Surgery for E's Mom

Remember when I mentioned that E's mother had taken a sudden and inexplicable turn for the worse a few weeks ago? In a matter of days, she went from being mobile and mentally stable to being in near constant pain, confused, and unable to walk. Her doctors attributed it to her Parkinson's, rheumatoid arthritis, and dementia.

E's sister, responsible for their mother's care, didn't accept that answer as the final word on the matter.

The neurologist ordered an MRI to see if a recent fall might have caused a hematoma on my mother-in-law's brain. It was negative.

But an MRI of her spine yesterday revealed a herniated disc that was in the process of disintegrating, shedding chips of bone into surrounding tissue and impinging on her nerves. One look at those images and my mother-in-law's escalating symptoms got her a priority slot on the surgery schedule for today. The damaged disc could cause paralysis and permanent nerve damage.

So it's off to the operating room to see what can be done...

While I know her case is complicated, I can't believe it's taken nearly a month to diagnose this, and that on top of everything else, my mother-in-law has to endure surgery.

I'm glad E's there, and while I miss him, I wish he could stay longer. He arrives home Thursday.

February 20, 2007

Comments

[Shirl Grrrl]

Sending prayers...

[RD]

Your SIL was smart to not accept routine answers--it's what medical care has turned into: we are on our own as fas as monitoring our health and that of our loved ones. Wishing your MIL a successful surgery and a quick and complete recovery!

[mamatulip]

Oh my goodness. Your MIL is in my thoughts.

[furiousBall]

I hope you can feel these good karma thoughts I'm sending, because I'm doing it as hard as I can.

[platypus]

Sending every good thought I have that everything works out well. I know your healthcare system in the US is different to ours in the UK but it never fails to amaze me how often it's the relatives who get things done and moving when someone's really sick. I know it's tough for you to be apart but I'm glad E's with his mother when she really needs him. Hugs to you.

[Nance]

I hate to be the kind of person who does this, but also tell your s-i-l to ask them to review her pain meds. Sometimes it's the narcotics that cause hyperconfusion and instability, too. Esp. when you add unfamiliar surroundings. Second-guessing is no fun for anyone, and no one likes to be given suggestions long distance, but when it is someone you care about, my motto is 'leave no stones unturned.'

Hoping for best outcome.

[wordgirl]

Good thoughts out to E's family...as well as for his safe return home.

[javacurls]

Your MIL will be in my thoughts. I pray everything goes well.

[TB]

My thoughts are with you guys. Back surgery is no picnic even for someone who is young and strong.

[mo]

Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry, I hadn't read your blog in a while and didn't know what was going on. I'm so so sorry that you are going through this. And I am also sorry I didn't read this sooner so I could add my support to your coffers right away. Please know you have it.