I felt a bit "shoogly" this morning, but made it to the Day Hospital. As soon as I had sat down, one of the Staff nurses came over and asked me how I was. So, I told her.
She referred me to the physio in the first instance . This was a very productive session. She told me that if anything like that happened again that Imust call for a doctor as I ought to be seen in hospital.
After that, she said we would "take it easy" this session. After the first exercise, I said that her idea of "take it easy" was rather different from mine. After about 1/2 way through she must have seen how tired I was, so she walked me back to the ward. The physio wanted to see my bruising, which somewhat shocked her
Next was round to the doctor who stripped my top half and checked over all my bruises. She felt that the ones one my left arm looked more like impact injuries than carpet burns. I reckoned that must have been from when I fell into the shower. She referred me for a chest x-ray and for an ECG as well as having my temp, pulse, blood pressure and oxygen sats , All were carried out apart from the x-ray. Well done all. Brilliant organisation.
The sad part of the day was that A.was not there.
Cut short before it began.
At my age, it is difficult to find a man who is likable, not married and reasonably mobile.
Home to find my telephone sending out an incredibly loud alarm. Eventually I traced this to the new phone. No idea what cause, but unplugged it from the mains - instant silence. Shortly after, I replaced the phone on the cradle.
Tea tonight:
Homemade cream of mushroom soup, French toast. rhubarb and ice cream.
I think that is enough to satisfy the nutritionists......
Showing posts with label Physiotherapy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Physiotherapy. Show all posts
Tuesday, 7 April 2009
Thursday, 12 March 2009
Computer Desk, Day Hospital
After TBSITW left me yesterday, I cleared most of my desk and the top of the filing cabinet.
The printer went first, then a small nest of shallow drawers, then a 3 tier set of filing trays.
This is all because the charity is coming tomorrow to collect a chest of drawers and the computer desk.
After I finish posting this, the laptop and modem follow and I shall be off-line for a bit - not too long, I hope as I have plans on how to set up a temporary home for them.
Today, back to the Day Hospital. The physiotherapist really put me through my paces and my quads were somewhat sore from yesterday. My balance is improving.
After that we were invited in to the occupational therapy room for tea and chocolate cake. I also collected my VERY OWN bookmark (shades of being a schoolchild again!)
We got another slice to take home.
The printer went first, then a small nest of shallow drawers, then a 3 tier set of filing trays.
This is all because the charity is coming tomorrow to collect a chest of drawers and the computer desk.
After I finish posting this, the laptop and modem follow and I shall be off-line for a bit - not too long, I hope as I have plans on how to set up a temporary home for them.
Today, back to the Day Hospital. The physiotherapist really put me through my paces and my quads were somewhat sore from yesterday. My balance is improving.
After that we were invited in to the occupational therapy room for tea and chocolate cake. I also collected my VERY OWN bookmark (shades of being a schoolchild again!)
We got another slice to take home.
Tuesday, 10 March 2009
Day Hospital
Today was another day at the Day Hospital.
The ambulance usually arrives between 9.15 and 9.3o but today they did not arrive until 10 o'clock. I was becoming increasingly anxious because it was so late. However it was a different crew today and they did not seem to think that there was anything amiss. (and there was I wondering if I should order a taxi!)
My usual physiotherapist lives on a farm and she was off today to help her parents with lambing so saw the senior physiotherapist. She put me through quite a lot, but what was particularly interesting was that two junior doctors came to see the department and I learned things like that it was a 12 week programme offered there.
In the afternoon it was Occupational Therapy and I managed to direct things to get what I wanted. I had noticed that one of the craft things people made was a bookmark, so I said I could really do with another bookmark. Some made bookmarks, some made other things but basically we all coloured in rather pretty outlines. I did not make a good job of mine, but pretty good considering the hand tremor. The picture is of flowers and leaves on a series of stems. The next time I go, it will be laminated.
Talking about directing things, I was reminded of my Midwifery finals orals. I was asked what was the sub parietal/supraparietal diameter. I was holding a model of a foetal skull, and felt the bi-parietal diameters, and then found that to get the sub parietal/supraparietal diameters I had to rock the skull. I then concluded that the rocking motion confirmed that it would be important when the head descended through the pelvis by asynclynticism(rocking). This is where a baby gets through the pelvis when the head is just too large and it rocks its way down. The only conclusion I could reach was that it was less than 9.5cm (the bi-parietal diameter).. The consultant kept trying to press me to give an accurate figure, but I would say only that it had to be less than 9.5cm.
Later on I was asked about different maternal urine tests and I kept trying to emphasise the one I knew more about than the others. The consultant was rather amused by this, but the senior midwife was po-faced - as so many were... Ah, memories
The occupational therapist and I had a good discussion about books we had read, we had many in common.
The ambulance usually arrives between 9.15 and 9.3o but today they did not arrive until 10 o'clock. I was becoming increasingly anxious because it was so late. However it was a different crew today and they did not seem to think that there was anything amiss. (and there was I wondering if I should order a taxi!)
My usual physiotherapist lives on a farm and she was off today to help her parents with lambing so saw the senior physiotherapist. She put me through quite a lot, but what was particularly interesting was that two junior doctors came to see the department and I learned things like that it was a 12 week programme offered there.
