Thursday, July 7, 2016

Sorry to take a few days off. My mother-in-law had a stroke on Monday and that has made our life topsy-turvy. She is doing okay--she's aware, responsive, herself, and in good humor--but will have to spend time in acute rehab. As is often the case with strokes when it comes to a prognosis, we won't know until we know.

The Man has been in Charlotte with his mother for several days now. As is often the case when parents get ill, there is stress in the family. Everyone has the best intentions at heart, I believe, but this is an emotional and complicated time. So far the Man's cooler head has prevailed in the decision-making process, but the road may be bumpier up the way.

My mom was diagnosed three years ago with a very aggressive form of lymphoma, from which she is now fully recovered (and is considered cancer-free, praise be). The stress level was enormous. My and my brothers ideas about how best to serve her and my father during this difficult time varied and sometimes were at odds. No one was ugly, no one yelled or said mean things, but communications were strained. So I know how it goes. You always think you'll handle things beautifully until you don't.

So we're a little tired here, a little discombobulated. All prayers for Melvene and the rest of us are appreciated. I'll be back, hopefully with happier news. See you soon!

11 comments:

Pom Pom said...

Oh, I'm so sorry to hear of your MIL's stroke. I pray for a swift recovery.

Gumbo Lily said...

Difficult times. Prayers for you and yours.

Jo said...

Dear Frances, I know your Man will do all he can to hold everyone together. Despite our best intentions, family is hard. And life is stressful and painful. We try to struggle through and that struggle is what makes us into kinder, more understanding people.

Blessings on you and yours.

Nancy McCarroll said...

Oh my. Stress. Prayers for you all.

Tracy said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your mother-in-law. I hope her care and rehab see her well on the road to some semblance of a normal life. Yes it is a very stressful time for the rest of the family - my prayers are with each of you.

We attended a funeral this week for my SIL's mum. She was a part of Dh & my lives from childhood and it was precious to spend some time celebrating who she was to each of us.

Leslie said...

Very sorry to hear this, Frances. You all have my prayers.

GretchenJoanna said...

May the Lord bring healing! She is blessed to have several close family members looking after her welfare. Breathe deeply, Frances!

Kit said...

Oh my! I am so sorry about your MIL. I hope all of you come thru okay. Keep us up to date. :) Kit

Pam said...

Just popped over from Fraise and liking what I read... Hello from Scotland.

Pam said...

I mean, I'm not liking the bit about your MIL, obviously. I hope she does ok.

magsmcc said...

I am late to the table. We have lived stroke recovery with a parent, and experience still the strained communications. Hope that the last month has brought moments of joy and rest x