As I sit here writing this, the sky out of Pam's windows is a grey and somewhat cloudy view, with patches of sunshine peeking in from time to time.
Pam has been in the hospital for about 10 days now. There have been a bunch of highs and lows for her pain level, but staff has seemed to reach a steady state for the most part, ranging from about 4 to 7 on the pain scale. That is, except when something has to be done, like shifting her around, using a bedpan, and now trying to keep her from developing any bed sores. The trauma then rises pretty quickly and pretty dramatically.
The level of medication needed to control the pain is high, and so that means that Pam moves in and out of sleep, awareness, and a pretty loopy state. We're enjoying trying to figure out what she's telling us at some points in the day.
The church brought by a big basket of snacks which we will slowly appreciate, and we've been sharing your cards with Pam when she is able to receive them. Thanks for those. Thanks also for your care and concern, and your continued prayer support. I also appreciate all your offers to help including providing meals, but so far, the dog and I, with the help of our daughters, are doing fine.
We're not sure what will happen next. We're considering exiting Pam to a facility like Maryville. The extent of care she needs is really high, and home is probably not the place for that to happen. It's unfortunate, but that's how it will have to be.
Throughout our marriage, Pam and I have always contested over who the star of the family is. What I have been reminded of over the last few days, is how many people Pam has influenced, helped, shepherded, shared her faith and the gospel with, and been a bright light to. I want you to know that even now, Pam is thinking about you and remembering many of your shared experiences. And I'll add that she continues to honor God and share His love in her interactions with the staff here.
This is rough, but God is good.
No comments:
Post a Comment