Please pray for my mom

[Deena]

My mom has had problems eating for some time, but she just adjusts until she finds what works and then is fine. She had half her stomach removed when I was young....

Anyway, I got an e-mail from my dad today. I will copy and paste the main idea here:

"She has lost down to about 120 pounds and trying to eat food gags her. We see the doctor tomorrow and see if he has any news about how she can get some nourishment. Right now about all she can get down is oatmeal, malt o'meal, and jello, and it sometimes gags her to try to eat them."

My mom is 5'9", so 120 pounds is not very much! She is 73 years old. She and my dad have been planning on going on a cruise with my sister and her husband the end of this month, but my dad says they won't be able to go if they can't figure out how to get food to stay down, and for her to have some kind of appetite!

This is kind of scary, I hope she's okay! I asked them to let me know as soon as they find out. The "tomorrow" in my dad's message is actually Monday.

PLEASE pray for her---that she will get well. And if not completely well, at least well enough to go on that cruise, which is something she has been looking forward to immensely!

Thankyou so much!

[Trish]

Praying for your Mom.

[P.H.]

That is scary, Deena! I've heard of this type of thing happening to older people, but your mother isn't very old. I'm praying that the doctors will be able to figure something out that will bring lasting results and that she'll be able to go on the cruise and have a great time.

[AmyU]

praying

[sloan127]

Praying here. Beth

[Earthy]

Praying for you all.

[becky]

Your poor mom. I'll be praying.

[momothem]

I will be in prayer. Please keep us posted.

[Jennifer R]

Prayers here, Deena.

[Hoosier Mama]

Deena, I will be praying for you mom. My mom has had some health issues for a while now and I know how scary it can be. If you are like me, the thought of something taking your mom away is just unbearable. My parents also just got home from a cruise! I pray they will find out something positive for her and she will be able to go on that cruise.....and more imporantly will be able to get the nourishment she needs to be healthy for a long time!! Hug

[kbabe1968]

Praying for your mom. Please keep us updated when they find out what's causing it. It could be something as simple as a haital hernia (when the flap that covers the trachia and esophogus is always open, or doesn't open or close when it's supposed to). Just to ease your mind, that is very routine. A close family friend went thru that not too long ago...same exact symptoms as your mom (very drastic weight loss quickly and a severe gag reflex - she was drinking only smoothies for a bout a month before she got it checked out!)

A suggestion for Dad too - I know she's seeing the doctor today BUT if she still can't get food down...have him get her Ensure or the like so that she is at least getting nutrition (Glucerna if she's diabetic). he could also buy Protien powder (yes...like the body builders use) and mix with fruits and yogurt or milk and make her shakes that she can swallow with a straw.

Praying.

[SoonerMama]

Praying!

[Emma's#1fan]

Deena, I am sorry to hear about your mom.:angel:
I am praying for her and your dad.
Poor thing! He must be worried himself.
Patty

[Deena]

Thankyou so much everyone! My mom and I are very close, so I hate to see this happening to her!

Krista, I will ask my dad if he's looked into those things. I believe she DID have a hiatal hernia, but it was fixed, and I think they checked on that???? I'll ask and see.

Thanks again, everyone!!!

[kbabe1968]

If she DID have the hiatal hernia, I think the only way to fix it is with surgery...so it would be remembered! EEEK.

Praying continually.

[momandteacherx3]

praying...

MT3

[Ava Rose]

Oh Deena, I am just seeing this! I am so sorry. I will be praying for her.

[ABall]

I hope your parents figure something out fast, I was going to reccamend smoothies, and shakes too. I hope they will be able to go on the cruise.

[Deena]

If she DID have the hiatal hernia, I think the only way to fix it is with surgery...so it would be remembered! EEEK.

Praying continually.

Well, I'm sure SHE would remember it! ;)

My mom has had many hip surgeries (9), my dad has had back (6) and knee surgeries (3?), my mom has had upper gi's, and testing, etc., so I have gotten confused about who has had what and when!

I haven't lived at home for a long time or always been able to be there at surgery and test times, though I wish I could have....

Anyway, I did ask about it, and hopefully will hear something soon.

[KrisRV]

Oh Deena, I hope and pray everything goes ok with your mom and they find out what is wrong and can fix it easy for her. So scarey.. Keep us posted. Have you tryed ensure drinks or carantion ones. they are good source of protien.

[Deena]

Krista, I told my dad what you said, and here is his response:

"I just read your note and it had some good ideas except mom is allergic to milk and ensure and those other products have milk product in them. She tried it the other time she lost a lot of weight and was extremely nauseated. We're trying thins like asparagus and oatmeal and jello. She can only eat a tiny bit at a time so we're working on it but there aren't many alternatives!!"

Anyone have any other ideas?

