Mick McKellar Update--Day +61
Iron clouds locked the sun away today and, fortunately, for walkers like us, retained their moisture. Temperatures here are moderate today (mid 40's) and with little wind, walking was comfortable. We did not have to go to the hospital, so we walked to Barlow Plaza (about a mile or so from here) and picked up a couple of items to share at tomorrow's Easter dinner.
Gift of Life Transplant House is providing the ham and turkey, remaining residents are bringing dishes to pass. Many of the patients were able to go home for a day or two to share Easter with their families -- mainly those who live close by and can be near a hospital at home.
Medically, either I am stable enough to have the weekend off, or not bad enough to require more blood tests until Monday morning. Either way, we had a chance to "sleep in" and take the day slowly. I still maintain daily protocols for skin care and rotation on my meds. I still test my blood sugar (only 99 this morning!) and inject the appropriate amount of insulin to counter the effects of the Prednisone. But, not having to go to the hospital, especially on a holiday weekend is a blessing.
Peace and 'roids
Mirrors are shaking and dust from ages past is airborne in my mind tonight. I try to focus on the quiet peace of Easter and the general goodwill of those around me, yet there is this whirlwind whisking through the chambers of my mind and disturbing layers of old memories and cleaving through shadows and blowing cobwebs from places best left undisturbed. I know intellectually that it is the effects of Prednisone and other chemicals dancing about in my brain soup. Yet, it feels like electrical shorts jumping back and forth faster than I can follow.
The results are not pleasant for others. My voice is too loud right now and my language abrupt and even hurtful. I babble about things and tell the same stories over and over again. I ask questions and immediately forget the answers...no wonder they won't let me drive.
And yet...
Through it all, my mind works, but at a slower setting. Before I babble even more tonight, I think I will allow the process to settle a bit and pray that Easter and quiet and time away from the hospital will permit the dust to settle back and let me see what new and old challenges and revelations are illuminated.
Your Easter messages and communications have been both beautiful and reassuring. The silence from the hospital has been a blessing. As the heavens resonate tomorrow morning with the joy of Easter Sunday, my prayers and Marian's song will soar with yours.
Thank you all, and may your Easter be both blessing and joy.
Mick.