FN, how about an update? What a crazy month this has been for you and your mom. I'm so sorry. Are you doing anything to take care of yourself?

Hi Everyone,

Mom is still in the hospital. There are signs of improvement, but I don't think I'll be able to take her home before next Thursday.

Tomorrow is my birthday and I hoped we'd be spending it at home. At least I still have her with me.

For those of you who have gone through this or are anticipating going through this, you have to remain flexible. This has been a difficult month, but we went through something similar in July. We were back and forth at the hospital 5 times in 6 weeks. Three of those times she was admitted. I sat by my mother's bedside for the better part of July from the 4th through the first week in August.

This time, I hired someone to spend days with her--this way I can work--and I spend nights except tomorrow when I'll be there all day--no coverage.

It's important to have someone cover for you when you're not there if a loved one is in the hospital so you have eyes and ears. Hospitals make mistakes!

I'm always amused by the reality shows I see on TV. I often think if they really want a reality show, they should follow me (or any caregiver) around for a month. It would be an eye-opener!

I won't have coverage until Monday, so I'll check back then.

Until later . . .

I have been through it, with both parents, and it is very stressful. But get every moment together that you can, you won't regret it.

FN, have a very Happy Birthday, tomorrow! ((HUGS))

Happy Birthday FN and I hope the day is magical and you are surrounded buy love....

[ January 28, 2006, 08:26 PM: Message edited by: chatty lady ]

I continue to be amazed by your dedication. Your mother is blessed to have such a devoted daughter. Happy birthday!

Hi Everyone,

This is my last day as your featured author and I'm sure you will never forget this month. You have been living a nightmare with me which explains better than I ever could in a book about the roller coaster we caregivers ride.

Two days ago, on my birthday, a doctor came in and humbly admitted they'd been "chasing a red herring" which diverted attention from Mom's pneumonia. Then he told me it got much worse.

Now, I am hanging on day-by-day. I am worn out and sheer stubborness has kept me going. I am a fighter. I am my mother's daughter and I pray that she still has her fight in her.

I am heading back to the hospital where I continue to spend nights. There were two potential mix-ups in medicines, so it is important that you always ask questions and make sure they are being administered correctly.

I leave you with grateful appreciation for your support and good wishes, and most of all, your prayers. Please continue to pray for my mother.

G-d bless all of you who have been so kind to me during this very difficult month. Best, Francyne

[ January 31, 2006, 03:19 PM: Message edited by: F N Rosenstock ]

FN...will continue to say prayers for you and your mom.
Please, continue to update us on her progress.

Thank-you for your time and extra energy here.

FN, thanks so much for you time spent with us during this difficult month. I will remember you and your mom in my prayers. I admire your devotion!

I am sad to tell you that my mother passed away yesterday morning. I am about to leave for the airport to attend the funeral, scheduled for Friday at 12 noon.

As hard as the next few days will be, I can't imagine coming back here to an empty house.

Your continued thoughts and prayers for her, and your kindness toward me are gratefully appreciated. Francyne

I'm sorry to hear of your loss Francyne.
{{{{{Hugs}}}}}