Grandma Helen update

Hi Friends,

It’s 7:30pm Saturday. Yesterday my mom had surgery on her neck. If my understanding is correct, the surgeon removed three vertebrae, then replaced them with, well, replacements, and added a metal plate. This was done from the front. The process is intriguing, but then again, I’d rather not think about the details too much.

Upon investigation, he discerned that between cancer and age, her bones are weaker than hoped, so he’s planning on doing a second surgery in a few days to add reinforcements from the back of her neck. He said this one will be more painful, but better in the long run.

We’re here with Grandma Helen tonight in ICU since there is not yet a free bed in the cancer ward. Interesting word, cancer. Scary yet bringing our family even closer together. Anyway, my mom’s resting right now. She’s been energetic at times today, but is not allowed to walk on her own just yet (thankfully!). She spent a little while in a straight-backed cushioned chair, ate solid foods for dinner, and now has her belongings.

She was forced to meditate either in quiet or the glow of a television today until we arrived as neither of us thought for me to leave the key to her locker. Silly us! Maybe it allowed her to rest more than she might have otherwise. She’s resting now, said we wore her out. Imagine that! I mean, we only talk non-stop… makes for lots of laughs and entertainment – yes, I am happy to report that she is smiling and laughing a lot 🙂 – but now, time for some shuteye.

On her bedside table are several Books of Baha’i Writings, a Prayer Book, Little Women, a book of crossword puzzles, a pen, water, and a Larabar. Her nurses are attentive and sweet. That’s all I can think of right now. If you have any questions you can email me or her or fb us.

Thank you all for your prayers and support 🙂

Heidi