First off... WOW you guys. I am at a loss for words of how to tell you how SO VERY important you are to us. He's gotten plants and cards here at home... and at the hospital.
Yesterday his phone rang off the hook all day. Sorry about many people missing him - it turned out they brought him down to do a few tests and it took all morning and into the early afternoon.
He was the first surgery of the day for Dr Bell-Tomson. Surgxl website
They never stopped his heart during the procedure. They used one mammary artery, but also used a vein from his leg. He came through surgery fine. We do have some issues to work through, and I have some more questions for the nurses when I go back tomorrow.
I gotta tell you guys I have a WHOLE NEW RESPECT for Barb Shortreed. OMG, I have NO idea how she does it. I've have done my absolute best hanging in there, postitive and upbeat, this whole time. Just crying in the car on the way home at night from the hospital.
Tonite I just lost it.
Waiting to hear after surgery was hard enough. Hearing some stuff after surgery was even harder. Going in to see him right after was really tough. He was still on the respirator, hooked up to everything in site, tons of ivs, tubes, etc etc etc.
I thought I could handle it. Guess not.
At least the nurse spotted me and asked if I was ok... to which I said a resounding NO. I got hot, nauseus, light headed, and coudn't hear anything. They gave me stuff to eat and drink... and found out my blood pressure was 141/40. Um ok.
So I finally got back with it, and sat bedside holding his hand for a while, then left to go sit with his folks in the waiting area.
The nurse rang to say he was asking for me, so I went back in. I can't tell you how it made me feel, to walk in, take his hand, have him open his eyes, see me... then get the BIGGEST smile, wide eye'd and tell me how much he loves me.
I sat with him for a while, his folks came in to visit for a tiny bit, then they took me to get some food, so I would be ok.
I went back in for a bit... but this time he was starting to feel things. He was so uncomfortable, nauseous, he would wince in pain... and I finally reached my saturation point. I just couldn't deal with it. The nurses were so great and understanding, I kissed him on the forehead, told him to rest and hang in there for me, and I would see him tomorrow.
Coming here and reading what everyone posted, and being able to 'vent' means more than I can say.
Some people here know that we have some MAJOR changes ahead of us... and we will need some help, be it giving us a hand, or some advise, or some support. But I know you guys will be there for us... thanks!!!!
Posted by Pierre Tardif (Member # 3229) on :
Changes are most of the time for the best!
Good to hear that the surgery went well.
Take care!
Posted by Bob Peach (Member # 2620) on :
So glad to hear that Bruce is out of surgery and you are home hopefully getting some much needed rest and nutrition. Call anytime if you want to talk or vent or whatever. Bob & Marcia
Posted by Barry Branscum (Member # 445) on :
Thankful here he made it through okay...and Pierre is right, the changes are for the best most times, eh?
I think it appropriate to say PRAISE THE LORD, he is okay.
Still praying for him, I know you guys are gonna be fine!
take care, and thanks for keeping us posted!
Posted by Laura Butler (Member # 1830) on :
Dana, It sounds like he made it thru the surgery really good or at least as good as one can be. It is so nice that you are keeping us all up to date too.
Even though I don't always pipe in right away, Bruce and you have been in my prayers.
My dad went thru this surgery two times so I know the road that the two of you have to go down. When he starts feeling much better, it will so easy to over do it.
[ October 12, 2005, 07:47 PM: Message edited by: Laura Butler ]
Posted by J & N Signs (Member # 901) on :
High five to Dr.Cas and to you Dana...hang in there...everythings gonna be cool...
Posted by Si Allen (Member # 420) on :
Good to hear he made it thru OK! From here on things will get better!
Like others have said...if yo just gotta vent, call me ...I have big shoulders!
Posted by Judy Pate (Member # 237) on :
Thanks for keeping us informed,Dana. Hopefully he only had to have 3 bypasses. Hang in there Dana. We'll continue to keep you and Bruce in our prayers. Call if I you need to talk. My Daddy had the surgery in '88, sounds like there have been a lot of improvements since then. Judy
Posted by coop (Member # 504) on :
Still praying for both of you. God Bless.
