Vickie spent much of the day with her sisters, including a visit to one sister’s home during the afternoon. A takeout Mexican dinner was enjoyed later. No late New Years partying this year.

There was little noteworthy change in Vickie’s condition today.

The anti-biotic Vickie has been taking was changed today to see if it would give better results.

All signs now seem to point to better days ahead for Vickie. The infection is still present and being treated, but it doesn’t appear to be having much negative effect on her behavior.

Vickie continues to do well.

Great appetite today. Vickie had a pleasant day, good interaction and conversation. We may be on an upswing.

Vickie had a good day. Eating well and responding to others.

Although Vickie slept more than usual today, she was in good form for the yearly Christmas Eve get-together with family at sister’s home. Snacking and conversing, the interaction was hearting. It was quite a difference from last year when she made an impromptu visit, surprising her host, while leaving the nursing facility for her first social excursion.

Vickie started on another round of anti-biotic to treat the infection that won’t go away.
She is looking forward to Christmas eve and all that goes with it.

A small increase in her appetite was a good sign for Vickie today. Tests show that the infection she was being treated for is still present and could be part of her ongoing problem.

Again Vickie’s condition has changed very little. At times she seems much improved only to regress later without any apparent reason.

While Vickie’s cognitive ability and appetite have not returned to the mid-October level, she is still slowly improving. Meals are an off and on situation, interrelated to the pain she feels at times.

Vickie’s condition remained unchanged for today.

Vickie was a sleepy head today. She ate a light breakfast much later than usual.
The hair has been an issue since the last surgery, so daughter-in-law/hairdresser visited and gave Vickie a trim. We are back to the “punk look”, just when she was starting to look like her old self.

Vickie improved some today; she ate a good-sized breakfast and snacked during the day and into the evening. The neck pain seems to come and go with no consistent pattern or explaination

There was little improvement in Vickie’s condition today. While having a small meal or snack, she will experience pain in her head or neck and then refuse to eat any more. If the new shunt isn’t somehow related to this problem we are stymied for now.

Vickie gained a little appetite back today but still not where we would like to see it. She was a little more alert and expressive

The neurosurgeon ordered a CAT scan for Vickie this afternoon. After examining the scan results, he thinks the shunt is working properly and that Vickie’s problems are not related to the last surgery.

Vickie’s malaise continues on today. We have no idea what is behind this reversal in her condition.

After several days of improvement, Vickie reverted back to her pre-surgery self today, refusing to eat and not being very cognizant. Not sure of the cause of this problem.

The latest development is Vickie’s increased awareness of what and who is around her. She is making comments and observations about things she didn’t seem to notice before.

Vickie continues to show signs of improvement. She was able to interact reasonably well with the grandchildren when they paid her a short visit this morning.

Vickie’s appetite is still good, she eats a small breakfast and small dinner.
The pain complaints seem to come and go and are treated with mild medication.

Vickie still has her appetite and is alert much of the time. She still complains of various pains but not as much as before this last surgery. Now if we could figure out what to do about her hair.

The surgeon gave Vickie the “all clear” to leave LEH today after a CAT scan showed that the new shunt was draining properly.
She returned home this evening and immediately had a small dinner. She was somewhat talkative, all of this being very different behavior from that of the last month. We will know more tomorrow when any pain medications, administered in the hospital wear off.

Vickie’s neurosurgeon inserted the new shunt this afternoon. The surgery took several hours. Vickie is recuperating this evening and will remain hospitalized until we are reasonably sure of no major complications. Unfortunately she had to lose much of the hair that had taken a year and a half to regrow.

Vickie will go to LEH tomorrow to have the shunt implanted. Hopefully this will resolve some of her ongoing problems.

Another good day, still some problems but not as severe as has been the case in the last few weeks.

Vickie is showing more improvement each day. A hearty appetite [for her] and much more alert and interactive with others.

Vickie seemed to do better today. Her appetite is improving and her overall condition is progressing. The cold symptoms are almost gone, so she was spared a serious problem there.

Vickie will return to LEMC next week to have a shunt inserted where the previous troublesome one was.
She had a little better appetite today but still nowhere near what it should be.

As per her neurosurgeon’s instructions, Vickie went to the ED at MHMC this afternoon. It is possible that she will need to have the drain tube that was removed last summer reinserted. They believe she has an excess of fluid around her brain and the pressure might be causing her neck and head pain.

Vickie had more tests plus a CAT scan this afternoon to rule out possible problems that might be preventing her recovery.

There was no significant improvement in Vickie's condition today.

Vickie's condition seemed to improve today. She had a little more appetite and stayed more alert.

No change or improvement in Vickie's condition today.

Vickie is still without much appetite. She complains of neck and head pain constantly and refuses to eat.

The cold symptoms seem to be taking their toll on Vickie. Very little appetite and listless most of the day. She has chest congestion and head cold problems.

Vickie was more alert today, still not up to her best, but much improved from just a few days ago.

Vickie was quiet again today, but she became more alert and hungry this evening.
An aggressive anti-biotic was started this afternoon; hopefully it will have positive results.

Tests today determined the antibiotic Vickie is taking for her latest infection is not having success. A more aggressive medication has been prescribed. She remains listless, with no appetite.

The cold Vickie is suffering from kept her quiet and without any appetite today.

