When I sent the news last week, I knew there would be a new direction to the rest of my daughter’s visit. The Sunday activities during the day had concluded and most of us had gathered at Alan and Sarah’s to eat, visit, and play with the little ones. At some point I thought Sierra might like to see the big dipper so she and her big brother, Blake and I went outside to stargaze. They both live in cities and were enjoying the clear view of the sky. Kale opened the garage door and turned the light on and asked what we were doing. I told him to come join us but turn out the light. As I turned to talk to him, I tripped over Sierra. I fell hard. All three came to my rescue and Blake and Kale got me into the house. After a while, Alan and Sarah got me home and I spent an uneventful night, sleeping well. Of course when I tried to get up and going in the morning, I knew I would be seeking medical treatment.
Linda got me to the clinic where x-rays were taken. It was determined there was a hairline fracture and fortunately it was Dr. Wahl’s day to be in Jefferson. Bless his heart. He was able to squeeze me in to repair the fracture. I can’t say enough about the wonderful care I received during my stay. The Iowa Central Student Nurses, who got to practice on me, are lucky to have the opportunity to train under the staff at Greene County Medical Center.
Of course therapy started right away the next day. It happened that Linda and the kids were there, and when the therapist saw the little ones, she quickly asked if anyone in the room could count to ten. Of course they all said yes and Sophia started right in counting. In short order she had them sitting on the bed and instructed them to say “ready, set, go” and they counted the different exercises I had to do. Sometimes she had them count backwards and had to slow them down, but it was so darned cute! (Grandma’s opinion)
They were able to observe changing the IV, taking blood and other basic care. Jayden seemed to be fascinated with the big mug of water with the crinkly straw, although by the end of their visit they all were sharing.
The fact that they were allowed to even be in the room was one of the best improvements in patient care from the past. They knew grandma was going to be OK and it wasn’t scary for them. I can’t imagine what they will share during “show and tell” as they continue school this week. They left Wednesday for home.
I got home Thursday and the friends and food started arriving. It’s nice to know there is a long list of people I can call if I need anything. The real therapy will probably start next week, so I will be grateful for those who will be part of the driving team. Hopefully I will be back to normal soon.
Kale spent Sunday afternoon with me and later, Michael and Seth, Robert and their tolerant sister-in-law, Sarah, also spent some time visiting after their day was done. They always leave me laughing. It’s the best medicine!
- by Jean Borgeson