick and in the Hospital, I came up from Florida and visited with him, and with Grandma Nellie, my mother, who seldom left his bedside. We had a nice visit and Daddy seemed to be stronger. Grandma stayed with me at the Fairfield Motel, and one afternoon she felt she should go home and do the necessary things-water the plants, gather in their mail. We told Dad ,who agreed he would be fine, and off we went to Gladwin.
I began to water plants-Grandma used to love plants and had many. She had a real green thumb, and Grandpa liked the flowers, also. They had a really great collection of Orchids. Mama did everything wrong (according to the book) but they bloomed all over the place! They had stopped for the winter, I smiled remembering all the beauty as I began in the living room to water her ‘garden‘.
I was surprised to find that the big Cattleya (“Corsage Orchid”) was in full bloom! There were four blossoms, big. purple throated pristine white showy blooms. When Mama came in with mail, I asked her when it started blooming (Orchids bloom one flower after another), and she said that she didn’t know, it had never bloomed before.
I turned the plant as I watered it, and was surprised to find that one of the blooms was double! (Twin bloom?) One for each of us children, I thought. We sat and admired it while mama quickly sorted thru the mail ,but her heart was with Daddy. We even talked about taking it down for Daddy to see, but decided against it because of it‘s size. We enjoyed it for a few more minutes as we did necessary things, then left to return to the hospital. I think I mentioned it to my four siblings after our father passed away a few months later, but I had not taken a picture of it.

The day after Mama's funeral, when we had returned to our home I was talking to Lynn on the phone. I pulled open the blind in the bedroom and looked out at the snowy landscape. Nothing very comforting, just winter coming too soon. Oak leaves still drifted down. Even the poor wheelbarrow was not yet put in the garage. I walked away and sat on the bed. I stared out as I visited. Then I saw something yellow against the bleak picture. By now Jim was on the other phone and I told them I thought the Forsythia was blooming. Lynn told Jim to see what I was sipping!

Well, I put on my sweater and went outside. This poor, ratty little bush usually gets trimmed back each summer, and each summer it sends two or three shoots clear up over the porch rails, and we just leave it until it blooms in the spring. There were four blooms. I stared at it, and I remembered the Orchid. I walked closer, and scanned each branch. Come on, I whispered to it, where is number five? No doubles, but just as I was giving up, I found a big plump yellow bud on a smaller branch. Five!

This time, I just went back inside, and I picked up my camera, so now you know I am not dreaming.

Flowers from Angels? You decide.

Grandma/Aunt/Great Aunt Sharon

P.S. Did YOU look in your garden???

Look for the little yellow flowers!

Three?

One more

The Proof

The last little Bud

The End of the Day

The day just didn't seem to end for me after the funeral, in fact, I just wanted to stay in the church and listen to the great memories that all of you had. I knew it had to end.

The cemetery service was just immediate family-all 50 of us I think, but somehow comforting. After, our young people were invited to stay awhile and see their Ancester's monuments, and this they did, and ended up taking some pictures. We are glad they came. A cemetery should be a friendly, familiar place, not some fictional, scary spot.

On the way home, I asked Jim to swing by the Cemetery one more time. It felt warmer there than earlier, and peaceful. The workman were gone. Of course the flowers were not right, and I fidgeted with them for the last time. I picked up 3 roses which had been dropped, and the petals came off in my hand, so I sprinkled them around the site, re-set the wreath for the third time, and then took some pictures.

Since the pictures were a comfort to my brothers and sisters, I will post one for all of you.
I think now its the end of the day.

Good night, all

Sharon

73 days

We said goodbye to our Mother on August 30th 2008.
“You’ve had a massive heart attack,” the doctor told her. She wasn’t expected to make it through the night. But by morning she asked for a bowl of oatmeal and we celebrated.
Then on November 11th we again said our goodbyes to her. But this time, as the clock literally struck midnight, she left us to be with the Lord.
After her funeral on November 15th we had a meal and celebrated our Mother’s life before she was laid to rest next to our Dad.
During the 73 days in between our goodbyes, Mom had some great days, some good days, and a few bad days.
But every one of those days was a very special gift to us.

Our Mom on Mother's Day 2008

It's hard not to post a note or two and tell you how Mama is doing, so today I thought I would share a favorite picture. We met for Mother's day and had dinner in Gladwin this year. We had a nice time. It's great to have nice times to remember.
I will see most of you tomorrow.

Hug your Mother if she is near

Sharon

Nellie Grey 1923-2008

Nellie D. Grey, age 85, of Gladwin, MI, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2008 at Mid Michigan Medical Center – Midland Campus. She was born on January 8, 1923 in Gladwin Township the daughter of Stanley and Gertrude (Hetherington) Breault.

Nellie was a member of the Cornerstone Baptist Church, active in volunteering at the Sacred Heart Mission. She enjoyed hunting, mushrooming and was a family oriented person. Many people were supported by her prayers.

She was preceded in death by her parents and husband Perry Grey.

She is survived by her children Sharon and James Martin of Manistee, MI; Marlene Lawrence of Battle Creek, MI; Susan and Donald Wade of Clare, MI; Greig Grey of Midland, MI and Creig and Connie Grey of Mt. Pleasant, MI. Nellie is also survived by 12 grandchildren; 27 great grandchildren and 5 great great grandchildren plus spouses which total 65 .

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 15, 2008 at 11:00 A.M. at the Cornerstone Baptist Church with Pastor Tony Alexander officiating. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 14, 2008 from 3-8 P.M. at the Sisson Funeral Home. Family visitation is from 1-3 P.M. Interment will be in Sherman Township Cemetery.

Directions to the funeral home can be obtained at the website of; http://www.sissonfuneralhome.com

Directions to the church is from the intersection of M-18 and M-61 in downtown Gladwin go north on M-18 6.8 miles- just after M-18 turns left, then turn right onto F-97 or Round Lake Rd. The church is 8/10 of a mile on the left- Gladwin Cornerstone Baptist 3925 Round Lake Rd, Gladwin, MI 48624 .

Sunday Meeting and Treatment Plan

Marlene, Greig, Susan, Don, Connie and I met with Dr. Jones first then together with Dr. Yaddim. Much was discussed and a treatment plan outlined for the near term.

• Mom has to eat properly and has not been. Jones has asked for the nurses to assist her. They have been under the impression that she needs the exercise- so she is not getting proper nutrition.
• The drain in her right lung either needs repositioned or a new one placed. That is responsible for her fluid build-up on her lung and causing respiratory distress.
• They are starting an IV that will provide protein and "pull" fluid buildup from her cells- lungs and other areas like her swollen left arm. I think the plan is to put in a PIC line tomorrow.

Once these show some results then she will have to get moving in rehab. Right now she does not have enough strength to eat properly. Over the past few weeks Mom has had some peaks and some valleys in this whole ordeal- but overall she has had a decline in her overall status.

My impression is that Mom remains in good spirits but is getting very tired. This has been a long process and it is taking it's toll.

Creig

Friday Night Report

Well, as you can see by the creative-less tone of my title, the report tonight is that of continuing difficult days for Mama in the hospital. There are bright spots such as her breathing is better, and the fluids seem to be leaving, but now she must fight once more to regain strength thru the hard work of Physical Therupy. Marlene is with her this weekend, Don and Susan are home sleeping tonight after spending most of 2 days at the hospital, and I am sure Creig and Connie will visit this weekend also. We will be going down during the week when working age people have to work.

Greig has been our eyes and ears for the past weeks when we cannot be with Mama, he tries to catch the doctors so he can keep up with the reports and pass them on to the rest of us. He is also very observent, and is quick to notice changes which might need to be addressed. Thanks, Greig. Don has also filled in with chores like getting Mama to the doctor visits, in and out of Stratford and the hospital,and notifying us of 'situations'. Thanks Don.

And thank you again to all of you who continue to support our mom and us as we travel thru this difficult time. We ask for your continued prayers for her healing and peace.

Good night everyone

Sharon

Thursday night Report

Just a note to tell everyone that Mama is eating and resting in the hospital, and starting another round of testing. They are checking her lungs and have brought in a lung specialist-the one she had at surgery-and he sent her for more tests, and has ruled out a blood clot in her lungs, but she has some fluid in one, and is coughing. He also ordered CT scans on her arms and legs-I hope I have that right, Susan said she was down getting them when we were talking.

