Get Over It

 I know it's been a long time since I've blogged.  It feels like a whirlwind.  This is just a rant. 

If it pertains to you, well you know my sister and I feel. We don't care what you think at this point. That's what happens when people we thought would support us and trust failed us.

Let me start by saying my sister and I love our parents.  They did everything they could for us. They made hard decisions concerning me with surgeries, etc as well as situations with my sister.

Life is a circle. You are born, usually taken care of by loving parents who have to make numerous hard decisions. Then as you get older, your parents age and you, the child has to make the decisions for them when it is time. It came time for my sister and me to do something for their safety and health. They're getting older and need extra help. I won't divulge some private things I know they wouldn't want me to tell the world. They probably wouldn't want me to write this.

But I. Need. To. Get. This. Out. And they would understand.

Understand me, we've had enough. We have enough of people questioning us why we did this or that. Or why we didn't do this or that. I couldn't believe the ones we knew well actually questioned us. We were shocked and so disappointed. It is like they didn't trust what we were doing. Do you really think one day my sister and I woke up and decided to take care of our parents as we saw fit? If you do,you are wrong! We both researched and asked their doctor what the best solution was. We talked about it over and over again. It was the hardest thing to do.

You weren't there. You weren't seeing what we saw. Did you ever visit them before?

When we asked a few people to help, they said they weren't comfortable with doing it the way we wanted to do it. I respect their decision and I've come to the point that the way it happened, it was supposed to happen. So I have no ill will against them. Whatsoever. If we ever need help, I would call upon them again.

I hear people are upset because they weren't informed before or after we tended to our parents. Let me explain it to you. It was a delicate situation and there was a transitional period. My sister and I were stressed enough. We didn't need to be bombarded with opinions and questions which did happen after everyone started to find out. 

.Putting it bluntly it is none of your business. You can be angry all you want and for as long as you want. We have more important stuff to worry about and do.

By the way, after the transition, we decided to give visitation privileges to some. Whoever would like to go visit them, and is not on the list, contact my sister or I. Remember the privilege can be easily taken away if need be.

We knew the rumors would go around and everyone would find out. 

My sister and I know we did the right thing. Our parents are adjusting well now. They're socializing,  eating well, and being taken care of. We tried and couldn't take care of them like this.

We just ask you to trust us. Trust that we did the best we could like they did for us.  Quit questioning us. It's done. Move on.

Will It Be Hernia Surgery or Back Surgery First?

 This week, I went to the general surgeon. He looked at it and said it was a hernia. (I knew that already!) He did touch it.

We discussed the pros and cons of having hernia surgery before the back surgery. 

I could tell he did not want to sway me one way or another. He did say the hernia will need to be tended to eventually.

I asked him about the recovery time. I know a normal person's recovery time and my recovery time can be very different.

After talking about it, as much as I want/need this back surgery, I've decided to get the hernia repair done first. Hubby and I are hoping that by the summer I will be able to do my back surgery.

Yes, I'm a little bummed but it is what it is.

On another note, here is exciting news. When Hubby and I walked from the parking garage to the doctor's office which was way down the hall on fourth floor, I realized I was not gasping for breath. When we got back in the car I asked Hubby if he noticed that I was able to walk without stopping. Yea, I was short of breath when I got to the office and car but nothing like it's been. I think it would be much better if I didn't have to wear the mask but it is what it is.

I've been also been cooking and I do get tired and some shortness of breath but there's an improvement!

I hope ya'll are warm who live in the North. Here in the South we complain of the cold (lower than 55 LOL). I wouldn't want the snow either. It's been raining and making everything blah.

Anyway, until next time...

Say hello to a stranger

Update on Being a Long Hauler and Disc Surgery

A long hauler is a person who had the Coronavirus and continues to have symptoms. I am improving slowly but surely. I still have shortness of breath with exertion and I sometimes wake up gasping for breath. I am cooking now with my awesome hubby helping me clean up. He still has to do the laundry and other chores because I get short of breath easily. It's confusing to me because I can cook but folding clothes causes shortness of breath. Who knows??

I have been cleared to have my disc surgery. I was so excited. I've been using a pregnancy pillow (picture below) to prevent me from rolling on my back while I am asleep. Sometimes it works.

When I went to my doctor to get the final clearance.  I showed her a bump in my groin area thinking it is nothing serious. She exclaimed, "Oh Ms. Landry, you have an inguinal hernia!" I asked her what the treatment would be. She answered surgical removal. Panicking,  I asked, "But it can wait until my disc surgery, right?!"She paused and said," Hmm, I would think this would take precedence." 

I just blurted "What else can go wrong!? Screw my life." Tears flowed in frustration and disappointment.😢

She said, "I am going to refer you to a general surgeon who does this kind of surgery. He is great and will not do surgery until he really has to." I have an appointment Tuesday.

Ironically, the day after, my orthopedic surgeon called to schedule my back surgery. I told her what was going on. She said, "Boo, you've been through so much. I'm so sorry. Call me after you go to the surgeon and I wish you luck."

So that's my life for now. 

Until next time....

MY Experience with COVID19

Hello My Friends,

I hope is well with you. I hope you are staying safe. Not sure what is worse the COVID 19 or the chaos in our country. I pray none of you or people you know have experienced COVID19. I did and let me tell you, the last time I went into the hospital I thought I wasn't coming out.

From the week after I ended Physical Therapy(End of March) to April 5th I went to ER 4 times and was admitted twice.

The first time they admitted me was with a diagnosis of  "Community-acquired pneumonia." They did a COVID 19 test. They treated me with antibiotics and prednisone and IV fluids. I had my pulmonologist and a hospitalist as my physicians. Day 2 of my hospitalization they both told me adamantly at separate times that I would be safer to go home because they JUST KNEW I didn't have COVID and being on a COVID floor I was safer home. 

