Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Day +120, A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Smiles!

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
JOHN 14 : 27”

Pictured above is Joe Maiolo bringing the joy!

We've had a few more challenging days, both physically and mentally.   "Recognizing Change" is the  banner over my head, literally.  When appointed caregiver, you actually become an extention to ones body and their mental perspective in some cases.  For Clif, since he has been here for so long and taking such a variety of drugs, one is likely to get confused, lose track of time or sometimes hit rock bottom.  Many of the drugs that are meant to help with anxiety, nerve issues or even help you sleep all affect the mind.  So when we see the mental behave out of the norm, the red flags go up.  A slight form of depression was starting to reveal itself, but I think it's been addressed quickly with much wisdom and thought.

A blessing this past week was having Holly here, Clif's sister from New Hampshire.  I must say, she is insightful with her observation of the mental.  Her husband Peter, an ER doctor has also been an extra benefit and their collective wisdom has been comforting for myself and has allowed the three of us to make some pretty good deterrminations that have benefited Clifs overall health.  Having them to turn too daily has made us a great team!  God really has provided some extra special support in this area.  I am truly thankful.

Clif had an upper and lower GI yesterday, results will be forthcoming.  Having recent and new abdominal pain called for further investigation.  With this, his appetite has decreased over the last week and we have seen a bit of weight loss.   Being creative on the food menu has also become increasingly boring!  We need to be gentle on the intake, so any thoughts on gentle menu items safe for the intestinal system are completely welcome.

As he continues with rehab, he attempts to take "one step up".  Jose pictured to the right of Clif has a certain gentle spirit and the strength of Hercules!  Knowing this, Clif trusts him completely to be his strength.  Yes, we will leave here with people who have deeply touched our lives and that we will keep in touch with.

Thank you all again and again for encouraging us to win this battle, for praying for our strength and courage, for routine emails and texts that keep us integrated with people, for meals in abundance to the house and for bringing joy and company and much more.

“You are my refuge and my shield;
I have put my hope in your word.”
Psalm 119:114

2 comments:

  1. So great to see Clif out of the bed and moving about! Hallelujah.

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  2. Checking in to see if Cliff is having any visitors ? I know him through SIOR and have donated blood at City of Hope on his behalf.

    Eric Burney

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