She has had a MRI and I am sure lots of bloodwork. Susan said she ate a good dinner and was very tired of lying in bed so they got her up in a lazy boy type chair. I will talk to her or to Susan tomorrow and keep you posted.

Thank you for your continued prayers

Sharon

Back in Room D321

Well, today Greig and I took Mom to Dr. Jones' office. She was having a hard time breathing during and after her PT this morning. At the office Dr. Jones' PA read mom's xray and listened to her lungs. She felt that her lungs had fluid in them and decided to hospitalize her again for a CT scan and blood work, which will tell how much fluid is in her system.

Before I left she was back on oxygen and already beginning to feel better. I hope this is just another bump in the road to recovery.

Don

Vincent's Birthday Surprise!

The Roaches said...

Well, WHAT A SURPRISE THAT WAS!!! I was very confused when the group of kids at my house (my kids & their cousins) opened the door and I heard someone ask, "Is your Grandma here?!?" Lo and behold, it was Uncle Creig and he had brought Great Grandma Grey to surprise all of us!! I cannot put into words what an awesome surprise it was.

Grandma and Uncle Creig joined in the festivities -- with 10 little kiddies running around ... ate a little (Grandma seemed to like the pasta & chicken parmesan and had quite an appetite) and enjoyed a cupcake. Grandma even got a tattoo, from her little tattoo artist Jacqueline (giggle!).

It was such an incredible surprise and meant so much to have her join us for Vincent's 1st birthday. She's been wonderfully faithful with celebrating the important moments in my children's lives -- we have been truly blessed to have an excellent example in her! Thank you, Grandma!!



Love, Shannon and Vincent
(Jamie & Jacqueline too).

November 1, 2008 8:10 PM

Latest Conspiracy!

Well, I got a call saying my mother was being kidnapped!It was from Creig, and he and Mama had decided to surprise everyone at Vincent's first Birthday party,and SHOW UP! I wish I could have been there for the surprise!

Who wants to bet there will be pictures by morning.

I have not heard a peep, so all must be going well. This will be quite a trip for her but maybe stretching a bit beyond your comfort zone will be good for Mama. I know it is for me!

What a nice thing to have your Great Great Grandma at your party! Happy Birthday, Vincent!!

Waiting for Pix-

Aunt Sharon

Conspiracy Theorizing

I like big words! Greig and I have been taking turns checking in with Mama both in person for him, and on the phone for me,and keeping us kids informed of Mama's breathing problem. She is still a little short winded. Her nurse is alerted, an xray done, Dr. Jones was called and trippled her Lasix. We are not sure if Dr. has seen her xray yet.

This afternoon when Greig visited, she was at the Halloween party in the Cafeteria area and was doing quite well! He came back after supper, and they visited while she settled down for the night, and she is not in any distress, just breathing, as she put it,"a little ragged".

We are hoping and praying that this is not the beginning of another round of fluid again, and we hope the worst is over. Maybe the Lasix is the answer.

Marlene will be visiting this weekend,, which lends expertise to our 'theorizing. Susan add's her own sensibleness to our conferences, and the bottom line, Mama just keeps bravely pushing forward! Creig, jump in and give us a hug which we probibly need!

We ask all of you to continue to pray for her. Prayer is so important!

I will try agin to sleep now.

Sharon

Late Tonight

I had trouble getting thru to Mama tonight so she was tucked in when I called. She had her planning meeting today and said she was very tired. We talked briefly and I told her good-night and I am sure she was soon sound asleep.

I called Greig and he said all of the people who work with her said she is making good progress and has a wonderful attitude. Greig or Don may add more.

I will call in the morning and make sure her tiredness is just from too big a day, and that she is up and feeling ok.

Have a good night, everyone.

Sharon

Mom told me to do this. . . . .

I went to see Mom today and she seems to be doing great. I told her that I'd shot a deer on Thursday, the 23rd but had not found it yet. Dave tracked it until 9pm when he lost blood. We went out to search for her at 4pm on Friday, just as a light rain started to drizzle. Dave lost the blood trail at 300 yards but pressed on in what was now a driving rain. He followed the deers tracks and found her nearly 700 yards away! Absolutely soaked as he drug it next to the van, 90 minutes later.

Creig tracked a deer for me in 1997 that was quite similar in length and stamina involved. Both are expert woodsmen in my book.

After I explained it to Mom and told her that I didn't have a photo of it to show her since my color cartridge was spent; she said "put it on the blog."

So here's a deer photo and story to add to Nellie Grey's Blog. I think Uncle George would be proud. Greig

Sunday Evening

Telephoned Mama tonight, she sounded good and said she had a nice day. She was eating her supper when I called so we did not talk long. She was having fish for supper.She was eating in her room which is an option. I think she keeps her room mate company a bit as I don't think she is feeling too well. The Roommate I mean.Therupy starts tomorrow again and so its time to go to work. She said Greig Got a deer, she told him to 'put it on the Blog'!

What a nice, rainey, sunday, even if it did hail here!

Good night everyone

Sharon

Shopping, Dining and Visiting

Jim and I went Thursday to see Mama. After a late start, we arrived about 4:30 for our first visit and Mama invited us to have dinner with her. So we ordered and when it was time, we joined her in the dinning room for dinner. It is so good to see Mama's appetite returning! Dr. Jones says this is an important part of her recovery. Her arms and legs remain 'puffy'but we are assured these will return to normal as she begins to eat and to exercise. We had a nice visit at dinner, and continued back to the little TV area where she often goes. There is a big built in cage with birds in it that she likes to watch, as well as a window where birds seem to congregate which is nice to watch also.

We brought a picture for her wall, a composite of 3 pictures of Hailey done on just a sheet of computer paper. It joins Sarah, and we added one of Vincent and Jacqueline on Friday. We encourage all to make and send a picture of your children as described to Mama, and we will put them up with rolls of tape. She loves children and I think they will bring their special strength and love to her, which she needs. We have a big wall. She can't very well see smaller ones on the wall, and she doesnt care about quality. They make her smile. I will hope that Greig posts her mailing address, maybe he already did. Or Don or Creig. I dont have it.

I also brought her about 6 Baby hats. I told her I knitted them while I waited thru all those hospital days, now she has to find a home for them. She says she has already given one away, not counting the one Hailey got nor the one we gave to her nurse in the hospital.

When we got back to Susan's, she had shopped for Mama, since because of her swollen arms, she will need a new coat, and since she is now Cold, she needed a new warm jacket or sweater, and I got to take them to her the next day. So after we ate our McDonalds Ice cream sundae, which we had planned Thursday, she had the nurse help her into her chair and we proceeded to have trying on and checking out, and everything worked except the slipper shoes which were a bit too tight. So Jim and I set out for walmart, because I wanted to get one more thing.

We exchanged the slippers, then I went to fabric and got her the same thing I got for Jim when he came home from surgery-a big piece of Polar Fleece! It makes a nice warm blanket and is easy to wash. In fact I got her a small one, too-a nice shoulder or lap blanket.

Back at the home, we took her white sheet blanket-her hands were cold and it was firmly wrapped over them-she laughed when I tugged at it and told her it had to go-and the nice teal fleece looks better with her new velour jacket and pants! She is 'stylin' now! We had a nice visit and took her things down to have her name pressed onto them so they can be laundered and returned, and mama seemed to enjoy the afternoon. I know we did. We also found a great place to visit-right after you walk into the home, there is a little living room area set up with a fireplace. Residents can only come here with family, (we asked) so we brought Mama thru the double doors and down here, and there was a couch for us, and nobody else there except us and the people coming into or going out of the home. Very nice.

We decided to leave about 4:30 and did not stay for supper as we thought we could beat a little of the deer herd to the roadways. We made it.

So send those 'Picture Sheets'to Mama, and we will get them up on the wall. They certainly brighten up her room! Maybe we could make a Halloween collection with all of their halloween pictures??

We will see her again next week. Thanks to all of you who took the time to send a card or stop by. She got to see Aunt Coral this week, which was great for both of them I am sure.

And thanks for your prayers

Sharon

Just a note

Don and I were over to see Mom today and I've got to say again see looks great. She was in her chair with no oxygen attatched and her level was still at 94. She was eating ''Thanksgiving dinner". A speech therapist was there and put her on a regular diet. She ate quite abit. She had been down to physical therapy and said she'd take a nap if we left. Don took her to see Dr. Jones yesterday and he thinks she's doing really good. We'll take every good day we can get. it's so nice to hear her sound so strong and feel so good. Again we just are so thankful for all the miracles we've had with her. Thanks for all your prayers.God is good.