Posted by Dave Utter (Member # 634) on :
Glad to hear everything is working out OK Dana. Kay and I were even talking about it in the store today. I feel for you. We've been there, and it's not easy. You brought a tear to this old tough guys eyes reading the above, and just thinking about it. We're all here for you, and if you need anything, just hollar. We'll do our best.
Posted by Bill Preston (Member # 1314) on :
The same from here, Dana.
A leg vein too? Oh my, now he has joined the "double zipper" club.
A Purple Heart from beautiful downtown Fly Creek, and a lollipop when he feels better. (All good little kiddies get a lollipop after surgery.)
bill preston--
-prez and CEO of the local double zipper club. And Bruce---no, I won't show ya mine if you show me yours.
Posted by Michael Boone (Member # 308) on :
Bruce! Nice.... git better... tofu dinner at lodge when you mend!
Posted by Mark Yearwood (Member # 2723) on :
I'm really glad to hear that he came through fine. Hang in there and don't get stressed yourself. Bruce doesn't need you sick, too.
Keep us posted.
Posted by Doug Allan (Member # 2247) on :
thanks for the update. be well!
Posted by Luke Scanlan (Member # 2481) on :
Glad to hear the ol' fart is doing well. Send my regards.
Posted by George Perkins (Member # 156) on :
Great news. You two have been in my thoughts since this ordeal started.
Dana, my mom in law went through this a few months back. The day of the surgery, she looked pretty rough. The next day she looked a LOT better! A few days later she was home. It WILL get better and rather quickly.
Tell Bruce, I'm looking forward to talking to him again soon.
Posted by Gene Golden (Member # 3934) on :
Dana, I'm so glad to hear the progress report. You keep well enough to deal with the rest of this. Okay? You can't totally fall apart and become a patient yourself. I really do look forward to seeing both of you again.
On another note, I've seen the pictures of Bruce with his dog. Needless to say, what kind of hedge trimmers did they need to prep for surgery?
Posted by Rick Sacks (Member # 379) on :
Dana, I'm very relieved. Thanks for being so strong and a continuing voice on the BB. We need you. I'm sure many of us would like to be with you and quietly listen to you and hug you and be the support that you need. Bruce has all kinds of support from the white robe department for now. May God bless you both.
Posted by Duncan Wilkie (Member # 132) on :
signdog says, "Git better soon...there's hockey to watch and beer to drink." Posted by Kissymatina (Member # 2028) on :
Been thinking about you guys all day. Glad to hear he made it through ok. Take care of yourself too woman!
Whatever you need, please remember I'm just a phone call away. Ok, a phone call & a few hours. Alright fine, be technical...a phone call, a few hours, and at least 1 Sheetz stop.
Gene, I remember that pict too. (Actually, I'm still frightened by it.) But hedge trimmers? Pulease, they'd need at least a buzzsaw or brushhog. Posted by Susan Banasky (Member # 1164) on :
Dana and Bruce.... Yippee.....so glad things went well. Hugs to you both. Sue
Posted by Donna in BC (Member # 130) on :
I got a lump in my throat reading your post Dana. You are so very lucky to have Bruce by your side after what he's gone through. I lost my dad about 10 years ago from the same thing.
You two are very blessed!
Posted by Dave Sherby (Member # 698) on :
Holy Wah, been on pins & needles all day waiting for the good news. Ahhh the power of prayer. 'Course like his mom said, he's to stubborn to let a little bypass put him down for long. Good luck Bruce, talk to you soon. Hang in there Dana, he needs you now.
Posted by LynnMineer (Member # 1509) on :
PTL Bruce came through the surgery. He is moving on to perfection. Now as for you, take baby steps. Deal with each day and know that you have the support of many. Give Bruce a peck on the forehead from me and yourself a hug. Both of you are in our prayers!
Posted by Rick Beisiegel (Member # 3723) on :
One very large WOOOOOOOOO HOOOOOOOOOOO from Michigan! Way to go Bruce!
