Tue. Dec 03, 2002
The Nurse Is In
The Nurse Is In – There may be a distinct lack of free ice cream until this weekend. A week ago, work was slow, and Susan came home on Tuesday in severe pain with a scary MRI.
This week, work is most plentiful, plus I have my daily shift at home as Nurse Bruno. Susan is recovering from her surgery very well, despite my ministrations. She’s wearing a fashionable Aspen collar for the next 8 to 12 weeks, which is no fun at all, but I have complete empathy for what she’s going through. I had a C2 fracture 19 years ago, and for 10 weeks I wore a more severe but similar form of cervical immobilization device. The only thing that can be said for it is that it beats the hell out of wearing a Halo.
So while I understand the adjustment she’s having to make, I’ve also been able to explain to her that she will have a love/hate relationship with the brace, something I think she understood today. After the surgical pain diminishes, when you have the collar off to bathe the neck and face, you really … feel … naked. And vulnerable. You realize how fragile your spine is, and you want the collar back on. Now. It becomes comforting, despite the frequent discomfort it causes.
And if that doesn’t work, I’ll just tell her to suck it up and take it like a man. She will get better, and since she’s my wife now, she has to submit to my will. It was in the vows and all. I made sure (that ought to get a comment burst going).
But as a result of these long days trying to generate income and ensure patient compliance, there has been little time or energy left to add words or pixels to this space. I haven’t even had time to respond to this lengthy thread (well, later I did).
Refund checks are forthcoming to those who deserve them.
Published 08:19PM, Tue, Dec 03 2002
Category: My Life
Previous: «« I Like Mike ««
Next: »» Mixed Saudi Messages »»
Peanut Gallery
The spine is a delicate thing – and spinal/back pain is just the worst. I’ve never had to nurse anyone recovering from spinal surgery, but as a mom who has tended to many illnesses, the best advice for nursing is to spoil the patient rotten. All patients, especially the stoic ones, need to be pampered, with fluffy pillows and all the treats they want. It works – really.
Good grief dude. Was just making the rounds after returning from vacation and am shocked to hear about Susan. Bless her heart. What a trooper! For sure there's been no shortage of drama around your place this year. Here's hoping '03 will be a little less stressful! Please pass along love and good wishes to her.
I hope Susan gets better. Tell her to hang in there. Oh, and Mary's advice on spoiling the patient is very good.
I have to say he has definatley spoiled me! He has been a wonderful nurse - I've tried hard to comply with my many limitations. Doing well and at least at the computer in intervals - I'm on the mend! Thanks to all the well wishs and thoughts they are greatly appreciated. Here's is to a brighter '03! Susan
Recent Comments
- Stanley (Is That Really Amish?)
- John (Falcons Explode Expectations)
- mark (Is That Really Amish?)
- Jessica (Is That Really Amish?)
- Reid (Grandpa is Once Again Astounded By The Interwebs)
- elburro (Grandpa is Once Again Astounded By The Interwebs)
ReidStott.com
Photography
by Reid Stott
A decade of web design experience. Two decades of photography experience. All available to you, and your project. View my portfolio online, then let's talk about your needs.ReidStott.com
I am glad to hear she is all right! However.. being a woman.. that "she has to submit to my will" line was a little hard to take *cough-cough* ;) heh And I can TOTALLY relate to the brace statement.. I tore apart my ankle a few years ago and couldn't walk for nearly 6 months.. when it was time to take the brace off.. I was 110% sure I would fall again... but I didn't :) It's just sad that NOW my boyfri... uhh.. I mean fiancee' is going through the same thing.. :( anyhow.. I am glad to see she is doing well.