I checked my O2 level, pulse and temperature throughout the day when I was home. About a couple days later I was called by the doctor saying I was indeed COVID 19 positive. (So much for the doctors being confident that I DID NOT have it!). They told me to quarantine and all the CDC recommendations. CDC called me and asked if I lived with someone. They ended up telling my husband to go get checked. He only had a slight sore throat and felt a little rundown. He grudgingly went and sure enough, he was also positive.

I was getting worse. My O2 was up and down. I was gasping for breath. My temperature was 102.1. The doctor told me to go to the ER AGAIN!. Twice before I went to ER they sent me back. So Hubby once again brought me. On the way to the hospital, we both said I love you. Although, we didn't say it then, both of us thought I wasn't coming back home. 

Note: The worse of it all was they wouldn't allow my Hubby to help me in the ER. No one helped me. I almost fell on my face. I could hardly walk. There was the receptionist I saw for the 4th time and I wanted to slap her each time. Such a rude person. AND there were 2 'security guards' who didn't even try to help me.

They admitted me and treated me with the controversial Hydroxychloroquine, Zithromax and Remdesivir. I felt better the next day. They kept me for 5 days.

My diagnosis was: Pneumonia due to COVID 19, Viral gastroenteritis, acute respiratory failure, hypo osmolality-hyponatremia. They put me on oxygen by nasal cannula.

Thankfully, my husband had many friends and family to support him while I was in the hospital. Thanks to everyone! You know who you are. Thanks for the prayers and concern. The Nurses were awesome. I felt for them, having to put the PPE on every time they walked in. I think they had a good system although I know it was a pain in the you know what.

Before entering my room they would call my room and asked if I needed anything. Dietary would call 3 times daily to get my order for the meal. They had a menu according to my diet. 

Let me tell you their chicken and sausage gumbo was one of the best. All of their food was good but that gumbo.Mmmmm Mmmmm good.

As of May 13, 2020 I was tested negative for COVID-19. I continue to have shortness of breath with activity, which is improving day by day. I get tired easily. My taste and smell are off sometimes. I sometimes hard a time pronouncing a word, now I can't even remember the word.

I was supposed to have surgery on my disc in April. That was canceled. Then my knee started locking at night. Let me tell you.that is one excruciating pain as I slowly unlock it. So I am back in PT.

This was my COVID experience. I know some people think wearing a mask is politically motivated or taking away our freedom. Let me tell you. Maybe it is politically motivated in a way but if you never had COVID or had a loved one I hope you don't ever catch this. I am paranoid. It is hard for me to wear my mask but I do it to protect myself and others. It's a simple gesture to protect others and yourself.

Until I show up again..Please be safe. Wear Your mask. Pray.

////////.......................................

Awesome Physical Therapy

I am so tired of my body, seriously.

I had two spinal injections and they didn't work on my leg. Today, I finished my approximately 7th week of  Physical therapy. I went to a different physical therapist because the other two I've gone in the last 2 years I didn't feel they were right for me.

Summit Therapy is the best. My out of pocket is a little more expensive but I feel its worth it. My back is better but my leg continues to give me problems.

I have never been in a public place much less a medical office that has religious wall decor and every morning the staff goes in the back and says a quick prayer. How often do you see this nowadays?

The staff knows every patient's name although they are not working with them. I still don't know all of their names.

My main PT is Stefan. It's a small world because we both grew up in the same town. Our parents know each other. He gives the best back 'massages".  He is awesome. He listens. He cares. I think the whole office has a gift of compassion.

I know I am in good hands there. I highly recommend them if you are in this area and need a PT.

Then last week, I woke up with pain in my neck radiating to my shoulder. It wasn't too bad. I had hit my shoulder against the door the previous day so I figured I aggravated it.

Thursday it got worse. Friday, I went to PT and it was excruciating. They applied a hot moist compress, did some exercises and Stefan suggested I call my orthopedist. It didn't go so well because they were saying I was not an "ACTIVE PATIENT." We argued and then they told me to call my primary doctor who was off that day.

I went to Urgent Care who is awesome. I'm actually considering just going there except my Primary doctor for acute medical problems. The P.A. diagnosed it as a cervical sprain. I was given some anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants and shot of steroids and told me to put moist heat compresses. 

I have to take the meds with food and one is three times a day. I hate taking meds that way. But you do what you gotta do. My neck and shoulder are better. My back is better except when I sleep on it most of the night. I wish they could figure out my leg pain. The orthopedist said  I have a lower back disc herniation that is squeezing the nerve. I have an appointment middle of March to discuss possible surgery. He will need to do a lot of convincing because I heard too many nightmares with back surgery.

So this has been my life. Nice start of 2020. Not!!! It could be worse though.

Until next time..count your blessings if you do not have any chronic medical condition.

Thanks for stopping by. I appreciate it!

God Called A Friend Home. He Is Missed.

Danny was my best friend's husband. When she started dating him she told me I had to meet them.

When I met Danny, we just clicked as friends. He was always making be blush or picking on him. I picked on him as well.

He took care of my BFF Jo. They were 13 years apart in age. But they loved each other very much. They had been married for 25.5 years.

He couldn't understand how Jo and I could be BFF when we went years without talking to each other but when we did contact the other, we just picked up where we left off.  We both know we will be there for the other anytime anywhere no matter how long there isn't any contact.

I loved him. He became a friend too. I will miss him.

I was worried about Jo although knowing she's been to hell and back but came back stronger. So I know she will be okay.  She knows I'm here.

She knows he is in heaven and because she has a strong faith in God,  she will be okay.

I miss you already Danny. I love you and everyone you met, will never ever forget you. I will watch out for Jo.

If you want to read about his life his obituary is here.