Keep up the good work Dana! Posted by Dave Grundy (Member # 103) on :
We're glad to hear that the surgery went well Dana and Bruce!
Still keeping you guys in our thoughts and sending some good vibes your way. Posted by Amy Brown (Member # 1963) on :
Sounds like good news. I can relate to your emotions. Like everyone else said. I'm only a phone call or email away if I can help.
Posted by Harris Kohen (Member # 2139) on :
Well that is great news, I wondered all day how Bruce was making out thru surgery.
Its great to hear Bruce made it thru the surgery ok, now its time to relax and enjoy the healing process.
Dont be afraid to let us know if ya need help with anything, your letterville family will be happy to help out however we can.
Posted by Bobbie Rochow (Member # 3341) on :
Bless you both! I am so glad Bruce is gonna be ok!
Posted by Santo (Member # 411) on :
There's no rushing past this part,and it is hard to go through, but things get better. You will both need each other, so cry some when it's time and get ready for a new day tomorrow. Best of everything to you both.
Posted by John Deaton (Member # 925) on :
Awesome! Pat them docs and nurses on the back for a good job gettin Bruce straightened up. I been wondering all day how things went, and got on and read this. Good to hear he's doing okay. Each day will get better, and you'll be surprised how fast he comes around after this. Tell him Tater says hay.
Posted by Jackson Smart (Member # 187) on :
....
Just got back from Virginia Mason Hospital in Seattle. I took a 90 year old friend to have some surgery. While there I was watching all the family members trying to be patient and brave while waiting for word from thier loved ones. I thought of you and Bruce going thru the same thing.
Hang tight brother....
Jackson
Posted by Suelynn Sedor (Member # 442) on :
I'm so glad to hear that hurdle is over. I hope the road to recovery just gets better and better.
Still thinking about you both,
Suelynn
Posted by Adrienne Morgan (Member # 1046) on :
So glad to hear things went well, hun.
We shoulda warned you about those tubes and stuff...it's a bit scary when you first walk in, but I've been through this with my mom several times and my dad this year and it's all part of taking care of him. Lord bless you both, in a few weeks he'll be back to work and feeling great! A:)
Posted by William DeBekker (Member # 3848) on :
Way to Hang on Both of you. Now Bruce.. Quit the Dang Smokes.. I will if you do.
Posted by Russ McMullin (Member # 5617) on :
I'm glad to hear that the surgery went well. I'll be praying for a quick recovery.
Posted by Bill Dirkes (Member # 1000) on :
Dana, I'm so glad everything went well! It's good to hear that you let some of that pent up emotion & stress out. Gotta get that bad stuff out so you can come back and take care of Bruce and YOU. BTW, Don't ya just love 'hospital time', it has it's own dimension. Waiting shouldn't have to be that hard. or take soooooooooooo long! You guys are beautiful. Hang in there Shalom
Posted by Catharine C. Kennedy (Member # 4459) on :
Thanks so much for letting us know & keep up to date- I turned a lovely shade of green when we went in to see Mom after her by-pass... Cat
Posted by Camille Norvaisas (Member # 501) on :
I'm with Donna - got tears reading this Dana. Hang in there girl - everything is going to be ok.
Posted by Neil D. Butler (Member # 661) on :
Thanks so much for informing us how things went, and for letting us help you in this trying time, your story greatly affected me this morning.
Posted by Jeff Ogden (Member # 3184) on :
Keep us posted Dana...this first 24 hrs is the hardest part, but it looks like he'll make it. He should look a whole lot better real soon... hang in there...I know it's tough.
Posted by Tony Vickio (Member # 2265) on :
Hi Dana, reading your post, I couldn't hold the tears back! Glad to hear Bruce came "through" OK! I'm sure this will change your whole outlook on life.......in a good way!!
Posted by Bob Kaschak (Member # 3146) on :
Dana, you and Bruce are stronger than you know.
We are praying for a speedy recovery, and the strength to get through this.
Hang in there, and tell bruce we said hi.
Please don't hesitate if you need anything.
Peace out, Bob
Posted by Sal Cabrera (Member # 1236) on :
Hi Dana glad to hear Bruce came thru Ok. Bruce is still in our pray.
