Took my bath mostly by myself

United States
August 11, 2012 8:40am CST
I'm so proud of myself. I have to wear oxygen even when bathing and showering. I was able to sit and transfer my feet into the tub all by myself. I was able to wash my hair and complete body by myself. I had to sit and rest awhile to catch my breath, and then I stood up and rinsed off with the shower. By then I was hugging and puffing and couldn't catch my breath. I knocked on the wall and Kim came and helped me out of the tub and dried me off. I am in bed now taking a breathing treatment which lasts about 30 minutes. I'm supposed to get 4 a day but it's just hard to get that many in. I'm doing good to get 3 treatments a day. She gave me my Klonopin so I can rest and recover from my bath. This is my second real bath since I came home. I've been too weak to take a bath. Thank God for baby wipes to keep me fresh in between. Your thoughts?
12 people like this
40 responses
@peavey (16936)
• United States
11 Aug 12
It sounds as if you're recovering, anyway. I hope and pray that you get past this quickly and are able to resume the activities you were doing before. Take care of yourself.
3 people like this
@peavey (16936)
• United States
11 Aug 12
You will. Have faith. :)
1 person likes this
• United States
11 Aug 12
I hope so. I was walking around the block about once a week. It's about a mile. I get winded just chewing my meals now. I hope I'll get back to where I was.
@Janey1966 (24170)
• Carlisle, England
11 Aug 12
I've used baby wipes for an embarrassing moment at a service station about 3 years ago. Since then I had a Mirena Coil fitted so I bet you can guess what happened to me...albeit at dusk and I was able to change my bottoms as I'd been away on a coach anyway, luckily. As for you my friend, I am proud of YOU. You're such a tryer and it's awesome. I, too, found baby wipes invaluable and guess who bought them to bring into the ladies loos? Yes, you guessed it, my adorable hubby. I had my friends on hand to help me too but what happened to me is nothing in comparison to what you have to endure every day.
3 people like this
@Janey1966 (24170)
• Carlisle, England
11 Aug 12
Very true.
2 people like this
• United States
11 Aug 12
Ban wipes are life savers, Janey. They are good for traveling too when you can't shower. Like when riding long distance on a bus. No showers in the bus stops.
2 people like this
@savak03 (6684)
• United States
11 Aug 12
While I am not quite that bad yet I do know what you mean about being tired out after a bath. Bathing is something that we just would rather be able to do for ourselves. Since I have been so sick last winter I find that taking a shower wears me out. I make sure I plan taking my showers when I will have a couple of hours to lay in bed and rest before I have to get dressed to go somewhere. So, I really can feel your pain.
3 people like this
@savak03 (6684)
• United States
12 Aug 12
No, by the grace of God I haven't reached that point yet. But whenever I try to do anything like housework or anything that can't be done sitting down I can only work at it for a few minutes at a time. It sure takes me a long time to get anything done anymore.
2 people like this
• United States
11 Aug 12
Do you wear oxygen? I was on high flow - 10 liters and then weaned down to 3 liters per minute. That's what I am on now. Yes I have to lay down after a bath due to exhaustion.
1 person likes this
@MandaLee (3756)
• United States
11 Aug 12
Dear PQ, I know what you mean. There is nothing any better than being clean. I am so glad that you are home. You are in my prayers.
3 people like this
@ajithlal (14716)
• India
17 Sep 12
May prayers also with you. May God bless you.
1 person likes this
• United States
11 Aug 12
Thnk you Mandy.
1 person likes this
• United States
11 Aug 12
I'm glad you're back in your own home again and doing better than when you posting discussions while you were still in the hospital. AS hard as it may be right now, I think it's good that you're determined to bathe yourself and you were actually able to do it despite how tiring it probably was. It seems like you are a fighter, and that's a really good way to be. I'm sure that with time, your treatments will become more and more effective and you'll get well. I'm just glad to hear that you're doing ok
3 people like this
• United States
11 Aug 12
Thank you CourtKnee. It is hard but e erything I can do do myself is an accomplishment. I was so winded at the end I couldn't complete my task completely by myself. Yet I am happy for what I did do.