Mama is doing well

Mama has had a few issues come up in the past couple of days, a lot of fluid one day and a rash. She is going for a check up with Dr. Jones tomorrow. Don and Greig are going with her. Otherwise, she is in good spirits and says her appetite is better. She is still receiving her therupy for walking, and seems to be adjusting to her new schedule. We will see her Thursday.

we've come a long way in 2 months

Today we were to go to the nursing home so that Susan could cut Moms hair. We'd taken her for a permanent 2 months ago today I think.When we got there she was looking great sitting in her chair so we decided to go out to the beauty shop and get it cut and curled. She said she was "up for anything". So away we went oxygen tank ,wheel chair and all . She did great and we ended up at Fazoli's for lunch . We ate in the car by then she was pretty tired out.By the time we got back to the nursing home she had them put her to bed for nap. What adifference a day makes let alone 2 months. Praise The Lord.

5 generations

Hi all,

Just wanted everyone to see our 5 generations picture, Kerry just sent it to me. This was in June I think.

A comment from Kerry

Hi Grandma. Still watching and praying. We can only imagine what you are going through. You are our hero. All of you who are helping through this difficult time, keep the faith. Here is a little something Mo gave me to keep in my truck and sometimes it helps. It's called Peace of Mind.

There passes not a single day that I don't speak you name,
and though I feel unworthy, God,
I ask you just the same.

To give me strength to face whatever problems lie ahead,
and should I start to worry
give me "peace of mind" instead.
Doris A. Orth

Love Kerry, Monica, Samantha, Erin,Nicole, and Jesse

October 14, 2008 8:31 PM



Thanks, Kerry-I needed that! Mom

A Message from Nellie Grey

Well, I am feeling real good. Susan and Don came today and I went with them to Fazolie's for lunch. I had spaghetti. We ordered and we ate in the car. Now I am back at my room and in bed and getting settled down for a little nap.

I am feeling good but just a little weak.

Love, from Nellie Grey



Now isn't that just the best message anyone could receive on a beautiful Saturday like today?
I am sure Susan and Don will post more when they get home, but I promised a message from Mama. It's a good thing!

Is this number 7 or 8????

Sharon

Greig says Mom is doing Great!

I talked to Greig tonight and he reports Mama is looking better than she has in weeks! and we are all hopefully optomistic. I am sure Mama is also. They did the fluid drain yesterday and only got a very small amount which makes us feel she is on the right track. Her hands and feet are still swollen but not as much. I will talk to her on the phone tomorrow about noon and bring you a message from her.

Greig could not post tonight because tomorrow is a big hunting day for him at some game reserve,so he had to get to bed. Creig is going along to Gut and Photograph I think. Greig promised one for me and one for him. I hope its ones that runs back and forth on the roads!

Talk tomorrow

Sharon

Back to Stratford Village.......

Mom moved back to Stratford Village yesterday (Sept. 15th) and she is happy to be out of the hospital again. It was nearly dark when we left the hospital so I suggested that we shine deer on the way there but she said "No." She is in the same room that she was in before--345-a-- and even has the same room mate. She had Fazoli spaghetti before leaving the hospital and ate every bite! She is on the therapy wing so she will begin doing what she can to get stronger. She has been through so much that she is still quite weak so please keep her in your prayers. Greig

Still moving on

Marlene was with Mama this afternoon. She reports Mama's Arm is still swollen,that she is walking a bit but they are still getting significant fluid drainage. She is eating quite well, but did not sleep too well last night as she laid on her side in a position to try to drain the 'puffy'side.

Mama says the doctor says she may move on to Stratford in a few days if all continues to go well.

I think Marlene and Greig were going to try to catch the social worker with some questions, we have lots of those.

Mama contnues to be in good spirits and works hard.

Sharon

Monday morning and all seems well

I just talked to Mom and she seems to be doing well. She said she slept as well as she could since she sleeps in a different bed every night. .we are on bed number 6 for this hospital stay. She had physicaltherapy this am. They did it in her chair. Shes got a ways to go to get her strength back but she knows she can do just that.We're not going over today and she was fine with that. The Lord has been good. We won't pray for patience.

Moving On

I talked to Greig tonight, he says Mama was moved out of progressive care on up to F floor which means she is on her way toward wellness once again. Greig and Susan both told me she is eating better, and wanted Fizole's Saturday night.
I asked Susan if those were a pastry with meat in it and she informed me it is a well known Italian Restaurant! Well, welcome to the North Woods! Mama had Spaghetti! Go Mama!

Greig says they are stopping the constant dextrose drip and her arm is much less swollen and they are encouraging her to once again try to begin strength exercises like walking. She is also trying very hard to eat a bit more and thinks her appetite is coming back.

I am purposely trying to do as Mama does, and focus on the positive. Instead of trying to steer, I will try to remember who is in the driver's seat, and I will just say 'thank-you's' and 'praises' instead. That's easier if it's not your Mom involved. It's easy to get down in the dumps. Mama needs continued prayers--so does her family.

Our thanks once again

Sharon

Swelling in the Arm

Susan left a message that the CAT scan shows a blood clot in Mom's arm that is causing the swelling. Now the Doctor is working on a solution to get rid of it without Coumadin- that's the drug of choice but it caused Mom the bleeding in the chest problem last weekend.

So as we know more we'll let you know.
Creig

Tooth Doctor

I stopped in tonight to see Mom after staying away this week- I have had a sore throat and the sniffles. She looks great, was in bed, and a little tired.

She said she went down stairs for some tests- a CT scan of her arms, I suppose looking for the cause of the swelling ; and an ultrasound. She also went down this morning for a chest x-ray.

The CT scan the nurse, Christina, would not divulge the results of until the Doc has a look. I reminded her of the hat Sharon had gave her but no dice!

While there a oral surgeon came in with an x-ray of Mom's bad tooth. He said she had two options- pull it and take the chance with her plate being loose or wait and see- maybe restore the tooth down the road. He did not see a medical reason tonight to pull it. He said if it starts hurting he will come right in and take care of it.

That's all for now,
Creig

The Crunch heard around the State!

Imagine! Mama is well enough and hungry enough to request and eat a salad. Susan called all the kids and reported! Mama has been eating small bits of soft food and unable to eat much at all! I may have to smuggle in the Chinese food yet!

Once again we are cautiously optomistic about her healing and recovery, and we thank every one of you for your prayers and continued prayers! Every good day is a miracle for us.

Mama's unfailing faith and courage in the face of such overwhelming adversity has been a message to all of us. She wants to live and she has faith that God wants her to live! What a model for all of us-she has set the bar high.

Good night, family

Sharon

Susan talked with mom tonight, and she is feeling real well and had a salad for supper. It sounds like her appetite is coming back real well. Probably the medicine she was on took away part of it.

Dr. Jones is going to have a tooth removed for her (not one of his), one that has been bothering her for some time. She sounds stronger than she has in quite some time. It will be good to see her up and about, hopefully in a short period of time.

Talk to you later....Don

Greig called and said mom has been moved to D303. He said she was doing well, but did not do any walking as she has some pain in her side from the surgery last week. I don't have any more info than that now.....Don

Wednesday

Today mom is doing real well. She had a good lunch, and was ready for dinner when we left, so maybe finally her appetite is back? She is still in ICU, she walked a few steps today, and was up in a chair this afternoon, but was back in bed when we left.

We are trying to limit visits to 10-15 minutes each, so she can get her naps that she needs to build up her strength. We have not been told how long she will be in ICU. Dr. Jones wants to keep her in the hospital for a week, but that could change.

She looks great, and is feeling much, much better (you can tell by the amount, and way she speaks).

Don

A nice afternoon

when we arrived at 11, mama was already down for the procedure that Creig has mentioned. When she got back to her room, Dr. Jones came in with his team.

He greeted her with "No more coumaden for you, Lady", and listened as she related comments about her trip to get the drain put in. He was surprised that the procedure was finished already and said this specialty department which I forget the name of--had been so prompt. He said its usually much longer to get on their schedule.

He said Mama should get some eating started, and I told him she eats very little, maybe half a cup of food total at each meal, could she have a regular diet for a week or two. Mama then mentioned she was really hungry for some Chinese food.