In the afternoon it was Occupational Therapy and I managed to direct things to get what I wanted. I had noticed that one of the craft things people made was a bookmark, so I said I could really do with another bookmark. Some made bookmarks, some made other things but basically we all coloured in rather pretty outlines. I did not make a good job of mine, but pretty good considering the hand tremor. The picture is of flowers and leaves on a series of stems. The next time I go, it will be laminated.
Talking about directing things, I was reminded of my Midwifery finals orals. I was asked what was the sub parietal/supraparietal diameter. I was holding a model of a foetal skull, and felt the bi-parietal diameters, and then found that to get the sub parietal/supraparietal diameters I had to rock the skull. I then concluded that the rocking motion confirmed that it would be important when the head descended through the pelvis by asynclynticism(rocking). This is where a baby gets through the pelvis when the head is just too large and it rocks its way down. The only conclusion I could reach was that it was less than 9.5cm (the bi-parietal diameter).. The consultant kept trying to press me to give an accurate figure, but I would say only that it had to be less than 9.5cm.
Later on I was asked about different maternal urine tests and I kept trying to emphasise the one I knew more about than the others. The consultant was rather amused by this, but the senior midwife was po-faced - as so many were... Ah, memories
The occupational therapist and I had a good discussion about books we had read, we had many in common.
Wednesday, 4 March 2009
Reminiscences
Some days at the Day Hospital there are gaps, occasionally long ones, when you have no appointments This is how I have managed to do so much reading.
Yesterday I had planned to populate the new handheld with address data.
However.
On arrival I was served with tea and biscuit.
Before I had even finished the tea, the doctor came and asked me to go and see her. She carried my cup of tea, bless her. She was very pleased to see how much improved I was on the previous week, and admitted that she had been quite worried about me. We had a chat and she examined my chest, saying that it was clear and told me that I would be having a repeat x-ray in 3 weeks.
No sooner had I sat down and put in about 3 names and addresses when it was the turn of the Occupational Therapist. 4 of us went along to the OT room for Reminiscence Therapy. Now, I was always an intellectual snob and could never see myself taking part in such a thing.
She produced a box of black and white photographs, about 9 ins x 5 and produced them one at a time. The lady opposite me was handed each one first, then it was passed round and reached me last. (Just as well it was in this order as it gave the others a chance!)
There were some I didn't know (such as Sylvia Peters - a very early announcer on British TV), but most I recognised. What was particularly good was that, after a photograph had been identified, memories were triggered. I thought the Coronation was in 1952, but that was the year King George 6th died and Princess Elizabeth became Queen. Many had seen the Coronation on television, but I remembered being taken with the school to the cinema to see two films "A Queen is Crowned" and "The Ascent of Everest".
A photograph of Marylin Monroe provoked memories of the Kennedies, and Chappaquiddick and so on as well as her 2 marriages - to Joe Di Maggio and Arthur Miller. It also led on to another photograph of Maria Callas. It all interrelated. The time just flew past.
And then it was lunchtime.
I had barely sat down after lunch to do some more data entry when the Physiotherapist arrived to do some more work with me.
A little more work then Sister came to discuss the visit I had had that morning with the Doctor.
And then it was home.......
I had bought a protective case for my last handheld, but it did not fit my new one. I was reluctant to shell out for another one, but found an elegant substitute.
When TBSITW and I were on holiday in Switzerland she bought me a very pretty soft spectacle case , white with little eidelweiss all over.
It holds my new handheld perfectly.
Thank you TBSITW.
Yesterday I had planned to populate the new handheld with address data.
However.
On arrival I was served with tea and biscuit.
Before I had even finished the tea, the doctor came and asked me to go and see her. She carried my cup of tea, bless her. She was very pleased to see how much improved I was on the previous week, and admitted that she had been quite worried about me. We had a chat and she examined my chest, saying that it was clear and told me that I would be having a repeat x-ray in 3 weeks.
No sooner had I sat down and put in about 3 names and addresses when it was the turn of the Occupational Therapist. 4 of us went along to the OT room for Reminiscence Therapy. Now, I was always an intellectual snob and could never see myself taking part in such a thing.
She produced a box of black and white photographs, about 9 ins x 5 and produced them one at a time. The lady opposite me was handed each one first, then it was passed round and reached me last. (Just as well it was in this order as it gave the others a chance!)
There were some I didn't know (such as Sylvia Peters - a very early announcer on British TV), but most I recognised. What was particularly good was that, after a photograph had been identified, memories were triggered. I thought the Coronation was in 1952, but that was the year King George 6th died and Princess Elizabeth became Queen. Many had seen the Coronation on television, but I remembered being taken with the school to the cinema to see two films "A Queen is Crowned" and "The Ascent of Everest".
A photograph of Marylin Monroe provoked memories of the Kennedies, and Chappaquiddick and so on as well as her 2 marriages - to Joe Di Maggio and Arthur Miller. It also led on to another photograph of Maria Callas. It all interrelated. The time just flew past.
And then it was lunchtime.
I had barely sat down after lunch to do some more data entry when the Physiotherapist arrived to do some more work with me.
A little more work then Sister came to discuss the visit I had had that morning with the Doctor.
And then it was home.......
I had bought a protective case for my last handheld, but it did not fit my new one. I was reluctant to shell out for another one, but found an elegant substitute.
When TBSITW and I were on holiday in Switzerland she bought me a very pretty soft spectacle case , white with little eidelweiss all over.
It holds my new handheld perfectly.
Thank you TBSITW.
Thursday, 5 February 2009
By George, She's Got It!