1 person likes this
• United States
11 Aug 12
I couldn't even imagine what it must be like. But it's awesome that you try so hard to do things yourself rather than sitting back and let others do it for you. Trying to do things on your own I think will help your recovery process. Keep it up, I think you're doing great!!
2 people like this
@freqspaz (220)
• United States
11 Aug 12
That is amazing! You should be really proud of yourself! Keep that determination up and you will be better in no time. I must admit, but I haven't kept up with your posts, however I do know from both my father and grandmother, don't neglect those breathing treatments. After my dad had 3/4 of one lung removed, we forced him to do his treatments and the doctors said because he never missed one he healed a lot faster than they expected and even though he cussed us while we made him do it, he later thanked us when he didn't need his 'nosehose' to get up and go to the bathroom or to get a glass of water from the kitchen. Be strong! We are all rooting for you :D
3 people like this
• United States
11 Aug 12
So glad to hear a out your dad's success. It encourages me. I'm doing quite well I think.
1 person likes this
@carolbee (16230)
• United States
11 Aug 12
I'm so sorry to hear you've been so sick. Hope you recover soon and get back to your normal routine. Taking a bath or shower after or during sick times generally makes the mind and body feel better. Don't know the details of your illness but will say a little prayer for you. Take care of yourself and know your myLot friends are thinking about you.
3 people like this
• United States
11 Aug 12
I just feel proud that I did so much myself. But disappointed I had to have help near the end. My daughter is very good to help.
1 person likes this
@mr_pearl (5018)
• India
12 Aug 12
Hi... That was great... Bravo!!! Keep it up... Do things on your own, but slowly... Don't begin all at once. I'm sure your mind is ready, but give some time to your body to heal... :-) Take care my friend...
2 people like this
@mr_pearl (5018)
• India
12 Aug 12
Oh Dear... Is not there a nurse for you??? You need a full-time attendant my friend... Please ask for one to the hospital that you were in... Now, do not do anything else... Just go to sleep. If your body is exhausted then you need to sleep and get some rest... Let the body gain the same amount of energy... Take care my friend... God Bless you!
1 person likes this
• United States
12 Aug 12
Thank you Mr Pearl. I won't be trying to bathe today. I'm totally worn out by just trying to take care of personal needs. Nothing is working right inside me yet. Softeners don't work. My chest hurt trying so hard to 'go'.
@BarBaraPrz (45487)
• St. Catharines, Ontario
11 Aug 12
Good for you! I'd give you a pat on the back but wouldn't want to knock the wind out of ya. Take care.
2 people like this
@BarBaraPrz (45487)
• St. Catharines, Ontario
11 Aug 12
You're welcome. Laughter really is the best medicine.
1 person likes this
• United States
11 Aug 12
Thanks for the chuckle!
1 person likes this
@celticeagle (159058)
• Boise, Idaho
11 Aug 12
I use baby wipes alot. I can't get in and out of the tub or even the shower anymore. I set on the side of the tub and wash feet and shave my legs and underarms. Sponge baths are great really. I use this great smelling Olay body wash and finish smelling like a daisy. I think whatever works to feel fresh and clean is what counts.
@celticeagle (159058)
• Boise, Idaho
17 Aug 12
If you like the body washes try Olay's. It smells great! I like the ones that smell like soap so I feel extra clean and smell like it too. Your daughter is just a jewel!
1 person likes this
• United States
11 Aug 12
Exactly! We have to find whatever works for us. I bought a transfer bench for my tub so I can sit there and soak my feet. I can't reach my feet so my daughter washes them for me. I love those body washes too CE.
1 person likes this
@hsofyan (3446)
• Jakarta, Indonesia
11 Aug 12
There are several causes of difficulty breathing. Physiologically, pulmonary, cardiac, circulatory, chemical, central, or psychogenic. I do not know how you are conditioned. Should go to a specialist for treatment. Hope you get well.
• United States
11 Aug 12
I guss you have not read my discussions. I am recently out of the ICU for 6 dYs after having emergency surgery. I went into respiratory failure when they couldn't wake me up after surgery. I am now on permanent life support when I sleep and oxygen 24/7.