Until I see you again, don't give God and the angels too much trouble. Rest in peace.

Until next time...make a call to that friend you haven't' talked to for a while.

Spinal Injection Procedure

Hello Everyone!

I hope everyone had a safe and Happy New Year. I wish all of you a happy and prosperous 2020!

As I stated in a previous post, on January 3, I had my first spinal injection.

I would like to share my experience to maybe help those who are anxious about it.

Not everyone is the same and not every hospital or doctor has the same protocol but I hope my experience is close enough to help those who have no idea how it was going to be.

When the doctor told me he wanted to try spinal injections, I was ready for anything (except surgery). He gave me some paperwork explaining the procedure etc. I understood it but for whatever reason when it comes to doing something with my spine, I am anxious. I always have that dark thought if he moves that syringe a tiny off, I could be paralyzed and another awful result could occur.

The day before, the Outpatient Surgical Center called me and asked me what time I wanted to go in. That was different. They usually tell you what time to get there.

So the day came and we arrived on time. Since I preregistered online, I only had to sign a few papers. Hubby and I sat down and within 10 minutes I was called. They brought me into a room with several beds like a recovery room with curtains. I really wouldn't call it a recovery room but hopefully you get my drift.

It brought me back to when I was a little girl at New Orleans Touro Hospital in a children's ward after surgery. There were some fond memories and then there were some not so fond memories.

They gave me a gown to change into. (I jokingly asked the nurse why on the instruction sheet it says to wear loose clothing when I have to wear a gown. She said she didn't know but that was a legitimate question!). 

They offered mild sedation but  I declined hoping nothing can be worse than the pain I was in. I overheard the nurse tell other patients the mild sedation would be Benadryl and something with a p.  They hooked me to the blood pressure machine. They allowed my Hubby to be with me until I was rolled into the injection room.

The staff was excellent. I couldn't ask for any better bedside manner, compassion and efficiency.

After about 10 minutes, they came to get me and told Hubby to wait in the waiting room. They rolled me into the injection room and I transferred from one stretcher to the other. The nurse told me to get on my stomach.

One, it's hard to breathe laying on my stomach. Second, when you have back pain, it is the worst position to be in. But I just closed my eyes and concentrated on my breathing exercise I do to calm me or when my asthma flares up or in severe pain. 

Making conversation I asked the nurse how many days of the week do patients come in for injections. She said the area we were in is the place for injections. Patients came in every day for injections. My doctor does them on Tuesdays and Fridays.

Later on, when I was home I thought of how many people in this area has pain to have a center to give injections every day.

About several minutes doc came in. Action started. The nurse helped the doctor prepare the injections. I kept looking at him thinking this doctor doesn't look like my doctor but it was. They just look different in their scrubs. He explained to me that since my back hurt both sides he was going to inject both sides.

He said he was going to apply some iodine to sterilize and it would be cold. He didn't lie. Then he said I'll feel a little pressure. I knew that was the epidural. After a  minute or two, he said he was going to inject the medicine and I may feel burning and some pain.  I can't explain the pain but it went through my body for a few seconds. He did the other side and the same thing happened. It was over.

They rolled me back to the ward and called Hubby to my side. An aide offered me something to drink. The water was so good! Then after a few minutes, the nurse had me get up to try to walk but my leg was numb. So we had to wait another 10 minutes. After 10 minutes I was still unstable but the numbness was better. They discharged me and a young man wheeled me to the car. We were off.

We arrived at 6:45 am and on our way home at 8:30 am. Now that was

The doctor said I would probably have to have 3 at intervals. That day and the next day I was pain-free. Saturday night my leg pain came back full force but my back is much better.

Before the injection, the leg pain was only at night. Now it is all day. They told me to take Tylenol for pain. I take it at night to sleep. I have my legs raised when I sleep. When my foot hits the floor in the morning, there is a severe shock that my foot involuntarily goes up causing more pain in the calf. I do this 2-3 times before I get on my feet. It hurts so bad I just wanna cry. It makes me curse like a sailor sometimes. It's like I stepped on a live wire. I go back to the doc for follow up in a few weeks.  

 As I've always said I am blessed to have my Hubby. I cook, mostly something I don't have to be on my feet for long. Hubby helps or does the dishes.  He has to put the clothes in the washer and dryer because bending aggravates the pain.

However, I am now comfortable with having another injection. I hope sharing my experience helps those who are hesitant to have the injection. It is very simple but you have to have patience because you may need to have more than one.

God Called Uncle Sonny Home.

When he walked through the door, your day became brighter. A smile instantly grew on your face even though you were having a bad day.

He was an honest, caring, funny and a family man.

The picture of him below shows his fun and loud personality.

Everyone who met him made a friend.

He made me laugh so hard that I cried and/or almost peed in my pants. He had that natural knack of being funny.

He loved the outdoors mowing the grass and fixing lawnmowers.

He would give you the shirt off his back if you needed it.

God called him home in October and it was a sad day for those who loved him. However, I know in my heart, he is causing raucous in heaven and watching over his family and friends.

Uncle Sonny, you are missed and will never be forgotten.

Until we meet again in heaven,  behave and know your family and friends love and miss you.

Where I have been?

In September, I fell hard on concrete after missing a😧 step-down. It jolted my body landing mostly on my knee with my hands out.  My pinched nerve returned but all over. You never realize how many nerves you have until something happens. I am in pain mostly in the neck, back, leg, and heels. 

It's so weird, I can walk all day with no pain except for a twinge every now and then. However, at night, I lay down and the pain is excruciating in my leg and heels. I started using Salon Pas so I can get more sleep. Has anyone used this? Gee! When you take it off it is like ripping your skin off but I tolerate it because it helps. 

