A One Week Turnaround!

Papa is home after spending a week in a skilled nursing facility. I am grateful that his insurance allowed for that time because it seemed to have done some good. I believe he’s 200 percent better! Considering the shape he was in when he was admitted, we are elated with the progress.

They worked with his nutritional deficiencies by increasing his protein and caloric intake. He didn’t gain any weight while there, but he didn’t lose any more either. Due to his chronic pancreatitis and liver, "malabsorbtion" of nutrients and poor digestion is a real problem. So he has to take enzymes with every meal. He said they were serious about pushing that food. He’d just finish dinner, and the tray would still be on his bedside table, and they’d drop off a sandwich! Ab brought him a Snickers bar and he was elated!

One night, toward the end of his stay, I brought him some fresh guacamole and chips from Chipotle! He said he was too stuffed to eat it, but he managed to cram it down anyway! I knew he’d get weak and go for it!

The physical therapist worked with him every day. He had to climb a small set of stairs, maneuver an obstacle course, stretch big ol’ rubber bands with his arms and legs, walk the hallway on demand, etc. He soaked up some much need sunshine in their pretty courtyard and gardens.

He met with social worker who discussed his depression and encouraged him to start living again. Papa said he would start going to the local Senior Center for meals at noon!  He also said that maybe he could start volunteering to drive some of "those old people" to their doctor’s appointments!  PROGRESS!

He doesn't know it yet, but pretty soon his fellow Masons will be inviting him for lunch! :evil grin:  Yup, I contacted one of the head guys, who's taking the ball and running with it!

So, we’ll see where it goes from here. We’re going to light a fire under his fanny to keep him hopping!

Thanks to all for the concern and support!   XOXO