The photo above isn’t the greatest illustration, but you get the idea of the ‘boxing glove’ that Vernon has to wear on the hand of his fidgety left arm. They put it on yesterday so he wouldn’t scratch his wound or pull at his stitches, but when I arrived today, he still had one on. He is like an animal with its foot in a trap, constantly trying to pull it between his thighs or even holding it out to me (or anyone else available) and saying: “Here you go…” He’s still so polite despite his discomfort. I love that about him.
He looks like a cartoon boxer with that glove. And with that idea in mind, his bed with its adjustable rails looked a bit like a ring. The hospital had employed a sitter (Chad was his name) to stay with Vernon in case he tried to escape. Vernon was certainly trying his best: his legs swung from side to agitated side. It made me see the picture afresh how he is in combat, even if there is no external opponent. The glove kept swinging as if he something was attacking him. No fun, but it’s GOOD to see him doing it physically. Sometimes I feel I’m trying to do all the fighting for him, but compared to his nearly comatose state in this very hospital a month ago, I can see he is starting to spar for himself.
The doctor has decided to keep him in for another night. This has nothing to do with his fall but the fact that two infections have shown up through tests. I was aware of this yesterday, but it seems a little more serious today. They have discovered more UTI and C Diff infections in his system, so they will be giving him some long-term antibiotics. Well, we are in this for the long term, so no problem there, I guess.
My only frustration is that the new therapies that have started to show some results are put on hold (PT, OT, and the new Omega Oil supplements.) But ultimately his life is more important…and these sicknesses are life threatening when he is in such a vulnerable state.
I’m also thankful that some of the “Team Vernon” volunteers have showed up to move his arms and legs and keep him company, despite the temporary change of address.
Keep up the good fight, Vernon. We are all out here rooting for you. Can you hear the roar?
I’m married to an Englishman too. There’s something about the Brits that no matter what, they are terribly polite. I think it’s why we find the guys so enchanting and charming. Plus the accent is lovely, except when they are snoring.
We are praying that Vernon beats down these infections.
Haha! Your snoring comment made me laugh…wonder if there are snoring accents? 🙂 thanks for the prayers! Love, a fellow Anglophile
You are right, it’s better that Vernon is active although he is restless, and yes, he is the one who has to fight the fight, but it helps with cheering on, and lots of it is coming from over here. What we Norwegians say is: Heia! Heia!
Big hug.
we are fighting for you Vern ..get rid of those nasty infections ..and lets see you back having your therapies..
xx lots of hugs and prayers coming your way xx
Allison,
Wish we could close by so we could visit Vernon from time to time. Love your descriptions of his living now at Hoag. Prayers are still coming your direction.
Love,
Becky