As if my spinal problems weren't enough . . .

12 years ago

As of about 6 weeks ago, I am having to use a walker, and I have that button thing around my neck. Because I had a slight fall, I went to my doctor, had blood drawn, was sent to the ER, and was admitted to the hospital; out the next day. Found out I have a couple blood clots in my lungs. Had to have injections in my belly, and was put on Coumadin, which caused a kidney problem. I've had to make many trips to the lab, and may have to make more yet. I have an appointment with a Urologist on Monday, and then back to see my doctor.

Actually, I feel fine.

I don't like being tethered, but at least I have good doctors, a good hospital, and my DD lives 3 or 4 miles away and she sees to it that I behave my self.

Who was that old comedian who often said "What a revolting development?" My thoughts exactly!

Sue

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Comments (20)

socks
12 years ago
Oh dear, what a mess of troubles! The good news is that you are getting medical treatment. As you said, "good doctors, a good hospital," etc. Keep your mind on the positive stuff. I hope brighter days are ahead for you.
dedtired
12 years ago
Aw, Sue, sorry to hear it. When it rains it pours. You have a good attitude. It's nice that your daughter is nearby.
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Pieonear
12 years ago
Sorry about all the health problems. When it rains it pours, or so it seems. Hope you are much better soon.

The comedian was William Bendix in Life of Riley.
phyllis__mn
12 years ago
Sue, my mantra is about old age not being for sissies!
kittiemom
12 years ago
So sorry, Sue. Hope you're better soon.
mary3444
12 years ago
Sorry, Sue about your health problems. You will be in my prayers.
Marilyn Sue
12 years ago
So sorry to hear of your health problems. I hope you will soon be feeling so much better.

Sue
alisande
12 years ago
Yes, keep up that good attitude, Sue! So glad your daughter is nearby.
mamatoad
12 years ago
So sorry, Sue!! Hope you'll be well again soon!
glenda_al
12 years ago
Sorry to hear! Bummer!

Hope things get better for you, Sue!
tami_ohio
12 years ago
Sending prayers for a better 2014!.
nanny98
12 years ago
Gosh it does sound overwhelming to have all that catch up to you at one time. The Good News is that you are being seen by good Drs. and have help and support.... the days will become easier with some time to catch up. Meantime (((((HUGS))))) and get well soon!
lydia1959
12 years ago
Sorry you are having so many health problems... you have a wonderful attitude though and that will get you far! Hang in there Sue!
Georgysmom
12 years ago
Glad you feel fine despite all your problems. You have such a wonderful attitude. ((((Sue))))
sjerin
12 years ago
You sound like a pistol, Sue! :) I wish you better health in the very new future--be a good girl, now.
Sue_va
Original Author
12 years ago
I appreciate all your replies. Several of you mentioned Attitude. I think Attitude is based on Gratitude. I have so much to be grateful for, and it revolves around family: my parents, my DH and our children, and the Serenity Prayer: Serenity, Courage, Wisdom. Those words have carried me through the rough spots.

Update.

Went to see the Urologist yesterday. Such a nice man, very friendly, and knowledgeable about my situation. And he let me talk and ask questions. I always have questions.

And the nurse also, made sure I was comfortable with it all. I experienced a new piece of equipment. She handed me a gadget the size of my hand, which I held over my chest while it hummed and wiggled a bit, and read my heart rate. Cool!

The doctor wants me to have another scan, this time with "contrast" meaning I have to drink the Smoothies. These are berry flavored so shouldn't be too bad.

If this scan turns out well, I won't need anything more. He said I look great, (!) meaning I don't look sickly, or worried about any of this. Thankfully, I'm not a worrier. (I do talk a lot, and I like to have fun.)

Scan is scheduled for January 22nd.

Oh, I will go for the scan with pretty toenails. Day after tomorrow is another Girls Day Out for me, my DD, and my DGD. Pedicures and lunch.

That is it for now. Stay tuned.

Sue
sherwoodva
12 years ago
Hi, Sue. Sorry to hear about the problems, but you really do have a good attitude. I started using a walker in Feb. it has taken until now for me to accept that I need it (outside the house). Found that good biking gloves help on the bumpy paths or cobblestones. My hands would get numb!

Hope your test goes well and you feel better. (((Sue)))
lindaohnowga
12 years ago
Sue, having the positive attitude that you do have really is in your favor towards healing. I used a walker for quite a long time, then was switched to a 4 footed cane (quad cane) which is my buddy for life when I leave the house. Make that walker fun.....decorate it like I decorate my quad cane. Wrap it in pretty ribbon and a nice garland. Pipecleaners or long twist ties will hold everything on. Change it with the different holidays or seasons.....make it a fun thing.
Sue_va
Original Author
12 years ago
Colorcrazy, so, a fellow walker-user, and now you've accepted it. Good for you! I haven't reached that point, but it has only been several weeks. I haven't been out side with it by myself. The weather has been too bad for that. My DD takes me every where I need to go. She folds the walker, puts it in the car and off we go. When I can get out, there are sidewalks and roads right outside my door; that will help. I have found that I can get around in the house without it for the most part, but so far I still take it with me and hold on to the furniture, doors, etc, just in case. I have a tray for it which adds a little weight to it so I lift it to turn it around a lot; I call that physical therapy.

OT for a minute. I see you live in Arlington. I lived there from about age 7 to 12, when my family moved to Vienna, VA for a couple years, then back to Arlington, where I graduated from W-L. Later, marriage took me and my DH to Richmond, and then to Bristol, but back to Arlington and finally Augusta County. More later, maybe.

Linda, from a walker to a quad cane; that sounds very brave. I have a quad that I got when I had my first knee replacement, and used it again for the second knee. A couple years ago I got a regular cane for going out, but used the quad for when I got up in the mornings. I'm thinking about going back to it here in the house, but I don't want to risk anything until after the next scan. I've seen the HuriCane, but haven't tried one.

Years ago I had a very elderly friend at the pool who all ways decorated her cane. She was quite a fun lady. I may have to be thinking about decorating mine.

Maybe we should organize a KT Group of WalkerWonders? That could be fun.

Tomorrow is Girls Day Out, and it is supposed to be nicer weather. Yea!

Sue
nanny98
12 years ago
Yes!!! Decorating canes and walkers and electric carts is the way to go. I have a friend that has a cart that you cn remove/exchange some of the 'fenders' and she has 'blingged' more than one set of them. Me....I have been using my walker since about 2001...I 'bling' and lose canes regularly. My walker has been a lifesaver, even 'it' dumped me last year and I broke my shoulder. TOO Tired and confident. Lessons learned. Best of luck....the walker really does give one some freedom (and exercise)

As if my spinal problems weren't enough . . .

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