I received my annual performance review today. I had mentally prepared myself for getting a rating less than I usually get and was even afraid it might be significantly less, but I was pleased, disappointed, sad, and concerned. Not to brag, but I’m very good at my job. Several years ago, I was nominated for […]
Adjusting to being less than the best Read More »
We made arrangements for our home health nurse to give Lynn the flu shot today. I expect he will feel pretty rough tomorrow and maybe Sunday, too, because anytime he gets a vaccine, a change in medications, or has to adjust to just about anything different, it knocks the wind out of him. I used
Please take the flu shot Read More »
This week has had several disappointments. On Thursday and Friday, I was scheduled to take a course in Critical Incident Stress Management for my job. I was really looking forward to it, not only for the new information and skills but also for the opportunity to be back with coworkers and others for the day.
Disappointments and Guilt Read More »
On October 11, 1997, Lynn and I got married. As I stood at the entrance to the sanctuary with my ten-year-old escort (my son), my soon-to-be husband was playing his guitar and singing me a song that he had written just for our wedding. The theme of the song was, “You’re my Best
I have had a terrible day, and it’s all due to having to get a new modem for my computer. I truly believe computers can be your best friend or your worst nightmare and since about Wednesday, I’ve been frustrated with them up to my eyeballs. First, on Tuesday, I lost the internet. I HAVE
Actually, it’s my side. I tried a patient lift, but it didn’t work with Lynn’s wheelchair. I know the one that I would like to get–it’s a modified version of what we used in the hospital–but it’s over $3000 because it’s not provided by our insurance company. So I lift Lynn myself. He now
As I mentioned in the page called “Lynn’s story,” he soon became unable to work in his chosen profession as a carpenter after he was diagnosed with MS. He was in his 40s at the time and wanted very much to continue to work. However, his physical limitations and fatigue made working in a physically
Helping with Lynn’s Career Read More »
For most people, a shower is just a routine part of their day. It takes no more preparation than making sure you have shampoo, soap, and clothes to put on afterward. Not so if the person who needs a shower is in a wheelchair and cannot help themselves. When I first started bathing Lynn, I
One of the challenges I face as a caregiver is switching gears in mid-thought. Of course, being a mother certainly helped prepare me for that duty, but I always switch reluctantly. I’m the type of person who likes closure. I like to start a project, focus on it, and get it done. Not being able
Lynn has the most awesome memories of anyone I’ve ever known. He is the one you always want on your team for any trivia game. He remembers every little detail about any movie he has ever watched, can tell you what year and the date something happened, and if you think you’re right and he’s
Can he not remember or is he just not paying attention? Read More »
When we went on vacation, I rented a wheelchair van thanks to the generous gift of one of our church members. IT WAS AWESOME! I was so spoiled by that van. Lynn and I have a 2002 Impala. When we go somewhere, I bodily list my 190 lbs husband from his wheelchair and set him
I so want a wheelchair van! Read More »
Things are pretty much back to normal following Hurricane Irene. I understand that another possible hurricane is heading toward the Carolinas, so we may have more to come. We got our power back at midnight Wednesday morning. We were very fortunate because my son didn’t get him until the next day, and one of our