I also bought a "pregnant pillow"  to sleep on to stay off my back but it encloses me and it takes half the bed. It is comfy somewhat but it swallows me and the way I move it doesn't work as it should. I did make a review on Amazon and the company, QueenRose contacted me and they offered me a deal I couldn't refuse. So if you are pregnant or need a pillow such as this for other reasons check out QueenRose.

At first, I thought the leg pain was due to a partial blood clot but the doctor and I ruled it out by doing an ultrasound. By the way, the Acadiana Vascular Center is awesome. I highly recommend it if you are in these parts of my world.

To make a long story short, after going to Urgent care and doctors for three months and having MRIs of my whole spine, i.e lumbar, cervical, thoracic and brain.  The docs say the source of my pain is the bulging disc and my spinal stenosis. He said in a certain way that with all my physical problems I'm a complicated patient and it is hard to know what to treat. I totally understand. I get that  problem with myself many times.

I had a bone density test that continues to show osteoporosis of the spine and right hip which I go to the doctor every six months and get a Prolia injection. (That injection is EXPENSIVE.)

Doc said before we start talking surgery (I will not do back surgery until it is the very last resort) he recommended a Lumbar injection. This makes me anxious but I want this pain to go away. My first one is Jan 3. He said we may have to do 3 in intervals.

God blessed me. The doctor doesn't have the equipment so I have to go to an outpatient surgical center. I was browsing their website fretting over the expense. I just forked out $200+ on the Prolia shot and with the New Year coming, deductibles are coming plus 20% because I know it just won't be my deductible. However, there was a link to Financial Assistance. I had to fill out a form and bring in some income statements etc. I was hoping for them working with me in payments. When I brought the application and documents the lady said it may take up to 30 days. However, 3 days later the financial assistance, ironically with the same name as my sister's, called me and said my application approved and said my procedure would be 100% covered! I wouldn't have to pay any deductibles or co-pays. I thanked her profusely and told her she was an angel. So that bill I don't have to worry about.

The MRI of my brain was disappointing. I've always had this fascination with what the area of my brain looks like due to my Cerebral Palsy. It didn't show it. I asked my Neurologist why not. He had no idea either. The doc, his NP and I are stumped. What a bummer!

I've been using a cane. To put it simply: I hate it. Having CP, as mild as it is, gives me more attention than I'd like. Add a cane and it is worse.  Don't think I'm unaware than many people need an assistance device and I don't want to offend anyone. I just never had to have anything to assist me in walking or anything. Okay! I admit it is my pride, stubbornness and fearful my independence will be gone with assistant devices.

My ortho mentioned to also do PT since I live a pretty much sedentary lifestyle. My respiratory doctor wants me in a Respiratory rehab exercise program. They're going to have to discuss what is better for me because I am not doing two of them.

Moving on to happier things.

I started this blog a few months ago and just kept coming back. With my pain and other things happened, my concentration with blogging is even worse.

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas. I love being with family. Christmas Eve, we went to my brother in law's and as always they never fail with their delicious Christmas dinner.  After a delicious seafood gumbo, for dessert hubby's nieces made Panna Cotta for dessert I never had. That was so good. For Christmas day I had ordered half a turkey roll from my favorite mom and pop store Russell's food center that I had to reheat. Hubby made his delicious mashed potatoes. I cooked (or heated) corn, broccoli, and rolls. My daughter, who unlike me, always loved to baked brought her delicious chocolate chip cookies. 

My daughter stayed a while longer and we went sit outside on the swing and just talked about anything and everything. I absolutely cherish and love these moments. She just makes my heart feel so much joy and love.

I hope everyone has a Safe, Blessed and Happy New Year.

My plan is to write at least once a month in 2020. If you get more, consider it a bonus😁. I do appreciate my followers here and on my Facebook blog page. I often see views on my facebook and I feel guilty but in order to write, I need to feel better.

If you'd like, share your Christmas day with us. What did you eat? Who did you spend time with?

Until next time...if you haven't seen Coat of Many Colors about Dolly Parton, I suggest you do. It'll make you cry, laugh and your heart feel with joy.

I

I HAVE A HEAVY HEART THIS MORNING

This morning I have a heavy heart. I actually cried when I got home.  My husband sometimes thinks I'm crazy and get upset about things I shouldn't. But he held me and let me cry it out.

I went to Russells, my local grocery store since Walmart didn't have Lasagna noodles.

A couple was in front of me trying to pay for food with their Food Stamps card but evidently, they had no more money on the card. The clerk said she was sorry. The couple was so embarrassed but the man said he'll go bring it all back. I could tell they wanted to get out of there. But he turned around and went to bring the items back to the shelves. (I think the cashier should have just told to leave it there and an employee would do it)

I asked the cashier how much they owed. She answered $60. I asked if they had ANY money. She said no.

People, my heart just grew heavy because I didn't have all the money. to pay for all of their groceries. My fleeting thought was that card is not going to be refilled in 2 weeks. They may have nothing to eat.

My heart became heavy. I had enough cash for what I needed to buy there and to pay for my prescriptions. But my heart couldn't just let them go without anything. So I paid for my few items and hurried out the store. The man was in the truck ready to take off waiting for the woman. The lady was hurrying to the truck with me a few feet behind the lady. I called her, "MA'AM! I had to call her three times until she realized I was calling her. She turned around. I told her I was so sorry I didn't have more, handing her a $20 bill, but hoped it would help some. She stood there for a second. I guess in shock. I pushed the $20 toward her and again apologized I couldn't give her more. She gently took the $20 and gave me a hug and thanked me with all of her heart (I could tell she was appreciative) and said God Bless you. We parted ways.

On my way home I kept the tears in but my heart was so heavy. I walked in the door of my house and to my husband. As always, he jokingly said you're back? I couldn't answer. He asked me what was wrong. (He knows me so well) I burst out crying and told him what happened. We agreed it's a reminder we don't have much but we have so much more than others.

