Rest and recuperation………..

 The next morning was a bit of a challenge as I was in recovery for 5 hours.  To start with I wouldn’t wake up.  I guess 8 hours of anesthesia really convinces you it’s time to sleep.  When I did start to wake up I wouldn’t breathe.  Eventually everything came together and I was finally taken to a ward at about 2.30pm.  Bill was there and was pleased to see that I was ok at last.  He was very tired after his night of car parks and phone calls so I convinced him to return home and rest as I was still drifting in and out of sleep too.  I settled in for day 1 of my 8 day stay.

No one ever sleeps properly in hospital and I was no different as I was was monitored constantly throughout the night.  I was encouraged to get up for a shower the next morning which I did though I was hardly capable.  Must admit I did feel better afterwards.  The physio visited next and then I dozed the next 12 hours away.  There was no way I was waking up any time soon.  Bill came in for a quick visit and once he knew all was going well he returned home for another early night.

More of the same the next day, Bill came and went again as I still couldn’t stay awake for long.  The surgeon visited and told me how long and complicated the surgery had been.  He was pleased with my progress so all was well I guess.  The physio visited again and got me up and walking out in the corridor.

A huge milestone the next morning when after 4 days on nil by mouth and saline fluids I was allowed to to have clear fluids.  I can’t tell you how wonderful beef broth and then this jelly tasted even though I could only eat half of it.  The next morning I was upgraded to full fluids and the highlight of my day was a little tub of ice cream.  A soft diet was up for the next day and chopped up chicken and mashed potato was a bit of a treat.  Bill was pleased to see that I was improving and at last able to stay awake for his visits.

Sunday morning brought a bit of a surprise when the Dr came by and said if I took it easy I could go home.  I was a bit nervous but the physio had given me the all clear with walking and managing stairs so there was no reason to stay.  I rang Bill and let him know and then I just wandered the corridors until he came to get me.  As our car is so far off the ground Bill had to stop at Bunnings on the way to buy a set of steps so I could get in and out of the car.  I’m sure I’ll get a few funny looks but at least I won’t hurt myself.

While I waited I took one more look at view from the lounge window and then it was goodbye to all and Bill drove me back up the range and home to the caravan.  I was a bit uncertain and overwhelmed that evening but came good and was glad to be home again.  

I had a better nights sleep than if I’d been at the hospital but until the staples are out I imagine it won’t be perfect.  Bill looked after me beautifully and I know I’ll recover quickly with his help.  My steps work perfectly to get in and out of the car though right now we’re not going anywhere.

The next night I slept a little better and while Bill went shopping in the morning I caught up with some phone calls and enjoyed another lovely day in the orchard.  With regular walks around the trees it won’t be long before I’m feeling ready to get amongst it again.

until next time……..