Judy, you are making such progress. Heather sounds like a guardian ages with two four-legged assistants. Glad to hear you are sleeping and thinking about walking to the park. Go slow. Prayers your way. Janice Lloyd
On March 10, 2011...
Awe, such a touching story of giving your girls lots of loving. They are so smart, they know something is wrong and they are very careful not to jump up on you.
Thinking of you, take care, give the girls a hug for me!
Loving You From Ontario, Canada
Connie and Charlie xoxo
On March 10, 2011...
DOGS, they know and sense when the right time or move is. It's good to know that they are watching out for you too, Judy! Enjoy those tender moments! - Liz
On March 10, 2011...
Glad things are going well at home at for the most part. I know I keep saying this....but it will get better.
On March 10, 2011...
Aren't dogs the most intuitive creatures ever! My inner feelings got all warm and fuzzy reading todays post and it made me proud to be a Dog Mom. Don't try to do things too quickly however it does help to walk a little further each day. This worked to help build up my husbands stamina after spending two weeks in the hospital.
Janet and the Boys
On March 10, 2011...
hi, judy, so glad to hear of the improvements. so interesting to hear how rina and ric are acting, just amazing, the insight. take care
rhonda ferrrara norman
On March 10, 2011...
Glad you are doing Well!
Best Wishes! Your dogs are the kindest!
Teresa
On March 10, 2011...
Hi Judy...so glad you're feeling a bit better. Glad the girls were able to smush with you. Sure you all enjoyed it. Take it slow, get plenty of rest and keep on getting well. Prayers for all. Teresa
On March 10, 2011...
So happy to hear you have gotten a good night sleep and the nausea is gone. Maybe just sitting out in the sunshine would help also, watch Ric & Rina play. Glad they also got hugs from Mom! Dogs are such great companions! Could NEVER imagine live with out them!!!
Max & Ellie
On March 10, 2011...
A suggestion for nausea---get some crytallized GINGER.....you can chew it or put it in hot water and make a light tea....GINGER is very soothing for nausea....
SENDIGN the continued HEALING THOUGHTS and PRAYERS!!!!
Laureen Arnold
On March 10, 2011...
Judy,
So glad to hear that you are finally starting to do better! Being able to finally do some cuddling with the dogs is great news! I'm glad both Rina and Ric are being so careful with you. Dogs are so great!
Love, hugs and prayers to you to keep healing!
Debbie and Star Bright (Ric's half sister)
On March 10, 2011...
Hi Judy! I look forward to reading each of your journal entries. Even though we've never met, I feel like we have. I've prayed for you and have cried for you too. Ric and Rina have brought so much joy to me with their posts, pictures and antics. Thank you for sharing them with us on FB and for all the selfless charitable work you do with them. Keep the faith and may your road to recovery be smooth. With love and blessings, Arlene in NE PA
On March 10, 2011...
Glad to see you are doing well, I love following the work you and the dogs are doing :)
Deborah B
Wildomar, CA
On March 10, 2011...
Hey judy
So glad to hear you are doing well. Rina and Ric sure missed you. Give them a hug for me. Xoxox
Buddy Battalico
On March 10, 2011...
One step, one day at a time, Judy! I know you're impatient to get out and get moving with the activities in which you and the pups are involved, but rest is the key right now. Move around as you feel up to it, and know that there are thousands of us around the world who are praying for your recovery, and for your return to full and complete health. God bless you, Rina and Ric!
Nancie Wilson
Sylva,NC
On March 10, 2011...
I am so glad that you are doing better. Soon you will have plenty of energy to do things you never thought possible. I understand your dogs well, specially Rina's concern. I have a 5 pound chihuahua that I sware is my soul mate. This dog will not leave my site when I am not feeling well and has never touched me when I am in pain. She simply, somehow knows when it's ok to cuddle and when mom needs an inch or two of space between us. Keep improving everyday.
On March 10, 2011...
Judy, sounds like you're doing pretty well, considering!
On March 10, 2011...