But then I think it is not fair. I've refrained from talking about this issue on this blog. But I will touch on it today. We have Veterans, Americans and LEGAL immigrants homeless and struggling to feed their families and make ends meet while thousands of illegals crossing our borders ILLEGALLY. They are housed and getting meals, as well as I'm sure medical care. What is wrong with this picture people?

I can't understand why our representatives and AMERICANS think we should be taking care of illegal immigrants!! I say turn them back at the border. I'm sure I'll get good and bad comments regarding this but I really don't care.

Enough of my short rant about the controversial subject.

I don't want it overshadowing my reason for writing this post. I wished I had enough money to buy everything the couple needed. I feel some guilt that I couldn't. I know it is unfounded. But I hope and pray to our loving God that the little I gave her prevented them from being hungry.

I bought a Powerball lottery ticket. I told Hubby if by chance we win I want to find 3-4 families that need help and pay for groceries for them for a year. If I don't win the lottery I guess I'll continue to do what I can for those who cross my path.

Now, its time to go cook my loving husband his lasagna. I dislike cooking lasagna because it's just a long process and has to be on my feet longer than I like. But it's the things I do for love.😄

Until my next blog post,,,,, try to help another stranger in any way you can. God Bless!

P.S. Does anyone have any trouble with the alignment button on here? I have the last one checked but as you can see my lines are not aligned :(

My Promise from Last Post

In my last post, Yes, I Am Alive I mentioned that I had speech therapy and didn't see any difference in my voice. But a friend did.

My husband seems to ask me "what" more often lately. I often think sometimes it is my fault (won't admit it to him though Ha!)Because when we are quiet and I just abruptly say something fast he doesn't catch it. A lot of times I'm trying to call him from across the house. My bad.

I have a long-time friend who once cleaned my house when I was so sick eons ago. We've been friends on Facebook. She was trying to call me by Facebook messenger or something the other day so I called her back. We had a lengthy conversation catching up.  Her name is Donna. I hope you don't kill me, Donna Lou! LOL.

Anyway, she saw my post on Facebook about speech therapy. She called out of the blue. At the end of our conversation, Donna being Donna, she was honest. ( I love that about her and all people) She said she hoped I am not offended but she had to tell me she hears the improvement because when she was at my house or on the phone to call me years ago, she said she sometimes didn't understand me or hear me. She thought it was partly because she was hard of hearing in one ear. But she understood and heard our whole conversation clearly.

She is such a good-hearted person. She hates to hurt peoples feelings. You probably can count on one hand how many times she has hurt other's feelings. Her words did not offend me at all. Donna Lou! You actually made my day. It warmed my heart and gave me more confidence and courage and I thank you!! I love you girl!


Until next time.....when you're out, smile and say hello to a stranger.

Yes, I'm Alive

I feel so guilty seeing on my blog's Facebook page people are hopping on to it but there is nothing there. 

I may repeat some things. Sorry.  My BabyGirl finished college and is now working at an elementary school.  She likes her job. She is awesome. Can I say that I am so proud?

My Hubby retired from his job. It was just getting bad to worse.  He hated going to work. I hated seeing him so tired and he was grumpy when he got home. So we decided for him to retire with his military pay. We are now starting up an online business. For all those who don't know, it takes a lot of red tape to get one up and going. Geez.

I do enjoy having him home. 

I was having stomach problems. I know, nothing new.  I changed to a new gastroenterologist. Not sure if it is a good move or not but he is closer. He ordered tests which I did and the only clear thing that showed was severe constipation. It also showed I have a nodule on my liver. 

I've lived with constipation all my life. I have my theory why but it may be TMI.  I had severe cramping, abdominal pain, and nausea and just couldn't go or when I went it was diarrhea.  

He told me to take Citrucel. If I don't have a bowel movement to take Miralax.  So I sometimes take Citrucel three times a day. It works okay. I love cheese. But it is a culprit so I stay away from it as much as I can. 

During a barium test, the speech therapist was the second person, before she even started the test asked me if I have been to an ENT because of my voice. I told her it was just my CP. She said my voice was raspy and high pitched. . 

Since my GP has mentioned it a couple of times, I decided to go to one to mainly shut everyone up. 

My ENT was awesome. He performed an FFL (Flexible Fiberoptic Laryngoscope).  "SIGH" It showed incomplete glottic closure which is pretty much vocal cord paresis. I won't get into the medical details too much. It's pretty much my vocal cords do not close all the way. Origin is unknown. Doc couldn't say why. He rattled off several reasons.  Personally, I think when my vertebrae surgery was done, they went through the front and like the doc said they moved things around or it could just be my muscles from CP. 

He was concerned because with my dysphagia and vocal cord paresis I am now a higher risk of pneumonia.  I went through many weeks of speech therapy with an awesome speech therapist. If you need a speech therapist living in South Louisiana I have a good recommendation.  I didn't have a follow-up visit with ENT. I'm thinking I want to see how much the speech therapy helped. I'm afraid I'd be frustrated and disappointed after all the hard work. I continue to do my exercises. I don't see much difference with my voice neither my husband or family members. But someone did and I'll tell you that story later. 

I also eventually have to write two book reviews because I promised the authors.

When it was time to go back to my GYN for an annual visit, I decided to do a bone density test since I've not had one in many years.  It showed severe osteoporosis of the right hip and spine. It totally explains why my back and side hurts when I lay down.  Half the time I just can't get comfortable. I get an injection every six months. I sleep on a wedge but slide down so it is sorta useless. I have a squishy pillow for when I go to my side. It cushions it. I always slept on two pillows for breathing and what I thought GERD. If anyone has any suggestions. 