[Deena]

Okay, here's the news. I am very sad right now! :cry: Please continue to pray! I am copying and pasting my dad's e-mail to my siblings and me:

"We just got back from the doctor and he said that there is nothing he can do for mom. She had two thirds of her stomach taken out about thirty five years ago and now, having looked into it with a scope, he says there is hardly anything left but scar tissue and that doesn't absorb food very well. Mom is down to about 120 pounds and very little energy so there is no way she can make the trip to Florida for the cruise.

All we can ask is that you each pray that it might be in Gods will to heal mom Or that our will be in concert with His will. Pray also that mom not be bothered with restless legs or nausea which are fairly constant companions at this point."

Thanks for prayers, we'll have to see what can possibly be done now!

[timkelmom]

Just want to add that I too and wishing for the best possible outcome. I hope they figure something soon. Keeping you all in my thoughts.

[sixcloar]

Praying, Deena!

[kbabe1968]

OH SWEETIE! I'm so sorry. Praying for you, for her, for your family.

Can they get a 2nd opinion?

Man. Wish I were there to hug you.

[Hoosier Mama]

Oh Deena, I am so sorry, too. Like krista said, I wish we were there to hug you and just be there for you. But know that we are still here....always.

Praying for your mom, you, and all of your family at this time.

[Emma's#1fan]

I am still praying for you all.
I wish there was more we could do for you.:cry:
Patty

[Ohio Mom]

Deena, I'm so sorry to hear about your mother. I will be praying for her and your father.

[P.H.]

Deena, is your mother even allergic to yogurt and kefir? You might do some internet research on kefir and kombucha. There is also such a thing as micro-ionized vitamins and minerals which are so small they can even be absorbed through the skin, so I'm guessing your mother's stomach could probably absorb them too. This form is a little like colloidial minerals but even smaller.

What can't be given in ionized form is protein, and she needs that, too, as well as good oils. There's got to be a way to get nourishment into her body. Don't give up! 'Praying for that miracle!

[Deena]

Thanks everyone! This is so strange to be in this position!

One thing that makes it even more sad is that my sister worked VERY, VERY hard to pay for their cruise. It was a special thing she wanted to do for them. She got their e-mail yesterday---and took it personally. She's mad at them for not going, and mad at the world that she works so hard and nobody cares---they just cancel on her....Oh my! My sister says, "All they have to do is go sit on the deck, they don't have to do much of anything. Why can't they do that? Now I'm out the money I worked so hard for!" I sort of understand where she's coming from, cuz she really did work sooo hard! But they really wanted to go! If my mom's not getting nourishment from what she eats, and is losing weight and nauseated all the time....

It's hard to deal with both of those things now!

It's times like these that I am glad I have God to turn to! What do people do that don't?!!!

[Ava Rose]

Deena, I am so so sorry. I feel really bad for you. I wish I could offer more support than a post.

Maybe your sister is just hurting and can't express it properly. Her reaction just doesn't sound...well...I don't know...I think she is just hurt. I understand she is out money...can she still go? Possibly get a refund for part of the trip??? When my mom and dad planned a trip to Europe it was clear that no refunds would be given. Well, my dad ended up loosing his job. We ccould no longer afford to go. So, my mom called and pleaded. The best they could do was apply the downpayment to two tickets instead of four...so the trip for 2 was paid. Me and my mom went. Anyway.....maybe she can call and see if anything can be done. You never know until you try. that is one thing I learned from my mom...try, try, and try...even when it seems it won't work. I have seen many things come out of that. So, have her try.

Anyway...maybe you sister is a bit in denial how bad your mom is doing.

I will pray for your sister also. I also hope your sister has not expressed this point of view to her mom and dad.

Much love and many prayers to you, girl! I love you! Count on us here to pray for you until the stars fall!

[Marylyn_TX]

I'm so sorry, Deena. I'm praying for your mom and your whole family, too.

[Hoosier Mama]

I am praying, too, Deena. What a hard situation. I agree with Ava, I think she is just really disappointed. And I understand that completely. I just hope she will be able to see that it is ok to be disappointed about it, but that being angry will only hurt her and your parents.

Having been on a cruise a time or two, I will tell you that if your mom is already feeling nauseated and not able to get good nourishment, a cruise won't help!! something you might mention to your sister. Has she been on a cruise before?

[P.H.]

I'm praying that the cruise company will make a compromise, like Ava Rose suggested. I'm praying that your dear sis will listen to Leslie's "voice of experience" that a cruise is no fun when you're sick. I'm praying along with each of the others on here, too.

[Earthy]

I can see how your sister must feel. Maybe she can find someone else to go. And yes as others mentioned see if the cruse company can do something about it, it's worth a try anyway.

[Deena]

My sis says it's non-transferable, so noone can go in their place. I'm thinking that a medical emergency would negate that, and that they'd be able to get at least a partial refund, don't you?

My poor sis, she has a beautiful giving heart, and has been hurt a lot in her life. So I know how very disappointed she is! I hope too, though, that she doesn't share the anger with our parents, because that would just be harmful!

I haven't gotten through to my parents yet, but hopefully will be able to soon.