Vickie ate a good breakfast. Later in the day she seemed more tired and lost her appetite. She was experiencing some discomfort before her bedtime, possibly symptoms of the cold she has.

Vickie was quieter today, probably because of the cold she is suffering. There is considerable lung congestion, which is always troubling for someone with her limited mobility. She still managed to eat well, so very little reduction in her appetite.

Despite having a cold, Vickie, otherwise had a good day. She ate several good size meals and was more talkative.

Vickie's condition continues to improve. Better appetite and more alertness during the day. She started coughing and sneezing tonight so here we go again.

Vickie is starting to show signs of improvement. She is eating more and sleeping less during the day.
A visit to the surgeon this afternoon went well, he is satisfied with Vickie's wound healing progress.
A new problem may be coming, Vickie's two primary caregivers have serious cold type illness, undoubtedly she has already been exposed.

Tests today determined Vickie is suffering from an infection, probably contracted while in the hospital but not connected to the surgery.

After Vickie ate a good breakfast this morning,
she spent much of the rest of the day sleeping.

Vickie started the day better than she has in some time. She ate a small breakfast and this evening she continued to eat more. She was also more alert and responsive than she has been for a while.

Vickie ate a little today, but still not enough to sustain herself.

There was no change if Vickie's condition today.

Vickie continues to be lethargic and eats little of the meals offered to her.

Another quiet day for Vickie. A sister stayed with her during the afternoon and provided an early dinner which Vickie ate, something she hasn't done for several days.

There was no change in Vickie's condition today. A very lite appetite and little attentiveness.

A visit from a close friend usually perks Vickie up, but not today,she just couldn't stay awake.
Later Vickie spent the afternoon at a sister's and ate some dinner.

Vickie slept more today than she usually does. Some appetite, but still not back to where she was before the last surgery.

Vickie seems to be coming out of the subdued state she has been in since returning home from her latest surgery. She is growing more alert and is slowly regaining her appetite.

Vickie remains lethargic and unable to eat on her own.

No progress today for Vickie, still refusing to eat and very quiet.

Vickie's condition remains unchanged. She kept her appointment with her surgeon this morning, he thinks her surgery is healing properly.
She continues to not have an appetite, not sure of the reason.

Vickie is still quiet and doen't seem to have her appetite back. No apparent reason.

Aside from a small increase in appetite Vickie's condition remains the same.

Vickie slept most of the day, very listless and still no appetite. Receiving nourishment and liquids thru her PEG tube.

Vickie had a quiet day. She is still experiencing some discomfort. When she receives medication for pain she becomes very drowsy.

Vickie had an uneventful day. A sister visited and prepared the dinner she brought.
Vickie's appetite is returning.

Vickie returned to her home this evening. She made the trip without any problems. She is very tired and sleeps a lot.
The incision from the surgery will take several more weeks to heal and will require extra attention from her caregivers to prevent further complications.

Vickie will probably leave LEH within two or three days. She still needs extra care and medication.

Vickie was quiet today. Not much energy or enthusiasm. Still on the IV for fluids.
The so-called social worker is anxious to send her to a SNF. Vickie has used up her allotted time.

Vickie is still at LEH. She is doing a little better but not good enough to return home just yet. It will be a day by day decision.

Vickie was more alert today. She was able to sit up to eat and drink a little. She talks some, but still expresses feeling some pain.
A minor infection is the probable cause of a higher than normal temperature.
No date has been set for her discharge from LEH.

There are no significant changes is Vickie's condition today. She spends much of the day sleeping.

Vickie is showing some improvement today. She was able to sit up on the side of her bed for a short time to drink a small amount of juice this evening.
She still experiences pain from the surgery and doesn’t tolerate the IV very well.
On the positive side, there does not seem to be any sign of infection or breathing problems.

Vickie seems to be recovering from her surgery of yesterday. She is still experiencing some pain and discomfort. She is on the IV and will be for several more days.

Vickie’s surgery went well this afternoon without any unexpected complications or problems. She may be able to have visitors Wednesday evening if her progress continues.

Vickie will be returning to LEH tomorrow morning for reconstructive surgery. She will probably stay there the rest of the week.
Preparation for the procedure, starting this morning made the day unpleasant and somewhat discomforting. No dinner this evening or breakfast Tuesday. Not a happy camper.

Vickie went out with a sister this afternoon and had dinner later before returning home.
Vickie has a busy week coming up so she needed some special time away from home.

Vickie’s all afternoon birthday event went well with family and friends dropping in. Relatives Vickie had not seen in some time were able to visit for a while.

Friday, dinner at home for a change. Getting rested for Saturday.
Tommorrow there will be birthday cake for Vickie.

Another day without problems except we ran out of Vickie's fruit juice.

A sister brought Vickie to her home for dinner this evening. Vickie rarely has her evening meal at home any more.

Dinner at a sister’s, some TV on the new wide screen HD set and then back home finished Vickie’s pleasant day.

Vickie day was routine, without any problems, which is a good thing.

Sisters and Vickie attended an afternoon showing of a movie at a theater today. Later they met with still another sister for dinner at a local restaurant.

Saturday afternoon and evening Vickie visited at a sister’s before returning home.

After a routine day Vickie went out for Chinese dinner, almond chicken.

