Day 42: Life Lessons

Mom is continuing to walk without a walker and is doing small things around the house. She felt OK last weekend but is starting to feel discomfort again. Her last lab test results showed high potassium levels again.  We really need to monitor what she is eating. However, her blood sugar has been lower. That is good news.

Taking care of Mom has been definitely a life experience. Both Chad and I do not have children, so we have never had the role of caregiving at this degree. But I can imagine how taking care of children might be like through this experience. In the beginning of Mom's recovery, when she just got home, it was almost like taking care of a small child. She needed her meals cooked or prepared, needed our assistance in the shower, and watched out for her while she took her steps. Chad and I coordinated our schedules to take turns caregiving, reminiscent of how my parents took care of us when we were small. At night, we slept lightly, listening for Mom, if she called out for assistance or pain medication (OK, Chad slept lightly). We coaxed her to eat more, even though she didn't want to, and be the one to have to tell her she couldn't have some of her favorite foods. Like a child, she rather eat a cookie or ice cream sandwich, instead of eating all of her dinner, and like a parent, we gave in and let her have it even though we knew her blood sugar was going to be elevated. When we ask how she was feeling, we found out that we had to ask more specific questions because her answer would always be "Fine," when obviously she was experiencing fatigue or discomfort. 

Now that she's feeling better, she has "grown" to somewhat teenager status. She's moving faster, wants to be more independent, and is asking when she can start driving. Of course, we're being cautious and waiting until after she's more stable in her tests, stitches and staples are out, and her T-Tube in her side is taken out as well. Frankly, she's being a little more stubborn and more of a backseat driver, hahaha. 

I still can't believe it's been more than a month since Mom had her new liver. I'm still amazed. I am very grateful for the doctors and nurses at UCLA and of course, for the countless prayers and intentions everyone has bestowed on us. Thank you.