1646 Daddy Follow-up

Well, I couldn’t just leave things hanging after that last entry.

They performed a myriad of tests on my dad on Friday. Some results are back, but some aren’t. The initial diagnoses is an ulcer. Which TBU & I keep referring to as "just an ulcer"…since the alternate illnesses that could’ve been diagnosed were so very very very bad indeed.

We’re still waiting for some additional test results, but it seems as if things are looking pretty good at this time.

In an effort to protect myself (my brother as well, but mostly myself) from falling immediately back into caregiver mode (because quite frankly neither Boogie or I have the emotional or physical capacity to care for another ill parent these days) I have made a decision to push my dad a little bit.

One of the things the nurse mentioned was a change in diet, but my dad knows absolutely NOTHING about nutrition. My brother and I could go blue in the face trying to convince him what he should/should not be eating (b/c we do in fact know TONS sbout nutrition). However, I’m not going to waste my breath and end up with nothing but frustration. I pushed him to ask his doctor for a referral to speak with a nutritionist. (Knowing my dad, he’d take a nutritionist’s word over Boogie or me anyway.) He seemed to like the idea. So, we’ll see.

Let’s face it, I’m giving birth via c-section (aka: major abdominal surgery) in 9 days. If you think I’ve got the energy to chase around after him in the grocery store, you’re wrong. I’m not even going to offer to help clean out the pantry. It’s not my job. I know it makes me sound heartless, but I’ve got enough on my plate to keep myself busy until this baby arrives.

My grief counselor and I spent quite a bit of time discussing my caregiver role. It was nice to have an impartial person tell me NOT to get overly involved in caregiving for him – especially since his illness is so (relatively) minor. Let’s face it, if anyone needs a caregiver…it will be me in 9 short days. I will not feel guilty about it, either. Nope, not one little bit.

PrissyGirl

March 11, 2007

You are probably right that he would ‘believe’ a professional over you guys. I think it’s a great idea to handle it that way. I can’t believe TLU2 is going to be here in 9 days!!!

Bippy

I’ve had a C-Section, and a vaginal birth after c-section. Just don’t cough or laugh for about 2 weeks and you’ll be fine…

The1Chick

I can so relate to the caregiver situation… had many seemingly similar conversations with my grief counselor after my mom’s passing. It’s hard to let go of that role in my experience… so much of my identity was wrapped up with being THAT person for EVERYONE, especially my dad and immediate family. Anyway, so glad your daddy is ok and so excited about the arrival of the new baby. It’s a joyous thing.

kiki

March 12, 2007

Thinking of you!

bessabeth

::hugs:: good call going for the nutritionist. 🙂

Libby

You’re definitely doing the right thing. A nutritionist is a great idea. Take care,

I’m glad it’s nothing too serious and totally agree that you need to focus on you for right now.

Misguided Angel

“We’re still waiting for some additional test results, but it seems as if things are looking pretty good at this time.” Thank god. Boogie isn’t pregnant. Let him step up on this one!

fortysomething

You are being very wise. You need to be very careful with your energy right now. Good luck getting ready to see that beautiful new boy!

It doesnt make you sound heartless, it makes me think you feel exhausted. Which you rightly should. You took care of your mom for so long, and your family and now you are in the very homestretch of a not-easy pregnancy (not the pregnancy itself but everything else) and you need to get yourself emotionally ready for Mr.2 . Is it possible for you to get a massage and facial before he arrives? I didthat before Sam got here (both my mom and MIL were in the hospital with very serious illnesses at the time) and I still believe it kept me from going insane that day.If you need anything, keep me in mind.

Those pictures are terrific! Thanks for leading me to them. I love the idea of the animal crackers.

Hilary

I’m SO glad that it’s “just an ulcer.” My dad is also of the stubborn, can’t-tell-him-anything ilk. Sometimes you just have to know when to stop pushing. Sounds like you do.