The jury's still out, but I think I have cracked it. In the first instance I think part of the problem was being offered an option of a wifi connection which delivered very limited access. I committed that cardinal sin of not documenting what I did each time to establish a pattern for success or failure. The secret involved going to properties on the Tesco broadband icon and changing one which looked as though it might work.
Now all I need for the laptop is a 4-way USB adaptor so that I can load all my backed-up files from my PC - and for my dear TBSITW to grovel under the desk to sort out the mess of cables for me.
So here I am. Second day at the Day Hospital and today the main event was the assessment from the physiotherapist.
I am so impressed with this place and the standard of service. An excellent and thorough medical assessment and the best ever nursing assessment on Tuesday. The physiotherapy assessment was excellent too and established my areas of weakness, most of which I was aware of and some of which were relatively new to me. I was a bit taken aback to be asked to try a 3-wheeled walking frame.....
In the afternoon I had a further sitting and standing blood pressure and I asked the staff nurse how the stay would continue. Apparently after about 6 weeks they have a case conference to decide whether I would benefit from more input, and if so what.
I have also been given several helpful booklets to read, and it was discussed whether I would wear special pants containing hip protectors. I was told to be sure I would wear them before they would order them for me as they are expensive. This is a seriously difficult decision. I know how valuable they are for preventing neck of femur fractures, but this is a serious blow to my body image.
An apt tale at this stage is that, ironically, I nearly had another fall when I got home as I half tripped over the leg of my typing chair.
Now all I need for the laptop is a 4-way USB adaptor so that I can load all my backed-up files from my PC - and for my dear TBSITW to grovel under the desk to sort out the mess of cables for me.
So here I am. Second day at the Day Hospital and today the main event was the assessment from the physiotherapist.
I am so impressed with this place and the standard of service. An excellent and thorough medical assessment and the best ever nursing assessment on Tuesday. The physiotherapy assessment was excellent too and established my areas of weakness, most of which I was aware of and some of which were relatively new to me. I was a bit taken aback to be asked to try a 3-wheeled walking frame.....
In the afternoon I had a further sitting and standing blood pressure and I asked the staff nurse how the stay would continue. Apparently after about 6 weeks they have a case conference to decide whether I would benefit from more input, and if so what.
I have also been given several helpful booklets to read, and it was discussed whether I would wear special pants containing hip protectors. I was told to be sure I would wear them before they would order them for me as they are expensive. This is a seriously difficult decision. I know how valuable they are for preventing neck of femur fractures, but this is a serious blow to my body image.
An apt tale at this stage is that, ironically, I nearly had another fall when I got home as I half tripped over the leg of my typing chair.
Friday, 30 January 2009
Friday's (not) hospital visit
Today Best Brother came to visit. Usually I put out the china teacups, saucers and plates and so on as well as the crystal cream and sugar.
Well, today he got the (admittedly fine bone china) mug and the cream jug was the one with the green screw-on top; the sugar was in a small plastic stackable storage dish with a tight fitting lid.
At least TBSITW had got some biscuits (or biccies) in Marks and Spencer for the occasion. We updated each other on family news particularly with regard to his grandson's visit from across the pond this summer - he will be going on some outings with my daughter's younger son. I understand that some plotting has been going on behind my back.
Having fixed up about the lift from here to the physiotherapy class that I missed earlier this week, I received a letter this morning to say I am to attend the District General Hospital all day on a Tuesday and a Thursday. I shall get morning tea or coffee, lunch and afternoon tea. An ambulance will collect me between 8.30 and 10am and another ambulance will take me home in the afternoon.
I feel rather as though I have no control over my life, but recognise that this is nonsense.
Well, today he got the (admittedly fine bone china) mug and the cream jug was the one with the green screw-on top; the sugar was in a small plastic stackable storage dish with a tight fitting lid.
At least TBSITW had got some biscuits (or biccies) in Marks and Spencer for the occasion. We updated each other on family news particularly with regard to his grandson's visit from across the pond this summer - he will be going on some outings with my daughter's younger son. I understand that some plotting has been going on behind my back.
Having fixed up about the lift from here to the physiotherapy class that I missed earlier this week, I received a letter this morning to say I am to attend the District General Hospital all day on a Tuesday and a Thursday. I shall get morning tea or coffee, lunch and afternoon tea. An ambulance will collect me between 8.30 and 10am and another ambulance will take me home in the afternoon.
I feel rather as though I have no control over my life, but recognise that this is nonsense.
Tuesday, 27 January 2009
Transport
Although I was not quite sure about going to the class today, I decided I was in good hands and nobody would ask me to do anything that would over-exert me, and so 9.50am saw me sitting in the lounge facing the door and watching for the car coming.
And watching
And watching
(I seem to think we have gone down this route before.)
At 10 o'clock, I came home and phoned the department.
It seems I was omitted from the list.
Well, everyone will tell you what a shrinking violet I am and how I just blend into the background and am immediately forgettable.
So back home I came and have nothing else on today except a much needed visit from the chiropodist who said she would come only if I promised not to give her such a fright as last week!
Elder son sent an interesting email. More later...
And watching
And watching
(I seem to think we have gone down this route before.)
At 10 o'clock, I came home and phoned the department.
It seems I was omitted from the list.
Well, everyone will tell you what a shrinking violet I am and how I just blend into the background and am immediately forgettable.
So back home I came and have nothing else on today except a much needed visit from the chiropodist who said she would come only if I promised not to give her such a fright as last week!
