Saturday 5 November 2016

Stroke Me Down

"Maybe he had a stroke?  I want you to ask the GP for a CT Scan,"  retorted Merv's speech pathologist.  I grunted, I made all the right noises but I was thinking - 'Get a grip girl, he had a fall, he choked on his lunch and pooped his pants.'  Yes all within two hours from returning from his fortnight respite.
Three days later Merv fell before I awoke.  He was on the way to the toilet.  When I finally awoke, completely unaware of the drama that had occurred Merv was sporting a swollen eye which later coloured to every shade of black, a red ring on his forehead and several bumps and bruises.  I was horrified.  I cancelled Merv's support worker and made an appointment with his doctor.  His doctor of course had a day off and we saw a semi retired gentleman who resembled Kris Kringle.  He assured us nothing was broken, his eyesight was fine and no concussion. 
We celebrated our 40th Wedding Anniversary only three days later, complete with his black eye! Merv and I visited the Lavender Café and enjoyed lavender scones with jam and cream before meeting with Dustin, Grace and Mel for lunch at our favourite local restaurant. Throughout our marriage I had never imagined Merv would be unwell or in a wheelchair.  Life often turns out differently from our dreams of long ago and our expectations to today.  It is a time to reflect and make the most of what we do have.
Nine days after that fall and he still can't walk unaided.  I walk him everywhere in the house. He's wearing continence pants and I wake at 5am to take him to the toilet after having washed sheets and bedding for three days in a row.  Hopefully the early start will continue to be successful in keeping a dry bed.
His left leg is sore and it's time for an x-ray.  I know as we get older (is 62 old?) our body takes longer to heal.  Is it just bruising, the lack of confidence or something more sinister?
Do I think Merv had a stroke?  Probably not but her words encircle my mind causing confusion and indecision.  It's just another busy week ahead with two dentist appointments, two doctor appointment and a number of other commitments. 
I only want Merv to be able to walk around at home by himself again which will increase his confidence and his lost independence.





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