Vickie had another pleasant day.

Vickie spent another evening at a sister’s, returning home after dinner.

Just another regular day for Vickie.

A visit by a former colleague from MHMC brightened Vickie’s afternoon. She always welcomes guests, especially if they bring cheesecake.

As usual for a Sunday, Vickie spent the afternoon at a sister’s and had dinner there. She has developed quite an appetite now, a long way from the previous times when meals were an on again –off again situation.

Vickie traveled across the river to have a nice dinner at the home of some friends. Now that she is able to assist, albeit in a small way, the transfer from one seat to another, she was able to make the trip sitting in the passenger seat of a regular vehicle rather than sitting in her wheelchair in the magic bus.

Vickie spent the late afternoon and evening at a sister's before returning home.

Vickie had another pleasant day.

Vickie traveled to LGS to keep an appointment with her Neurosurgeon this afternoon. A scan was also done to check for unseen problems. None were found.

Vickie had dinner at a sister’s today. She doesn’t spend many evenings at home since she has been feeling better.

A good day for Vickie. A sister visited this afternoon and made dinner for her.

Late morning, Vickie enjoyed a visit from her oldest grandson. She then spent the afternoon and had dinner at a sister’s home. Still without problems.

Another pleasant day for Vickie, with her sister during the afternoon and a quiet evening at home.

Vickie spent the evening with a sister. A dinner at the local Elmer’s was an added treat.

Fortunately we have reached a point where there is little to note as far as Vickie’s situation is concerned. Her days are routine now without any new complications.

Just another day without any new problems for Vickie.
After a scheduled Dr. appointment Vickie had dinner out with a sister.

Vickie kept her appointment with her abdominal surgeon this morning at LEH. She will have surgery in October to reconnect her colon.
After the Dr. appointment, Vickie paid an impromptu visit to some of her former coworkers at LEH. They were glad to see her and to see that she was doing much better now than she was when they last saw her.
This evening Vickie had dinner at a sister’s; Chinese take-out this time, no home cooked meals tonight.

Lab tests determined that Vickie’s illness Sunday evening was not caused by an infection. It may have been the result of a food borne problem. She showed no symptoms today and resumed eating her regular meals.

Vickie had a friend visit during the middle of the day and then spent the rest of the day at a sister's home.
Late in the evening she bacame ill for the first time since July. An infection unrelated to the previous one is a probable cause.

Vickie and sister had late lunch at the local Dairy Queen this afternoon. Later she entertained visitors for a while.

Vickie had another uneventful day. She has been home one month now and still no end in sight for her continuing improvement.

Vickie had dinner at a sister’s home this evening. She is still doing well.

Another what has become routine, day for Vickie. A total absence of problems and a slow improvement in her condition.

Vickie visited a sister’s and later a niece’s home this evening. Another free dinner.

No problems for Vickie today.

Vickie spent another afternoon visiting at a sister’s home. She finished her stay with dinner before returning home.

Vickie visited at sister’s home this afternoon and enjoyed being out. We are resuming having Vickie spend more time away from her home to keep her from becoming bored and to keep her active as possible, mentally and otherwise.

Vickie made it to the Dr’s late this afternoon for her pro-time test; the results were right where she needed to be.
A taco salad was Vickie’s choice for dinner tonight with plenty of chips and salsa.

The absence of serious problems leaves little to comment about.
Vickie is still improving slowly. Her appetite is increasing, as is her attention to what is going on around her.

Vickie enjoyed dinner at sister’s home this evening.

It’s now three weeks that Vickie has been in her home and six weeks since the last surgery. Her condition is still improving.

Vickie hosted a family holiday gathering today in her backyard.

One of the most significant changes in Vickie’s behavior is her increased appetite. She now eats almost as much as she did before her medical problems arose. The tube feeding is a thing of the past.
In the last few days her sleep pattern seems to have stabilized to a more normal routine. It seems she is back on the road to recovery at last, given the short period of time everything has turned around.

Vickie slept in this morning. After lunch she supervised the yard work for several hours. This evening she entertained visitors before calling it a day.

After an uneventful day, Vickie went out for Chinese food (cashew chicken).

Vickie slept more today than usual, maybe she was tired from her activities yesterday. Otherwise she had a pleasant day.

Vickie kept her appointment with her Dr. today. Everything seems to be under control, so no significant changes in her medication or treatment. This is the first time she has traveled since returning home two weeks ago. She made the trip without any problems.

An enchilada and a piece of apple pie were on Vickie’s menu for dinner tonight. The change in her behavior from before the last hospitalization is almost startling.

It was a regular day for Vickie, no new problems. She is eating more quantity and will rely less on the tube feeding as she progresses.

Vickie spent a little time outside in the warm sun this afternoon. She had her first shower in over a month this evening. She is adjusting back to the situation she was at before the last crisis, only without the constant problems that plagued her then.

Vickie ate two small meals while sitting in her wheelchair today. It’s the first time she has been out of her room since she returned home twelve days ago.

Vickie’s pleasant day was capped off with a visit from her two youngest grandsons.
Still no new problems. It seems now that some of the recovery we were hoping for over the last year, could still happen.

