Saturday afternoon

The colonscopy revealed a small ulceration at the top of the large intestine. The Dr. "cleaned up" the area, but that is all they can do for it, it will need to heal on its own. They will keep Dorothea off of all blood thinners until the bleeding stops completely.

The physical therapists came in again today (I did not realize that they came yesterday also). Both today and yesterday that had her dangle her feet over the edge of the bed while sitting up with assistance. Both days she was up for about 8 minutes. They felt that she was doing better and becoming looser. She was moving her arms and reached across her body.

I need to tell a funny story - although I am sure it will not be near as funny to any of you. The nurses use a large spongy swab to clean out Dorothea's mouth. She does NOT like this activity. She often turns her head or purses her lips and tries to delay the inevitable. This afternoon she was in pretty good spirits and was having all of her many dressings changed, and at the very end the nurse wanted to swab out her mouth. She asked Dorothea to open up and she shook her head no and pursed her lips. The nurse gently persisted and reminded her that she had to do this and she did not want to have to force her way into her mouth. So, Dorothea smiled,opened her mouth, and then as soon as the nurse started to put the swab in, she closed her lips tightly! She did this two or three times in a row - smiling the hole time - I am sure laughing inside! It was so good to see her have a sense of humor in the midst of all of this. I can't wait to be able to hear her laugh, and hear her voice again.

Today definitely lifted my spirits. The nurse, respiratory tech, and physical therapist also commented on the little improvements they were noticing today.