Update on my Mother

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As many of you may know, my mother first fell on the 10th and was diagnosed at discharge with rib fractures and skin tears and abrasions. On the 12th, she appeared to have symptoms of a stroke, so we called 911. They found that her congestive heart failure had taken control, so to speak, and she may have had a mild heart attack combined with the high levels of co2 in her blood as well as the fluid around her heart. It has been touch and go since then with one bad episode on Tuesday causing them to call my cousin in Virginia - he's her POA. He told them that whatever she wants is what they are to do. She wants to live, so that is a relief. Sunday, she was ready to leave the hospital - talking about stopping at the diner on the way home (Mom LOVES eating out!) and was looking forward to being home. Tuesday morning, she couldn't breathe on her own to the extent that they called Mike, which is when he told them to do what she wanted. The bipap mask was put back on her. Every time they tried to remove it, her heart rate dropped and her blood oxygen dropped. But, they did take it off so she could eat lunch. They had planned to put it back on after lunch, but when they came in, her numbers were remaining stable. They were pleasantly surprised. I was also able to meet with her doctor and social worker that day. We agreed that she should have the bipap equipment at home when she is discharged - and discharging her IS the goal. I didn't get to see her yesterday because of my automobile events (another discussion). My head hurt too bad, but I called her and found that she had the bipap on again Wednesday morning, but was holding her own in the afternoon until 5 o'clock when I was talking to her. I've got lots to do to be ready for her to come home. I still don't know yet if she needs a hospital bed - don't want to order anything until I know for certain if and when she's being discharged. I also want to talk to her case manager about getting a lift chair for her. She wants the Christmas tree up (she and Dad always put it away decorated, so I just have to bring it up from the basement). I'd like to put the Christmas table cloths on the tables as well. I wish my daughter was closer (and had her license back) so she could help me. Anyway, for now, Mom's holding her own. The goal is to discharge her. She loves life too much to give up on it. I'm looking forward to having her home again (even though she's already begun interrogating me to see what I've done at home). My mother is one tough old bird (or, given her name, one tough old Bert!)