Vickie stood up next to her bed for a short time this afternoon with plenty of assistance of course. This weekend after some more practice sitting up and standing, she will use her wheelchair briefly. We also intend to begin giving her more opportunities to eat regular food on a limited basis.

The therapist that can give the ok for Vickie to resume eating wants her to have more extensive tests to determine her ability to swallow. We probably will forego such tests and gradually begin to give Vickie food as long as it doesn’t appear to create a problem.

Vickie has been home one week now and it’s been four weeks since she was hospitalized the last time. The constant nausea episodes have not returned at all. She has a much more relaxed mood now and she is much more aware and responsive.
Our short term goal is to have Vickie eating normally and using her wheelchair so she can get out to experience life again.

We are getting anxious to have Vickie eating and not spending all of her time in bed. The therapists and Dr. will have to determine when she is ready to advance. She seems to be ready now.

Three sisters took turns caring for Vickie today. She was in a good mood for most of the day.

Breaking with the Dr.’s instructions, Vickie had a small snack and a small amount of juice today. She is supposed to be fed with the pump and tube only, but she said she was hungry and thirsty. Eating or drinking doesn’t seem to be a problem for her.

Vickie has been home for three days now without any setbacks.
She is still bedridden due to the extensive surgery of three weeks ago.
Her mental abilities are as good or better than they were before the latest hospitalization.

Vickie had another quiet day with still no new problems.
Visiting nurse and a therapist are seeing Vickie at home to help with her care.

Vickie had a sleepless night and was very quiet during her first day at home. We are still adjusting to her new feeding procedure and her different medication and care regimen. So far, none of the nausea problems that plagued her before have reoccurred.

Vickie was transported back to her home this evening.
The VNA helped with the new pump feeding system, similar to the type used in the hospital and other chores that are new to us.
Vickie seems content and relaxed. She was away from her home for three weeks.

Vickie slept much of the day. She seems to be back to her old schedule of staying awake at night and sleeping during the day.
Vickie will probably return home tomorrow evening if there are no new issues.

Vickie was able to spend some time in the courtyard this afternoon; she thought it was warm out. She is getting bored and says she wants to leave.

Vickie slept much of the day and was otherwise very quiet.
There were no new developments or problems

Despite what many believe, the medical system does not always operate like a finely tuned machine. Vickie will remain at LEH until Monday. There were no new problems with Vickie, just poor communication between staff.
Whether Vickie returns to Rest Harbor is in question now. Unless some major financial issues are resolved, it’s possible she will go to another facility.

The overseers at Emanuel have determined that Vickie has stayed at their center long enough. She is to be discharged tomorrow as soon as a skilled nursing facility is able to accept her. She will probably return to Rest Harbor where she spent the last part of 2004.
As a little bit of irony, it was one year ago today Vickie arrived at Rest Harbor. It won’t be the same this time.
As of today all of the anti-biotics ended. She is still being fed with the tube.

Again just when we think we have everything figured out, something unexpected happens. Vickie was tentatively scheduled to have her temporary shunt replaced with a more permanent one today. The Dr. ordered a CAT scan this afternoon to ensure everything was as it should be. The test showed, in the Dr.’s opinion, Vickie didn’t need the shunt; the natural drainage system was working fine.
The importance of this turn of events can’t be stressed enough. Since it’s quite possible the shunt that was inserted last summer was the cause of Vickie’s constant nausea problem.

Vickie was much brighter today, more talkative and alert to her environment.
Possibly, the shunt replacement procedure could be tomorrow.

Sleepy at times and somewhat agitated at other times bests describes Vickie’s day.
Still no definite date for the shunt procedure.

Another quiet day. Vickie is still experiencing some discomfort from her surgery. The tube feeding is going well.
Sometime this week, the shunt replacement is expected.

No significant changes for Vickie today. Still using the tube feeding. She spent much of the day watching TV.

A quiet day for Vickie. She no longer receives nourishment by IV. All feeding is thru her tube. Still not allowed to eat normal.
She has new foot splints to prevent bedsores on her feet, a new problem.

Vickie was alert and responsive today. She was able to sit up in a special hospital chair for half an hour this morning.
The tube feeding is doing better now. Hopefully she will be allowed to feed herself soon.

Vickie seems to be recovering from her ordeal. This evening she watched TV from her bed and made comments on the news. She is able to talk a little so we know we haven’t lost anything.
The medical issues are still unresolved, but that is subject to change as her condition stabilizes. Next week will be the most important since that is when the shunt replacement is tentatively scheduled. We haven’t heard from the financial overlords yet, but we know they are hovering impatiently.

Vickie was able to sleep well today, something that has eluded her during this latest hospitalization. The tube feeding has started and so far no negative reactions. When she was awake we had glimpses of her old self.

Vickie continues with pain medication. She is being fed thru the PEG tube, at a slow rate to see if she can tolerate it.
She is experiencing several minor complications due to inactivity and confinement to the bed.
Vickie still has lung congestion, when she tries to cough; it causes discomfort in the area affected by the surgery.

Vickie’s condition seemed to be much improved from Saturday. She isn’t complaining about pain as much as before. She is still having strong pain medication.
She has been receiving respiratory treatment and the congestion is not as noticeable. She now has a rash on her body, probably from an anti-biotic, just like last year.
This evening Vickie was a little more talkative and aware of what was going on around her.