Leslie, my sister has been on many cruises. She was a "Cruise Counselor"---a travel agent dealing in cruises only, for awhile, so was able to go on some cruises for large discounts, because she was "working"---checking things out and writing up reports of how things were. My mom has never been on a cruise, so this was to be my parents once in a lifetime cruise event!

Thanks again everyone for your prayers, I love you all!

[Emma's#1fan]

I was thinking back to when my mom had her strokes. She had two in eight months to a year of each other. After both she could not swallow, drink, walk, talk, or hold her bladder. The doctors gave her this creamy, thick, clear stuff called Thickening or Thicken. The more you put in your food the thicker it gets. They did this because when she drank, it ran down to fast and would go down the wrong way. They also blended all her food and added a bit of this to make it go down smoothly. She said it helped keep it down better because it also settled in her stomach more evenly. I don't know if this will help being that their situations are different. She said it grossed her out to use it but because she couldn't swallow, she would choke if she didn't have it in her drink and food. It pretty much made the food slide down her throat and smooth out in her stomch since all her muscles, including stomach were having problems working.
I am still praying.
Patty

[sloan127]

I am so sorry you are going through this with your mom. I know your sister is hurt but when I feel bad I just want to be at home. I don't think your mom would have a very good time going anywhere feeling so bad. I will be praying for her and your whole family as you each deal with this time in your mom's life. Beth

[Deena]

I talked with my sis on the phone and my dad. My sis is understanding how serious this is now. Still disappointed, but knowing that it's not another "spell" and excuse thing that they've done before. (Long story)

My dad has resigned himself to the "fact" that she's not going to be around much longer. I told him we would get there as soon as we could (It's a 6 hour drive, approximately). Our vehicle needs a checkup and things done before we can go on a longer trip like that, though, so I made an appointment. They'll start it today and finish it tomorrow as soon as they can. My dad would like my dh to come along (levelheaded thinking for my dad, and support for me), but he's taking time off this summer already, so doesn't know if he can get any more time off.

We'll probably leave tomorrow as soon as we can get our vehicle back. If dh goes along, we'll come back on Sunday. If not, then we'll stay as long as we're needed probably.

My ds13 and dd10 are packing right now. They actually got their laundry out and are getting ready to do that---all on their own! They're great kids! :)

We had to cancel ds13's and dd10's participation in the piano recital the teacher is having this Sunday afternoon. (I'm not sure how ready ds was anyway! :lol: )

So we've made some progress in info., and I'll be able to talk with people, see if ANYTHING else can be done, check on hospice care, etc. if I'm there, and be able to relieve my dad from doing constant care also.

She's really not able to absorb anything because the scar tissue is so thick. It seems they'd have to do some kind of surgery or IV or shots or something that will absorb directly, instead of relying on her stomach to do that. She's very weak, and continuing to lose weight. But I hate to give up and not do anything, and just allow her to starve to death!

Do any of you have questions I should ask her doctors? Or any other ideas?

[Emma's#1fan]

I will be praying for safe travels!
Patty

[Ohio Mom]

Deena, My heart and prayers go out to you. I pray that God will give you the wisdom and peace as you help your father take care of your mother. Spend as much time with her, pray with her, sing with her, read the Bible with her. Let your children be a part of this too. I will pray for your father too. HUGS

[Ava Rose]

Deena I am so sorry to hear how serious this is. I will continue to pray for the situation.

If she cannot eat, she can be fed through an IV, right?? I think you said that...?? I know life won't be "normal" but won't she still live for a long time? I am not sure how to word that. I hope you know what I mean. My aunt was on death's door due to refusing dialysis (oh my I can't spell...lol)...anyway..once she finally relented she is just fine. So..as long as they can get her to absorb food she should gain weight again right?

[Deena]

Well, that's what I'm thinking Ava Rose, so I'm not sure why they've resigned themselves to the idea that she's not going to make it much longer!!! That's why I need to go there and see what's what with the thinking!

My dad said all they could give in an IV would be sugar-water stuff, which wouldn't give her what she needed. Why would that be? It would seem like they'd have some formula for something like this, wouldn't it?

[TeacherMom]

I prayed and will pray as often as I remember to, as the Lord brings her to rememberance in otherwords! Be blessed with Peace Deena, that is also my prayer.
In His love,
HUGS

[Hoosier Mama]

Deena, I am so sorry, too. I am praying for all of you.

When I worked at the hospital (as a secretary) I know they did enteral feedings for those who couldn't eat for whatever reason. I really don't know much at all about it now, but it seems like there should be a way to get her some nutrition.

Hugs to you and please drive safely and keep us posted so we know how specifically to pray.

[GLOWAcademy11]

Prayers Sent to you and your family

Huggs

[timkelmom]

Deena travel safely and know that i am hoping for the best possible outcome. I truly hope something can be done.

[KrisRV]

Deena, I am so sorry to hear about your mom, I wish we were closer to help out. Please keep us posted when you can, we will be thinking of you. As soon as you are back please e mail me your address. Just remember we are here for you if you need anything please let us know. You are in my thoughts and my prayers.

