Atta girl, Judy! There is that amazing fighting spirit! Are you Irish? :-)
Keep up the good work. You ROCK!
Linda in El Cajon
On March 15, 2011...
Don't feel down over your 'slow' progress! Everyone I've known who has had heart surgery has made those types of comments to me, and I've always wanted to laugh because you've had heart surgery--that is BIG! You ARE getting better, it hasn't really been that long, yadda yadda. ;-) i'm glad Rina is being a good service dog and I hope Ricochet is chasing birds and making you laugh.
Marybeth Lavrakas
On March 15, 2011...
Judy,
It is good that you know why your pressure was low. Now you will start to feel better. It is confusing with meds after you leave the hospital. No one told me how to take a certain medication after my last surgery so I took it incorrectlyfor almost 10 days and it did not work at all. They really need to be more clear on directions!! Rina sounds so much like my James. He has a 6th sense and can always tell when you need him most. Ricochet is just being herself and that is good. Hoping your days continue to get better!
Nina Wormuth
On March 15, 2011...
hi, judy -- glad they found out abt. the med. you shouldn't be having. what a sweet rina. too funny abt. ric. you have two good canine friends.
rhonda ferrara norman
On March 15, 2011...
I am so gladI am able to follow you on your recovery. You are an amazing person & I am blessed to have shared time in your life. You are an inspiration to many & I'm sure you know how much you mean to so many people. Get better. We love you.
Tina (Purpura) & John
Wow, I finally remembered to sign my name. Hahahaha
On March 15, 2011...
Glad to hear you are recovering. Be sure and take plenty of liquids. Ron's blood pressure dropped dramatically whenever he started to dehydrate (after chemo). Gatorade helps. Prayers and hugs to you Judy!
On March 14, 2011...
I believe our dogs do more to help us heal than any medicine or anything else. That is why many hospitals allow their patients to have their pets visit. The problem I had was when Freida visited everyone came to see her nurses, patients, their families etc., so I didnt get to spend much time with her! They really do sense when were "off," and Rina certainly does! She knows her "mom" isnt quite her complete mom yet, and so shes worried. That is so sweet!!!
On March 14, 2011...
Judy,
Good to hear you have good friends to help look after you. Happy to hear the nurse came and straightened out your meds. Poor busy Ricochet, Loves Mommy but gets too busy in the yard to check in, sounds like my Star Bright. Good thing you have Rina to help out! Hope you keep progressing on your road to full recovery! Love, prayers, hugs and healing to you.
Debbie and Star Bright
On March 14, 2011...
I'm sure Heather told you, but when I was there the other day, Rina was very sweet--for a little while--then she went back up to the house to you--she was pretty focused. Ricochet, on the other hand...stuck around pretty much until I left. Kind of like Chutney, "young at brain," as I say.
Lori
On March 14, 2011...
Oh Judy....thank God someone realized the mistake. Improvement now back on track. Have a great night and see ya tomorrow. With love Teresa
On March 14, 2011...
Judy,
your post today made me laugh. Some dogs are not meant for a life of service! Rici is the free spirit because she has Rina doing the hard work. If Rina wasn't with you, I think you'd find Rici steppin' up to her responsibility. :-) Right now, she can be a puppy with Rina as top dog.
Hope that dropping the drug will bring your BP to normal!
Cheers,
Vicki, Toby, Sheila, Louie and Monet
On March 14, 2011...
Great that you've solved the BP problem, Judy! I'm sure you were sent home with so many meds it is difficult to keep them all sorted out! I hope you can pay some extra attention to Ric and Rina, especially Rina. If she's concerned, she probably could use some extra reassurance. Ric, well, Ric's busy doing her own thing, I guess. I know she loves you lots, but this is probably her way of coping with a situation she doesn't understand. I know you know all this, but sometimes we get so close to a situation that we can't "see the forest for the trees." My prayers for you continue.
Blessings,
Nancie W.
Sylva, NC
On March 14, 2011...
Lol! Good to see you still have your sense of humor after all you've been through ;) Good ol' Ricochet. So sweet how concerned Rina is...... So loyal! - Liz
On March 14, 2011...
Hi Judy,
Just caught up on the last couple days of your entries. you are sooo blessed to have friends like that..and i'm so happy you are letting others help you. Happy the nausea is kaput! I just hope each day gets a little better than the next. I like how you are being so cautious on the pain meds....maybe the acupuncture will help. Happy the dogs are being so awesome too!. Hugs. Elizabeth Aspasia Shapiro
On March 14, 2011...