Elder son sent an interesting email. More later...
Tuesday, 13 January 2009
Confusion, Confusion
I wrote last week about speaking to a physiotherapist in this town to arrange to join her set of 12 2-hour classes. I said that I would need transport as I can no longer drive. I also mentioned that I could not get an ambulance to the previous class which is out of town.
I told her that I had been trying to get hold of that physio as I did not like to leave without speaking to her (it would be so rude) but I could not find her telephone number. This physio said that she would contact the other one and let her know and also that she would arrange transport for me.
Up early this morning and all dressed ready to go. Sat in the lounge waiting for my transport.
and waiting
and waiting.
By the time the class was supposed to start - no transport.
I then telephoned the department.
Then the phone rang and it was the physiotherapist here. She had got hold of completely the wrong end of the stick as she thought I was going to continue going to the class out of town.
!!!!!!!
So I can have a nice quiet day.
I told her that I had been trying to get hold of that physio as I did not like to leave without speaking to her (it would be so rude) but I could not find her telephone number. This physio said that she would contact the other one and let her know and also that she would arrange transport for me.
Up early this morning and all dressed ready to go. Sat in the lounge waiting for my transport.
and waiting
and waiting.
By the time the class was supposed to start - no transport.
I then telephoned the department.
Then the phone rang and it was the physiotherapist here. She had got hold of completely the wrong end of the stick as she thought I was going to continue going to the class out of town.
!!!!!!!
So I can have a nice quiet day.
Tuesday, 16 December 2008
Should Auld Acquaintance......
Today has been a brilliant day.
This morning I went to the near by small town for my physiotherapy exercise class, and managed to increase my work in spite of missing last week due to ice. Had a chat with S. about the phone call I had had from A. to tell me that a new set of courses was due to start in January. However, I hadn't realised that this would be an 8 week course and then an end, whereas the maintenance classes I am going to are ongoing. This would be much the better bet, as without someone pushing you a bit it is so easy to let it all lapse and become more severely disabled again.
After that, came home to find my vegetable box had arrived, a large delivery of potatoes, carrots, onions, 4 leeks a cauliflower, 2 cabbages and 2 good broccoli heads. The fruit was 2 oranges, 3 apples and 3 pears.
So, I cleaned out the veg basket in the fridge and placed the delivery away.
Later, My very good friend from a town across the river came over and I took her to lunch at Dobbies where we both had a salad plate and a small bottle of wine.
We then had a really good walk round and I bought one or two things from the food hall and could not resist a couple of small buys. C. was almost as good as TBSITW at tearing me away from unnecessary purchases!
Home again and ready to relax for the evening.
This morning I went to the near by small town for my physiotherapy exercise class, and managed to increase my work in spite of missing last week due to ice. Had a chat with S. about the phone call I had had from A. to tell me that a new set of courses was due to start in January. However, I hadn't realised that this would be an 8 week course and then an end, whereas the maintenance classes I am going to are ongoing. This would be much the better bet, as without someone pushing you a bit it is so easy to let it all lapse and become more severely disabled again.
After that, came home to find my vegetable box had arrived, a large delivery of potatoes, carrots, onions, 4 leeks a cauliflower, 2 cabbages and 2 good broccoli heads. The fruit was 2 oranges, 3 apples and 3 pears.
So, I cleaned out the veg basket in the fridge and placed the delivery away.
Later, My very good friend from a town across the river came over and I took her to lunch at Dobbies where we both had a salad plate and a small bottle of wine.
We then had a really good walk round and I bought one or two things from the food hall and could not resist a couple of small buys. C. was almost as good as TBSITW at tearing me away from unnecessary purchases!
Home again and ready to relax for the evening.
Tuesday, 9 December 2008
Physiotherapy???????
Last night I set my alarm for this morning to make sure I was ready to leave for my physiotherapy class. On my way to the front door of the block of flats I was accosted by the house manager asking where I was going. I told her and she advised me most strongly not to go.
My windshield was frozen (but that doesn't bother me; I just sit in the car with the engine running and the air conditioning on aimed at the front windscreen and the rear windscreen heater on which clears not only the rear windscreen but also the wing mirrors.) However on looking out the window, the car park here looked treacherous and the place my physio classes is held is much higher, with the ground likely to be much worse than here.
She also told me that many of the roads are icy, although no doubt the main roads are clear.
The upshot is that I have telephoned to say I can't come.
I now intend to do as much of the exercises as I can here.
Tonight is the bridge club Christmas hat night. My partner had very kindly arranged to pick me up, but I can only hope that she can get here as she lives in a neighbouring town.
My windshield was frozen (but that doesn't bother me; I just sit in the car with the engine running and the air conditioning on aimed at the front windscreen and the rear windscreen heater on which clears not only the rear windscreen but also the wing mirrors.) However on looking out the window, the car park here looked treacherous and the place my physio classes is held is much higher, with the ground likely to be much worse than here.
She also told me that many of the roads are icy, although no doubt the main roads are clear.
The upshot is that I have telephoned to say I can't come.
I now intend to do as much of the exercises as I can here.
Tonight is the bridge club Christmas hat night. My partner had very kindly arranged to pick me up, but I can only hope that she can get here as she lives in a neighbouring town.
Tuesday, 2 December 2008
The Second Day of Advent
This morning I went to the exercise class, and was back on form. I had to go to Asda for petrol on my way home as I was driving on air. I put in 38 litres - the most ever.
