Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Small Steps

Mom is making small improvements. Today was more physical therapy and radiation. I noticed today (and Dad did, too) that she is more lucid and not as confused as before. It's not a major difference, but it is enough to notice if you have been with her on a day to day basis.

I took a robe up to the hospital tonight. This was a gift from her sister, Joveta (my aunt). Mom had bought Joveta a robe when she was in the hospital last year and so Mom was "owed one". Mom liked it very much. So, thanks to Aunt Jo for that.

Mom and I spent a good deal of time talking tonight about school districts in Texas and how they are governed. We discussed this at length. I am now fully versed in the ins and outs of the Texas School Board Association. Thank goodness for that.

We also talked about the Education Service Center, where Mom works. She told me several things about it that I did not know, but was glad to learn. It's an interesting place doing good things for continuing education of the teachers in the area. She is very proud to work there and happy with what she has accomplished during her career.

Overall, I would say that today was even better than yesterday. I would imagine that is a result of the treatments that she is receiving, plus being able to get up and around. The white board was correctly updated today, so that bit of direction to the staff apparently took hold.

I believe her memory is slowly improving as well. She was able to tell me that Donny Osmond won Dancing With The Stars. Fortunately, she didn't make me watch it.

As far as I know, we are still on course for a possible release from the hospital this weekend. I know she wants to get back home and is tired of the walls that don't change in her hospital room.

I did mention that there were several very nice comments here and that I would print them off and give them to her to read. If she gets to the point where she can get on the computer again, and has the desire, then maybe she'll even post here. We'll see.

Thanks for all the kind comments. I know Mom will appreciate them.

8 comments:

  1. I'm so glad to hear that Norma is doing better. I'm wondering if there is something we can do to entertain her or make her more comfortable? Does she like to read? Or would she prefer to listen to audio books? If so, does have an iPod? We all love Norma so much and want to do something for her no matter how small. Do you have any suggestions? Barbara Richardson

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  2. If she likes Audiobooks, I HIGHLY recommend "The Help".. The acresses reading it are superb.

    Keep up the spirits. Sounds like today was a good day. Thankful for each moment of progress! we, friends of Mike's from work, are with you! Ginger Boone

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  3. Mike, thank you so much for sharing Norma's progress with us. I have known Norma for over 20 years from when we both taught HS Computer Science and now work with her at ESC XI. I could have told the physical therapist that Norma was in good shape (both body and mind.) I know about Curves and Suduko! Tell your mom that I miss her and love her and look forward to Smith and Jones together again.
    Mary

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  4. Thank you so much for keeping us updated. I hope she is feeling much better today! And I really hope she gets to go home soon. I'll be praying for her and thinking of you and the family often.

    Ashley Quattrochi - Front Desk, ESC XI

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  5. Mike - My name is Jane Nauman and I worked with Norma in Birdville many moons ago and have worked with her in the service center as well. I am glad to hear that she will be going home soon.

    I want you to know that I am praying for Norma and the family and know that God will be with you during this time. When Norma is back at home and back on the computer, I would like to share my son's Christmas letter with you - I think it might perk you all up some.

    So glad that you are all with your family and hope that Norma isblessed with pain free days and the warmth of family love during this Christmas season.

    Thinking of you and praying - Jane

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  6. Tell Norma that I need her back at work! Mr. Ownby is funneling all of his smart remarks about her towards me now! I already had to put up with a lot, but with Norma out, he doesn't have anyone else to pick on! We need you Norma!!
    My thoughts and prayers are with you!
    Jackie Brown

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  7. I'm so sorry to hear that Mrs. Smith is having to deal with this illness. Mrs. Smith and her walking buddy/fellow teacher Mrs. Pruitt were such memorable and sweet teachers. My mom just learned that her breast cancer from 6 years ago spread to her bone and lungs after never having been a smoker either. My thoughts and prayers are with her and her family.
    Nikki Brown (HHS '91)

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  8. Mike, thank you ever so much for your blog. I taught with your mom at HHS and for two years at the service center. She is in my prayers, and please give her a hug for me and tell her that I still have not grown up. Looking forward to more progress. Ila Osborne Wisdom

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