Vickie had a quiet day with visits from different family members.
Vickie seems to be experiencing more pain. She is now receiving a very strong pain medication. She also has serious lung congestion.

This afternoon Vickie was moved to TRAC U.
She was responsive and able to communicate some. After the extensive surgeries she is still listless and in considerable pain.
The visiting rules are much more relaxed now with few restrictions. There is a visitor’s logbook in her room, just like last year. In fact she is only a few rooms down the hall from where she stayed this time last summer.

Vickie is still in ICU. She will be there for an indefinite time. She receives pain medication, which keeps her drowsy most of the time.

This morning Vickie had a cranial procedure to determine if she did have an infection associated with her shunt. The results showed positive for infection.
Late in the afternoon Vickie went to the operating room to have the shunt removed. When it was pulled out it was apparent that something else was wrong. The surgeon realized the lower end of the tube had caused a perforation in her colon, a very unusual situation. Additional surgeons were called in to do abdominal surgery. They did a colostomy. This will remain until Vickie’s body heals enough to tolerate surgery to repair the damage. In the meantime she will remain at Emanuel for several weeks primarily for infection prevention.

A series of severe seizures this morning sent Vickie, by ambulance to Mt. Hood MC. After multiple tests and exams it was determined she needed more specialized care. She was transferred to Emanuel late in the afternoon.
The initial but not final diagnosis is an infection near the brain caused by her shunt tube or possibly some sort of gastro irregularity. It may take some time to identify the exact cause. Hopefully the nausea problem can be treated correctly for good this time.
As of late this evening Vickie had not awakened from her morning ordeal, so she was supplied nourishment by IV.
She is in the east ICU wing, which has very restricted visiting times.

Beginning with breakfast, Vickie suffered from a severe case of nausea that was still causing her much distress at bedtime.

This afternoon Vickie attended a birthday picnic for one of her older sisters. She ate plenty of the great potluck foods. It was more like a family reunion and Vickie enjoyed the occasion.

Vickie had lunch and visited at a sister’s home during the afternoon.
A bedtime nausea episode spoiled what had been an enjoyable day.

Despite a restless night Vickie recovered well. She ate a sizable breakfast [for her]. After a long morning nap she did lunch, again cleaning her plate.
After her Chinese dinner, Vickie stopped at her younger son’s home for a piece of his birthday cake and a short visit with the grandson.

Vickie had her first outpatient physical therapy today. Although she was a sleepyhead because of the AM appointment, she still performed well. From now on she will have afternoon sessions, hopefully she will be more alert and better able to participate fully.
Again Vickie spent the evening at sister’s home for free dinner. Three of Vickie’s sisters coordinate with each other in her care and visits.
At bedtime the nausea came on again. It was over quickly and she soon fell asleep. Perhaps she can make it all night without further problems.

Early morning nausea didn’t prevent Vickie from having a pleasant day. Her appetite continues to improve despite all the setbacks. An evening at a sister’s home along with dinner was a good ending to the day.

Finally, a good day from start to finish. Vickie had a good appetite and only a few minor problems.

For some unknown reason Vickie slept a good portion of the day. Late in the afternoon she finally awoke for good. She then traveled to a sister’s home for a visit and dinner.
Vickie is spending more time away from her home and without the company of her main caregiver. It seems to be a more convenient arrangement for everyone involved.

Vickie recovered nicely from the previous nights discomfort. She ate a good breakfast. Later she traveled to sister’s home for lunch and dinner. Despite the very warm July afternoon she had a good day.

A visit from Vickie’s two youngest grandsons helped alleviate the discomfort from dinnertime nausea for a while. She was unable to eat her meal or retain the much needed anti-biotic. The episodes are becoming much too frequent.
It has been thirteen months since the onset of Vickie’s illness. Her recovery seems to be going much slower and with more setbacks than we anticipated. If we can somehow get past this almost continuous nausea problem maybe the healing process will get back on track.

Vickie kept her Dr. appointment this afternoon. She still has an infection that refuses to go away. More antibiotics will be tried.
At bedtime another episode of nausea, something else that won’t go away.

Beginning early morning, Vickie experienced one of the worse periods of nausea in several weeks. After plenty of sleep during the day she was able to resume normal activities.
She spent the evening traveling to a couple of her sister's homes for dinner and visits.

For some unknown reason Vickie spent an extraordinary amount of time sleeping today. This evening she was herself again.

A very restless night and then the nausea at daybreak was a poor start for Vickie's day. With some extra sleep she returned to her regular self later in the day. The episodes are becoming more frequent again but the severity and duration are not nearly as bad as they were previously. She always rebounds quickly now. Still, there is no apparent cause or cure.

An early morning bout of nausea didn't stop Vickie from having a good day. She was in good spirits for a visit from a friend and a sister this evening.

Vickie had a good afternoon visiting at her sister's home, topped off with a excellent dinner.

Another non-problem day. Vickie had a good visit with some of her neighbors as they helped with some neglected landscape work in her yard.
Vickie's appetite has improved noticably in the last week or so despite the ongoing problems.

Vickie finished a good day with dinner at the chinese resturant. Later in the evening a bout of nausea caused some discomfort as she was getting ready for bedtime.

