The material presented
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level.
Being with my husband again constantly for 24 hrs, I realize I may need some help. I, along with the Dr's didn't realize how "off kilter" he really is. I've been up with him since 5:30 a.m. No way could he roam around the house alone. He may try to take his meds unsupervised and take them 3x because he forgets. He needed help showering, shaving, getting dressed etc. He falls asleep every 20 seconds, like he has narcolepsy or something and it doesn't matter what he's doing. I have to prod him to eat his meals because he forgets what he is doing or falls asleep. The meds he is on are nothing that should make him sleepy. Mostly prescription vitamins and BP pills. There's definately a mental deficit. He's not as alert today by any means as he was yesterday. Maybe I worked in nursing homes for years to prepare for this..I sure hope not!! I quit because I couldn't take it anymore, and I was younger!!..lol
Guess I just needed to vent a little. I'm sure my stress has accumulated over the last month and having him here is a real reality check. I haven't included some of the things he's done because it would be embarrassing to him. I just didn't realize that he couldn't be left alone for 5 min. I guess he's going to have good and bad days. Yesterday happened to be good. Today is not. If this continues I'll get help, one day of this has made me see I'm not super woman by any means...and it's only noon!!
Love Christy
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If we think that miracles are normal, we will expect them. And expecting a miracle is the surest way to get one.
Just needs some rest... the ol' body has been through quite an ordeeal (this wildwind trip) since going into a hospital. Healing...takes time (and as we get older,... needs even more rest) to let the body take care of it self. Our bodies are quite magnificent in how hard headed it can be when its immune, chemistry and nervous systems have been tampered with. Plus, inside..in his heart and his mind....he's realized he IS HOME-- ...THAT lets him feel the comfort even more. He will be fine, just let him rest and heal. Its OK, that he is sleeping. His body is weak. The body works better while its not being interrupted. Not to rush and think its all going to be back to normal in the morning. It may take some weeks. Don't get discouraged.
You know about the power of positive thinking how the air will clear and the love will help even more...... While he's healing, You can too! Have to take care of you so you can care for others that need you. Most of all, the 2 of You just need to relax and enjoy that your back home from the hospital and Let God take care of the rest.
Christy & Family., your in my prayers. ((BIGHUG ~Cjo))
Hi, I've just read your 'Hubby Came Home Today' post and became very emotional. This is such a dreadful disease and I was so happy that your husband is back with you trying to get well. Its heartbreaking to see what this illness diminishes them to but you're both survivors and 'hanging tough'. Its wonderful that your A has such a remarkable sense of humour, a gift from God to help you through maybe?
Then I read this post. It must be so difficult and worrying for you. Sounds like it's going to be very physically & emotionally demanding for you both. At least you've recognised early on that 'Superwoman has left the building' and are willing to seek help. I'm afraid I haven't been in your position but wondered whether the hospital offers any outpatient support/aftercare. If not is there the possibility of a district nurse/respite care worker or even home-help? You will need some time alone, even if its just to get the groceries, doesn't sound like he's well enough to be dragged round the shops with you?! I know the medical profession can be a mine-field finding out what help is available let alone whether you qualify or are entitled.
I'm wondering whether any of his current symptoms are related to meds he is or may have been on? Or whether his body is recovering from the abuse it's sustained? My A was abnormally tired for about a year after he stopped drinking. I've taken meds that knocked me sideways as my body is weaker than most so they have a more pronounced effect on me. The point is, maybe this will get better as he clears them from his system or as he gets stronger with rest, good food etc. I wish you both well and pray you will be given some help. Stay strong and rest every opportunity you get! Thinking of you both.
I am so sorry for the stress. I know you are glad to have hubby home, but caretaking can be such a huge task. Make sure you can get some rest and time for you to--I know this is easy for others to say--not always easty to do!!!!!! Just remember the better you are the better you can be for him! I wish you both all the best during this time. I hope you are able to find some help when you need it.
funny, i was just reading on step 10 in the paths book, it says "We discover that it is a relief not to feel we always have to be right. We can let other people gain the benefits and suffer the consequences of their own decisions. We become more and more comfortable with who we are." pg 104
i think in some ways yes,and some ways no, it kinda relates to what you just shared. You noticed and admitted your not super woman and even seemed comfortable saying it too! Just one day at a time, you can do this, if you need help, definetly dont hesitate. You cant put your own health and serenity out, not when you know what to do to keep it.
Hi Christy, So sorry about hub's continuing problems. Takes time for sure. Hope you can consult with docs, and especially I hope Super Woman has left because that would be stinkin thinkin for you to carry the whole load alone. Even if you have to hire some help, it will save your sanity I think. I have seen a lot, living in an "adult community" . It's amazing what one can do, but then again what one shouldn't do. Also, neighbors and friends like to be asked to do specific things, so start your list, girl.
How difficult all this rollercoaster ride must be for you. I think it is difficult to contemplate being a full time nurse. I do know that they send people home a little early from the hospital. Can anyone in your family help out by sitting with him. What about people in the AA program do they offer that. I know they can be very very generous on 12 stepping. It sounds like you need some respite yourself. I know some hospice programs offer some volunteer help or some caregivers.
Have you set a limit on how long you will do 24 hour care before you ask for and get help?
I haven't been able to keep up with the happenings here, but that does not mean you guys were far from my thoughts and prayers.
I thought of everyone here the other day. I was waiting in the hall to talk to my wifes clinician and a woman and late teen early twenties son were at the door. He was being admitted and waiting to go behind the locked door. I don't know if he had a substance problem as well but many times when I see alcoholism, I see it as a mental illness in my own mind.
They were both crying and she was hugging him, telling him to be strong, to fight it, that he was an eagle scout and with the hard work ahead of him, he could fight it. It made me think of admitting my daughter but it also made me think of so many in my alanon family, who had to sit there powerless, witnessing the wretched effects of this disease. How many of us while maybe not in the exact situation, knew exactly what this mother was feeling.
I cried right there. She started to walk away and began to lean against a wall and cray too. I wished in a way it was one of my alanon family because I would have felt comfortable walking right up to her and giving her a hug, and saying her son was where he needed to me.
You are a strong person Christy. Both for dealing with this as you are. And for realizing that you may need help. I hope that all of what we feel for you here is helping.
{{{{{{{{cjo}}}}}}}}}}
Bob
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You are a perfect child of God and God and I love you just the way you are! (added by me...in that special alanon way)
Bless you for all your dedication and strength. You are dealing with a lot now and just remember to take care of yourself..I pray for you and your family. Take care.
Hard to watch a family member be so sick. My A's meds the other night hit him so hard, I thought he had been drinking. It was difficult to get him to bed. So I know the feeling. To do it on a full time basis is nothing but exhausting.
Remember to try and be good to yourself. We're here for you and we love you very much.
in how hard headed it can be 
when its immune, chemistry and nervous systems have been tampered with. Plus, inside..in his heart and his mind....he's realized he IS HOME-- ...THAT lets him feel the comfort even more. He will be fine, just let him rest and heal. Its OK, that he is sleeping. His body is weak. The body works better while its not being interrupted. Not to rush and think its all going to be back to normal in the morning. It may take some weeks. Don't get discouraged.
how the air will clear and the love will help even more...... While he's healing, You can too! Have to take care of you so you can care for others that need you. Most of all, the 2 of You just need to relax and enjoy that your back home from the hospital and 
Let God take care of the rest. 
