Please excuse typos and things that appear "disconnected", it's hard to see through tears and my mind isn't working too coherently. Pat called this morning to give me an update and we both cried on the phone.
They were visiting Linda last night and overheard her nurse and one of her doctors discussing her. She has a bladder infection and is on IV antibiotics. But more than that, she can't eat solid food, she weighs only 91 pounds and (to quote Pat) "is fading as we watch". They were going to do an ultrasound tomorrow, but have cancelled that in favor of a plain x-ray. When the nruse queried the change, the doctor said "She can't go any more than 2 or 3 weeks and she's too weak to take something like an ultrasound".
The specialist was going to talk to Linda after visiting hours last night, and Al went to the hospital early this morning to be with her. Personally, I think that it would have been better to have allowed Al to stay late and be there when the Dr. met with Linda, but that's an opinion. It must have been a very difficult night for her, though.
I called Crystal last night because it was Jacob's Bridge Anniversaary, but Melissa said she was "visiting Grandma" and will call me today.So when she calls I'll learn what the specialist said, and will update again. Pat and Jim have to come back to the city tomorrow for a doctor's appointment, and will stay for a couple daus, before going back to McMurray, baring changes in Linda's condition.
Worried and sad huggles
Marf
I can only imagine the incredible sadness and disbelief to hear such conversation. Prayers that the conversation with the specialist has given some reassurance and peace of mind to Linda's family and friends. Words escape me . . .
dottie
I know there are no words for something like this.. it just seems like there is nothing we could do to make this better, but what I can and will do is continue to keep them all in my prayers..
We pray that when it is time for our fur babies to go they just slip away in their sleep, quietly and peacefully and we wish nothing different for our human loved ones... the process we all go through when it drags out is so very painful....Faith is all I can think that helps strengthen us I prya their faith is what carries them through..
Sad Hugs.....
Julie
Prayers and hugs that the time remaining is pain free, comforting to both patient and family, and merciful in the outcome.
Mary Lou
I know, Marg, that you've known for years that this time would come, but that doesn't make it any easier for anyone who knows and loves Linda. I wish I had words to make you "feel better" and to dry those tears but I know that's not possible, and your tears are the reflection of the love you have for that family, each and every one. I know you've been a blessing to all of them, especially Pat, and will be a life line for her once Linda's ordeal is over.
Not for the first time, my dear, I'm very proud to know you and to be able to call you my friend. I'm sure you'll be making the necessary additions to Human Needs next Monday, and I hope you'll also add yourself. It's not easy being the rock for so many in need, and you need prayers as much as the immediate family, maybe more. Please take very good care of you!!!
Hugs
Ribs
Marf,
I am so sorry. Please know that my prayers are going out to the family and to you. I remember all too clearly what it is like to watch someone you love waste away, how you would give anything to take that pain away from them and those who love them. There are no words that can truly express what I wish to convey. But please know that all of you are being prayed for.
The Nuts send you their best Nut Hug.
Amanda
My prayers are with Linda and her family that her last days may be free of pain and filled with peace...that they together can build some more memories. gloria
I don't get on as often these days and just now saw your post. Linda has certainly been amazing through this long course, bouncing back so many times when it looked bleak. The things she has accomplished are too numerous to count, but maybe the greatest was being there to see her little grandson safely to the Bridge. Now she will soon be joining him and what a reunion that will be.
Even so, those of you who are left behind are hurting and torn between wanting peace for her and more time for all of you. My prayers are with you all that this final journey can be as gentle as posible. And for Linda, a gentle transition to that beautiful place where there is no more pain.
May God be with all of you.
Nora
My dearest Marf,
Thank you for keeping us updated on Linda. I'm so sorry things have progressed so. So much sorrow for one family...
Please add my prayers to all the rest...
Much love, many prayers and Infinite Hope,
Jabi