Well mama, as you know, we blew that one, and are back on the "Healthy Heart Diet".Its an ok diet,(noo chinese) but doesn't tempt a poor appetite. Except today--

Mama ordered soup and half of a sandwich and protein drink and Milk. When the dessert menu was quoted, there was cheesecake as a choice. At my urging she ordered it and I told them to bring a topping, only chocolate was available on her plan.

Well, mama ate her usual 4 or 5 bites,drank her protein shake, after which she trickled the chocolate on the cheesecake and ate about half of it. It was good to see her enjoy a treat. She has certainly earned it! She looked and acted more like her old self today than anytime since I first saw her in the hospital.

Physical therupy is already ordered and they worked with her a bit. We had a nice visit afterwards, and Jim and I headed for home as she prepared to nap.


I enjoyed our color tour home knowing one more time my mother is "on the Mend."

We have so much to Thank God for,

It includes a truly nice afternoon with Mama.

Sharon

Fluid Drainage

Greig just called and said that Mom had a "Denver Drain" put in this morning and was back in her room ordering lunch. This device will allow fluid to be drained off without much fuss. He said they removed about 1 1/2 liters this time. I assume it was on the right side as that was where they were going last I heard.

He said she was doing good..........

Creig

I GOT TO HEAR THE FIRST CHUCKLE

We figured out today that the nurses wake, check, and turn mama every hour, on the hour, so we did well today, only telling mama hello, telling her how well we were told she is doing, and assuring her Dr. Jones once again has her on the mend, all without waking her unnecessarily which would get us ejected from her room I guess. Other than that, she slept all day long.

So tonight Jim and I waited until 8 and hiked on down to the ICU, and she was getting niced up so we waited a bit. We read her 3 cards, and I told her nurse her hearing aid battery was dead. The nurse immediately started talking so she could hear her, and Mama answered her appropriately. Heather is such a Charming nurse, I know she loves nursing! I told Mama we would bring a battery tomorrow, and she said "Don't lose it."

I told her I would put it in a paper cup. Mama smiled--"Well, don't drink it! She chuckled and said "Remember the stone out of your engagement ring disappeared, maybe thats what happened. We all laughed. That happened 35 years or so ago!

We told her we were heading for Susan's, and she bid us good night and smiled, and added "Don't hit any of those Running 'stumps'! We promised we would dodge the stumps!

Is this number 6 or number 7?

Good night to all of you, also.

Sharon

Last Night's Reading

I happened on this in the Parade magazine that comes with our Sunday paper.

We just started putting this together that Coumadin seems to be at the center of Mom's several health episodes.

I think the lesson is..........question everything and educate yourself on all aspects of treatment.

And have a large enough family to take care of this all.........Did I ever tell you how great my sisters and brother are?

I am thankful for each one of them, how they take such tender care of our Mom, of each other, and our families.

Love you guys,
Creig

Sleeping Soundly

Jim and I left the hospital about 9, mama has been given a small dose of pain med, and is sleeping soundly. Her nurse says all of her signs are good and she was busy measuring and checking and caring for all of the noodles and whistles. Mama slept thru it all, her color is good and she is at last relieved of the pressure around her heart.

Mama has taught us all a real lesson by example of courage, and I am sure she will once again attempt her third or forth try with the same commitment she gave her first try. I hope I can learn by her example.

Thank you all for your prayers and continued prayers.

Is this Miracle 4 or 5? Susan reminded me tonight Mama went into the hospital in August! And October is a third over! Time flies doesn't it?

We are at Susan and Don's. They are asleep, after spending last night and today at the hospital.

Good night now, Sharon and Jim

Tell Mama I love her!

Both Marlene and Susan asked me to "Tell Mama I love her". Susan when she left the hospital and Marlene from her house in Battle Creek when I called to update.

So after Mom came off the vent and woke up a little I did what a little brother does- just like the two big sisters asked.........or was it an order? I told Mama that Marlene loved her. Mom said"Tell Marlene I love her." Then I told her that Susan said"Tell Mama I love her" Mom said "Tell Susan I love her too."

Mom sounds better than she has in several days. All her vital stats were good and she was peaceful finally. She did have some pain tonight and was given a little something for that. Dr. Jones said she might be in some pain from the surgery today- she has about a 6 inch incision into her chest!

It has been a long day-a couple of days come to think of it...............

Creig

It's about 8:40

Creig called and said that mom is off the vent and is talking. She had quite a day to say the least!
She had a little pain from the surgery, but was given a pain killer and is comfortable now. Dr. Jones is a miracle worker, to say the least. He is confident that this procedure will take care of the problems that have arisen since the first surgery!

We will have more info as we get it.......Don

Surgery Update # 1

We just got a call that Mom was stable and they had completed the left side which needed the most attention.

We'll let you know when we know more.

Creig

Sunday Surgery

Mom headed into the operating room at 2:55 PM to relieve the fluid in her lung on the left side and to put in a drain on the right side. Dr. Jones anticipated a 45 minute procedure. We'll let you know when Mom is back in her room.

Creig

Saturday and Mama is again very ill

We again must report that Mama is very ill. She has trouble breathing and her coumidan spiked to 6.0 this am, and the hospital called, fearing a stroke. They did a ct and checked and she has some bleeding around her lung. No stroke. They gave her 2 pints of blood and one platelets I think.She was taken to CCU.

Dr. Jones now believes she is alergic to the Coumidan, along with her other complications. They are discontenuing that and will do a medical procedure which may relieve the fluid collecting around the outside of her lungs. they will do the procedure as soon as they are able. They hope to do it tomorrow. they have the Coumidan down to 2.5 this evening and want it at 1.5.

Mama is alert and answering questions correctly but exhausted as can be expected.

Creig, Connie, Susan and Don, and Greig are at the hospital. They have restricted all visitation so she can rest.

this post sounds shakey to me, sorry, I think thats how we all feel.

I will keep you posted.

Sharon

Friday night and all is well

Well, we are home tonight and Mama is moved from Critical to Progressive Care. I just talked to Greig, and he says that Mama looks good, has her drain tubes out and is able to walk 40 steps today with Physical Therupy. What progress over the last few days!!.

Greig says that he talked to Dr. Jones and he says they plan to keep her until Tuesday to make sure the fluid build up does not start again right away. She will be carefully monitored for this, and they can intervene more quickly in the hospital.

Mama has not complained about any of her medical treatments. Not once. She did complain that her catsup was too sweet, and her water needed Ice. She sat up again tonight in a chair and ate her supper.

Again, please continue your prayers for her.

Thanks, Sharon

ccu update

Greig just called to say Mama's day of resting yesterday must have been just what she needed, as she was awake and alert when he got there, and had eaten a good breakfast. They will get her up today, leg exercises with some small weights, and move her on to progressive care sometime today or tomorrow.

I feel better now----doesn't prayer work quickly sometimes???

Thank God

Sharon-----battery is here, gotta go

Still in CCU

Mama is still in Critical Care. Her appetite is very small and she is weak from this ordeal. Vital signs continue to get better but the fluid problem remains a big issue. She sleeps most of the time and we are hoping that her eating improves. We try to encourage her without bugging her which is a fine line when you are very ill.

Please continue to pray, and pray also for the people who care for her. Sometimes God's miracles come thru them, I think.

I am posting because I phoned the hospital last night from my car to give them Susan's number and someone left the dome light on. We dont know who. The battery is charging at a Garage.

Thanks,

Sharon

Oct 1

Susan called the hospital this morning, and the nurses said that mom rested well last night. Her vital signs looked good and she is breathing pretty much on her own. We are not sure, at this time, how long it will be before she is discharged. Maybe Dr. Jones will talk about that today. Another issue is what type of lung therapy will be used. Marlene, Sharon, and Jim are with her today, and I think Greig will be there too.

Don

Our Mom tonight

Mama has had some very serious complications with the issue of fluid around her lungs but the doctor thinks it is under control. It is one of the complications of the open heart surgery. We are all hopeful that she is again mending. She is resting in ICU tonight, please remember her in your prayers.

Sharon

September 29 update

I spoke with Marlene at 10:00 am and she said the procedure to drain fluid from Mom's chest was postponed because her blood was still too thin. They may be able to do it later today. Greig

September 29

I talked with Mom at 8:00 am today and she said they were going to take her down to drain some fluid from one side of her chest shortly. She will probably have the other side done tomorrow. They gave her platelets to counteract the coumadin which thins her blood so that this procedure could be done asap. She might be in the hospital until Friday, Oct. 3rd. Greig

Hospitalized

Mama has been taken back to the Midland Hospital by ambulance. Marlene, Greig, Susan and Don are there. Dr. Jones has been notified, and has contacted her attending physician. She was admitted this evening. Susan says she is in good spirits, I am sure your prayers are needed and appreciated. Thanks again. I think Greig or Don will fill in details for you.