Once I got home the phone rang and it was the physiotherapist from my own town to offer me a place in January which I have been delighted to accept.
In honour of my gentleman friend coming tomorrow to take me out for dinner, I have put up my Christmas decorations. I had been planning on leaving them until my cleaners came on Friday, but - with a bit of a struggle - I managed myself. I have even put up the wreath on my flat door.
The place looks quite festive now, so I am just waiting for the sun going over the yardarm to pour myself a well-earned libation.
Noilly Prat, of course.-
Once I got home the phone rang and it was the physiotherapist from my own town to offer me a place in January which I have been delighted to accept.
In honour of my gentleman friend coming tomorrow to take me out for dinner, I have put up my Christmas decorations. I had been planning on leaving them until my cleaners came on Friday, but - with a bit of a struggle - I managed myself. I have even put up the wreath on my flat door.
The place looks quite festive now, so I am just waiting for the sun going over the yardarm to pour myself a well-earned libation.
Noilly Prat, of course.-
Tuesday, 23 September 2008
Physioterrorists again
I came home yesterday to a telephone message to say that, after discussing the case with her boss, they reluctantly have to decline the service because of the level of support we have here.
This morning I went to the physiotherapy exercise class; boys are they working me hard - I can hardly move.
Came home to find the organic veg box waiting - a mixture of potatoes, some white (Bard) and some red (Robinta), lovely carrots (Miami) with their feathery tops on, several leeks, 3 beetroot and broccoli.
The fruit was 2 bananas, 3 oranges, 3 apples and 1 kiwi fruit. Now the nursery are talking about a new development - an addition of a 'goodie' bag - this would be in addition to the normal net and they would let us know what would be in the next goodie bag, with items such as peppers, mushrooms, beansprouts, garlic, lemon, ginger, butternut squash and avocado. They are also talking about more variety of fruit, the disadvantage being the packaging so they suggest small boxes which we would leave out for the driver like the vegetable net.
Now, I had some potatoes left over from last time so I have made a potato salad with those ones. Then I had to cope with a delivery from T****.
I did manage to get something to eat and a tall glass of fresh orange and tonic.
And now I have to get ready to go to the Bridge Club.
Can I stay awake??
This morning I went to the physiotherapy exercise class; boys are they working me hard - I can hardly move.
Came home to find the organic veg box waiting - a mixture of potatoes, some white (Bard) and some red (Robinta), lovely carrots (Miami) with their feathery tops on, several leeks, 3 beetroot and broccoli.
The fruit was 2 bananas, 3 oranges, 3 apples and 1 kiwi fruit. Now the nursery are talking about a new development - an addition of a 'goodie' bag - this would be in addition to the normal net and they would let us know what would be in the next goodie bag, with items such as peppers, mushrooms, beansprouts, garlic, lemon, ginger, butternut squash and avocado. They are also talking about more variety of fruit, the disadvantage being the packaging so they suggest small boxes which we would leave out for the driver like the vegetable net.
Now, I had some potatoes left over from last time so I have made a potato salad with those ones. Then I had to cope with a delivery from T****.
I did manage to get something to eat and a tall glass of fresh orange and tonic.
And now I have to get ready to go to the Bridge Club.
Can I stay awake??
Tuesday, 16 September 2008
Physiotherapy and beyond
Serves me right for wearing my nice pale pink jersey to the physiotherapy exercise class this morning. Not long after I arrived I noticed two black marks on the front. At first I thought they were bits of fluff off my black fleece, but on further investigation, they were not. I then thought they must be Biro marks as we use black Biros to mark up our exercise charts. The physio came over and said she thought they looked more like chocolate! This was a puzzle as I rarely eat chocolate, but later I remembered taking the last biscuit from the barrel - an oat one with chocolate chips!
On my way home I made a quick visit to the garden centre and bought a cheese scone and a bottle of lemon refresher. I buttered the scone and took a mouthful when the fire alarm went off. Everybody out! I managed to wrap the scone in a napkin and grabbed my trolley and duly went out. It all turned out to be a false alarm.
When I got home I stripped off the pale pink jumper and changed into my usual black one. I then put the pink jumper and two others together with a pair of trousers and some underwear.
That's all done now apart from the jumpers which are drying flat on top of a towel on my bed.
I forgot to mention that I had forgotten to take my medications before I left for the class this morning. Lack of analgesia made it more difficult. I am also finding that, as requested, I increase the number of times I do each exercise, I am starting to run out of time before finishing.
Now for a rest and a read of The Times (I have cancelled The Scotsman as it has really gone downhill. I enjoy one columnist and am sorry not to read his articles, but I am not buying a paper just for that.
On my way home I made a quick visit to the garden centre and bought a cheese scone and a bottle of lemon refresher. I buttered the scone and took a mouthful when the fire alarm went off. Everybody out! I managed to wrap the scone in a napkin and grabbed my trolley and duly went out. It all turned out to be a false alarm.
When I got home I stripped off the pale pink jumper and changed into my usual black one. I then put the pink jumper and two others together with a pair of trousers and some underwear.
That's all done now apart from the jumpers which are drying flat on top of a towel on my bed.
I forgot to mention that I had forgotten to take my medications before I left for the class this morning. Lack of analgesia made it more difficult. I am also finding that, as requested, I increase the number of times I do each exercise, I am starting to run out of time before finishing.
Now for a rest and a read of The Times (I have cancelled The Scotsman as it has really gone downhill. I enjoy one columnist and am sorry not to read his articles, but I am not buying a paper just for that.