Bless you and those wonderful pups - so sweet about Rina being so worried and concerned for you! Glad things are getting a bit more "normal" for you. Just be patient with yourself, give yourself time to heal, and listen to your body. Pat Ric and Rina for me.
Barbara
On March 10, 2011...
I enjoyed reading about how our little god doggies are doing, it sounds like everything is going really well on the front. I am sure having them there help you.
Reading about Heather literally brings tears to my eyes. She is so special. Thank you Heather!
We love you! Jessica, Josh, Barley and Mira
On March 10, 2011...
Dogs are amazing and you have two of the sweetest, most prescious ones!
On March 10, 2011...
I think dogs instinctively know when something's wrong with their human and know what can and can't be done to aid the healing. I'm glad you're able to have Rina and Ric with you while you heal; they'll help you immensely along the way.
On March 10, 2011...
YAY! Glad things are progressing well! Aren't our dogs amazing? They know what we need when we need it, and are right there. I'm so happy you're doing better. Just remember.....one day at a time. And rejoice in the little improvements!
Cindy Thompson
Hang 10 Pets
On March 10, 2011...
Thinking about you every day!
Glad to hear your doing better.
Had dinner the other night with a friend who had open heart surgery at 30. She's 50 now. Can't see the scar and she's as strong as a bull! She was one of the few recipients of a human heart valve donor.
Her sternum was wired back together and is still there. She asked me if I wanted to feel it.
I declined! ;)
I expect you to do as well if not better. :)
On March 10, 2011...
Great that you got some sleep, also great that your dogs know how much you can do better than you ;). It takes time to heal and yes animal therapy is the best along with the human ones. Sounds like one great team in that house. I know I was quite sick with this viral flu going around and I wonder and hope you did not pick up anything in your low immune state. After I read your comment about the saltines I totally related that yes I barely could eat anything and people told me to drink fluids with electrolytes, get my good bacteria from yogurt etc. but that little bit of salt was great and helped. I also noticed after I got well I was craving saltier foods so maybe you are a bit low in that.
So hang in there, yes it takes energy to talk, do much of anything which means just rest, Rina and Ric will check in on you nuzzling etc. My cat did that she was great as our critters are. Considering you have additional baggage as in plates in your chest it will take extra time and umpf as well....Rest it will help heal you and make you stronger. Time for breathing and just being the rest will come.
Thanks for your updates I sure hope I never have to go through this type of surgery I freaked out enough to get a biopsy which I survived.
Take er easy...and lots of hugs to all.
Edda
On March 10, 2011...
I'm so happy that you're starting to feel so much better. I look forward to reading your posts. Sharon Carrillo
On March 10, 2011...
Rina is a treasure! I love Ricochet, too but Rina is really taking the current situation seriously.
On March 10, 2011...
Judy,
I am soooo happy to read these posts and that you are improving little by little each day...that is fantastic! And your last post about the Rina and Ric is so touching. They truly know what is best for you and what you can handle. It warms my heart to read these.=)
Best wishes for continued improvement!
Melissa
On March 10, 2011...
Judy, I am so glad to hear that you are doing a little better. I am just a FB fan but I feel like I know you, Ricochet and Rina. I am thinking positive thoughts for you and hope you are feeling top notch soon. At least you are recovering in one of the most beautiful places on earth! Shannon Thiss ( SD native)
On March 10, 2011...
Judy,
Thanks for keeping us posted on your recovery. Glad you slept better last night. Xanax is always good for that!
Rina reminds me alot of my Brandy who is also a yellow lab. The sweetest and most gentle dogs I know.
Continue to get well my friend. You are doing great!
Ann Christman
On March 10, 2011...
so glad you are doing better and was able to cuddle with the dogs! They can make you feel so much better!
On March 10, 2011...
Judy, you are doing so well. Look at how brave you are and how strong you continue to be. YOU are an inspiration to many. Prayers for you and yours continue, one day at a time. Continue to take baby steps......we are all so happy your surgery is behind you and you are on the road to recovery.