Hi Judy- Glad to see that some things are feeling better. I don't know if you've had acupuncture before, but it can be FANTASTIC! At the very least it should leave you relaxed and feeling rested. Hang in there.... lots of folks out here sending you positive energy and prayers!
Sharon from NY
On March 14, 2011...
Even tho I haven't read other's comments, still concerned about your back pain and other issues u r still experiencing. Do u have a specialist (surgeon) in SD?
And I can't reiterate enough; if u need anything at all PLEASE call me!
It makes me happy to help good ppl., K?
Sincerely,
Meg Jones
619 303-6454
San Diego, CA
On March 14, 2011...
Hi Judy...so glad you're seeing progress....sometimes it's hard to see. Every day you still are getting better ( even if you don't think so). Thank God for good friends...they are priceless. Get better and let us know how you're doing. Love ya Teresa P.S. Some pics (when you're ready)
On March 14, 2011...
Happy to hear you are on the mend...one day at a time!
All the best to you and the girls!
Farish family
On March 14, 2011...
Today's post reminds me of that wonderful poem by an anonymous writer that ends with these words, "God make me worthy of my friends." You, Judy, are so worthy of those wonderful folks who are rallying around to help you in your time of need, just as you, Ric and Rina do in others' times of need. I know you're so grateful to them, as they are so grateful to you for all you, Ric, and Rina do for others. You remain in my prayers.
God bless you,
Nancie Wilson
Sylva, NC
On March 14, 2011...
Judy,
Thanks for the update! I'm glad to hear the home health nurses are coming to check on you. It sounds like your friends have been taking excellent care of you!
Hope today and this week go better!
Katy Myers
On March 14, 2011...
Glad you are doing a little better. My big 7 yr old Connor, had Reiki done in the NICU when he was born as part of a program for people who were going to have surgery (heart). They also used it on preemie twins who were never as calm as when they were in session. We have even had friends do Reiki from afar.
Good Wishes.
Carla Evans
On March 14, 2011...
Judy:
Thanks for keeping us updated. It sounds like even though there is a "changing of the guard" that you are still very blessed to have awesome health. We continue to pray for you daily. It is awesome to see the progress you have had in your condition. I even laughed as you described your mosaic bruising. I had teased with my mother-in-law after her surgery a couple of years ago (time flies!) about taking photographs of them and selling them as abstract art - she was not amusued at all - ha.
Take care and God Bless,
Ruth C.
Fredericksburg, VA
On March 14, 2011...
Dear Judy,
I'm so glad you let Rina help you. It makes her feel so good to do her job. I won't tell about that little kick; You all deserve some fun! I'm happy to here that you are learning to balance your efforts with rest, and that you are sleeping well. This is a long journey back to health and energy builds so slowly. It is so hard to be patient while being a patient. Roxie and I are in your corner, hoping and praying that you will gain strength day by day and continue to see improvements in your stamina.
Keep on Breathing!
Love
Annie, Roxies mom
On March 14, 2011...
Judy,
Rocky is sending his best wishes to you for a speedy recovery. He's glad you have Ric and Rina to help you. Wishing you all the best.
Colleen and Rocky
On March 14, 2011...
HI Judy! Keep taking it easy. Hopefully you have a cane or walker to use. It doesn't mean you are old if you use one! I had to use both for awhile after my surgery. I know others who did too. The walker we just used for short trips close to home (small walks) and the cane I used when I tried to go to the store. I would sit down when I tired out. If you don't have a cane yet, they make some really cute ones with designs for us young people like you and me :D. They fold up. They have pink, college ones, blue, flowers, etc... When I have my next surgery, I am opting for a pink one I think.
Anyway, hopefully you will be able to get out for a small ride and sit at the park with whoever is helping you out and Rina & Ricochet. The fresh air will do you good...or even sitting on the porch for a short bit. Like I said before, I know it feels like you are not progressing or ever going to feel better, but you will...it just takes time (whether it be open heart surgery or brain surgery or any other surgery). Just don't over-do it and it sounds like you are doing well asking for help! So glad, because some people are too stuborn to ask for help and end up in the hospital again because they cant ask for help and do too much or don't get what they need. Hope your appetite is getting better! I bet you will be sooo happy to eat your favorite food when you are able to! I know how good it tastes and how it feels to take that first bite when able to eat it...it is great! So keep taking it easy and getting better so you can eat that fav food, lol.