Tuesday, 9 September 2008
Physio-terrorists
This morning I have once again been to my exercise class and they are really putting me through my paces! I can feel almost every muscle crying out for a bit of gentle care and attention.
I decided to spoil myself and went straight away afterwards to the big garden centre for a cheese scone and lemon refresher.
I was disappointed but not surprised to see that quite a large part of the floor area has been set aside with stuff for Christmas. Mind you I can't really complain as I bought quite a lot in the January sale.
Yesterday evening I got a telephone call from my bridge partner and we are going to be big and brave and go to the bridge club tonight. This is excellent news.
Always providing I can stay awake, of course.....
I decided to spoil myself and went straight away afterwards to the big garden centre for a cheese scone and lemon refresher.
I was disappointed but not surprised to see that quite a large part of the floor area has been set aside with stuff for Christmas. Mind you I can't really complain as I bought quite a lot in the January sale.
Yesterday evening I got a telephone call from my bridge partner and we are going to be big and brave and go to the bridge club tonight. This is excellent news.
Always providing I can stay awake, of course.....
Tuesday, 2 September 2008
Physiotherapy
Do you remember that I had a home assessment visit from a community physiotherapist?
If not, pay more attention at the back!
When I got to my exercise class this morning, I was told that they had a whole lot of new exercises for me to help with my balance (and confidence) and to strengthen my legs.
You would have laughed to see me doing some of the exercises. Doing toe rises (repeated going on to tip toe) without holding on I kept losing my balance, but eventually managed a few.
Marching on the spot (with the physio standing behind me with her hands at my waist, but not holding), was not on the spot but a forward progression.
I am having to increase the stepper each week and the shuttle walk.
There was an odd one with a board which had strapped to it stretchy bands of different colours (and correspondingly differing flexibility). I had to hold one foot under the band and raise the toe off the ground. I found the easiest one too easy, and was about to say that the middle one was too easy, when I really started to feel it!
Now that I am home, I am feeling as though I have had a good work-out, which has to be excellent.
One of the physiotherapists has referred me to get a community alarm, so we shall see if a two pronged approach does any good.
If not, pay more attention at the back!
When I got to my exercise class this morning, I was told that they had a whole lot of new exercises for me to help with my balance (and confidence) and to strengthen my legs.
You would have laughed to see me doing some of the exercises. Doing toe rises (repeated going on to tip toe) without holding on I kept losing my balance, but eventually managed a few.
Marching on the spot (with the physio standing behind me with her hands at my waist, but not holding), was not on the spot but a forward progression.
I am having to increase the stepper each week and the shuttle walk.
There was an odd one with a board which had strapped to it stretchy bands of different colours (and correspondingly differing flexibility). I had to hold one foot under the band and raise the toe off the ground. I found the easiest one too easy, and was about to say that the middle one was too easy, when I really started to feel it!
Now that I am home, I am feeling as though I have had a good work-out, which has to be excellent.
One of the physiotherapists has referred me to get a community alarm, so we shall see if a two pronged approach does any good.
Tuesday, 26 August 2008
Physio, Physio, Physio!
This morning I was at my usual physiotherapy exercise classes, designed specifically for people with breathing difficulties. I have really enjoyed them, and feel that, to some extent, I have hi-jacked them to help with my walking difficulties, which are more of a concern.
After my last fall, which required the attendance of an ambulance with a paramedic and an ambulance technician, my GP referred me to the physiotherapist who deals with falls.
She phoned me yesterday. I really must be more careful how I react when caller display shows "number withheld" because I always expect it to be a cold call, but it is not always so.
So, after I returned from my class, she visited me and spent quite some time assessing my walking and balance. My leg muscles are very weak, and some of that predates even the stroke and goes back to spending about 2 weeks in ITU on a ventilator for most of that time.
I was most impressed with her, and she is going to have a chat with the other physiotherapist in charge of the respiratory rehab classes, and get back to me. There are other classes which she runs and the next lot are not due to start until January.
She noticed that my left foot is flat (which was a surprise) and suggested an insole to help.
She is also going to refer to to the County Falls Response Service for a pendant alarm (and I would get rid of the other one). The other one was a mistake - it appeared in advance to go through to the same help desk as our careline pull cords, but it doesn't and so going to a separate service will make no difference to the response, except that I won't waste the time of a paramedic and a technician, who might be needed for a real emergency.
After my last fall, which required the attendance of an ambulance with a paramedic and an ambulance technician, my GP referred me to the physiotherapist who deals with falls.
She phoned me yesterday. I really must be more careful how I react when caller display shows "number withheld" because I always expect it to be a cold call, but it is not always so.
So, after I returned from my class, she visited me and spent quite some time assessing my walking and balance. My leg muscles are very weak, and some of that predates even the stroke and goes back to spending about 2 weeks in ITU on a ventilator for most of that time.
I was most impressed with her, and she is going to have a chat with the other physiotherapist in charge of the respiratory rehab classes, and get back to me. There are other classes which she runs and the next lot are not due to start until January.
She noticed that my left foot is flat (which was a surprise) and suggested an insole to help.
She is also going to refer to to the County Falls Response Service for a pendant alarm (and I would get rid of the other one). The other one was a mistake - it appeared in advance to go through to the same help desk as our careline pull cords, but it doesn't and so going to a separate service will make no difference to the response, except that I won't waste the time of a paramedic and a technician, who might be needed for a real emergency.