Sharon

September 27th

Yesterday Mom was having a hard time when I was there at 2:00 pm. Her legs and feet were swollen as big as I'd seen them. I went back at 7:00 pm and although the swelling in her legs and feet had gone down slightly, her breathing was worse, very shallow and her face was very pale.
I talked to Mom's nurse about the fluid buildup around her lungs after her surgery and the nurse came down to take her vitals and I don't remember them all but her pulse/ox dipped to 87 at one point. She had a standing order for oxygen so they hooked that up and she got some relief but her respirations remained high and her color didn't improve either.
Susan and Don stopped by around 8:30 pm and the Doctor finally called back a few minutes later. She prescribed 40 mg of lasix to help Mom get rid of excess fluid. Susan and Don stayed overnight with Mom and are still there--12:30 pm. They called at 8:30 am and told me the day nurse called the doctor about getting a chest xray (they have it done right in Mom's room) to see if there is fluid around her lungs again. If she needs to have fluid drawn from her chest again, she will need to be off coumadin for at least 3 days. She is still in good spirits considering everything that's happening.
Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers. Greig

Luncheon Date

Today I learned from a social worker at Stratford that on Monday, Sept. 29, mom will be going with a group on a luncheon trip. The time for the trip is 10:45 am--1:30 pm. The lady did not say to where they would be going, but trips like this are an ongoing thing. Sounds like a good idea to me. It also sounds like mom is beginning to regain some strength. And like Martha says, "It's a good thing".

Don

MAMA said

I tried several times tonight and finally got to talk to Mama! She sounds good, and Susan and Don, who were visiting, called later to tell me she looks just wonderful.
Mama says she has therapy in the morning, lunch, rest, and then her and her nice room friend were invited to go to somewhere, where they made a craft.

Lets see, two weeks ago tonight we were talking with the lung doctor, who told us her chances of coming off the respirator were 50/50! Mama's answer to him was to ignore that, and trust in whatever decision God had in mind. She knew she needed the surgery, and He knew we needed her here for a purpose.

Susan likes the nursing facility staff and feels better about Mama's decision to continue her therapy and healing there. Mama is clear about her choices when she decides to make them. If she wants our opinion, we give it, but she makes her own decisions whenever she can.

She gave me good advice the night she was so ill, I was trying to make her comfortable, and in my joy that she was responding to my questions about blankets, needles, cold feet and water, I lifted her Oxygen mask so that I could understand her words.

She said clearly, "Too Many Questions"

Now she would probably tell me "Too Many Words!" Did I mention I write too much when I am happy??

Susan says she now has doctor appointments and ultrasound in a week or so with Dr. Jones. She is not ready to deal with her cell phone yet, and looks forward to a note or card. Thank you to all who have sent the lovely cards and letters.

I told Mama good-night!

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ!

Sharon

Greig Said

I talked to Greig tonight, he spent a lot of time with Mama today, and he said she is feeling much better. I think it was stressful to unhook from the big hospital and jump into an unknown place but she had a few blessings there also. Her room mate is, by all reports, a very nice lady and they seem compatable. That's great. Greig reports they are friends already.

He also says that the great nurse who has cared for her for two days finally realized that Mama is Mrs. Grey, the playground aid who looked out for her when she was a student at Amble Elementary! What a small world. Its the little quirks of fate that add to our life, isnt it? Anyway, Greig said she was a great nurse before we found out she is practically 'related, so that is nice, also.

Greig scoped around the home and said that the staff treats all of the residents with respect and kindness and he was well pleased with the general overall facility. Believe me, if Greig says things are good, they are ok with me as Greig is a very good judge of medical institutions. We trust his intuitions and Marlene's medical expertise, and Susan's Compassion and Creig's keen eye for hunting sites. (smile)

So tonight we can rest knowing that mama is safe and relaxed about her new 'home' and is eating well and has new people in her life whom she enjoys, and
tomorrow she will be rested and ready to again work on her healing and mobility issues! And I will stop whining and get out my walking shoes.

I think I can sleep tonight.

Sharon

September 23..3:44 pm

An update on mom. I stopped there today and she was up in a wheel chair, and said she was doing quite well. She had breakfast and a workout with the rehab people. Her left hand has lost some of the swelling, but her fore arm is still swollen. The nurse said it would probably take a little more time for the swelling to go down. Also, the swelling in her feet has gone down (not sure how much), and she has her shoes on.

That's about it for now..........Don

Good night, Mama

I talked to Greig, and to Don, then to Susan. Mama doesn't have her phone set up yet but will tomorrow. She seems just fine from reports, but I don't know if I can sleep because I didn't tell her good-night!!

Funny how we are such creatures of habit. So Good-night everyone!

Our Cousin Karen Nunn wrote

Was so glad to read your mom's blog & I forwarded to my brother so he has been reading & looking at the pictures also.

Thanks so much for thinking of us. Hope your mom continues to progress & we will certainly be thinking about you all.

I tried to comment on the Blog but couldn't find it later so I don't think that it updated...

Anyway, Hope all stays well & tell everyone "HELLO" & for Nellie to hang in there & continue her recovery.

Karen Nunn

Moving on Out

It's Monday and moving day..........

Greig just called me and said Mom, with Don's assistance, got moved today to Stratford Village. She is in room 245, bed B........ I think. They didn't have a private room available right now. Greig said he was headed over there about 5:30- right now Mom was tired out and trying to sleep.

I remember Connie and I moving more than once where Mom and Dad were there to help us out with it. At the end of the day Mom always made sure our bed was made so we had a place to put our heads- she was and is awesome!

Creig

September 21...8:41

Just an update on mom. Susan and I went to hospital today, and mom is doing real well. She had a good supper while we were there, showing that her appetite is getting a little better. Her left arm is still a little puffy, but there doesn't seem to be any hardness or soreness with it.

We are awaiting the call to let us know what time she will be going to Stratford on Monday, if that is what Dr. Jones wants to do. At this time it looks like everything is good to go, but we won't know until we hear from them.

We will report later.............Don

One more

Now this is Definitely the 'going home 'photo.

The P.A. says probibly mama will stay in the hospital until Monday. The S.W just checked with Stratford andd they will hold a room for her until then.

Creig, where were you when I needed help with the photo thing???

New pictures

Now for pictures!

New procedures

Mama had some fluid which her body had collected, not in her lung. Dr. Jones says this happens in 20 to 30 per cent, and his PA says sometimes the body collects fluid to flush out bits of impurities from surgery. Maybe your heart can't keep up with this, and needs help. The first was done last night, and again this am, each time about a liter was taken out. they locate it with ultrasound, freeze a spot and go in with a needle. Big needle. Her left arm is a bit swollen but the PA came in and checked it and since it is not hot nor solid, but soft, feels this is due to bruising and all of the needles but they will watch it. For now she thinks its ok.
Mama said yesterday it was a relief and she could breath much better, today she is again eating pretty well-small amounts but good variety-and she says her back does not hurt, and she is taking absolutely nothing for any pain. -------
Is this our Third Blessing or our fourth or fifth???

I am not real sure that she is just not a lot tougher than I am, and we had a nice chat today and she reminded me that when she was 12 months old, she weighed 11 pounds, and probibly had been born with a bad valve at a time when there was nothing to do but pray.

She told me that at one time, Dr. Koulter had her take digitalas, and he taught her to do it herself as her mama was so busy. One drop in her little glass of water, then 2, and so on. What a gal!

So to prove that I am not fibbing, I am enclosing mom's picture, she says her hair is a mess. I got a smile by saying"pretend you're going home"

Now will that be Blessing number 5 or six??????//

By the way, if we look confused, remember that Mama has been in 7 different hospital rooms, and we are not counting the one where they took her and her things down and said'oops, this room is for someone else!

I have to run now, before they move her again!

Sharon, Jim too

Friday September 19

It's about 10:37, Greig called a little while ago. Sharon had called him to report that mom had returned to her room after having another liter of fluid removed. Dr. Jones said this should not occur again. She is doing well, according to Greig. I'm sure Greig or Sharon will give further updates....Don

Thursday 5:40

Sharon called and said that mom back in her room, and is feeling well. She is eating and is ready have the next round of drainage done tomorrow.

