[QueenAngie]

Been a really tough week for my elderly Mom.
She had a severe stroke at the end of October, 2007
and had made a great recovery the past 4 months.

Well, it started on Monday this week with the mini-stroke/TIAs and migraines. We have tried very diligently to keep her in her own apt with family and not going to the hospital or nursing home.

I have stayed with them. My sis from WI was there from Wed night to yesterday and another sis Sat afternoon to later today, when I take over again.

She has had several more episodes and our goal is to keep her comfortable and in her own apt. In the hospital she would get no sleep, no rest, and that is not our goal. She is a DNR.

Last fall she was in hospice for 3 days, then got better.

Sis said she was only up once last night, which was a good one. But she was rather uncertain about things this AM. Time change probably part of it.

Constipation is a problem with the narcotic meds that keep her comfortable.

Yesterday, she and I did a 25 piece puzzle - Winnie the Pooh. She used to love puzzles and hadn't done any in several months. She just beamed when she placed the last piece. (I helped for her to achieve success!)

Prayers appreciated!

[songbirdxx]

I am so sorry to hear your mother and family are having to go through these difficult times.It is such a comfort to have a supportive family who pull together in times of trouble.My family are very like this too.I am one of three sisters and two brothers,we are like the army when there is anything wrong with any member and it makes such a difference!As far as constipation is concerned, I would try to do something for your mother that would help.I think we tend to take bowel issues for granted, as if it was no great problem.It can cause terrible distress and discomfort,so I think a regular laxative is called for, if not an enema, if it is really bad.I wish you well!

[mcmama]

My mom had issues with constipation during her cancer treatments - partially due to medications, partially due to the tumors. It was the chronic thing that really messed with the whole quality of her life After a while, the daily regimen of suppositories, enemas, etc really gets to be a drag.

Time change really messes with everyone. So it is disorienting.

Very difficult to watch this decline. But something of a joy to view the little things - like the puzzle. It matters.

[Shayth]

I too am so sorry to hear this...how is she doing today? Better I hope and pray!

[swt1899]

Many prayers to you. Hope things improve for all of you.

[MissyChrissy]

(((HUGS))) Angie.

[MiaCamille]

keeping you and your mom in my thoughts...