[P.H.]

It sounds like you have an assignment from the Lord set out before you--to be a rock of stability for your dad, arms of comfort and encouragement to your mom, and a voice of wisdom in searching out options. I pray that you'll be so in tune with your Creator/Redeemer that you'll know the best route to follow and the right words to say.

[Emma's#1fan]

Prairie, that is beautiful!:angel:
Patty

[Deena]

Beautifully put, Prairie! Thankyou! And thankyou AGAIN everyone else!

My brother used to live near where my parents live, and he worked for a dr. He was able to contact that dr. yesterday. He said, "Don't EVER give up! ALWAYS get a second opinion! Have your dad get all her recent records fo a second opinion, and I will come to their house, look at the records and check her, and see what can be done!" So, praise the Lord!!! What a huge thing that is! Isn't that great? He's willing to come on his own time to get things moving! I LOVE him already! :D

One reason we're going, too, is to get my parents out of their "slump". They're just accepting this one thing, without checking anything else out! They've always done that kind of thing. So anyway, my brother and sister and I are trying to get a spark under them! ;) My brother got ahold of that guy, I talked with a friend of mine who is a dietician, and she's e-mailing me ideas and recommendations. We have them on many prayer lists now.

Poor thing, she spent 4 or 5 hours in the emergency room Monday night because she couldn't stop gagging and throwing up. They gave her stuff that finally helped calm that down, but she was exhausted by the time they got homw about 1:30am! I talked with her yesterday, and she sounded good. She said the dr. gave her something for nausea and she felt so much better! I'm thankful for that!

I'm fairly sure we're going to find a way to work past this, and she'll be okay, at least for awhile! My sister is hoping that she'll recover quickly and they'll decide to go ahead and go on the cruise. The cruise place said they can't refund any money, or transfer anyone else to take their place, so she didn't cancel my parents cruise tickets. I know that's maybe presumption, but it's also hopeful and respecting God's ability to heal and/or sustain at this time. With so many prayers going up, it's certainly possible for something to be found that will work for her and help her get the nutrients she needs. They have a wheelchair already planned for her use on the cruise, so she could go and not have to walk much at all. Also, she really wanted to go, and she'll never be able to go again. So, we'll see. It's all up in the air right now.

Now, I also am being real, and realize that this could just be the time for her. If that is the case, I will accept that also. So please continue to pray that God's will be done and those surrounding her will accept it either way!

You guys are so great, I am so glad I'm on this site with you!

[KrisRV]

Deena, let us know when you get back how things are going. I agree don't give up, there is always someone out there to help you just have to look in the right corner and sounds like you all did. Thinking of you all girl.

[TeacherMom]

Enjoy being the ray of sunshine and Sonshine Deena!
Either way I will be praying that God shows you how clear it is His will, whatever way it goes! And that you have complete peace as well. Strength and rejoicing both!
Be blessed

[Ava Rose]

Praying and hoping to hear something great as soon as she is able!

[P.H.]

'Just wondering how things are going...

[Hoosier Mama]

Yes, wondering here, too. I have been thinking of you today. I talked to my mom on the phone earlier and it made me think of you and your mother's situation.

I am praying things are going well and positive progress is being made.

[kbabe1968]

PRAYING!! God is the great physician...I trust in His ability to heal.

Pryaing!

[Emma's#1fan]

Still praying here too.
Patty

[sloan127]

Praying for your mom and your family. Beth

[P.H.]

I'm missing Deena. She's so good at responding to everyone and helps to keep things "perking" around here. I hope she can let us know soon, and I hope that what she lets us know will be good news about her mother.

[Deena]

Ha, your prayer is answered Prairie! :D

How to make a long story short?! The dr. my brother knew was definitely heaven-sent! He had just gotten out of the hospital from knee surgery on Tuesday, and he came to see my mom at my parents home on Thursday! What a guy, he infused so much hope into the situation!

My dh and I had told my parents to see if she could drink the Ensure High Protein. It's the only one that we could find that didn't have milk in it. They started it on Wednesday, and she did fine with it! The dr. said to keep using that!

However, when we got there she was VERY weak. My dad had to help her sit up and walk with her to support her when she needed the bathroom. She's very thin, tired, weak and grouchy! :) My dad is being soooo patient with her! It's interesting: when I was young, my dad was VERY impatient and had quite the temper! My mom was sweet---I don't EVER remember her yelling! (Wish my kids could say that! :( ) Now they're the opposite. She's just grouchy, but he's so calm and sweet. I told him he was doing a great job, and he said, "Well, she's been my sweetheart for a long time, and has certainly put up with a lot from me! I love her so much and love helping her!" My aunt and uncle just moved there so they'll help out anytime, they said! So she has the support, love and help she needs around home.

