I had two meetings yesterday: one with Vernon’s doctor team and another with the Dialysis honchos. (I won’t count the 3rd with the kids’ hairdresser.)
I must reiterate that I LOVE this doctor and his PA. As they spoke about their plans for Vernon (and listened to my requests) they reiterated their concern about his potential infections, even suggesting he might have a budding infection at the moment (perhaps why he has been so volatile and inconsistent lately.) It struck me, listening to them, how their attention may have already saved his life. I’ll never know this for sure, but I know enough to be thankful for their vigilance.
I let them know about the escalating problems with Dialysis, and they suggested a few possible medication fixes—which I hoped would give me some leverage with the Dialysis People in the afternoon (a meeting I was dreading.)
But even meeting went well. They could tell, by the fact volunteers had been sitting with him for the past week and a half, that we had been trying our best to meet them halfway. Vernon’s nephrologist was at the table and he really seemed to be on our side, insisting that the management change Vernon’s schedule, even though they said it wouldn’t be possible. He called Vernon an absolute priority.
And then he came up with a new idea: why not send him in to dialyze more days a week, but for less hours? This seemed like a brilliant plan, as Vernon seems to be able to tolerate things for a short while, but not the 3 (plus) hours he has to be on that chair. It’s certainly worth a try! So fingers crossed, things will start changing over there soon too…
We will still need people to sit with Vernon, but hopefully it will be an easier time for everyone if its a shorter stint. In the meantime, we had an extra special carer stay with him in the afternoon.
This is Adeline (and my lovely mother, Anne) who agreed to come down from central LA to sit with Vernon for a session. She was my grandparent’s caregiver for the last years of their lives and is a very special part of our family. It’s a long way for her to come to look after him, but it was an honor to have her. Vernon said he remembered her too!
One more story, because its the thing that tickled me most yesterday:
Do you remember Joe? The Mayor of Mesa Verde? He rolled by at one point asking how well Vernon got along with his roommate. I told him I couldn’t say really, as his new roommate is bed-bound and Vernon is often out of the room these days. There doesn’t seem to be much interaction between them.
“Well,” said Joe. “My roommate is leaving soon and I’m looking for a new one. I would love to be Vernon’s roommate if he wants. I really like the guy.”
I think its a great idea since Joe is so interactive. He also knows what a hard case Vernon is and still wants to hang out with him. This could be a good boost to Vernon’s spirits too!
He even offered to sit with Vernon through dialysis. I don’t think they ‘ll let another guy in a wheelchair do that, but I loved the heart behind the offer.
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every lucky person should have a special ‘joe’ in their life. i hope it works out! prayers and hugs…
Allison,
If she was with your grandparents in 2009 we saw her. They were very special people. Hoping everything will work out for you and Vernon. And if the guy wants Vernon in his room that is good and it could help Vern out to. There is nothing like having someone with you and knowing they care.
Love to you all,
Becky Jones
Dear Allison. I just wanted you to know I’m thinking of you and praying for you and Vernon and all those who are coming to visit. As I was discussing my own journey with a friend we talked about how we’re not driving this bus and acknowledge He is in charge…..but we would sure like to be clued in on the itinerary and who’s on the bus…but I guess that is where Faith enters the Plan. Each day at a time. Love Randy
so pleased you have had some positive meetings Allison, so good to read that you are being listened too,and how much people do care from friends, carers and even the people “at the top”..you must have slept better last night xx
i hope they can sort out any infection very soon..and Vern will be taking some bigger steps on this marathon.. (this morning is the london marathon, which we will be watching on the tv).
xx big hugs to you all xx
ps lovely picture of your mum and adeline xx