Posted by Sheila Ferrell (Member # 3741) on :
. . . Went thru several years of 'balloons' and also a quadruple bypass with my Mom . . .all her heart trouble started when she was about 60. She had the OH when she was about 69.
The whole open-heart thing was pretty exhausting scene for her and all of us, but we were so thankful she pulled thru the OH just fine.
I really freaked out when I came in the morning after the day of her surgery and she had been moved from the CCU to a regular room . . . and they had her up walking in the hallway!!!
It's almost traunatic having to leave your CCU waiting-room family . . . people you have spent hours upon hours with, helping each other forget those uncomfortable chairs, talking news, work, and family, and for whom you've called-out the name of every family in the room when the phone rings, and who you left notes on the board for, or were able to tell the caller that their family/freind got moved to a regular room!!
You realize you develope a sort-of dependant relationship with the actual hospital building because it holds all the staff, some of whom you never even saw or met, who held your loved one in the skill of their hands and care, so that when it's time to leave the hospital with your released patient, you feel a little 'insecure' moving away from the intense care. Something inside you wants to ask if the Dr's are really sure that we don't need to stay another few days . . .and partly because you know and fear that you can't possibley care for that person like the hospital staff can . . .
But the miracle is how much a miracle modern medicine has been blessed to acheive!! And the miracle of how well the body can work with the treatements it receieves to heal itself.
Bruce, you will be amazed at how much better you will feel everyday now that you're body is cycling it's life's blood properly!!!!!
God bless y'all.
:x
Posted by bill riedel (Member # 607) on :
Hi Dana, as a member of the bypass alumni, I can tell you that Bruce will have more discomfort from the removal of the vein from his leg than from the actual heart surgery. They will want him to do plenty of walking, a little more each day. This really helps the healing process quicken. For proof, I was on my way to England to Terry Colley's meet just four weeks after surgery.
Posted by Raymond Chapman (Member # 361) on :
Hey, all those prayers have been answered. That's why so many have been offered...and will continue to be sent up for you and Bruce.
Dana, you are probably suffering a lot more than he is. It's really hard to see someone you love hurting and not be able to do anything about it. Well, you are doing something - you are there for him, but I'm sure that you would feel much better if it were you in the bed rather than him. That's just the way people who love each other react.
Bruce - my best to you. Prayers will continue for you and your lovely wife. You have the best medicine in the world standing there by the bed holding your hand.
Both of you are in for some changes in your life. The great news is that you are both there together to make those changes.
Dana - when Bruce was down at Fred's gathering last March he told me that you were the best thing that ever happened to him. I think he's right. Now, don't forget to take care of yourself. Also, remember there is someone a lot smarter and stronger than either of you that is in charge....and He doesn't make mistakes.
Posted by Ricky Jackson (Member # 5082) on :
Dana, I'm so glad you both came thru ok. I know it was terribly hard on both of you, probably moreso on you than Bruce. But you made it and we're very very happy about that. We all can't wait to have Bruce back on the board. I've never been thru heart surgery so I have no advice to offer. Just know that you both are still in our prayers and thoughts.
Posted by Dana Bowers (Member # 780) on :
It's been a tough week. We already had some very major changes in the works, then this happened. Heck, I had to call the realtor from the emergency room to cancel the appt we had with her that night!!!
I have heard and read from so many people that have either gone through this themselves or with a loved one, that I knew down deep he would be ok. Heck, if he wasn't supposed to be, then the one blockage would have been an inch higher (thats what the Dr said!)
But it's still really scary to watch someone go through it, and hide everything you're feeling from them, so you can be up and happy and smiling when they see you!!
THANK YOU SO MUCH for all the words, thoughts, prayers and well-wishes. They mean alot.
I can't see him until noon, but will be leaving soon to go to the hospital... gotta get started on figuring out how to deal with this financially.
He had already decided there was NO way he was gonna be sitting in the ER, feeling the way he did, again... so NO MORE SMOKING!!!! I am even MORE happy about him going in with that idea... now that I heard the Dr tell me after surgery... "ONE more cigarette, and he will DIE." Hmmmm.... not like sugar coating it, huh?
