Friday, April 9, 2010

Update on My Sister . . .

Our trip the hospital was longer than usual since we had to continue on to Worcester. We finally found the right hospital and my sister, Betty. She had tubes everywhere - looked terrible, but seemed to be in good spirits. Since I had my camera, I asked if she wanted me to 'capture' the moment for her. Of course she did, even wanted a picture of her bandage. From what I understand, the condition she had is called Intussusception. Intussusception is a condition in which one section of the bowel tunnels into an adjoining section, like a collapsible telescope. Intussusception can occur in the colon, the small bowel, or between the small bowel and colon. The result is a blocked small bowel or colon. In my sister's case, that small section had died. Fortunately the surgeon removed just that small portion. On Friday, she was taken by ambulance to an extended care facility in Amherst for rehabilitation. She has improved each day since, but is still very weak.

Easter Sunday was the best. My sister's husband picked her up at the extended care facility and brought her to their daughter's for dinner. Jackie prepared our Easter feast: ham, mashed potatoes, butternut squash, carrots, rolls, peas, and a homemade apple pie. We had several other desserts to pick from. No wonder I gained three pounds while away.

On Tuesday, we returned home, so I get updates on Bet's progress by phone or the internet from Jackie. Today, after a blood test - she is scheduled to have a blood transfusion. I had a chance to talk to her on Jackie's cell phone and told her that the next time I saw her, I wanted her up and walking around. That next time will be at the end of May.

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