Tonight's picture was taken in July of 2008. It was actually four days after Mattie was diagnosed with cancer. That day we took Mattie to Roosevelt Island. It was always our retreat from the city and a place that Mattie loved to explore. That day we took Mattie's remote controlled boats to the Island and Mattie got to float and drive them in the water. Also ironic, because prior to Mattie getting diagnosed with cancer, I did not let him in the Potomac River, much less float a boat in it. As I deemed the water mucky and dirty. However, once diagnosed, the boats went in the water and Mattie had those wonderful memorable adventures on the Island.
Quote of the day: If you learn to listen for clues as to how I feel instead of what I say, you will be able to understand me much better. ~ Mara Botonis
Today's quote is spot on, especially when caring for someone with dementia. I know my dad's every movement so well that he really doesn't have to say much. I can tell exactly what he needs based on his posture, facial expression or sounds. This week I left home for a couple of hours, on Thursday and on Saturday. One was for a friend's party and another was for a birthday luncheon for me. Though I tried to prepare my dad, I think my absence caused him anxiety and stress. Which for him triggered a bout of constipation. With his irritable bowel syndrome, I can get both extremely. Usually with him it is diarrhea, but this week's anxiety triggered the opposite problem. Honestly my dad with constipation feels like a national crisis.
Yesterday when I got back home, out came the Senokot. Mind you my dad takes four capsules of Metamucil everyday. However, sometimes that isn't enough, and I have to tweak what he gets. I learned this balancing act from his gastroenterologist in Los Angeles. Thankfully I was part of that ordeal and conversation there, because now I know what arsenal of things I need here to be successful with him.
No comments:
Post a Comment