Ann's Journal

Marie Myers  I am sorry to hear about your husbands health issues. Has he been evaluated by A neurologist for the memory issues? If he is unable to work, the neurologist may be able to help him qualify for Social security Disability. My thoughts and prayers are with you in your difficult time.

Ann Charlton  He had extensive testing done about 19 years ago and was found to have significant short term memory loss and loss of executive function. I’ve been doing some research and just learned today about the role of delirium and long term cognitive decline. Scott had severe delirium after the surgery. He saw ants crawling on the wall, WW3 starting, the soap dispenser talking,p. It lasted for days. I am in shock as I look at the research now, it’s very clear. We are trying to decide if he should apply for disability. I am disabled and have been for a long time so we will have no income other then SSDI if we do this. It’s overwhelming and it doesn’t help when his family believes disability is a bad thing. He doesn’t think he will be here in 12-15 years. I agree with him. Thanks for responding. So much to take in.

Kimberly Eisenhut  Hello Ann, I am sorry you are going through difficult times. I know this community has helped me with some of my fears and the "not knowing" about the future. Please know you are not alone and there are so many on this site that will help with questions, concerns, support and maybe a joke or two when needed. Blessings to you both and you are in my prayers and thoughts today

Susan Lynn  Welcome, Ann. I am so sorry to read that you, your husband, and family are going through this. In addition to Marie's great advice, I would also recommend that your husband pick up additional voluntary long-term disability coverage if it is offered at work. In addition to Social Security Disability, these group plans can offer even more income if your husband is not able to remain employed.

While it's completely logical to attribute his cognitive issues to heart surgery and his lengthy bypass time, it is possible your husband may have an unrelated condition that can be remedied or mitigated by the neurologist. We are heart warriors, but we are, unfortunately, not immune to other forms of illness. Your husband is clearly someone who has persevered through more medical issues than anyone should have to endure and he will get through this, too.

We're here for you both if you have a question or just need a virtual hug! Please keep us posted on his progress and take care of yourself - we know that this is just as difficult for you.

Patsy Stewart  Ann, my heart goes out to you and Scott. You have been given some very good advice in this thread. My eye caught the part where you mentioned about his family believing disability is a bad thing. BEING disabled is the bad thing. I’m sure you nor Scott enjoy the conditions of your health status. Try not to worry about what everyone else thinks if Scott needs to go on disability. There comes a time when your body just can’t do it anymore, even though you’re trying with all of your might. Do what the two of you have to do to survive. If disability is the answer, you don’t have to ask permission from anyone or be ashamed that you had to choose that road. Sounds like the road has been chosen for you by all of the health issues. I’m so sorry! I’ll carry you both in my heart and remember you both in my prayers that you find peace through this chapter of your life.~❤️

Rose Madura  Ann, I so sorry you both are going through this. I will keep you in my prayers. Please keep us posted...

Ann Charlton  Thank you all so much. I feel so alone. You have made me see there are caring people. Most days it doesn’t feel like it. I have been keeping a running list of “chapters in my life”. I look at it and I can’t believe what we have been through. I don’t think many people would believe it. Thank you for the thoughts, it has given me a lot to think about.

Ann Charlton  I do have a question you might be able to help me with. We live in Maine and access to healthcare is very difficult, even with good insurance. You can’t get appointments without referrals and with referrals many providers are booking out many months in the future. I have been waiting months to see a neurologist and my appointment is scheduled for January 31. With the possibility of retiring early, what states would you recommend with access to great healthcare? 

Ana Brusso  Hello Ann, as you can see you are given quite a bit of suggestions for your situation. Patsy is right, you have to do what is right for you and can’t listen to criticism. Your survival depends on it. I am not sure which states have good healthcare systems but Massachusetts and New York come to mind. Hoping someone will chime in and help you with that question. God bless you and guide you in your present situation.