Blessings MaureenBoz MN
On March 10, 2011...
yay yay YAY!!!! Just read your last two entries about a good night's sleep and getting to hug the pups. Two things so good for the soul. You are definitely improving and I am just so happy for you!! Now that you will get puppy hugs, what else is there? They are the best medicine. I am just so happy for you with your recovery thus far. You're barely a week out of surgery and walking to the mailbox, showering, getting up and down. How wonderful!!!!
Loads of hugs!!!!!!
Julie, and furbabies Tucker, Disney and Piper
On March 10, 2011...
Judy,
Just wanted to say that everyone here at "the Ranch" hope that you can get back to what you do, (raising money for great causes with the help of dogs) very soon...
I also think that it's great that you set this up to keep everyone informed of your progress..
Feel better real soon...
Kerri and the Adventure Dogs
On March 10, 2011...
So happy everything is going so well. I can imagine finally being able to cuddle the dogs must feel great! Thinking of you with all positive thoughts and well wishes! Fondly, Patti Shanaberg in Ohio (and Miss Molly Moo)
On March 10, 2011...
Judy,
So glad you're home and mending. I know Rina and Rico are very happy to have "mom" back home, too.
Continued prayers for your healing. Hi to Rico and Rina.
Love,
JJ Gibbs on FB
On March 10, 2011...
Just read your update about how gentle Rina and Ricochet are being with you. Dumb animals, huh? They are more aware than most humans!
On March 10, 2011...
Judy,
I know I posted earlier, but wanted to say thank you for the new updates! They are so encouraging, even though I'm sure your progress might seem slow to you.
I love the stories about Ric and Rina on the couch with you. It must have been a great comfort! Take care, and have a great day!
Katy in KC
On March 10, 2011...
Your posts are an inspiration to anyone going through something like this. Yes, it's difficult at first, but you're perservering and showing improvement each day. Don't rush it, give your body time to heal. You've been through a lot! So glad you're feeling better each day,the nausea has abated, and you got a good nights' sleep. Sending healing thoughts your way!
Donna Di Massa
On March 10, 2011...
Judy,
Ric may be the consummate fundraiser but Rina has stolen by heart from the minute I joined the Surf Dog Ricochet page. You are all 3 amazing in your own ways and you will never know how many lives you have touched along the way. Listen to your body and rest and heal. Let others do for you and keep up the positive spirit. Thinking of you every day.
Arlene and Trinity (black lab)
On March 10, 2011...
ah, progress! i am so happy for you. nothing like a good night's sleep when you haven't had one for awhile- or an eternity! when you consider WHAT! you had done, you are making great progress- please do not rush. take good care- hope you have another great night tonight!
sandi brown
On March 10, 2011...
Each day your messages get a little more encouraging. That is such a good sign and am so relieved you are doing well. It takes time to heal and it takes time to get all that anesthesia out of your body. You've been through some major trauma, so of course you're tired. Baby steps first before a "walk in the park." Prayers and good wishes sent your way, Judy.
On March 10, 2011...
Glad your off Vicodin! When Scott had to take it he had hallucations big time. Just looked outside and it is SNOWING again!!
Keep improving and your own pace!
Barb
On March 10, 2011...
Whats up Pretty Lady, I have been reading you little journey, little by no means. We have been keeping you in our prayers, and can't wait to see you again, this all takes time. Your a trooper GF, we missed you at our favorite snow play ground this year. I am glad you are back home again, and it looks like you have plenty of help, but if you need us, just give me a call, Patrick was and still is good with helping others get healthy, he ran a school and home for the handicap before he moved to San Diego 14 years ago.Our Goldens have been keeping you in their prayers too, even FAT BOY Tuffy, he needs help getting on his knees but he is a trooper too.OK we love ya lots Judy, take care of yourself and call Sue if you need my number or I will send you a private message with it, 24/7 you call we will be there..Sending lots of Love and HUGS from Sherri, Patrick and our Pack of Goldens...DONT worry about sending back a reply, we understand..love ya.
