Disappointing News (Mom's Rehab - part 3)

Another week of ups and downs.

Early in the week, the tulips in Mom's room opened beautifully...

Brother Phil brought some new enthusiasm into the ballpark and Mom's rehab facility.  

He and Dad completed several errands that had been postponed and attended some activities that Dad is committed to: the Lenten Fish Fry, and Bingo.  From the stories I've heard, fun was had by all.  

Mom's rehabilitation steadily progressed.  Her hemobligin Hgb is 10.5, a tad down from Friday, but not enough to concern anyone.  

She is now battling a hoarse voice, for some unclear reason.  Several theories abound: she's overdoing her throat exercises (for her swallowing issues), or she's developed an allergy, or there's a bug going around.  We pray it's not a bug.  

Today, we visited the orthopedist and got some disappointing news.  He told us (and showed us on the x-ray) that the head of the humerus is beginning to roll off its shaft.  The main break in the bone is just under the head, and without surgery, the shoulder will not heal correctly. 

I am talking to the wonderful Dr. R. tomorrow morning about this new development, as he and Mom's cardiologist must clear her for surgery, which might be as early as Friday.  

We are praying for wisdom and clarity about what is the best course for Mom.  She wants to proceed with surgery, as her arm will not be very functional without it, and will likely become more painful with time. 

We will know more tomorrow.

Until then, another snapshot of the tulips and their shadow in the sinking sunlight.

A gentle reminder that beauty is around us, even on difficult days.