Tuesday, 19 August 2008
Exercises, Hair, Shopping and so on
This morning I headed off bright and early (or, at least, early) to my physiotherapy exercise class. I was able to do everything (much to my surprise) apart from the walk exercise. I found that every time I put my right foot down, it seemed to jolt my sore rib, which is, incidentally, a lot better.
After that I headed towards big city when the heavens opened. It was really quite scary driving through such driving, heavy rain. I just managed to keep an eye on the rear lights of the car in front and stayed in position behind him.
Don’t know what I would have done if he were going to London…….
I then went to M and S to try and get a sandwich for my lunch, but there were no disabled bays left, so I went on to the hairdresser to get my hair cut. After I came out, the sun was shining so I went to the supermarket to get a bottle or two of Noilly Prat. TBSITW had bought the last bottle on the shelves the last time she was there, but they had restocked.
Back in the car and heading home, the heavens once again opened, but by the time I got home it was more of a drizzle.
I have just finished reading The Princess of Burundi by Kjell Eriksson. Funnily enough, it was quite some time before I bought it as the title sounded rather twee. However, it is anything but twee (the princesses are fish).
I have long been an aficionado of detective novels particularly romans policiers, having started many years ago with Ian Rankin and his detective Rebus. Fairly recently I moved on to European fiction, starting with Italy and Sicily moving on to Spain, then Sweden with Henning Mankell, who led the way for many others from Norway, Sweden, Iceland and Germany (all in translation, of course). Police procedural novels have much in common whichever country they come from, but the different countries and authors bring quite different flavours to their books.
Then a. called to my attention a French author, Fred Vargas, and sent me a copy in French. I was quite surprised how easy I found it to read. Since then I have read all her works which are translated into English, but have now found some in French available through Amazon and my first is winging its way to me even as I write this.
Le Chef has given me a copy of Madame Bovary in French to read, but I feel I need a bit more practice with the language first.
The Princess of Burundi differs from most of the others by not having a prominent hero so much as an ensemble cast; someone likened it to Ed McBain’s 87th Precinct novels.
Do you remember how I wrote on Sunday’s post that I had walked out of M and S in high dudgeon when the assistant denied that the label saying “2 for £5” about flowers which had been £2.99.
Well, today I got 2 bunches just as good from the supermarket – and at only £1.99 each.
Later, I had to go to the surgery for the asthma clinic run by the Nurse Practitioner. I had hoped for some improvement on last year, but at least it is stable, and people with c.o.p.d. usually deteriorate from year to year.
After that I headed towards big city when the heavens opened. It was really quite scary driving through such driving, heavy rain. I just managed to keep an eye on the rear lights of the car in front and stayed in position behind him.
Don’t know what I would have done if he were going to London…….
I then went to M and S to try and get a sandwich for my lunch, but there were no disabled bays left, so I went on to the hairdresser to get my hair cut. After I came out, the sun was shining so I went to the supermarket to get a bottle or two of Noilly Prat. TBSITW had bought the last bottle on the shelves the last time she was there, but they had restocked.
Back in the car and heading home, the heavens once again opened, but by the time I got home it was more of a drizzle.
I have just finished reading The Princess of Burundi by Kjell Eriksson. Funnily enough, it was quite some time before I bought it as the title sounded rather twee. However, it is anything but twee (the princesses are fish).
I have long been an aficionado of detective novels particularly romans policiers, having started many years ago with Ian Rankin and his detective Rebus. Fairly recently I moved on to European fiction, starting with Italy and Sicily moving on to Spain, then Sweden with Henning Mankell, who led the way for many others from Norway, Sweden, Iceland and Germany (all in translation, of course). Police procedural novels have much in common whichever country they come from, but the different countries and authors bring quite different flavours to their books.
Then a. called to my attention a French author, Fred Vargas, and sent me a copy in French. I was quite surprised how easy I found it to read. Since then I have read all her works which are translated into English, but have now found some in French available through Amazon and my first is winging its way to me even as I write this.
Le Chef has given me a copy of Madame Bovary in French to read, but I feel I need a bit more practice with the language first.
The Princess of Burundi differs from most of the others by not having a prominent hero so much as an ensemble cast; someone likened it to Ed McBain’s 87th Precinct novels.
Do you remember how I wrote on Sunday’s post that I had walked out of M and S in high dudgeon when the assistant denied that the label saying “2 for £5” about flowers which had been £2.99.
Well, today I got 2 bunches just as good from the supermarket – and at only £1.99 each.
Later, I had to go to the surgery for the asthma clinic run by the Nurse Practitioner. I had hoped for some improvement on last year, but at least it is stable, and people with c.o.p.d. usually deteriorate from year to year.
Wednesday, 13 August 2008
She really is TBSITW.
This morning she came round and cut to fit two more photographs for a photo frame which holds 5 small photos; she has done brother's grandson and granddaughter holding her new baby brother, one of herself holding the lab as a puppy in her arms and another of the two dogs in their cage in the back of the car (before one had sadly to be put to sleep recently). She also fitted, in a larger frame, the photo of elder son's 2 children - NB to elder son - I still wait for the photo of you and daughter in law!!!!
After that, she really looked at the issue of a new computer desk and at the same time looked at how much room there would be for it (not a lot, I have to say.) At the end, she has mended the one I broke and it now works, so I am certainly not replacing it - thank goodness as I really couldn't get my head around it.