Vickie had her first outpatient therapy session today. We will have to make some changes concerning how she consumes her meals and drinks. Vickie has difficulty drinking without choking, making her mealtimes somewhat risky if not handled properly.

Vickie was able to get away from her home for a while this evening. Still doing well.

Vickie had a regular day with a few problems that were resolved. She still has her appetite and she is keeping a better sleep schedule.

Vickie recovered from a bout of nauesa in the morning in time to have a good brunch.

Vickie spent the afternoon at another sister's house without mishap. A ramp was hastily constructed to accommodate her wheelchair.
She is still eating with more gusto, definitely a good sign.

In our ongoing efforts to broaden Vickie's experience level, she traveled to and spent the entire afternoon at a sister's home without her primary caregiver's assistance. She enjoyed her time away from home along with a good meal and the attention of the resident dogs.

Still another day without serious problems. Vickie is developing, what for her is a voracious appetite. She also enjoys snacking which previously didn't happen.

Vickie traveled to a small local outdoor music venue this evening with a sister. A one time episode, possibly motion sickness caused a delay but didn't interfere with her enjoying the event.

Vickie made it thru the day without any significant problems, for a change.

It seems Vickie can't get a good break. In route to her Dr's for tests this afternoon, she became sick again. She followed thru with the appointment despite the illness. After a few hours she was able to get settled down and sleep.

Another of the early morning onset nausea episodes disrupted Vickie's morning. There seems to be a regularity about this situation, still without an explaination for the cause or a viable way to prevent their occurrence. Later in the day she always returns to her normal self.

Vickie was able to travel to and spend the afternoon at a family gathering without assistance from her primary caregiver. She enjoyed the visit, especially with the young ones. We are trying to expand her experiences to help her become more aware and self sufficient.

There were no changes in Vickie's condition today.

Vickie liked her fried shrimp and her cashew chicken when she dined out this evening, however she thought the tea was not as hot as it should have been.

Vickie had another pleasant day. She is still eating good.

Vickie's appetite is slowly increasing, to the point now that all her nutrition is from meals.
She has started on a new anti-biotic to aggressively treat the persistent infection.

An early morning nausea episode was a bad start to Vickie's day. The incidents seem to becoming more frequent again. We still don't have a definite cause. Later in the morning she recovered and behaved as if it never happened.

Vickie managed to get thru another day without any problems quite well.

Other than getting extra sleep, Vickie had a good day.

As has been the case previously, Vickie seemed to recover from the problems of the night before quite well.

A bout of the nausea this evening ruined what had otherwise been a pleasant day.

Today is a bittersweet anniversary for those of us close to Vickie. It was one year ago this morning that she was first stricken. On that morning we couldn't imagine the chain of events that would transpire over the course of the year.
Vickie is still making progress albeit slowly, but considering the alternative we gladly accept the situation we have now.

Vickie had another pleasant day. She is still eating well and her sleep pattern is improving.

Vickie returned to her normal self today, no new issues to contend with.

Just when things appeared to be going well, Vickie suffered another nausea episode early in the morning. She slept most of the day recovering from the nights distress.
She did rebound some this evening, managing to eat a fair amount for dinner.

Vickie is slowly regaining her appetite. She no longer needs extra nourishment. Her sleep pattern is also improving.

Vickie had another good day.

Vickie enjoyed another day without serious problems.
Vickie's new leg braces arrived today. These are to help maintain her legs and feet in proper alignment for that time in the future when she can begin walking again.

Again Vickie's condition seems to have stabilized. No problems today. She is attempting to eat meals normally. She still has erratic sleep times.

Vickie had a pleasant day, with some extra sleep.
A possible cause of the nausea may be an infection, which will be treated with anti-biotics.

Despite the miserable time Vickie had Sunday, she was back on track today.

Nausea beginning early in the morning completely ruined Vickie's day. A very high fever and no ability to retain fluids, nourishment or any medication through out the day created a serious setback. She was finally able to get some rest at the end of the day.
As has been the situation previously, there is no apparent cause and little can be done to prevent or alleviate the episodes.

Vickie had another pleasant day. She continues to be more alert and responsive. Her appetite is definitely improving.

Vickie has successfully completed four days without serious problems. Her appetite is slowly returning so she is not needing the tube for nourishment now.

Vickie continues to have trouble free days. This gives everyone directly involved a much needed break and cause for a little optimism.

Vickie made it thru a second day without any serious problems.

After the unpleasantness of yesterday, Vickie showed no sign of problems today. She was able to keep her Dr. appointment, stayed alert and had some appetite for real food.

An ongoing nausea problem has spoiled Vickie's day since late in the afternoon. No known cause as usual.

It appears that Vickie is getting back to the level she was at several weeks ago. More alertness and some regaining of her appetite.

We are working to help Vickie adjust her sleeping cycle. Between the change in her medication and doing what we can to allow her to sleep more at night she now seems to be more alert during the day.
Vickie still doesn't have enough appetite to sustain her nutrition by herself.

Vickie had a calm day without any serious problems.

Some unexpected extreme agitation followed by more nausea episodes early in the morning disrupted Vickie's day. She seemed better this evening, but she still has little appetite.

Lots of fresh air for Vickie in an otherwise unremarkable day.

Vickie had a quiet uneventful day.

Vickie another good day, lots of sleep but alert when she's awake.