As Hubby says I can sleep in weird positions. Since my neck surgery, sometimes I wake up where it is excruciating pain from my neck to my head and very stiff. It's because I slept with my head in bent or in odd position. I can't help what I do in my sleep! HAHA.

I've been having trouble with my ankle/heel. I requested an appointment with my foot doctor Monday on the patient portal. The promise of a 24-hour response has come and gone. It shows on the patient portal appointment pending. I do not want to call because I will be rude. Yea, I should have just called but it was after hours when I decided to go see what the heck is going on. I guess I'll wait another week to see if that pending becomes an appointment. I put it for Monday but I think that is out. 

Even with my body doing its crazy thing.  I'm living my life as best as I can. I am happy and content. Hubby and I look at each other sometimes and ask the other if we are normal. We can just stay at home and are happy. When we do go out like later on, we are going to go to Wendy's to try their BACONATOR. (I will be taking three doses of Citrucel today) When there are good movies we go watch them. We're just homebodies and happy.

I hope everyone is well. Until next time, hopefully, sooner...pray for those who are in the paths of the craziness of the weather.

The Wooden Bowl

Hey Folks.

So much has been going on. In December, my daughter aka BabyGirl graduated college with her Masters and she landed her a job as PROFESSIONAL SCHOOL COUNSELOR. I'm so proud of her.


My life is same as medical issues keep arising but what else is new? Nothing life threatening. Just irritants.

What I want to share with you is a little story that I received when Hubby and I went to a presentation regarding Alzheimer's and Dementia. Some of you may have heard of it but for reminders and for those who didn't here it is. This broke my heart and wanted to shake the son and daughter-in-law. But a lesson is to be learned.

The Wooden Bowl

I guarantee you will remember the tale of the Wooden Bowl tomorrow, a week from now and a month from now, a year from now.

A frail old man went to live with his son, daughter-in-law and four year old grandson. The old man's hands trembled, his eyesight was blurred, and his step faltered.  The family ate together at the table. But the elderly grandfather's shaken  hands and failing sight made eating difficult...Peas rolled off his spoon onto the floor.

When he grasped the glass, milk spilled on the tablecloth. The son and daughter-in-law became irritated with the man."We must do something about father," said the son. "I've had enough of his spilled milk, noisy eating, and food on the floor. " So the husband and wife set a small table in the corner. There Grandfather ate alone while the rest of the family enjoyed dinner. Since Grandfather had broken a dish or two, his food was served in a wooden bowl. When the family glanced in Grandfather's direction, sometimes he had a tear in his eye as he sat alone.  Still, the only words the couple had for him were sharp admonitions when he dropped a fork or spilled food. The four-year-old watched it all in silence.

One evening before supper, the father noticed his son playing with wood scraps on the floor. He asked the child sweetly, "What are you making?" Just as sweetly, the boy responded, "Oh I am making a little bowl for you and Mama to eat your food in when I grow up."

The four-year old smiled and went back to work. The words so struck the parents so that they were speechless.  Then tears started to stream down their cheeks.  Though no word was spoken, both knew what must be done.  That evening the husband took Grandfather's hand and gently led him back to the family table. For the remainder of his days he ate every meal with the family. And for some reason, neither husband or wife seemed to care any longer when a fork was dropped and milk spilled on the tablecloth soiled.

Until next time....Reflect on  the message of this tale.

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Seventh Year Wedding Anniversary!

Yesterday was Hubby and I's Seventh Wedding Anniversary.  We watched the video this morning because we were busy yesterday. Get your mind out of the gutter!

I wrote a couple of posts about our wedding starting at Introducing Mr and Mrs.

First, let me tell you, I just hate seeing myself on video or listening to my own voice. But I was clearer than I remembered so that was a good thing. The Pastor was awesome. 

As I watched Hubby on the video, I see the love he had for me and I know he loves me just as much now. 

I feel the luckiest girl in the world. You know there's a saying that three times is a charm. Well, my third time has been so wonderful. 

I cannot even attempt to explain in words how much I love and respect my husband.  He has not let me down once.

My Hunk of Love :) Look how Handsome he is.

Exchanging rings.

As I have said before my family accepted him and liked him right away. 

My mom repeats now and then that my Hubby is a REAL Man. She says he can see the love and respect he has for me. She says since he has come into my life, she can breathe easier and doesn't worry about me as much because she sees that he is always there for me. When I'm sick or have an illness he takes care of me. He accepts my disability and treats me like anyone else. 

I have to agree with her.

I like this quote about marriage.

So what did we do for our anniversary? We went to see Bohemian Rhapsody. If you liked Queen, you will enjoy it. We both loved it.  It is one of my favorite movies. Then we went across the street and ate a Sicily's Italian Buffet. 

It was a great 7th year anniversary.

See you soon!  Until next time, tell the person you love, whether it is your spouse, friend, pet, just how much they mean to you.

CHANGES ARE GOOD SOMETIMES

As I've said in my latest post, I've been having gastrointestinal problems. It never ends.

I went to my appointment Monday and he told me to stop Fiber pills and Miralax and all laxatives and take Citrucel. He also wanted to do an endoscopy and gastric emptying x-ray.

My endoscopy appointment was scheduled for Dec 21st and gastric emptying x-ray for  Dec 6th. 

It was arranged that my sister and Mom would take me for the endoscopy since Hubby had to work at his new job

Yesterday, hubby was off and the doctor's office nurse called and asked if I would be willing to do the endoscopy in the afternoon. I said sure. They told me to be at the Surgery Center, in the same building as his office on the first floor for 11:30 am. (It was initially scheduled at a hospital I don't care for because it is so darn big and walking from Point A to Point B is like walking 5 miles.)

 We arrived and did the paperwork.  Receptionist said he was coming at 12:30. At noon they called me to the back, I had to put the big gown on and an IV was inserted. About 10 minutes later the anesthesiologist came and talked to us. (That was never done at my previous GI doctor).