The dr. is going to help her find a new primary care dr. that WILL refer her (her other dr. just really did give up on her, but never referred her to anyone or told her what to do from that point!) to others as needed, he even knows of a dentist that he thinks will work with her better (she has dentures and the guy makes them his own way and they don't fit right, and he won't listen to her! Grrrrrr!) That other dr., aside from giving up on her, had told her to take 4 200mg Ibuprofen 3 times a day! NOBODY should take that much, least of all someone who has major stomach problems already! He gave her a blood pressure med that deleted her potassium that she was taking, so she was very low on potassium! She has restless legs, and the med he prescribed for that wasn't strong enough and wasn't helping, but he never would change it. So this dr. found those 3 things right off the bat when he looked at her records.

So, to make this not quite so long, he's helping her switch over to a new dr. (he has a clinic he works at and doesn't do family practice, so he can't take her on), dentist, getting meds organized and the right ones that will REALLY help (for one of the meds, he said, you're taking a vw, and hyou really need a cadillac! Let's get that for you!)! So with all the positive people around her, by the time we left she was happier, stronger, eating better, though not a lot, drinking the Ensures fine, and had a positive outlook on life! She had just given up and was ready to go. But she doesn't have to go yet, things are being done, and I saw a big difference from when we got there Wednesday evening to when we left around noon today (Sunday)! Praise the Lord!

Okay, so I didn't make this short! Sorry! I just know it was good for us to go be there and help them get going and keep moving on with getting things done and moving! I told her I had a lot of people praying, and she told me to tell you all thankyou! So.............

THANKYOU SO VERY MUCH! You guys are awesome, and I just adore you! :love:

[Jennifer R]

Deena, I'm glad you got some good news!

[sloan127]

Deena, That is wonderful news. I know you feel so much better already. I hope she gets to see the new doctor right away and can get her strength back soon. Still praying for her. Beth

[Ava Rose]

Deena!!! I was so happy to read the news! I will still pray for her. I am so happy you are back and back to report something good.

[P.H.]

WELCOME BACK, DEENA! We missed you! I read your whole report to my beloved husband, who was here in the office at the time, and we both rejoiced! I'm so glad you have hope for more improvement for your mother.

[Hoosier Mama]

Deena, I missed you, too. I am so glad to hear how everything went. I will be praying that the new doctor she gets in with is really good to her and will really take care of her!

Hugs.....and happy belated Mother's Day to you, friend!

[KrisRV]

wow, Deena, so sorry I missed most of this but we don't have the net in our rv this time and I have to go a ways to get it. but remember I am thinking of you and your family and wish nothing but the best for your mother.

[TeacherMom]

I am happy for your mom and dad and you! Praise the Lord! We will keep praying that all works together for Good!

[Deena]

Thankyou so much everyone! That's so sweet! When something happened, I'd think, oh, I have to put this on HS Spot, but I couldn't! I was glad to get back, and I came here before I did much of anything else! :)

Thankyou for the Mother's Day wishes Leslie! Right back at ya (even though it's late!)! :D

[Ava Rose]

We are glad you are back also!

[KrisRV]

Deena, how is your mom doing today? Have you heard? I hope she is back up fighting again soon. It's hard to sit and watch and we can't do nothing about it. Put it in the Lords hand he will take care of her for you.

[Ohio Mom]

Deena, I read the update and we glad to hear your mom is feeling better. Still praying.

[Deena]

She's doing tabout the same now as when we left on Sunday. So that's good---she's not worse!

My dad found out that her coverage will pay for the RIGHT meds that the good dr. said would be best for her! That's a big praise! My brother and sister and I were going to work to cover the cost, so she could get what she needed, if they wouldn't cover something!

So things are going well, thankyou so much for asking!

Isn't it interesting how you can care so much for people you've never met? I surely do love you guys! :love:

[Hoosier Mama]

Deena, how is your sister doing with everything now? I hope she is able to see things a little differently now (I think you mentioned before you left that she was coming around??)

Still praying for all of your family!

[kbabe1968]

Thanks for the update, I am continuing to pray.

[Deena]

Leslie,

My sister understands that this was a real problem and that my mom was (and is) in bad shape. But she is very disapointed that they cannot go on the cruise! She worked sooo hard for this and now that money she earned and paid for them to go is gone. It isn't neccessarily the money, it was that this was something she thought up and earned all the money for by working extra. She wanted to do this for them before they got to a point where they couldn't do it. But now it's not going to happen. Basically, her hopes were dashed, so some of the biggest excitement---them being able to go and enjoy the cruise---for her is now gone. Everyone is telling her to just go and enjoy herself as much as she can---it's her and her dh's anniversary! So she's trying to do that. She ahsn't seen her oldest son for 6 years! And in 4 days they are meeting up in Florida! She's excited about that, obviously!

So, really she's okay, just still feels the hole of where they would've been. I sure hope the cruise goes well! If not, I don't think she'd be able to handle it well after this!

So keep praying for her too, please! Thankyou for asking Leslie!

[momandteacherx3]

Deena,
Just looking in to see how things are going. Praises that your mom is stabilizing! And the hope for some answers goes a long way! That is great news.