And THEN she listed all the food in my freezer and its date and which drawer it was in. All this in return for a ham and tomato sandwich for lunch.
I may have mentioned that I didn't feel up to going to my physiotherapy exercise class yesterday and phoned to cancel. In the afternoon the Senior Physiotherapist called me back and we had a very good, productive chat. I was explaining how my GP had referred me to the physiotherapist who is part of the Falls Response Team, to which she said that I might be quite disappointed as the exercises were liable to be like the ones I am attending just now.
I said I would really like someone to look at my walking in bare feet as, since my stroke, I think I roll outwards on my left foot and that this might be most of the cause of my falls. We discussed that the Neurologist was going to refer me for physio when I lived at my old address, but I was moving very shortly and so was he - to the opposite end of the country. I think that, after that, it just fell by the wayside. Perhaps this fall will bring a good result. The Senior Physio is going to have a chat with the Falls Response Physio and also with the Neuro Physio. This is excellent.
After that, she really looked at the issue of a new computer desk and at the same time looked at how much room there would be for it (not a lot, I have to say.) At the end, she has mended the one I broke and it now works, so I am certainly not replacing it - thank goodness as I really couldn't get my head around it.
And THEN she listed all the food in my freezer and its date and which drawer it was in. All this in return for a ham and tomato sandwich for lunch.
I may have mentioned that I didn't feel up to going to my physiotherapy exercise class yesterday and phoned to cancel. In the afternoon the Senior Physiotherapist called me back and we had a very good, productive chat. I was explaining how my GP had referred me to the physiotherapist who is part of the Falls Response Team, to which she said that I might be quite disappointed as the exercises were liable to be like the ones I am attending just now.
I said I would really like someone to look at my walking in bare feet as, since my stroke, I think I roll outwards on my left foot and that this might be most of the cause of my falls. We discussed that the Neurologist was going to refer me for physio when I lived at my old address, but I was moving very shortly and so was he - to the opposite end of the country. I think that, after that, it just fell by the wayside. Perhaps this fall will bring a good result. The Senior Physio is going to have a chat with the Falls Response Physio and also with the Neuro Physio. This is excellent.
Tuesday, 17 June 2008
A trial of strikethrough (amongst other things)
Up early for the veg box man; also wanted my milk delivery. Our usual delivery man is on holiday and this one is not so efficient. The veg box man missed me as I had to go to my physiotherapy class. This was a real pity as I had not had time to pay him last time, so it is three lots next time.
After the class I went as usual for my tea and scone - they were giving 2 scones for the price of one, so I smuggled one out!
After that I had to go for 2 photographs for my newdisabled motorist card, so went to big supermarket. As usual they are not like me at all - who is that ugly old hag then?
Got home to discover the house manager had put my milk in the fridge and the veggies in the kitchen. Now all packed away.
I always call my disabled badge my "get out of jail free card" and I tried to put in a bit about that with a strikethrough, but it did not work the bit between the left sharp bracket and the right sharp bracket was deleted.
The veg today were the usual potatoes, carrots and onions plus a kohl rabi, a beautiful lettuce, some beetroot and broad beans
The weather was cold and chucking it down, so it was rather an unpleasant drive to the physiotherapy class, but it seems to be brightening up now.
After the class I went as usual for my tea and scone - they were giving 2 scones for the price of one, so I smuggled one out!
After that I had to go for 2 photographs for my new
Got home to discover the house manager had put my milk in the fridge and the veggies in the kitchen. Now all packed away.
I always call my disabled badge my "get out of jail free card" and I tried to put in a bit about that with a strikethrough, but it did not work the bit between the left sharp bracket and the right sharp bracket was deleted.
The veg today were the usual potatoes, carrots and onions plus a kohl rabi, a beautiful lettuce, some beetroot and broad beans
The weather was cold and chucking it down, so it was rather an unpleasant drive to the physiotherapy class, but it seems to be brightening up now.
Tuesday, 20 May 2008
More Exercises
Perhaps as a result of Saturday's fall, I found I was struggling a bit at the class this morning, but at least I managed to complete the circuit.
On my way home, my car was drawn irresistibly into the correct lane to enter the garden centre, so what could I do?
I managed to find a disabled parking bay near the front doors, and went in and had a cheese scone and butter with a glass of ginger and lemongrass presse.
The vegetable box this morning had potatoes, carrots and onions together with a white cabbage, a lettuce, a bag of spinach, and several stalks of rhubarb. The fruit comprised 2 apples, 2 onions, 2 bananas and a kiwi fruit, and as usual, half a dozen eggs.
I am going to make some spinach soup (the light version using semi-skimmed milk instead of cream), and I shall also have to make a rhubarb crumble. There was a recipe for this included with the rhubarb, so I shall try that out later this week.
On my way home, my car was drawn irresistibly into the correct lane to enter the garden centre, so what could I do?
I managed to find a disabled parking bay near the front doors, and went in and had a cheese scone and butter with a glass of ginger and lemongrass presse.
The vegetable box this morning had potatoes, carrots and onions together with a white cabbage, a lettuce, a bag of spinach, and several stalks of rhubarb. The fruit comprised 2 apples, 2 onions, 2 bananas and a kiwi fruit, and as usual, half a dozen eggs.
I am going to make some spinach soup (the light version using semi-skimmed milk instead of cream), and I shall also have to make a rhubarb crumble. There was a recipe for this included with the rhubarb, so I shall try that out later this week.
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