Fiercely Independent Pam

Category: Health

  • The Case of the Missing Kidney Stone

    Yesterday I was scheduled for surgery to blast the offending kidney stone from January. I did all the pre-op, testing, and office visits. I was scheduled at the hospital and figured out transportation. My close friend even got up early to come with me.

    All was going smoothly minus having to be there hours earlier than necessary. I was brought back to the Operating room and the doctor started looking at real-time X-Rays and began calling different people over to him. I knew something was going on.

    I finally just yelled out, “Is there a problem?” The doctor then came over and told me that they couldn’t find the kidney stone and he doesn’t want to blast something that is not there. He continued to take x-rays to ensure that the stone is indeed gone. Then the OR team packed me up and sent me out. No medications were given, no procedure done.

    I went back to the pre-op area, got dressed, signed some forms, and was on my way home! Easiest surgery ever! Then it was time for lunch and a good nap!

  • Accomplishments All Around: What a Difference a Week Makes!

    Today was a BIG day! I accomplished big things today and feel confident that I will meet my other goals. First off, I successfully navigated using the toilet for the first time since mid January. Secondly, I managed a big walk with the Zeen.

    The combination of the toilet seat riser, extra walker, and my strength, allowed me to successfully get on and off the toilet and take care of business. This is a huge accomplishment.

    After a good nap, I decided to take my Zeen out for a stroll. I made it to the front desk of the building and back. I needed to stop and relax a few times, but it was a successful walk. I have set a goal to make it around the building (1/4 mile) by Easter with the Zeen. I am feeling much more confident in the controls of the Zeen as well.

    I am finally feeling like I am going to be able to make it to doctor’s appointments and getting in a car. If the improvement I’ve made this week is any indication of things to come, I will be in good shape when I need to travel to MUSC.

    I am feeling very fortunate and glad that I am achieving my goals, I have and am working hard and seeing growth is always a good thing.

  • As The Puzzle Pieces Come Together!

    Things are starting to come together. I can stand without too much assistance from a walker or raised surface, I am transferring without the board at times, and I am able to get “on” my Zeen. All of these things are pointing to more independence and ability to do more tasks.

    I am truly hoping that when I attempt to use the toilet tomorrow, it is a success and I am able to stand up and off the toilet without too much fuss. More than two months with a bedpan is getting quite old for me. It is the last task for independence besides getting in an out of a car. This too needs to be mastered sooner than later, because I have appointments at MUSC that require car transportation.

    I wanted to say something that most didn’t agree with, mainly coming home from rehab unable to stand. I wasn’t really given the choice to stay, but I guess I could have pushed it, but I really felt that I wasn’t going to master the task in that environment. It might seem silly, but if everyone is not on board for the same goals, I don’t see it happening. I knew I could kick my own butt and do exercises that would help me eventually stand. I also knew that being home with my power wheelchair would be so much easier for transfers and such. I believe I made the right choice and glad that I did come home when I did.

    I am thankful for my caregivers who helped me out, especially in the beginning when I first came home. I wouldn’t have been able to do it without their support and creativity. Also, they provided a giant kick in the butt when I needed it most.

    Now, the list of tasks is getting smaller and I am feeling more successful. I know the toilet is going to be a challenge, but something oh so worth it! I look forward to the day that I don’t have to clean out a bedpan!

    Life with the Zeen continues to go well. I took it out for a longer walk this morning and thinking of going out again. I love the freedom of being able to use my legs and still have security from falls.