Vickie continues to spend considerable time during the day sleeping. However, now when awake she is much more alert than she has been for several weeks.

For today it seems as though Vickie's condition has taken another turn, this time for the better. She is more alert and is regaining an appetite for real food.
We took a chance and attended the wedding ceremony of the son of some close friends, since that went fairly well she also went to the reception afterwards.

Despite the ongoing erratic sleep pattern, Vickie was more alert today than she has been for some time. Her appetite seems to be coming back ever so slightly. A change in medication might be responsible, it's to soon to be sure.

Vickie's day was disrupted by more nausea episodes without any known cause. They seem to have gone away this evening, hopefully she can get thru the night peacefully.

Vickie had an uneventful day without any new problems.

Vickie made a trip to Good Sam Hosp. today for an appointment to see the Dr. that performed the initial surgery last June. We needed to be sure there were no problems with the drain tubes he had inserted. After reviewing the latest scans, he believes everything is as it should be.
This is the surgeon we credit with saving Vickie's life June 16th. of last year.

As Vickie begins the twelfth month of recovery her condition continues to deteriorate. She seems to have little energy or enthusiasm.

Vickie continues to be very listless, sleeping much of the day. Since she is not very alert she is unable to eat very much of her meals so she is now being supplied nourishment thru her feeding tube.

Vickie was very lethargic today, she doesn't seem to have any energy. A nausea episode this evening didn't help. Maybe tomorrow she will get back to her regular self.

Vickie was able to spend some time outdoors today to enjoy the nice weather. She also made a short trip out this evening to have a Chinese food dinner. She doesn't seem to have any trouble traveling now, no problems with motion sickness have occurred.

Other than her disorganized sleep schedule Vickie had another good day.

Vickie still has her sleep schedule reversed from day to night. No other problems that are apparent.

Vickie's condition seems to have reached a plateau, in that the improvements are barely perceptible and as long as there are no serious problems she doesn't appear to lose any ground.

There were no significant changes in Vickie's situation today.

Vickie had another pleasant day with no extra problems.

Vickie spent a lot of time sleeping today. No other negative issues were apparent.

Vickie continues to have her sleep times reversed from day to night. When she is awake during the day she seems groggy and not so alert. Medication doesn't seem to help.

Vickie had a pleasant day with no serious problems.

The idea that we had a solution to Vickie's nighttime insomnia was premature. She continues to awaken in the middle of the night and finds it difficult to go back to sleep until daytime when she is exhausted.

Vickie was quiet but awake most of the day. She is taking a new medication that hopefully will help her to sleep at night, so far it seems to be working.

A sudden bout of the dreaded nausea early in the morning caused Vickie to spend most of the day in bed. Later this evening she was able to sit in her chair and have a lite dinner before returning to bed.

Vickie continues to sleep more than normal during the day. It's possible her new medication may be the cause, the dosage will be reduced to see if there is a change.

Vickie returned home this afternoon after her stay in the hospital. She was very tired, but in good spirits.

Vickie will remain at Mt. Hood M.C. thru Saturday morning for observation. The tests and scans did not show a cause for a seizure. She is now taking a new medication to prevent any future seizures.

A very difficult night for Vickie, constant nausea culminating in a possible seizure. The Dr. ordered tests and scans. She will spend at least one night at Mt. Hood M.C. waiting for results of the tests.

The nausea episodes Vickie has avoided for the last several weeks returned today. It still persists late into the evening. We don't have any idea what triggered it this time, we thought one of her medications was the culprit before. A couple of the drugs were discontinued and the problem seemed to go away.

Vickie has managed to reverse her days and nights as far as sleeping is concerned. She is restless at night and sleeps much of the day. The serious pain problem seems to have subsided.

For the most part Vickie has returned to her regular self now, fewer complaints about the pain she experiences.

Vickie continues to sleep more than usual, otherwise her day was pleasant.

Vickie spent an extraordinary amount of time sleeping today, while the pain episodes seem to be decreasing in intensity.

Vickie visited a Chinese restaurant for dinner, all went well, perhaps her afternoon dosage of pain medication helped.
Vickie was able to go to sleep this evening without the potent pain medication. We'll wait to see if this new situation continues.

Severe pain in her leg prompted Vickie to make two trips to Mt. Hood MC today for tests to determine the cause. Fortunately our worst fears were unfounded, it was not from a blood clot like the ones she had while at Emanuel last summer. The pain is being alleviated with a powerful, but highly addictive pain medication. The problem continues tonight, we still don't know the source.

Vickie had an ok day, with some minor problems.

Vickie is still on course, no problems that can't be resolved.
She is starting an anti-biotic for a minor infection, it should be a temporary situation.

Everything was fine today, no new issues to contend with.
Vickie will have more lab work tomorrow, we are still adjusting her medications and hopefully eliminating some.

The day started well for Vickie. In the afternoon she developed a high temperature, no known cause. She seemed ok other than the temperature so we will see what happens next.

A visit from a granddaughter really perked Vickie up today.
She continues to regain her cognitive ability in the absence of serious problems.
It has been ten months and the improvements, although very slow are quite apparent now.

Vickie had her first outing this evening by going to a Mexican restaurant for dinner. It was a little awkward being the first time we had tried something like this and the wait staff didn't quite comprehend what they were dealing with. Overall it went well.