That is it for now...Don

Thursday 4:53

Another update on mom. Sharon called and said mom is returning from having fluid removed . They took 1.1 liter from 1 side. Tomorrow they will do the same thing from the other side of diaphragm area. Mom is doing fine with it after they (?) told her that it is not a big deal.

That is all that Sharon said...........Don

Thursday

An update on mom. She has gone in to have fluid removed from under her diaphragm. She had called earlier today and told me she was going to have it done, and she would not be leaving the hospital until Saturday at the earliest. She went in at about 3:15 ? or so according to Sharon, who is with her at the hospital, along with Greig. I will update when more information comes to me.

Don

September 17

Mom had a stressful day today. She had been moved once, but they decided the room belonged to someone else and returned her to icu. However, she was still slated to move again tonight, but had not when we left at about 7 pm. She feels, and looks good, and is ready to move on whenever the hospital is ready. Dr. Jones wanted her to stay, so we don't know yet as to when she will be going to the nursing home. Her second walk today was about 30 ft. further than her first, so she is making progress on that issue. I think her strength will progress the more she is able to walk, but it has to be when she feels able. We will see what tomorrow brings

Don

September 17

Just to let you know mom is not going to Stratford today. Dr Jones said she will be in progressive care at the hospital, D Floor, at least until tomorrow. She does have a reservation at Stratford Though, so there is no worry about finding a place for her rehab.

That is all the information we have at this time

Don

MEN!

Now just wouldn't you know thats how my brother would judge a nursing home for Mama! The only problem here is, if I complain to her about it, she will probibly agree with the 'good deer area' idea!
I'm calling my sister's!

Sharon

Stratford Village

Connie and I did a drive by tonight. It is a really good deer area!

http://www.midmichigan.org/consumer/maps/FacilitiesResults.asp?Facility=C40210AE8FC448A8BF6C17AA0F8ED440&Type=Nursing+Homes&s=5&City=C52F735CA5CB4A2F8293219FA4B20CB6

When I worked in Midland a few in the area were always trying to stay ahead of me. Several actually did..............

Creig

Off, Up, and Away!

I just talked to my sister Susan, she just got to the hospital. Mama is up out of bed, all noodles, bells and whistles are unhooked, and she is leaving the hospital tomorrow!!!

She will be re-habing and re-building her new life either at the hosptal rehab or something called Stratford house.??anyone knowing of this, call me at 231-723-4676. or blog something.

Wow, lets see, its 4 days since open heart surgery, at age 85>>we must be doing something right to get a blessing like this.

We will keep all of you posted on where she is, and her address etc. I am sure Don will add something tonight. I'm off to scope out Stratford house!

Sharon

Nurses wearing 'sock hats??

The night before mama's surgery, her nurse, Christina, in a conversation with mama, confided that she was indeed expecting something besides cold weather this winter! Mama told me this. I knit baby hats, and I started one for her baby when mama went in to surgery. I can pray and knit!

Today I left the little hat at the nurses station down where mama was for last week with a note for her, not knowing she would be mama's nurse tonight.

Do I know how to get the best care for my mother or what?

Christina prepared mama for surgery all during the night before surgery and the beginning of my mother's new life with a healthy heart, and I am sure she will expertly usher her one more step toward her goal of living life for the first time with a healthy heart that is pumping blood properly. I cannot wait!

Monday 15

This evening Susan and I went to see mom and she looked really well. Her color was excellent (pink cheeks , etc.). She was sitting in a chair, had dinner, and took a short walk. The Dr. came in and was pleased with the progress. There are only 2 drip bags hanging. That's a long way from the 11 she had to begin. Christina is her nurse tonight. She is the same nurse mom had the night before surgery. Christina is thrilled with the hat that Sharon made her. Susan told her that Sharon started it during surgery, and momma said she finished the tassel in her room today. She said she can't wait to see it on the baby.

After she walked mom said she was ready to get back in bed. She doesn't seem terribly uncomfortable, even trying to maneuver into bed. She loves the blogs and hearing the comments.

Don

Monday at One

We arrived about noon and mama was in the shower room getting pretty. She is now in her chair and just had her lunch. She spilled a bit of shake from her lunch on her pillow and and we all scurryed around and got it clean. So far, 2 nurses and 3 doctors have autographed it.

Mama is coughing a bit, as she should, and she holds her heart pillow to her chest. She has used her spyrometer twice since we have been here. She is visiting and ate most of her lunch .

Mama says to tell everybody to hang in there because she is. She thinks everybody is doing just what they need to do and to keep doing the internet deal.

I read Mama all of your comments, some of them she had me read twice. She likes to hear the comments and is glad that Connie is saving all of it.

We will be heading for home soon, and Greig is coming to visit this afternoon, and Susan and Don I think tonight and we don't stay too long as she needs sleep, and her exercises make her tired.

A volunteer who has gone thru all of this is talking to Mom now, and is very encouraging. She is telling him all of the routine.

Keep up the comments! Its nice to see what all of you have to say.

Love to all, Sharon-Jim, too.

Sunday Evening

It's quiet now in the hospital. Shifts are changing and Greg just stopped and said good night. We will let the new nurse get everything situated and then tell Mama goodnight. All of the kids were here today and they are all headed for their homes and their work except Jim and I, who have no "work".

Tomorrow will be an important milestone again in the healing process. They took the Chest drain tube or tubes out today and mama ate a little bit of supper. Not too much, perhaps her appetite will be good for tomorrow. She has a good sense of humor and recall and we had a nice visit with her .

So good-night or good morning to all of our big family and friend circle, its time to say 'by for now.

Sharon

Editors Note

Well, Greg (he says one G) corrected my spelling, and mama wants to tell you this.

"I think I'm going to make it and my 5 kids and the other 60 followers are a big reason. I am feeling better already."

Mama is busy now telling Greg the story of how she got to the hospital the night Our Greig's caregiver discovered mama was white as a ghost and not getting enough oxygen. She put mama in the car and drove her to the ER, and Greig followed shortly with another caregiver. Now Susan is telling the story, of how they thought she was a goner on that Saturday a hundred years ago, mama likes the story because if you believe in Miracles, this whole story makes perfect sense. This whole story puzzles the doctors, but we just don't argue with success.

Mama says 'Anyhow, I'm here, and I guess that's "the rest of the story. " She is adding that she was glad we were all here and she is glad all of that is behind her. I am sitting in her room, it is large, and she has her own nurse. I think this will change as she gets better. She slept most of yesterday and was up in her chair eating this morning. The dinner order lady is here, and she is going to order now. She wants Vegetable soup, in fact, 2 vegetable soups, no crackers. She would also like one of the soup's blended.

She is going to be fine!

Sharon

Pictures of Mama-After and before

This is Mama and her new best friend. I was referring to her pillow, but a close second is her nurse, Gregg, who looked after her right after she came out of surgery. Her blood pressure wanted to go up and down and I am sure we are happy to have had his expert care.

The last photo is a while back at Samantha's party, showing he great grandaughter Sarah, and cuddled down on her mother's lap is Hailey, Great great Grandaughter!

Saturday Night

Hello,

I just talked to Greig who had spent part of the day with Mom and the other kids. Mom had a pretty good day and had gotten up in a chair.

She was getting pretty attached to her nurses and was kicking everyone out for the night. So her kids will have to "fuss" somewhere else. I'm kind of glad because we all are a little weary.

Sounds like Susan and Marlene are planning on heading to work on Monday right now. I am planning to go in to work as well. Right now Mom's got pretty intense care and frankly it's all pretty much over our heads technically. When I left this morning I counted 11 IV bags in the air- but there could have been more..........so us getting back into our own routines should be good.

Mom is still showing the effects of the anesthesia- Greig said she was telling her nurse about a child of someones who had whooping cough, from somewhere out of the past. This morning early she thought she was going to get a tooth pulled because it was infected..........she had a suction wand in her hand for mucus and didn't have her teeth in- I suspect those two things may have started the storyline...............

Keep her in your thoughts and prayers and thank you for them over the past few days. The support helps Mom and all of the family.