Then about 12:20 Dr. Jat arrived and checked in on me. (Again, my previous GI doctor never did that). They wheeled me in the surgical room, put me on my side, put the mouthpiece in place and the anesthesiologist said I was going to feel a little burn and I was out. I was dreaming of Babygirl when they woke me up and said it was over.

Doc told Hubby that they didn't see anything bad but did take biopsies. They gave us four pictures which I have no clue what I'm looking at. I know one is my colon but no clue what the others are.

They discharged me shortly after. We were home by 2 pm and that was with making 2 stops, gas station and Sonic for my Dr. Pepper.

The whole experience was so different and nice, not having to wait for 4-5 hours. It might have just been a good day and I lucked out but I really like Dr. JAT, his staff, the Surgery Center's staff and procedures.

I am still kinda groggy from yesterday but it is all good. I'm sore when I swallow anything but that is to be expected and it'll go away.

Oh! and the Citrucel worked wonders. I don't like orange and Citrucel is orange but I will drink it because it works!! 

I like Dr. Jat although at my appointment he kindly told me to stop talking while he was reading my history. I was only trying to give him information, in my defense. 😡 After he finished reading, I had his full attention.  Everyone was nice and caring. 

I have ALL of my doctors within 30 minutes, instead of 60 minutes now. Amen!!

Until next time...Look into a stranger's eyes and say hello! Who knows you might make someone's day :)

Convalidation Ceremony.

As most of you know, I married my Hubby almost 7 years ago. We 'eloped' in Las Vegas. The marriage was not recognized by the church. According to the church laws, we were still living in sin and still married to our exes (according to church laws).

For a few years, I had been thinking about how Hubby being married to me, I was the cause of his being in sin. I also was but he was my main concern. I knew I would have to get an annulment from my daughter's father.  I hate the process as I've done it before.

Coincidentally, or maybe God was talking to me, there was an announcement in our church bulletin that there would be a workshop in regards getting an annulment. Hubby and I decided to check it out.

We learned a lot. One thing that surprised us was although Hubby and his ex-were not married in the church and she wasn't Catholic, he had to get an annulment as well because he is Catholic. We were surprised and confused but nevertheless, we had to do what was required to reach our goal. That was to be good with the Church and God.

While Hubby only had to get some documentation such as divorce decree, baptismal certificate, etc.  I had to do same AND fill out an 18-page questionnaire going back from my childhood and reliving my failed marriage(s).

If you are at all interested, you can find the questionnaire and scroll to Part 4 for the questions I had to answer. 
https://diolaf.org/documents/2017/10/DOLwebsiteNewly%20Revised%20Application-Libellus.pdf

It was hard. I had to relive the good, the bad and the ugly of my whole life until the present and write it down in story-like form. At times I was typing with tears flowing reliving the pain in my life. I thought I would have to go back to therapy after this. (Just kidding but it was ROUGH). When I finished I realized it made me do a lot of soul searching and face some things I kept inside all these years, some ONLY Father knows now. And God of course.

Father helped me step by step. I never felt uncomfortable or judged by him. He was amazed at how much I had been through. He kept telling me how strong a person I am and he was sorry I had to go through what I've gone through since my birth and then had to relive this but reminded me that there is a purpose for all of this.

After I was finished answering the questions, Father sent it in and we waited. The average time it takes to find out if our marriages are annulled is up to 6 months. It only took one month and we both had our annulments. I might explain it more if I have any requests why it went so fast.

I think Father was more excited than we were. When we received the annulments, he boasted, "Ya'll are an engaged couple now!." Hubby and I both had about the same thoughts, "Huh?" But, we were, in the eyes of the church, an engaged couple."

We then had to go through the prenuptial process which included going to an engaged couple's encounter which we did.  That is another story in itself. We then set the date for the Convalidation that coincided Father and our schedules which was October 20. I asked him how does our anniversary work now. I couldn't believe the almost 7 years we've been married would be obsolete. He said we could just celebrate two anniversaries. That's pretty cool!

We agreed to have only our parents, my daughter and her husband, siblings and one of Hubby's friends who is a deacon.

I am happy to say everyone showed up for the ceremony. A few had to leave after and forego the 'reception"  because of previous plans. But we were thankful that they did alter their plans to come to our Convalidation. You know who you are. Thank you!

I asked my brother in law to be an amateur photographer at the last minute. After seeing the pictures, don't you agree that he did an awesome job? We totally forgot to get one of Hubby and me only. Oh well! The ceremony started late, which lasted 15 minutes, but we had reservations at a restaurant we were in a hurry to get to.

So here are the pictures.

You know how parents say their kids never listen to them. This time my family didn't listen to me. Mom, a devout Catholic. said she wanted to give us something to remember our day. She was looking for an angel like she has but they were out at the Rosary House. But she found this which is beautiful. This was from my parents and sister and her husband.

Ted, my brother in law took the pictures below. He even recorded some but you can hardly hear it so I am not including those. 

Blessed Mother

The Altar of our Church. I am always looking at Jesus on the cross during mass. It gives me comfort, hope and faith.

Father Blessings

Father Reading Scripture

From Left to Right; Babygirl, Me, Father A, Hubby and Deacon Wyble.  Deacon and  BabyGirl were our witnesses.

Reception at Picante's Mexican Restaurant. They were the best!

There you go! Sorry, it took a month but you know how I am by now :)

Thanks for dropping by and until next time...have a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving. 

GI Woes

Hi Everyone,

It's me again. I know it has been a while but I have not been feeling well. I know that is really nothing new but the symptoms are different. I've been dealing with cramping, nausea,  abdomen pain, alternating diarrhea, and constipation. etc. I decided to change GI doctors for a few reasons.

