Monday, June 18, 2012

Happy Monday Everyone!!

I spent much of my day with Al today.  Alvin was transferred back to the Clatsop Care Center today.

This is one step to better days....

Melissa and Rik went in to visit early this morning knowing that he was going to be moved at some point during the day.  They then went back to the house and made a few batches of the famous Strawberry jam.....I don't know about you, but this jam is the best ever!  Especially on waffles....

The strawberries Lani picked up smelled so good and looked very red....yumm!!

Today's xrays again were better than yesterday.....his lungs are clearing up well, although he still has alot of phlegm, which is also good, then it isn't in his lungs.  He is doing well using the suction device at CMH, however the suction contraption he is using now, he must either turn it on every time, and it sounds like a small generator, or he must call the nurse....

Being back at the care center, he is able to begin therapy again.  The Director said his first session should be tomorrow.  I am going to try and be there so I can observe and possibly practice throughout the day with him.  I look forward to helping him regain his strength and to get him home.  We all recover much better at home don't we? 

Many of you have asked where to mail a card....

Alvin Jones

PO Box 103

Hammond, Oregon  97121

Before I post the care center address, I will make sure there isn't a special one for the patients.

However, he is at Clatsop Care Center, in Astoria, room 302, if you would like to visit.  He is still in isolation, so gloves and gowns are required when visiting.  If there are no gowns or gloves, please ask a nurse to supply them.  The yellow gowns are on the left right behind the door, gloves should be there too.

Alvin is still using a feeding tube.  Since the liquids were cut back a bit, his stomach is processing the nutrition much better.  He is also still receiving the electrolytes and amino acids by IV.  His hands were alot less swollen today also....his legs were itching a bit because of the swelling.  His right hip is pretty sore.  Still having a "pain in the arse...."  he smiled when I said that to him.  Using very minimal pain meds, he is so tough!  I massaged his legs today all the way up to the thigh, trying to help alleviate a little pressure on that right side.  Poor guy!  Once he stands up again, he may never want to sit again! LOL 

His new room has an awkward set up.  It is made for two residents, however with the isolation, his room is twice as big and his bed is turned the wrong direction!!  He has a large window that opens and looks out onto the town....it is as close to a river view we are going to get.  It is nice though, better than the past brick wall. 

This afternoon he had another room full of visitors.  Lani, Melissa, Kevin, Jan, Hank and I all piled in.  Melissa is heading out tomorrow.  It is always nice to visit with her.  She has such a refreshing smile. :)  Dad was very happy to have her visit. 

Well, tomorrow should be a jam packed day.  I plan to be with Al for most of the day.  I am writing down names and taking numbers...want the best for our guy!!

Thank you again for all the support!  Together we will make it through this! 

***LACEY, LEXI, LORI I relayed your message to Gpa...he says he loves you all.**