Tuesday, October 20, 2009

What A Difference A Day Makes.....

I was "checking out" of the Bailey's condo this morning and John called me from his cell phone.
He sounded like he was calling from his office; his voice was all regular and strong, and his sense of humor was coming through. He had been awake since 6:00 a.m., had eaten half of an egg white omelet, and walked around the hall with his nurse. He told her she reminded him of Nurse
Rachett (and he didn't even know I had referred to her that way in the blog...our minds must run along the same track). Anyway, he said she didn't seem to appreciate it. He thought for a minute that she would make him walk around the hall for a second lap! She had a little smile and was good natured when he told me about her morning regiment. She sat and talked to us about some of what to expect when he goes home, diet, etc. (She didn't know about his Well Spring experience, and all he learned there.)
John's nausea was not entirely gone, but the change in medication had helped through the night, and he felt so much better. He asked me to bring his glasses as he wanted to possibly do some reading. It felt good to him to even have an interest in doing something besides just laying in bed. He is still quite unsteady on his feet, and the occupational therapist came by after lunch to
work with him and discuss his post surgery recovery program. He will most likely do that in Salem somewhere. She must have done a good job putting him through the paces. I had a small errand to run, and when I came back, he was so sound asleep I couldn't wake him.
I drove to Salem for a birthday party for my dear friend Brada. I wouldn't have missed it , but knowing John was feeling so much better made it more comfortable to leave. I am staying in Salem for the night, checking on Kitty, opening the accumulated mail, and going back tomorrow afternoon.
At this point, if he is walking better and his heart stays in rhythm (which has been a bit of a problem which the doctors say is not unusual after such a big surgery), and if he continues to be able to eat and keep the nausea at bay, he may be able to come home Thursday or Friday.
The doctors said they do not want to rush it, but I know John will be glad to be home.
Many wishes from lots of friends at Brada's party and cards in the mail and your comments on this blog will all be delivered/read to John tomorrow....now that he's feeling better. Thanks again for your support. We feel your prayers and love. Cheers! Karen

11 comments:

  1. Dear Karen, I'm so happy to read that John is getting better day after day... I remember the wonderful time I had with you and your family and I just wanted to say I'm thinking of you in these particular days which will be behind very soon...
    florence

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  2. We are so happy that John is recovering. The blog has been a blessing for those of us concerned about him. We here at Casa Isabel are praying for him and the family every day. John, you have been such a great support for many programs here in Mexico and we all are so greatful for your tireless support and love for communities so far from home. Lucy, Leti, Aurora, Xochitl, Ceci, Basilia, Araceli, Kristina and little Emily all send send their love, best wishes and prayers. We can tell from the blog that your family is taking wonderful care of you. We are looking forward to your next visit to Espinal and are glad you are recovering so that you can continue with your great work.

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  3. Hi Karen: It is so good to hear John is recovering even though it doesn't happen as fast as we would like. Mom's recovery from her bypass surgery was slow and up and down, but everyday was a new day and mostly a better day. It was hard for Mom and will be for John too that being back to normal (as if we O'Malley's could ever be called normal) just takes time. With the Kerr and O'Malley tanacity (sp?)he probably will surprise us.
    Sending kisses & hugs.
    Peggy

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  4. Hi Karen: The good news just keeps coming. We were wondering about the "heart" pillow. When Mike was in Good Sam after his surgery they gave him a "heart" pillow to use getting into and out of bed.
    It helped immensely but maybe they've done away with them. Recovery always seems slow but John has really made great strides. That sense of humor is a great tonic. Keep the good news coming. We love you all and thank you daily for the blog.
    Cheers,
    Mike and Patty

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  5. Wow this is great great news. Juan keep up your inspiring improvements and you will be eating frijoles sin gas, tortillas and guacamole at your favorite little cafe (santa fe) in Juchitan.
    Take care of yourself,
    ¡Nico and Emily!

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  6. Dave and Kris LockardOctober 21, 2009 at 7:26 PM

    Hi John and Karen,
    Sorry to be so late in commenting, but the blog has issues with us... I guess. But here we are, finally, and passing on best wishes to John in his recovery. Thanks for keeping everyone posted, Karen, on what is going on.
    From Hawaii,
    Kris and Dave

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  7. It's great to hear John is doing so well. Cecelia sends love from Boni and Team 44 in Oaxaca! She says that the project is all ready to be started and Boni did a great job on everything.

    - Lizzie

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  8. John and Karen,

    So glad to hear "Juan" is doing so well.

    Jim brought me up to speed and shared the blog address with me, what a great idea!

    We are going up to see Jim and Leslie this weekend for the Duck-Husky game, and we will likely have a few of those "smart beers" as John would chide Jim and I.

    John, I hope you are up to watching the Beavs beat the Trojans this weekend. In spite of Dave's foresight, it has yet to occur this year, but many Ducks are counting on it.

    My best for both of you.

    "Peanut Butter"

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  9. John -
    These notes were sent to us to pass on to you as OBKers read the blog message updates

    We love you John. Get out of that hospital!
    Jim and Lynn

    Please pass along to Karen and John our heartfelt relief in John's progress. Ruthie and I wish him all the best as he continues his recovery.
    RJ and Ruthie

    Thell John "Hi" again. Give him a big hug from me - very gently! The Beavs better beat the Ducks at the Civil war game!!
    Patty Burnet

    More to follow..
    Dave

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  10. John: So joyous that you are on your feet. The concern of 50 Betas/wives might equal your and your family's concern. I won't bother you with a phone call but please know that Sharon and I are thinking about you and Karen constantly.

    Larry and Sharon

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  11. amigo: get many greetings from everyone at pimpollo and especially "padre pancho" asked me to send them to you and your wife and kids a very cordial greeting.

    the things here are very good. We are very happy for your recovery and hope that you are home soon.

    gracias karen. tu amigo: jorge +

    we want you to care much for you visit us soon.

    This week will be on your friend cecilia barry in oaxaca and I have many adventures to tell.

    please ... obey the instructions of the doctors so that your recovery is very good.

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