1. He is a great doctor when it comes to procedures. But that is the ONLY time I see him, a few seconds before he puts me under. Otherwise, I'm dealing with his nurse practitioner and I've mentioned how I feel about them.

2. Since my former family doctor changed his practice and my pulmonologist retired I've had to find other doctors so I figured I just as well get ALL of my doctors near where I live.

My new GI doctor's appointment is not until Nov 26. My family doctor has done many tests. H. Pylori was negative.

She did a CT of my abdomen with contrast. It is abnormal. 

1) A large amount of stool noted within colon aka constipation. I have a long history of constipation but not this severe. She said my peristalsis has slowed. I knew that. She told me to give myself 1 or 2 enemas and then drink Milk of Magnesia for a week. Let's just say the toilet was my best friend. I alternate constipation/diarrhea. It's frustrating

2) I have a lot of gastric distention which means bloating of the stomach when air is pumped into it. I have complained about excessive gas for months to deaf ears. They told me to take Fiber. "SIGH"

3) I have wall thickening of the gastric wall of the GE junction (Suggesting reflux-no surprise I do have Gastroesophageal reflux)

4) Thickening of the duodenum as well as the gallbladder. Gallbladder has enhancement. Last December I had a HIDA scan that was completely normal. Doc said let's see what new GI doc says.

5. My most worrisome finding is that I have "RIght liver lobe 11 mm x 5.6 mm nonspecific area of decreased enhancement. Suggestion from radiologists was to get a follow-up CT scan in 3 months.

There was more like bronchiectasis in my lung, no big surprise and part of a kidney is atrophied and has lesions.

She said there may be some kind of bacteria so she put me on 2 antibiotics, Cipro and Flagyl. Flagyl is awful but I take anti-nausea Zofran before I take Flagyl with food or my Ensure. It helps some with the side effects..

She did another stool test since someone screwed up with my other stool. Waiting on those results.

I'm tired of my organs. I wish I could replace them😃. I've lost about 5 lbs. I had reached 92 lbs.

Even with all this going on My Hubby and I have been working on getting our marriage convalidated (Pretty much means blessed in the church). More on my next post.

Just wanted to let my followers know as some have been asking.

Until next time.....Pray for violence to stop!

And don't forget to leave a comment, even if it is to say hi! Hopefully, I'll get it in my email but I will check.

Dear Cancer

Dear Cancer,

I hate you!! I haven't hated anything like I hate you.  

No one is safe from you. You attack family members and friends.  You're heartless and even attack children.

I've seen my young cousin beat you although with some effects. You've taken my daughter's best friend who fought since she had been a teen.

You're ugly. You're mean. You make people suffer.  No part of the human body is safe from you.

I found out last night that you're attacking a very dear friend of mine. It doesn't look good and you've made me cry all night.  You make my heart hurt as you've made millions of family and friends hurt.

A lot of people win the battle against you. It seems like you have a grip on my friend. I pray that he can beat you. Kill you with the chemo as hard as it is to get through.  

I just wanted to tell you this so maybe you'll just go away. No one wants you. 

I hate you!

Lisa

10 Ways to Love

10 Ways To Love

LISTEN

WITHOUT INTERRUPTIONS

SPEAK

WITHOUT ACCUSING

GIVE

WITHOUT SPARING

PRAY

WITHOUT CEASING

ANSWER

WITHOUT ARGUING

SHARE 

WITHOUT PRETENDING

ENJOY

WITHOUT COMPLAINT

TRUST

WITHOUT THE WAVERING

FORGIVE

WITHOUT PUNISHING

PROMISE

WITHOUT FORGETTING

A local dentist sponsors an inspirational page every month in the Acadiana Catholic. I think everyone can be inspired by this.

All of these come from the bible. Here are the scriptures you can find them if you like.

Listen: Proverbs 18

Speak: James 1:19

Give:  Proverbs 21:26

Pray: Colossians 1:9

Answer: Proverbs 17:1

Share : Ephesians 4:15)

Enjoy: Philippians 2:16

Trust:  Corinthians

Forgive: Colossians 3:13

Promise: Proverbs 13:12.

Until next time...take one of these and meditate You don't have to look at the scripture. 

Thanks for stopping by

Don't have C.O.P.D.

Hey Everyone,

I hope everyone is safe from the fires, floods and hurricanes. Here in South Louisiana we've been getting downpours but nothing to complain about.

My pulmonologist retired. I saw him two days before he left. He was awesome. He will be missed.

So I had my GP refer me to a different pulmonologist in the same city I live in. My former pulmonologist was in my hometime about 50 miles one way. Since alot of my doctors in my hometown have been going to something else or retiring I've decided to get doctors closer to me.

After 6 months of miscommunication my GP told me I had an appointment with my new pulmonologist October 16. She had warned me that it would be a long wait. She also stated the new pulmonologist wanted an x-ray. So I went have the x-ray done.

When my GP received the x-ray results she said it showed emphysemic changes. This gave me anxiety and depression. 

In the middle of August, the pulmonologist receptionist called and asked if I could go in the next day.

I like my new pulmonologist. He asked me who told me I had C.O.P.D. I couldn't remember for the life of me. He said according to the x-ray and my lab work my GP has done, I do NOT have C.O.P.D. I have asthma! I asked him if he was sure. He said yes. He also said he doesnt believe I have emphysema although he could see why the radiologist interpreted it that way.  He did an Ige lab work which was also normal.

My pulmonary function test was 68% which is good for me considering part of my lung is gone and my asthma. He said I seemed to be doing good and continue meds. He wants to see me in 6 months. 

I am trying to remember who told me I had C.O.P.D.

Oh well, anyway..have an awesome day.

Until next time.....pray for those affected by the crazy weather.

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