1 person likes this
@prashu228 (37526)
• India
11 Aug 12
hi, I am glad, that your are recovering slowly,but dont worry, everything will be alright in just few days. Oh so you took bath yourself, thats very good. I suppose you are feeling more better now. have a good day.
3 people like this
• United States
11 Aug 12
Yes I am very weak but much better.
1 person likes this
@else22 (4317)
• India
12 Aug 12
I am really glad to know that you are ok.Even more important is the fact that you tried to do it by yourself.You were really in a dangerous situation.I would like to thank Kim for helping you out from it.I take my bath myself and now I have got used to it.Now take rest and recover soon.I thank God for your safety.
2 people like this
• United States
12 Aug 12
Sh is a great godsend to me. A great gift. Thank you.
1 person likes this
@else22 (4317)
• India
12 Aug 12
Of course,God Himself had sent her to help you.Thanks a lot to Kim for helping you and to you for commenting.I wish you an early recovery.
1 person likes this
@hinitin5 (12)
13 Aug 12
I'm Sorry but i actually don't get what you are trying to say, are you a 5 year old baby?
2 people like this
• United States
13 Aug 12
Apparently you don't bother to read. I am recovering from respiratory failure. I'm on life support at all times. If you had bothered to follow you would know. Why even bother with my post?
1 person likes this
• United States
13 Aug 12
Apparently you don't bother to read. I am recovering from respiratory failure. I'm on life support at all times. If you had bothered to follow you would know. Why even bother with my post?
1 person likes this
13 Aug 12
I'm sorry, maybe it was my fault for now following through but i was expecting to get from what it was written by you. Well, certainly i have no such experience that i can actually say something than to say that you are really strong. I would like to know if you are on life support at all times, do u have portable life support system to use while u bath or how? A 22 year old asking this must be annoying to you, but again i am sorry for my little knowledge.
1 person likes this
@cerebellum (3863)
• United States
13 Aug 12
Congratulations! Able bodied people take such little things for granted, but they are amazing tasks for some of us. I have a disability and have difficulty with walking and balance. I sometimes walk up to get my mail (175 feet one way). When I am finished, a half hour later, I am sweaty and tired, but proud of myself. The first time I did it, you would have thought I ran a marathon. I called all of my close friends and told them the good news. From reading the other posts, it seems you will get better with time, even though you will have to stay on oxygen. Everything you do will increase your strengh and endurance so keep up the good work!
2 people like this
• United States
13 Aug 12
Endurance. Consistency is the key.
1 person likes this
@shylade (3132)
• Philippines
13 Aug 12
You are really a strong woman. But be careful not to pressure yourself. I am glad also you can post at mylot to inspire us more. I am still praying for your fast recovery. Stay strong and God bless.
2 people like this
• United States
13 Aug 12
Each day is brand new. Doing better.
1 person likes this
@r3jcorp (1382)
• Philippines
13 Aug 12
You are an inspiration for me PointlessQuestions. Despite of your condition, you wanted to put your strength and time in the best usage. As I hear that you are managing to post at mylot even if you are still in the hospital, and now taking a bath by yourself even if you know that it is really difficult. I will pray that you will recover soon, to be blessed with long life and good health because I know that there are lots of things you still wanted to do. How I wish I would have the same drive... to work hard so at the end of the day, I will be free from worries...
2 people like this
• United States
13 Aug 12
Every day is a new accomplishment. Yayyyy!
1 person likes this
@Kalyni2011 (3496)
• India
26 Sep 12
Hello This discussion is 2 months old, sorry i had not seen it, hope you are much better now, hope you will recover soon and back yo your activities..
2 people like this
• United States
28 Sep 12
I'm doing much better, thanks Kalyni.
@fantabulus (4000)
• India
13 Aug 12
Ohhh friend you were in hospital then Welcome in home and mylot my friend. Now how is feeling you thats nice you can do everything yourself. No needed another help.
• United States
13 Aug 12
I still have to have some help.
• India
12 Aug 12
Hi friend, good to hear that you enjoyed a lot with your bath, i have 2 kids, some times i too use baby wipes to refresh me
2 people like this
• United States
13 Aug 12
They are invaluable!