Creig

Encouragement

I got a chance to talk to Doctor Jones, the surgeon who preformed Mom's surgery. He said everything looks good right now but made several suggestions;

• Encourage Mom that she is doing well
• Encourage Mom to use the breathing machine and to use it properly
• Encourage Mom to get moving- when her program calls for her to move

I stayed the night and sent everyone else home. The night was pretty quite- the staff began getting her off the vent about 5AM- at 6AM they drew a blood gas and it was below the number to remove the vent. By 8:30 those numbers were OK and by 9AM she was breathing on her own.

Marlene showed up about 9:30 and I am home getting a little rest now. Mom was getting Greg the Nurse used to setting up her pillows! He was talking about rolling her on her side.........She is hoarse but otherwise Mom............

Creig

September 13

Good morning ,

About 9 AM Mom is breathing on her own. The vent has been removed! Praise the Lord! Things went as Dr. Jones said they would thus far. She had a good night, finally got some rest after 19 days in the hospital. We knew that she would make it since her outlook has been better than most of us. Her spirits were really good! That seems to make a big difference in a person's recovery. So does prayer!

See you later..Don

Aunt Ruth, Uncle Ralph and Doreen wrote:

Good for her!!! Let her know her little brother is doing pretty good too. He has been at Troy Beaumont for low blood pressure all week with hopes of getting discharged today.His room had been right outside a huge construction project that the hospital has been doing and he gets a birds eye view!! He even likes the food!! I'll make sure he knows how well Aunt Nellie is doing. Will we get to see her new valve and the next family reunion??? Make sure she knows we have been keeping her in our prayers for a quick recovery. Love Ruth Ralph and Dorene
--

Starting to Wake Up

Mom is starting to wake up-slowly.............

The anesthesiologist stopped in and said Mom is starting to wake up and showing some signs of breathing on her own! VERY COOL............

He thinks she could be off the vent tonight but if it's after midnight they'll wait until morning to take it out............so they have enough help to handle any problems.

We've kind of laid out a schedule; Susan, Don, and I are sticking around over-night. Everyone else is going to bed.......

Creig

Still Sleeping

We've been able to get in the room with Mom. Her nurse, Greg, just said everything still looks good.

They are not giving her anything right now to sleep or keep her drowsy- she will just wake up when she's ready..........

Greig went home to take a break...........Sharon and Jim are snoozing in their car............and Susan and Don are headed to their car for a cat nap too.........

So Marlene and I are left to "manage". This morning actually went by faster than I thought.........

Creig

Respiratory Update

One of the big concerns with Mom is that she has a diminished lung capacity. She's on a ventilator and the quicker she gets off the better!

Marlene bumped into the Doctor who's managing Mom's breathing and found out the following.

• Most all her numbers look good
• Her kidney function is somewhat diminished
• One key number to get off the vent has gotten better than before the surgery
• Mom is still sedated and will be for a few hours
• She was stable all through surgery
• She is in her room and has lots of staff.

Don't try to call her room yet.......

Creig

What a relief

Mama is headed back to her room in the cardiac wing, where she will remain for the next few days. Her surgeon's PA came and assured us Dr. Jones was on his way. He came in with a confidence only a successful operation must bring to a Doctor who loves what he does, and assured us that Mama did wonderfully well.

Her valve was very badly damaged and was replaced with a "medium Pig Valve" and is working well.

He said she had no problem coming off the heart lung machine, that they did the procedure in her heart to stop the Atrial Fibrillation, and she is now in a normal sinus rythem for the first time in 5 weeks(I think). That brought a roar and a wave from the crowd, and a big thank you God from ALL of the fans.

The next five or 6 days will be critical and tough ones and we thank you for all of your prayers and thoughts and ask that you continue to remember her. Her Pastor, Tony I think, has been here with us most all of the time

Dr. Jones was bearing six color photograph's of the new valve being placed in the heart, he left them for Connie's Scrap book I guess. She prints off all of the Blog entries and the comments so mama will have a copy to help her recall these tough days. All of my siblings are up on D floor in the waiting room, and you can call to the waiting room if you need to, someone will find us.

I guess thats all the stuff I can recall, I am using my computer from the cafeteria here in the hospital. We will be looking for your great comments. Please excuse my skips as my keys seem sticky today

Sharon

Surgery Update

We just met with the doctor and Mom did fine. She should be headed back to her room in 1 to 1 1/2 Hours.

Creig

Surgery Upate # 1

We were just called and told Mom was placed on the heart bypass machine at 7:48 AM. This means they are well into the procedure.

They should be updating us in about 2 hours. Mom was stable and doing fine.

Creig

Surgery

Mom was alert and ready for the next steps in her journey as she just left into the operating room. Her Pastor is here which she really appreciates the support. The staff told us they would let us know when the surgery begins and that it would take about 3 hours or so........

Us kids are all here along with Jim and Don. They have a computer set up in the waiting area so I'm sure we will keep you in the loop.

Creig

Surgery Eve

My brother, sisters, and I met with Mom tonight. She wanted to discuss the surgery and make sure we were all on the same page. Always taking care of us even though she's the one needing care- we love you Mom.

Surgery is scheduled to come pick her up about 5AM. She'll be undergoing a few "procedures" through the night getting prepped. So getting some rest is probably wishful thinking...................

Mom was a little anxious as were the rest of us. I think we all realize the risks and the long road ahead in recovery.

Her color we good as were the rest of her vital signs. She looks very good and was wondering about doing her hair in the morning.

That's it for now but I'll make sure we update through the day tomorrow. Thanks to everyone for your thoughts, prayers, and support. It means a lot to Nellie Grey and her kids, and their kids, and their kids, and their kids, and all the significant others. All sixty-five..............

Creig

Email from Laurel

Thought I had better share this with mama and all of you




Sharon, please tell that doctor that your Mother has a big party
coming up that she needs to attend and to quit moving the date back.
She need time to recoup. Also tell her I miss her and aunt coral at
booked for lunch and we will work on getting that back on program.
Thoughs are with you all, Laurel

Wednesday night and all is WELL

I called Mama tonight and she greeted me with something like "Well Hello you ole sweetie" and I was pleasantly amazed! She sounds stronger. Marlene and Susan and Don were with her today and report she is walking back and forth to the bathroom. She had a shower and shampoo this morning, Nebulizer treatment, and uses her spyrometer (I think that's the name of the little doo-dad they make you blow into and measure your 'breath strength with) religiously every hour.

PT came up and took her for a walk in the hall but said my sisters should not take her as she is a little unsteady. She was taken down and a 'pick line?-was put in her upper arm so they can get blood without poking for a vein-mama has always had "rolling" veins and they are difficult to get into. I am probably not stating all this just technically correct and I could ask Marlene to clarify but she has too many important things to think about so I will eventually get corrected by someone if I am wrong.

But the best report of all was from Mama-she told me that she feels much stronger every day and that is good news for me and my siblings!

We will be leaving for Midland in the morning and I will take my computer.

Again, Thanks all of you, and good night.

Sharon

September 10
Hello, Today was a good day at the hospital. I talked with Dr. Deihl and asked him if everything was good to go on Friday. He said the schedule was still on, and I questioned him whether mom was good to go. He said he was very pleased with what he saw on the charts.

Marlene and Susan talked with Dr. Neal. She seemed not too pleased that mom was in bed, and not sitting, or walking to build her strength. There seemed to be a lack of communication between the nurses as to who or when the walks should be done. We asked if we could walk along with her to make sure that she was getting what she needed. Neal said yes, it could be the nurses or us, but the physical therapist said, "no, it should be the nurses or her", so that is the way it is going to be. Mom needs 1 more walk this evening, and 2 tomorrow to prepare her for surgery.

Her spirits are real good and she actually looks like she does not need the surgery, but that is where looks cannot be used for evaluation, otherwise they would have me on the bed for surgery. She also had port put in her right arm for intervenous
purposes. It is much better than what she had, since those who were trying to find a vein had difficulty, to say the least!

That is about all for now....See you later....Don

Tuesday night news

We are all amazed at this last re-schedule, again, because of more urgent cases. She is now scheduled for surgery on Friday . Marlene has researched Mama's value's and requested that her cardiologist review it as she saw some respiratory problems creeping in.

Dr. Deil ordered some new treatments for her lungs and some new meds. Marlene is monitoring things very carefully. I have absolutely no idea how families survive who don't have their own version of Marlene. Because of her we are aware of state of the art care and we try our very best to be sure that we get it. So far, we have incredible success stories to tell, and we thank God for every single one of them.