Still praying for all of your family (glad you had a safe trip!)- and for your sister as they leave on the cruise. Bittersweet I am sure.

Take care!

MT3

[TeacherMom]

Deena, if you sister paid for her tickets can she get the money back considering? Or is she taking it herself, I was trying to understand that.
We are still praying for your mom and family too, and for you! It is hard having your mom sick and not be able to do anything really for her but pray!
the distance thing and all.
HUGS!

[Deena]

My sister bought the tickets and was going with her dh, our parents and her son and youngest dd. This all happened about 10 days before the cruise. If it's 2 weeks or less before the cruise, and you haven't bought their insurance ($200 or more), you cannot get a refund, and the tickets are non-transferrable. :( So she's still going with her dh, ds and dd, just will really miss our parents, cuz that's why she worked this whole thing out in the first place---to give them an exciting trip!

I hope she can get past that, though, and enjoy the trip!

[TeacherMom]

maybe she can think of some couple to bless with the tickets that wil find joy in it somehow? how sad though with the thought of seeing your parents enjoy something... together with you.
I will pray that she has a wonderful time anyway, God works things out in interesting ways sometimes and He knwos what He is up to!
Be blessed today!
T~

[Deena]

The tickets are non-transferrable, so she can't give them to anyone else. Otherwise she would!

[KrisRV]

Deena, the same thing happen to me years ago and my little girl got so sick. I contact them and got doctors to write notes for us and they gave us all our money back. As her about doing that. I don't know things have sure change now days. But, its worth a try.

[P.H.]

Any update, Deena? Are things holding about the same, or is there some improvement?

[Deena]

Kris, I guess my sis looked into that, and they said nothing could be done or refunded. :(

Prairie, Thankyou for asking how my mom is now! I just talked to my parents on the phone today. She's doing well. She has a dr. appointment on Monday morning. She's still drinking the Ensure High Protein drinks---3 a day as the one dr. suggested would be good for her. She's eating some, and went to my aunt's house for lunch today. That was her first time out in a long time. She gets tired easily, but says she's feeling pretty good, even after going out like that today! So we're very happy with that!

Our next project, as long as my mom is holding her own still, will be to get my dad some new hearing aids. He had trouble with his ears almost all his life, and now they're in bad shape! His hearing aids are old and broken. Actually, he lost one, so he only has one, and it's broken. He can hardly hear a thing! No insurance will cover new ones for him, and they're wanting $2,000 for them! Whew! But my brother and sister and I are trying to put our heads together and find some way to pay for them.

Overall things are going fairly well, and my dad is thrilled! He honestly thought he'd be losing her soon, and hadn't been able to resign himself to that. I'm glad, especially for him, that she's so much better! In September they'll be married for 54 years!

[P.H.]

That's super! 54 years! I appreciate the update, and I'm so glad that it looks like they'll have more time together!

[Ohio Mom]

Deena, so happy to hear she is doing better. Enjoy your parents as long as you can, they are irreplaceable. I miss my mom so much, we were like best friends all my life.

[Deena]

Yeah, My mom and I are like that. She and I are a lot alike.

I was at a huge summer campmeeting type thing near here for our church, and this guy came up to me and said, "You've GOT to be related to (My mom's name)! " I said, "That's my mom." He said, "You look so much like her! I went to highschool with her, and when I saw you, I had to do a double-take!" :D Both my brother and sister look like my dad's side of the family. I guess that me being the baby, and being so much like her, we just bonded.

So Gma, I am certainly taking that advice! They are irreplaceable, and I will miss my mom terribly when the time does come for her to go!

Prairie, Yeah, 54 years! My dh and I say we're working to catch up and pass them cuz we want to be together forever too! :) Dh's parents are younger. They've been married for ONLY 47 years! The year my dh and I got married in March, was his grandparents 50th Anniversary in June! So we have some great examples to follow! :D (We also have some bad ones, but we won't go there!)

I told my mom she needs to try and beat my dad's mom---who was more of a mom to my mom than her own mom was! She was 91 when she died! :)

[P.H.]

Deena, your summer camp story reminds me of the time my beloved husband and I attended a disaster relief meeting for a large area of churches. As we sat down, I glanced across the aisle and thought I recognized a family friend (from years ago) of my parents' generation, so I smiled great big and gave a little wave.

Almost immediately the awful realization hit me that it couldn't be he, because my parents had mentioned some time previously that the particular friend I was thinking of had passed away.

I sat throughout the meeting in mortification that I had been very "forward" with a total stranger. Afterwards I wanted to run to the door, but, no! My beloved struck up a conversation with that very man and talked and talked while I kept as far away as possible. Well, when almost everyone else had left, and I had nowhere else to hide, my beloved called me over to introduce me to the brother of his uncle's wife!

With a red face, I started to apologize when he interrupted and said how pleased he was that I knew who he was. "Of course," he said, "I knew right away who you were! You have to be 'Sally's' daughter! But tell, me, how did you know who I was?"