Good luck sweety! You are strong willed and you can do it! Me, my husband, my son and my dogs send out hugs and well wishes!
On March 13, 2011...
You seriously need to give yourself a break, you have made tremendous strides toward returning to your old self. I know how hard it is for someone who is a doer to not being able to do much of anything, it sucks! However worrying over not being able to do is not doing you any good. Patience Grasshopper, Patience.
Love to you and pups!
Janet Hale and the Boys
On March 13, 2011...
It really makes me smile to see how well you are doing! :) I know each improvement means everything. Just remember, yes you must let others help you. And... you are heling them because people who want to help, love to help. So you are helping them by letting them help! See how wonderful you are?!?!
Julie, Tucker, Disney and Piper
On March 13, 2011...
Hi Judy!
Your doing so awesome!
I saw a few service dogs in training today at the Bike Expo and totally thought of you when I saw a puppy lab in training! (just like Rina) I mentioned Surf dog Rici and she totally new what I was talking. You're a rock star in Seattle! (Her mistake was letting me pet the pup while having the "service dog in training" on. ops!)
Take care! Hugs!
Nancy De Lanoy
On March 13, 2011...
Judy! I so enjoy reading about your progress! You are doing sooooooo well. I really think you are ahead of schedule and you really should be impressed with your activity! I love that Rina is so willing to help you and you are the cutest to give her tasks she can help you with. It made me smile! In a few weeks you will be doing so much more and then you will forget that you were so tired! The ictching of healing skin and the numbness will soon be a slight memory! The main important thing is to let others help you when you can. It is always hard to accept help but you deserve to be pampered right now!!!! Enjoy and may each day bring you more and more strength!
Love,
Angela Gilmore
On March 13, 2011...
i guess, for those of us who have experienced surgery....although perhaps not to the extent that you have....we're all aware of the sense of weariness which overcomes you. this is part of why we gave instructions to post-op patients to NOT make any radical changes in their life right after surgery...the anesthesia is still there. i've know people who purchase brand-new cars, move, end a relationship, etc.
so, you're also learning that it's totally OK to allow others to assist you. it's makes us feel of value to help you.
love sam mcfarland
On March 13, 2011...
Judy,
Glad to hear that each day gets better for you. The little things all add up and aid in a quicker recovery. You are doing great!
Nina Wormuth
On March 13, 2011...
Hi Judy,
Thank you for your updates, I look forward to hearing about your new progress every day! This whole journey has been so interesting for all of us to share with you.
I'm glad that the nausea has subsided, now to get rid of that back pain!
Love to you and the girls!
Kristin Moon
On March 13, 2011...
Thank you, Judy, for your update. Little by little, day by day, you're recovering, healing, and getting better. I know Ric and Rina are watching with anticipation for the day that all three of you can "hit the beach" and get back to your life of helping others. God bless you. You remain in my prayers and thoughts. Hugs to Ric and Rina, and to you, too! ;)
Blessings,
Nancie Wilson
Sylva, NC
On March 13, 2011...
sounds like a good day! as your back improves that should help with your energy, as well. nothing more tiring that chronic pain.
take good care-
Sandi Brown
On March 13, 2011...
Good evening, Judy!
Just read your newest journal entry. Thank you for your thoughtful updates.
I'm simply amazed by your strength and determination. Your capacity for love and compassion knows no bounds. You speak so lovingly of those caring for you and then of course, there's your one and only Rina. She knows her mom needs lots of love. What a blessing!!
I pray that each new day brings you more strength and energy and that your pain lessens.
Sending my love and prayers,
Secret
(not signing my last name...as if you actually know two people on Facebook with the name Secret. Lol).
On March 13, 2011...
judy,
your recovery is nothing short of amazing! I can imagine it is very frustrating to not be able to do things like you used to, but before long you will be able to take those long walks on the beach with Rina and Rici again! You've been through the worst of it and now it is the challenge of patience. You can do it!
Vicki, Toby, Sheila, Louie and Monet
On March 13, 2011...
Oh, wise one! So glad to hear you are being sensible. I think we ALL tend to rush it after being sick or incapacitated; we ALL want things to be 'back to normal'. But what is normal, anyway? It is a setting on a washing machine, I know. :-)
Take it easy, kiddo. You are being a very brave soldier so far. Keep it up!
Hugs and nose kisses from East County~
Linda Sammeli
On March 13, 2011...