Thanks again for everything, and we will be contacting a few people for a hand with some upcoming stuff, ok?
Posted by Gene Golden (Member # 3934) on :
Dana, I guess the good thing is that he is unable to smoke while at the hospital. He's going Dry Turkey while dealing with all of this too.
Is there a consideration for the withdrawal he must be going through, or has this whole process actually kinda "pre-empted" the withdrawal from nicotine? Just wondering how it is dealt with.
Posted by Monte Jumper (Member # 1106) on :
Got up this morning aand this was the first thing I wanted to check on ! Glad to hear surgery went well...each day things will get easier for you (both of you).
God Bless you both!
Posted by Dana Bowers (Member # 780) on :
I guess when he first got to the CCU, they tried Wellbutrin (?), but it didn't help at all.
They gave him a bunch of papers to read about quitting. The nurse also suggested some candies, mints, something to divert the interest. He likes peanut M&Ms, but I know (from experience!) that ANY size bag is an individual serving size!!!
So I got a big bag of individual packs for trick-or-treat. I figured the small bag is portion control... but also give him something to do with his hands by opening it, then 'squirting' out the pieces, playing with them as they roll around the tray table.
Didn't work the greatest, but at least I tried! lol
I'm hoping that since he went into CCU last Wed night, then surgery yesterday, then another few days in the hospital, plus coming home to nothing in the house - actually in the basement, since he only smokes at his workbench down there. I cleaned that off, threw away anything that had anything to do with cigarettes, and sprayed the bejeeebers outta everything down there with Fabreeze.
I don't smoke, so that will help too.
He told me last night when I talked with him on the phone (and he sounded so much better!!!) that the nurses told him usually the patients are off the respiratory and such at about 6hrs post op. He set a new record with 3hrs! He was pretty proud of that!
He has alot of things lined up he is SOOOOO excited about, and is bound and determined to get outta there ASAP, back on his feet ASAP - without pushing it though, and on with his plans in life.
He is so INCREDIBLY TOUCHED with ALL HIS FRIENDS here!!!!!!
Anyone else wanna jump on the "I CHOOSE not to smoke EVER AGAIN!" bandwagon, jump on!!
Thanks again everyone.
Posted by Gene Golden (Member # 3934) on :
That's great Dana! Try Orbit gum as a deterrent (and it's sugarless). You mentioned the "actions" involved in getting the candy. Orbit comes in a cellophane package that you have to unwrap. Then you lift a "lid" to get to the individual pieces, and then unwrap them. I've often told Debi how it must have been packaged purposely for quitting smokers, since all of the processes you go through are similar to getting a cigarette. AND the taste lasts forever.
Posted by Randy Campbell (Member # 2675) on :
been gone for a week and don't know what happened but I'm sure glad to read things are better. Posted by Jackie B (Member # 186) on :
Dana & Bruce, From the Lockwood Fire Protection District come many, many well wishes such as “Hang in there”, “You’ll be fine”, “Lot’s of thoughts coming your way”, “Get better soon as we may need another sign”, etc. – too many coming at me at once to write them all down. As I pass by Station #2 and your sign every day, I and many others are thinking of you. Love and best wishes for a speedy recovery from Chief Fred Assistant Chief Dave Captain Charlie Captain Nate Firefighters Robin, Greg, Chris and Chris, Jordan, Eric Paramedic Mary Trainee Megan Board Pres. Letha Treasurer Ken Secretary Jackie W. Director Don Director John Auxiliary Pres. Susie Auxiliary V.P. Ted Auxiliary Treas. Rena Bob & Jennie Wanda Glenn Carol Andrea And just about everyone else on the mountain . . . Your sign is shining brightly, and so will you. From Jackie aka Bomba-Dear
Posted by Elaine Beauchemin (Member # 136) on :
Good to know that everything went well. pfiouuuuu! You are in our thaughts. Sending Bruce good healing vibes.
Hugs!
