Springtime with Robin--- 05-06-2012

The last update was about a month and a half ago, at the end of March. When I published the blog entry, I stated, “There was another UTI (Urinary Tract Infection) about three weeks ago, so I figure Robin is due for another one this week.” Well, sure enough, she was diagnosed with another UTI within days after I wrote that sentence!

So, here’s what happened since March 20th. Robin started and finished a seven day course of IV antibiotics. She got better and was good for a week, then got sick again with the same bug. This time, she started and finished a ten day course of the same IV antibiotics. She got better and did well for about ten days. The early signs of infection appeared again, but Robin denied she was ill, not believing it could happen again so soon. At John’s insistence (over three days), Robin finally sent the test sample to the doctor on Friday afternoon, too late to get results before the weekend. I think she sent it in just to get John off her back. By Monday (4/30/2012), we found she was sick again with the same bug. Monday night at 10 PM, she started another ten day course of the same IV antibiotics. Unfortunately, over the weekend, the infection got the best of her and on Monday Robin started to become delirious (loopy). By Tuesday, she was totally out of it, sleeping most of the time and talking incoherently when she was awake. When her hospice team saw her, they thought that this was the end, and she would not pull out. However, on Thursday, I had my wife back again (at least part time), and over the next few days, Robin has continued to improve. She is one tough woman!!! At this writing (Sunday night), she is back to normal (whatever THAT is). Of course, each time she goes through one of these bouts of delirium, she never quite gets back to 100%. There is always some small loss of mental acuity, but it may not be perceptible to most people.

Robin’s other issues (pain, eyesight problems, blood sugar spikes, fluid retention in her arms and side, rashes, skin infections, and broken teeth) persist. However, Robin still maintains a positive attitude and an inner peace that I have difficulty understanding.

Robin’s Mom (Johnnie) arrived right after Easter, and stayed for two weeks. Her visit happened to hit at the right time when Robin was not sick. Her presence here is always a boost for Robin, and a big help to me. Johnnie doesn’t know how to sit still, so she stays busy doing things for Robin or stuff around the house. We were all sorry to see her leave.

Last time I wrote, I said that Robin had a new iPad2. She has used it to video phone her mother (using her grandson, Matthew’s, iPad), and to talk to my brother and his family (mostly, Kelli and Maureen) by video. I think she would enjoy video calls from other folks, too. If you want to try a video call to Robin via “Facetime,” send me an email and we can give you her “Apple ID” so you can call.

Thank you all who work to keep Robin’s spirits up in so many different ways. Robin has received cards and notes, phone and video calls, wacky gifts, visits, meals, flowers, chocolate, and cookies. Most of all, we thank you for your gifts of time to prepare and send these things, and the time to help Robin by shopping, reading, praying, or helping her in a special way. Your continuing love and encouragement to Robin has helped her cope, and is a great assistance in keeping her positive. God bless you all!

We thank God daily for the good that you do.

Love,
                  --- Larry, Robin, & John