Evening Judy...Glad you got out of the recliner (before you start looking like it). Little bit at a time...don't overdo it and keep us up to date. Some new pics would be nice too! Keep the faith and will talk to you tomorrow. Goodnight Teresa
On March 13, 2011...
Glad to hear you are making good progress.
Remember Rome wasn't built in a day! Glad you have the girls and plenty of folks who are taking good care of you. Keep getting stronger each day.
God bless,
Barb
On March 13, 2011...
Keep on keeping on and taking care of You! And as always, Heal!
Linda Shaffer & Rocco
On March 13, 2011...
Take care of yourself Judy! Sounds like you have great help! I had emergency surgery 3 weeks ago and then got a bad infection so I was in ICU for a week. It is nothing compared to what you went through but, it sure takes a toll! My Kirby (standard poodle) is VERY careful with me. Before the surgery, he would sleep with me every night. Now, he doesn't. He sleeps on the floor. I am not sure if he thinks He is going to hurt me! I think of you several times a day and hope each day you feel stronger and better!!!
On March 13, 2011...
Sending healing wishes!!! I so admire you for many reasons. Take one day at a time and I want to meet you someday!
Paulette Crowe
On March 13, 2011...
You are awesome !!!!
The LAST thing I would find the energy to do if I was recovering from major surgery, would be to capture my thoughts in a journal, not to mention as eloquently as you do. You are a gifted writer with a strong desire to connect and share with others. All of us "readers" are blessed by your spirit.
I'm sending you a gentle virtual hug.
Dodie and Wilson
On March 13, 2011...
keep hanging in there, happy to hear of any improvement. what a sweetheart, rina and helping you. so glad you have the human help, too.
rhonda ferrara norman
On March 13, 2011...
Yay!! Sounds like things are going, if slowly, well for you!! The tiredness must be frustrating for you but take it in stride. You are doing so well. I really wish the back pain could be fixed though. All in good time. The important thing is healing from your surgery and I am so happy you are doing well. :)
Julie, Tucker, Disney and Piper
PS got my Ricochet tshirt. Don't know how I missed those before. Where are the Rina and Ricochet shirts? LOL
On March 13, 2011...
once again, i am moved to tears....both the kids instinctively know you've changed because they can smell the chemical difference (don't be offended) and will await the time when you smell like your old self ! what a WONDERFUL compliment to heather to be as good as a service dog. we should all strive for this.
ZOMG...your legs are frightful ! looks like you were run over by an 18-wheeler.
all pain will eventually leave, little by little. one day there will be no upset tummy, or lack of energy....and you'll GLORY that you have your sanity and health once again.
i'm sooooooo hoping you might feel good enough to get out at the temecula event.
i'm also hoping my daughter, suni, and her marine husband ed will come down from camp pendleton to meet you...you're my SHE-RO after all as are rina and ric !
much love to you
sam mcfarland
On March 13, 2011...
Hour by hour, day by day, you're improving, Judy! I know you want to feel 1000% immediately, but keep reminding yourself that your surgery was VERY major, and because of that, your body is severely "beaten up" and needs time to recover. Please eat healthy foods, and even though it may be difficult sometimes, keep that positive attitude about yourself that you always have for others. Ric and Rina are patient and know that you're getting better and will soon be on the beach with them. You continue in my prayers and positive thoughts.
Blessings,
Nancie Wilson
Sylva, NC
On March 12, 2011...
Judy,
Glad you could make it to the mailbox without needing a ride back to your door. Good for you! The race is won step by step. Keep that in mind.
Loved the story about Rina and the couch. Adorable and so sweet. What a testament that the girls have not jumped on you not even once.
I live in Canton OH which is conveniently not located around a beach anywhere! We in fact got a bunch of snow this week. It is time for it to leave but I have no control over the weather so it is what it is.
Just finished running my nearly 2 year old rescue Sammy who is a choc lab after he tried to eat a pen. What is with these dogs?! Goodness! Thankfully he only likes to lie on my leather loveseat and not eat it.
Praying for you!
Mary Roberts
On March 12, 2011...
Hey there Can you send me your address again I just want to be sure ... See you at 7:00 :-)
On March 12, 2011...
Judy, baby steps baby steps! Youre making progress!!! I love reading your journal to see how youre doing. I think about you everyday!!! Love Valerie Joey and Kealani
Keep up the good work. You ROCK!
Linda in El Cajon