Tuesday, September 18, 2007

In Between

It was 3:15 when I heard him. He was trying to sit in the recliner and he was trying to hold onto the old hi fi while he sat. But it was too far away and so he was kind of caught in between sitting and bending and reaching.

He is having these spasms - really not sure what to call them - where his left leg just momentarily gives way and then it catches again. Different from the jerkiness of a few days ago. This is something I've seen before a few times.

It is difficult for him to stand upright now - only bent over. And I have to use my head to push against his back while I'm changing him. He doesn't seem to be able to help me.

Got him to the bed but then he tried to do something at his window. I don't know if he was trying to get out or something else. He seemed interested in the electric cord but maybe it was just the awkward, bent over position.

I finally got him back in bed and he at least has his eyes closed. I think he slept but I don't know. I think he is asleep now but really hard to tell. He slept yesterday with his eyes open.

He is drooling a lot now. And I haven't noticed his mouth being open as much before. His voice is hoarser and he is having so much more trouble making any kind of words.

I can't decide whether I should sleep or get up.

4 comments:

Lori1955 said...

I am so sorry Flinty that your dad is weakening so. Keep good watch over him. You are such a good son.

~Betsy said...

I'm sorry to read of the bad times you are having. Have you put a call into his nurse? He sounds so restless and I think that would be so hard for you.

One of the girls on the board posted something to Lori the other day about using saline drops to help Helen close her eyes. I don't know if you would be able to get drops into your dad's eyes or if he would fight you, but it might be worth a try.

Hang in there, Flinty. You are a fine son. I am praying for you and your dad.

nancy said...

i too am sorry to hear that your dad is weakening. we all know it will happen yet it doesn't make it any easier. my thoughts and prayers are with you both.

SKYGIRL said...

"You are a good Boy!" That may sound funny coming from me, and you being 60 somethingish, but I am so sure this is what your Dad would say to you! "You are such a good boy!"

This is such a thankles job, but why it is reserved for saints, I believe. I am sorry to hear of his decline too, and as much as we prepare, we are never really...prepared?

My Heart & Prayers go out for you & your Dad Flinty, and of course Mrs. Flinty too!