'Seems like everyone who knew her loved her. My mom is now 92, and I'm hoping to drive down to the rest home where she is living on Tuesday to give her another perm.

Thanks, Deena, for letting me share on your thread. It seemed OK, seeings as we're talking about moms and all.

[KrisRV]

Deena, if your dads insurance wouldn't cover the hearing aids. go look for state help they might help you. I don't know what kind of money or insurance your parent have but you can look in on that. Or call the hearing aide store tel them what's going on with your dad and they might have a payment plan or give you a discount.

Deena, thanks so much for the update. I hope things keep getting better for you all. It's hard when your mom is down. Moms are never suppose to go down.

[Ohio Mom]

Deena, was you dad ever in the military, if so, try the Verterans, they have many programs to help the verterans, dr, prescriptions, glasses, etc.

[sloan127]

Hearing Exchange has ideas for people who need hearing aids and their insurance won't pay for them. I think you can find it at HearingExchange.com.

[Deena]

My parents have no money coming in, basically. My dad is a Vet, so he's gotten a lot of help from them: He had two heart attacks and a triple bypass, knee and back surgeries---all covered because he is a Vet. BUT, for some reason they won't cover this! Not sure why!

Thanks for all the ideas everyone! I'm going to look up the Hearing Exchange, Beth, thanks!

[KrisRV]

Deena, I hope you can find something or someone to help you with the hearing aids. I know how important they are for your dad.

Also, how is your mother doing? Any changes? Is she eatting better?

[Deena]

Hearing Exchange has ideas for people who need hearing aids and their insurance won't pay for them. I think you can find it at HearingExchange.com.

I guess I didn't find it on my first try. But I'll check again.... thanks again for the heads-up on this!

[TeacherMom]

Deena I saw a commercial about something where you can get prescriptions if you cant normally too for vets and people who are older? I will watch for it and let you know what it says to do.
hey, btw, what kind of prescripts did he have?
I knwo its kinda weird but my mom and dad both had glasses,

[TeacherMom]

oh wait you were talking hearing help werent you.. that would be my father in law, for that, sorry I am getting people mixed up , blush again!

[Deena]

No problem TMom. :)

Kris, My mom is staying steady, so that's good! She is stilil able to drink and keep down the Ensure High Protein (Soy based) drinks, which is a life-saver---maybe LITERALLY a life-saver! PTL! She eats little bits of things, but not a whole lot.

They have a dr. that's ordering the right meds and getting appointments for tests and scans and things for her, so things are moving forward. I am just so happy with how things are workingout! She's never going to be completely well.....unless God chooses to do an absolute miracle! But she's alive and doing well, in comparison to when we went there only a couple of weeks ago!

My sister went ahead and went on the cruise. We all, including my parents, told her she needed to go and spend the time with her hubby, ds, and youngest dd (17yo). My sis's middle child has decided she is mad at her. She and her husband told her she was horrible and selfish for going on the cruise when her mom is so sick! My poor sis! But my mom assured her that she wanted my sis to go! I hope they are enjoying their trip and are able to relax!

[TeacherMom]

Wow, that is amazing, re your neice and her husband, I hope they get real over it all now.
We all say lots of things when we are worried about a loved one, but your mom would feel awful if her health ruined a wonderful trip for your sis, so I will pray your niece gets that realization soon.

[KrisRV]

Deena, I hope your sister is having a wonderful time, she needs it.
Also, did you find anything or anyone that will help you get some hearing aids for your daddy.
I hope your mama is holding the same.

Hang in there and remember we are here for you too.

[Deena]

Thanks! About my dad: I came across a story in the newest Guideposts Magazine about a guy who grants wishes for senior citizens. I'm afraid ours is too expensive of a request, but I went to the website and put in my request anyway, saying we'd help as much as we could, but couldn't come up with that much on our own! It'll be interesting to see if they respond, and if they do, I wonder what they'll say? I figured it's worth a try---otherwise I'd always wonder what would've happened!

My mom is doing well still, AND---SHE'S GAINED 8 POUNDS! So life is looking up for her! :D

[P.H.]

Eight pounds! That's a big jump and a good sign. I'm glad for your update and hope that everything else works together for good, also, including the hearing aids and your niece's emotions, etc.

[TeacherMom]

WHoo hoo! Gaining weight and rejoicing about it! WEE! Hehe, PRayers will continue to go up for both situations Deena! God bless you too for trying to help your pareants!
YOu are an awesome daughter!
HUGS!
T

[Marylyn_TX]

8 pounds is great, Deena!!! I'll be praying that your request touches the heart of the guy from the magazine.

[Deena]

Hey, well, listen to THIS: My mom has gained back 20 pounds and feels hungry! She hasn't felt hungry for months! :D Praise the Lord!

I have no doubt in my mind that if my brother and sister and I hadn't intervened that she would not be alive right now! God is soooo good, and worked things out! I'm so happy to have her around for awhile longer! Thankyou soooo much for your prayers. You guys are the greatest!