On March 10, 2011...
Hi, Judy!
I hope you were able to get a good night's rest last night and are having a good day today. One day at a time, right?
Anyway, just sending all the good vibes I can your way!
Katy Myers
On March 10, 2011...
Hi Judy, sorry to hear of the nausea. Def expected for a good while after having major surgery. I know it feels like you will never feel better but you will. I hope that you can eat something soon...it is not good for your strength not to eat a little something. I bet that saltine did taste great...I know you are not supposed to eat salt but just between us, lol, salt is good for the blood pressure ..getting it up. I am on a high salt intake diet, lol, per my cardiologist.
Anyway, I am glad you had a good surgeon to do your surgery! Just be thankful he had careful hands. My father had is one surgery here where we live (even though he goes to CCF now) and don't ask me how this could possibly happen and how he was anywhere near his splene, but the doctor slipped and punctured his splene (must have been doing other stuff at the same time)! Yep..he got life flighted to another hospital. He had to have a transfusion and all kinds of stuff. He is on meds of sorts for the rest of his life (not that he didn't have to be already but more meds that he shouldn't have had to take bc of that indicident). He had no choice in doctors at the time though, it had to be done asap. You are a very lucky woman that you were in good hands and could pick a doctor before having the procedure done.
Your post about Ricochet & Rina made me cry (it was so sweet). Your babies know you are in pain. If your recliner is beside your couch, then your babies can lay beside you that way and you can reach out and touch them, w/o them accidently hurting you. :) I will be praying for you Judy and I hope next week is much better for you.
Melissa
On March 10, 2011...
Judy, I know you feel awful but you have been through the hardest part...the surgery. “Promise me you'll always remember: You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think." ~A.A. Milne. The world is a much better place with you in it. Take care and smoochies to the pups.
On March 10, 2011...
Judy, so happy to hear you are on your way to recovery & getting a chance to have some normalcy with Rina & Ric at home. So proud of how the dogs are interacting with you. It is truly a testiment to the love, kindness & training that you have instilled in them. Reading your entries is a good thing for us, as my son Connor, who has multiple special needs, CP & Epilepsy resulting from a cardiac arrest post op cardiac surgery to repair a VSD (hole in the heart) & obstruction at 11 wks of age. We have recently been told that Connor 10 yrs or so may need to have a surgery to replace the heart valve that they had to widen from the obstruction. He is doing very well now. A super big overachiever...learning to walk without an adult hand when supervised closely; walks with a walker unassisted, learning to use his IPAD for communication & fun. Loves baseball, Challenger Little LEague coming up next month. He and his 5 yr old sis, Mia & 3 yr old brother Aiden look forward to visiting your site to see how the dogs are doing.
Thank you for sharing your experience with us. I'm sure it is hard to even concentrate on the screen in your pain. You're stronger than you think. Be well.
Many hugs for you, your family & the dogs from New Jersey....
Love,
Carla, Bill, Connor, Mia & Aiden
On March 10, 2011...
Judy - thank you for the updates. I know that it is a slow process of getting back to normal. What a blessing it is to have Heather there. I've been praying for Ric and Rina - especiall Ric because she sounds activity wise like my Remi. He has a good heart, but can be a "zombie" dog at times. Our prayers continue for you daily and I'll bump them up a bit for restful nights. God Bless! Ruth C.
On March 10, 2011...
Judy, thank you so much for the updates. I am so glad to get them. I pray for you daily, and even though you're still in pain, please remember that your surgery was so major, and will take time for you to bounce back. It's wonderful that Ric and Rina are home and are there to comfort and care for you. And what a blessing to have Heather! She sounds like a real godsend! She will be blessed abundantly for what she's doing for you. Please know that you continue in my prayers as you heal and become well once again.
Nancie Wilson
Sylva, NC
On March 9, 2011...
Judy,
Stop taking the Vicodin...that in itself will make you naueous!!! Try an alternative, perhaps if the nausea lessens then your pain might seem to be less. Give it a try.......