É
Posted by KARYN BUSH (Member # 1948) on :
so happy to hear things went well and bruce is on his way to a speedy recovery! good to hear about giving up the cancer sticks...great move in the right direction! sometimes we just don't know why certain things happen when they do...i guess its all part of the big plan! i wish you guys the best!!!!! Posted by Bill Burris (Member # 3570) on :
Dana thanks for the update. sooo glad it went good.Will be hard now but the worst is over. Tell Bruce just get better-the one-shot will wait for him. Hang i thier
Posted by Joe Rees (Member # 211) on :
You know, peanut m&m's are the hardest candy to get lit. You cinge your mustache, they draw like crap and then they go out...Mars bars, now there's a smoke!
BwaaHaHa.
Seriously, getting off tobacco has to be the benefit to all this if there can be one. Nothing like pain-of-death as a deterrent. Bruce is lucky in an ironic way. Just the money saved alone could finance many new interests. Extra jingle and the extra energy of needing to fidget with his hands - man lookout. Bruce is going to rocket out of that hospital.
Posted by Chris Elliott (Member # 1262) on :
I'm glad to hear that you have both made it through this as well as you have so far! One additional suggestion for quitting tobacco is hypnosis. My ex-wife tried it several years ago and she was amazed at her lack of desire for another cig. The only problem was that she enjoyed showing everyone how she could lite up, take a couple of drags and put it out. She said it didn't even taste good anymore and she would go the rest of the evening without wanting another puff. She managed to repeat this trick so many times that before long she found herself smoking again.
Meanwhile, take care of yourself and tell Bruce I said Hi, I'm looking forward to seeing you both again! Posted by Laura Butler (Member # 1830) on :
Dana, Even though I quit smoking when I was 19 (I am now 54) I still dream about it every so often.
Try getting him some sunflowers seeds or pumpkin seeds (IF YOU CAN GET HIM TO EAT THEM). It takes longer to eat them but is much more healthier and it temporarily satisfies having to have something in the mouth.
PS. I might be hard to find without salt though.
Posted by Steve Racz (Member # 4376) on :
Dana and Bruce,
We will continue to keep you both in our thoughts and prayers.
Posted by Barb. Shortreed (Member # 1730) on :
Glad to hear the surgery went well, we have been thinking about you two alot.
We are both here anytime you need us.
Posted by Tim (Member # 1699) on :
Glad to hear how well recovery seems to be going! There are so many good people here sending well wishes and that has got to have helped. Keep on the right path and stay off the smokes. Hopin to meet you two at a meet someday!
Posted by Wayne Webb (Member # 1124) on :
Glad to hear you're doing better Bruce!
Posted by Raymond Chapman (Member # 361) on :
Dana - I've never smoked, so I'm not much help there, but my Dad smoked for about forty years before he had his first heart attack and the doctor gave him the ultimatum to either quit or die.
He would cut a short piece of tree twig and trim the bark off and chew on it. It gave him something to put in his mouth and also the bitter taste of a green twig put some flavor in his mouth that took the place of the nicotine.
He quit cold turkey and never looked back. And then lived another thirty years.
Posted by John Deaton (Member # 925) on :
Posted by David Wright (Member # 111) on :
Excellent John.
Posted by Ray Rheaume (Member # 3794) on :
AH, ya beat me to it, John.
Glad to hear that Bruce is doing better and hope you both get some much deserved rest after all this.
Call me if ya need anything...24/7. Rapid
Posted by Jill Marie Welsh (Member # 1912) on :
No more cheap Reservation smokes for you, Brooce! No more chicken finger pizza either....BUT....I'll bet 3-Bean salad is cholesterol free! Glad you are doing OK. Dana, I hope you are holding up well. Thanks for all the updates. Even my Mom was worried! "He seems like such a nice boy, maybe a bit of a smart-aleck". (maybe she was thinking of Ryan Young!) Love....Jill
Posted by Mark Neurohr (Member # 2470) on :
Bruce,
Don't wanna put any pressure on ya but, THE WHOLE LETTERVILLE COMMUNITY is watching you recover. You're doing it Buddy!!!