[TeacherMom]

Deena that is awesome! Praise the Lord!
I am so glad you inerviened! That is so super!
Thank you for sharing your good news!

[sloan127]

I am so happy for you and your family. I know you are so relieved that she is doing better. Beth

[Ohio Mom]

Deena, I am rejoicing with you, God is so good, all the time. He healed your mother and you get to enjoy her longer. Praise the Lord. This brings joy to my heart.

[KrisRV]

Deena, I just seen this. I am so glad your mother is doing well and getting back on her feet. That is wonderful news. Wow, I hope it works out for your father that would be wonderful too. Being he was a Vet, you can't get any help from anyone?

[Deena]

I guess the guys that work with hearing aids have a market, so they don't bother to lower their price, and the service won't cover hearing aids!

I saw a story in Guidepost's Magazine a couple of weeks ago. It is about a guy who has started a company or team or whatever it's called that grants (small) wishes for senior citizens. It gave an e-mail site you could send requests to, so I thought, "Why not?" and sent in a request about my dad and his need for hearing aids. A few days later (Friday of last week), I got a phone call from that guy! He said he wishes so much he could help with people that make that request!. But he figures the hearing aid people have a monopoly and don't NEED to give people breaks, so they don't. He hasn't found anyone to work with or help him with this, so he hasn't been able to help anyone with that either. He's had more than just me that has asked about that. I thought it was GREAT that he called me personally to tell me that!

But then again, it's frustrating that noone will cover it or help, when many of these people that need them are on low fixed income!

So, we'll keep searching for a way to raise the money for that!

Thanks all, for your good wishes for my mom! I'm very glad she's still around!!! :love:

[Ava Rose]

That was nice that he called you, Deena. I am sorry he was unable to help. I would make a terrible CEO because I would always be giving needs away. I can't stand it when someone needs something but is unable to get it.

[KrisRV]

Yes, that is so nice of them to call you and let you know wher you stand.

Deena, have you thought about doing a fun raiser to help your dad with the hearing aids. Like a garage sale, bake sale or something along that line. Even selling candy bars or something.

[KrisRV]

Deena, haven't heard anything in awhile how is mom doing? Are things getting any better for her? Did you find someone to help you get dad some hearing aids?

[Deena]

Kris, for some reason I missed these messages, sorry for not responding!

Things are much better for my mom! My parents and sister were here for a week, and my mom was eating all the time! :lol: She's up about 20-25 pounds from her worst point. She still has some problems with what she eats---she "dumps" easily and never knows what will work or not. Some of her standby foods from before she almost died she can't handle anymore---it's strange how much that changed! But she's much healthier, praise the Lord and seems to continue to gain weight.

One interesting thing: When I was young, my dad was the one who'd get angry easily and stuff, now he's so mellow, and my mom is the crabby one! Strange, isn't it?

About my dad's hearing aids: Nothing has changed. Don't know how to get them still. But a fundraiser is a good idea. My dh won't stand for a yard sale, he hates those! But some other fundraising may work. Just not sure what to do...

Thanks for asking Kris!

[momothem]

Glad you hear your mom is doing so much better.

[Hoosier Mama]

That is great new, Deena. I am so glad to hear she is doing so much better.

It is strange that your parents kind of " traded places" with their crabbiness. I have noticed the last couple of times I have visited my parents that my mom seems to be getting very moody. I didn't think too much of it the first time, but when we went again this year, it was very noticeable. I asked my dad about it and he said that she gets very impatient and grumpy easily these days. ???? I hate seeing her like that. But what do you do?

[Deena]

Yeah, there's really not much you can do I don't think.

One thing that happened was that I got her a carton of egg-whites, cuz she has trouble with regular eggs, and has been getting some kind of carton of egg stuff.

Anyway, I got it out the first morning they were here, and she said, "What's that stuff?" I told her, and she said, "That sounds disgusting, what'd you get that for?!" I told her why, and she said, "Well, I'm not gonna eat THAT stuff....Yuck...I don't LIKE egg-whites!" My sister and I just looked at each other with surprised looks, and I put it back in the fridge.

It's sad, cuz I'm sure she doesn't think she's being rude and crabby, but it's surely coming out that way! And she's one I can't even remember raising her voice when I was growing up! (wish my kids could say that about me!) Plus, it's hard to see your parents getting old! BTW, she wasn't that way all the time, but it'd pop up a couple or so times a day.

[Emma's#1fan]

I am so glad to hear your mom is doing better!:angel:
That is such a blessing!
Patty

[P.H.]

Twenty to 25 pounds! Wow! That's wonderful for her! I'm sure your whole family is counting their blessings for every day of life together!

[Deena]

Yes we are, I'd rather have her here and crabby than not have her here at all! :D

[Hoosier Mama]

That's right, Deena! Waht a blessing it is that she went from where she was to where she is now! Crabby or not!