Thru all of this, Mama seems in good spirits according to Greig, and looks better than she did this morning. They will be putting in some sort of port (Marlene's Idea) tonight so they can get blood and start meds without trying so many times. They got someone up from anesthesia to start a line tonight so Greig says.

So Mama is resting tonight and we will all get a good nights sleep hopefully. Please Please continue with your prayers as we are not 'out of the woods yet, and you are all such wonderful support for her and for all of us.

Thanks for the comments, keep up the good work. Connie is printing all of this into a notebook for mama to read while she is rehabing, but we will keep her posted in the meanwhile.

Good night all,

Sharon

September 9, 5:03 pm

Sharon called and said that Marlene told her that mom's surgery has been postponed again.
It is now scheduled for Friday (?).
Talk to you later...Don

September 8

Good Afternoon:
There has been an update to mom's surgery. It will not take place on Tuesday as planned, but will be done on Thursday (11th). Greig called and said that it had nothing to do with mom's condition, but an emergency surgery came into the hospital so a change in schedule was needed.

If I get more info., I'll pass it on to the "Blob as mom calls it".
Don

By the Numbers.........

When does 5 + 12 + 27+5 equal 65? When they're Nellie Grey's five children, twelve grandchildren, twenty-seven great grandchildren, five great great grandchildren, plus the spouses- that's when..........

Today is the anniversary of the birth of Nellie's husband and my father, Perry. Dad was born 95 years ago- it's hard to believe he's been gone 8 years.

I stopped in tonight about 6PM and had a nice visit with Mom. She said she had a great day and was up in the chair most of the day.

I spoke with her nurse Kathy about how the day went- she said Mom had a great day as well. Her vital signs was looking good and the plan is that Mom is in the "First Spot" for Tuesday. This means she will be leaving her room between 6:15 and 6:30 AM.

I think we'll have to be careful she gets "some" rest on Monday- so she's got all the energy she can muster for the surgery. Her spirits were high tonight and she looked great as well.

Creig

Sunday 4:15 pm

Hi,
Susan and I spent some time with mom. She was feeling very well and had her walk with a nurse. She walked 60 feet, which is 20 more than previously. Should we subtract her two feet, making it 58 feet, or include them to make the total of 60? Just some food for thought.

Thanks for the time....Don

Sunday at Two

Just talked to Mama on the phone and she said she is doing just fine. She said she is trying to be sure she eats a little better, its so hard without some exercise and in a strange place I am sure. Maybe Susan and Don will take her for a ride in her wheelchair today and see the wonderful hanging gardens, the moss covered brook and stunning waterfalls in the general area. OR the rooftop view from the big waiting room and the endless halls full of effecient personnel. Don't look for the first one too hard!

We will see Mama tomorrow.

I will be printing these post's off tonight and taking them down to read to her, be sure you all get yours in and as we say below the M/D line, 'yall's.

Sharon

A note tonight

It's Saturday night and I just talked to mama. She sounds stronger, and said she just got into bed after being "Up" all day. She said she will try to stay up if that will help her to get stronger. She really takes her healthcare seriously and is very good about listening to her caregivers in the hospital.

The Cardio Thorasic surgeon, Dr. Jones, said the reason she is a good candidate for the surgery is her spirit and her life quality and her familiy support and he has every reason to expect the best. We still don't know his first name,but have heard nothing but great reviews of him.

I've told Mama goodnight, so goodnight John-boy and all!

Sharon

Saturday

Mom was in her chair watching dog shows this morning when I stopped by. Her spirits were good, especially since they had some problems drawing blood and starting an I.V. last night.
She said Dr. Jones stopped by and talked with her this morning and told her she was still on for surgery Tuesday at 7am unless someone more serious came in.
She had a few bites of salmon for lunch but had ate a good breakfast.
She asked me to post her address in case anyone wanted to send her a card or note. Greig

Mid Michigan Medical Center
C/O Nellie Grey Room D-306
4005 Orchard Dr.
Midland MI 48640

Home tonight

This week has been busy for me and I am now writing from home in Manistee. Jim came and got me this morning. It is good to get home but my heart is back in a busy hospital wing in Midland with much of the rest of my family. I will return on Monday if all goes well, I will try to stop Greig from bringing in a crockpot of venison, stop Susan from writing frankly snippy notes on the chalk board even though they were deserved, keep Marlene from ordering a helicopter if we wait over 14 hours for one more doctor, and keep Creig writing his great notes in our 'Blob. We try to keep our spirits up and keep Mama's up, which is sometimes tough at such a serious time. We feel the support of not only each other, but of all of you with your prayers and support.

Do sign up and let us know you are out there and send a message to Mama, she just loves it and looks forward to your posts and your cards. Thank you so much. If you have a Mom, give her a hug for me.

Friday Night Orders

I went after work to see my mom. Her spirits were good as were her vital signs. Her temp was 98.4- up from her norm of 96.8 but better than it was........ A Doctor came in while I was there and said her chest xray was clear. I asked why they had did it and he said to make sure she was not coming down for a problem.

They also have her on a small breathing device. The nurse told Mom how to use it and that she needed to inhale on it 10 times every hour she was awake- then looked at me as to say I need to make sure it happens. 10 inhalations every waking hour.

Mom was eating when I got there in her bed. She said she has been eating in a chair and expressed that's where she would rather eat. After dinner she got into the chair as we visited.

As the visiting hours were ending her nurse was working on a new IV stick without success. This was to replace the one in the back of her right hand even though she has nothing hanging. The nurse helped Mom move into the bathroom- I offered a bedside commode, but the nurse was clear that Mom needs to move as much as possible. I got out of the way!

I talked to Marlene briefly before I left. I told her I need to work Monday if possible. She said she hoped to work until about Noon on Monday then head for Midland. She also mentioned she had tried to call Mom's room several times with no answer. While I was there I did here what now I think was the phone- though it sounded more like a cell phone on vibrate...........we'll have to check it out. I plan on heading back tomorrow afternoon being there by 1PM.

Oh yea........Mom said last night to tell Micheal thanks for the "blob"!

Creig

September 5
Hi,
An update on Mother. Yesterday (4) there was a problem with the heat and water in mom's room. The nurses bathed her in cold water, which was not the right thing to do. It seems that they did not know how to operate the system to get the warm water to work. While that problem was solved, the heat was not, and she had to be moved to another room (D306).

A nurse will be with us later today to explain what we need to expect from the surgery and the recovery, and therapy, etc. We are not sure of the time of this meeting, but she wanted to give enough notice so we could plan to be there.

The surgery is going to be scheduled for Tuesday (?).

Check back for further updates

Don

September 5th

Hi everyone

Mom met with the surgeon (Dr. Jones) last evening at 6:45. He wanted to hear from her that she wanted the operation and she assured him that she did. He was planning on operating on Mom at 7am Monday but has moved it to Tuesday tentatively due to a slight fever yesterday possibly from a u.t.i.

Also, Mom moved to room 306 this morning because there were problems with the thermostat and she couldn't get warm.

Greig

September 3

Hello,

My mom has been in the hospital in Midland since August 24th. She went in with a heart problem that is technically atrial fibrillation.

Last Saturday afternoon things got very worse and Mom was diagnosed with a severe heart attack. We were told she would not last the night. We were all shocked the next morning as she sat up and ate her breakfast! The tests turned out wrong and the Doctors missed the diagnosis- or another physician had his hand on her all the time............

Labor Day she had a heart catheter which showed that her heart murmur is much worse. This means her mitral valve in her heart is leaking severely. The other kids met with her and the surgeon today which laid out two options.

One is to do nothing and her next heart incident is apt to be catastrophic. Two is to replace the valve through open heart surgery. Mom told the other kids she planned on going ahead with the surgery but wanted to talk to me. I got there about 7PM and we all discussed the plans. I believe she will give the OK for the surgery in the morning- and it will probably be scheduled for next week.

Mom looked quite tired tonight as did Greig and Susan and Marlene and Sharon. We are working on a plan to get everyone home for at least a few days before the surgery- except for Mom. She'll have to stay!

We will try to keep this up-to-date and not too technical. But we will be using this as a means to communicate to each other as to what is going on with Mom but we'll be respectful...........

Anyone who knows Nellie Grey know how central God is in her life. I am sure she would want me to thank you for your prayers over the last few days. More than once I have heard the term, "Divine Intervention" in the last few days- once was from the treating Doctor!

Please share this site as you each see fit.

Creig