Dana, you're doing just fine girl! Proud of you!
Good luck guys............
See ya at the next meet Bruce, SOON.
Posted by Harris Kohen (Member # 2139) on :
I cant wait to see Bruce jump up and click his heels together like that old Tv commercial from the 60's about Quitting smoking.
Glad to hear things are going well for you Bruce and Dana
Posted by Brian Diver (Member # 1552) on :
Like Mark said we're ALL watching and reading. Thanks for the updates, we're all behind you guys and know everything will turn out great! I think if you let us know when he can start taking phone calls he'll be on the phone so much he won't have time for a cigarette Take care and get well soon!
Posted by Lotti Prokott (Member # 2684) on :
Great news! Wishing you both the very best.
God bless
Posted by Jason Davie (Member # 2172) on :
Glad To here the surgery went good and that both of you are doing better!!
Jason D
Posted by Michael Berry (Member # 2604) on :
Glad the surgery went well You guys are in our thoughts.
Posted by Frank Smith (Member # 146) on :
Bruce- Although we've never met, your quick quips on this board have earned you a place in our hearts and we'll pray for you. Frank
Posted by Bill Burris (Member # 3570) on :
Dana I have my own pt will put something on it for Bruce. Like you more than him, but am sure he will get some lift out of it. Love Bill
Posted by Kathy Joiner (Member # 1814) on :
I am soooo glad that things went so well for you & Bruce. Believe me I am aware of what CAN happen. When Lloyd had his by-pass surgery, he spent 31 days in ICU.
All the prayers have been answered. If he doesn't listen to his nurse (you) put a collar on him and lead him to obedience school!
Posted by Karen Wunch (Member # 3577) on :
Dana?
Bruce is good. (Good News!) He's under professional care. You're not. BUT!! You're under OUR care. TRUST me...it's NOT the same.
We all love and care for you. When You jump off the 'Caring for Bruce' cycle? You'll be down and out. KNOW that all of us are here for YOU, too.
Care-Givers NEED a hug. They're really special people. Dana? All my best for You and Yours. You're a strong gal, but don't live on strength. What am I saying? Don't be too strong to say, "What, now???".
Dana? LOVE him, take care of him--but don't forget that You are special. too. Take care of Yourself, so you can take care of him.
Bless Your Heart.
Posted by Michael R. Bendel (Member # 5847) on :
Bruce! I knew you'd break healing records on this deal! Keep up the good work! Can't wait to hear from you! (If I use one more exclamation point I think my keyboard will explode!!)
Thanks Dana... It seems your heavily anticipated posts are the cure for our ailments! It looks like the 'Bullboard community' is feeling much better now. If you listen really hard, I do believe you can hear a collective 'sigh'.?
Posted by Suelynn Sedor (Member # 442) on :
Hi again Dana & Bruce,
I'm hoping things are continuing to get better day by day. Quitting smoking is hard, but you have to make a promise to yourself that no matter how bad you want that ciggy, you just WILL NOT have one. It's been nine years for me now, but I remember going to bed at 7:00 because I just wanted to quit thinking about having one. I was pretty emotional too. So much of it is your bodies reaction to the lack of chemicals you are inhaling.
A little mind-game trick I played with myself was to save $30.00 per week in a seperate account. I set it up to automatically transfer every week. It didn't take long to build up, and I told myself if I had even one puff, the savings would stop. When I looked at that building account, the cheating just wasn't worth it. The first year we used that money for a trip to mexico, the second year we bought new furniture. I know money is going to be extremely tight for you these days, and the financial worries are probably pretty big right now, but it is amazing how one always seems to find the extra money for the cigs.
I think it would be neat to start throwing that money in a big jar every day, and watch it grow at Bruce's bedside. Once he gets out of the hospital and feeling good again, it will be a great incentive to keep at it. Make sure you spend it on something fun and not bills, it would have been gone anyway right????
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I'm so glad to hear that hurdle is over. I hope the road to recovery just gets better and better. ![[Eek!]](eek.gif)
Hmmmm.... not like sugar coating it, huh?