Vickie traveled to Mt. Hood M.C. for lab work this morning, in her own van set up for her wheel chair. With more options to travel now, she will be able to do more activities away from home.

Vickie had another pleasant day with no critical problems. It now seems possible we might have stumbled upon the cause of the nausea illness, but we will wait a few more days before raising the victory flag. One of her medications is probably the culprit, we're just not sure which one.

Another good day for Vickie, she has set a new record for days without a nausea episode since she has been home.
Today a therapist that hadn't visited Vickie in a month was impressed with her mental progress.

Vickie had an good day, no serious problems so far.

Finally Vickie was back to her alert and witty self after nearly a week of lethargy. Now to see if the cycle repeats itself as it has been doing for some time now.

Vickie's condition improved today. She was alert and had a good appetite again.

Vickie continues to be very quiet. The Dr. is changing some of her medications in an attempt to discover what might be causing the problem.

Vickie continues to be listless. Sleeping most of the time. Most of her nourishment and medication is being supplied thru her stomach tube.

Vickie was quiet today after a very difficult twenty four hours. Very tired and not much of an appetite.

The nausea returned early this morning and is still a problem late into the night. She has been without nourishment and her medications all day. This is probably the longest duration so far.

Vickie made it thru another day without any serious problems.
We followed her Dr.'s suggestion and gave her a small glass of wine for dinner. After more than ten months without any beverages with alcohol Vickie didn't like the taste, and decided not to drink any.

Vickie slept late this morning, she didn't let the time change bother her. She was very much like her old self today, quick with the quirky comments and jokes.
We have added a new medication, maybe it can help with some of the lingering problems.

Vickie was able to resume her normal activities with few side effects from yesterday.

Another bout with the troublesome nausea today. The episodes are becoming more frequent and more severe, with no known cause.

Vickie was in good form for her Dr. appointment today. She was able to participate in the conversation concerning her situation. There will be some adjustments in her medicines as we fine tune for her recovery and some of the ongoing problems. She really brightened up when the Dr. said she could have a glass of red wine with her dinner. He suggested Merlot, her favorite.

Vickie had a good visit with one of her 2 year old grandsons this evening. They were glad to see one another.
Circumstance has prevented Vickie from having pleasant visits with her grandchildren.

Vickie rested much of the day after her difficult night. She was in a good mood this evening and she had a good appetite.

Severe and repeated bouts of nausea this evening ruined what had been a very good day for Vickie.

Vickie skipped her usual naps so she could be alert for the visiting nurse and family today.

Vickie's day was rather quiet.

An uneventful day for Vickie, without any serious problems.

Vickie slept more than usual today, but still managed to do a good job with the therapist that visited.

The persistent nausea problem returned early in the morning to disrupt Vickie's day. As usual, she seemed to recover later in the day.

Vickie has been back in her home for a month now. We are all adapting to this new situation quite well. We are constantly making minor adjustments as her condition evolves. Vickie's steady improvement offers the hope that all these changes might be unnecessary some day.

It was a pleasant and possibly a little boring of a day for Vickie.

Other than one more of her hit and run nausea episodes early in the morning Vickie had a good day.

Vickie had a good day. No problems that couldn't be handled.

The visiting nurse came by to check on Vickie today. All signs were good.

Vickie had a visit from the speech therapist this morning. The therapist wanted to evaluate Vickie's ability to eat regular food during breakfast. We believe she didn't think Vickie could eat like a normal person. Therapist suggestion: keep doing what you are doing now.

Today is the beginning of the tenth month of Vickie's recovery. It's sometimes hard to grasp the changes she has gone thru since last June. She is slowly but steadily regaining her old self back. She shows her sense of humor and wit constantly.

Just like last week, whatever ailed Vickie Monday, was gone today. She has resumed her normal activity level.

Vickie's nausea and fever returned this morning. We'll wait to see if it continues tomorrow before making any decisions on treatment.

A pleasant day for Vickie. She had her Dairy Queen hamburger brought by a sister, at the table in her backyard for lunch.
At the evening meal, a birthday dinner with family guests, Vickie insisted on putting the portions on her plate herself. She really enjoyed the chocolate pie.
All of today's entry's are about meals since there were no negative events to report.

Vickie made in thru the entire day without her usual nap. She spent most of the afternoon and evening in a lift chair she received from a friend this morning. She has a nice wheelchair but it becomes uncomfortable after sitting in it for hours at a time.
Vickie had a visit from the traveling nurse right at noon, so her attention was on getting lunch and not so much on the nurse's questions. Vickie still has a healthy appetite.

Whatever it was that affected Vickie thursday, left as quickly as it came on.
She was able to resume her normal activities today.

Just when everything seems to be going well, it all goes bad again. Vickie woke up with a severe case of nausea this morning. She slept most of the day combating a fever. We're not sure of the cause yet. If the situation continues, tests will need to be done to determine a treatment.

Vickie's situation seems to be stabilized in that there are no new serious problems. She continues her slow but steady improvement.

Vickie slept thru most of the visit with the nurse and occupational therapist that came to see her today. It's difficult to coordinate the visits around Vickie's nap time.
Vickie had dinner on the deck before the sun went down this evening.

Another quiet day. Vickie was attended by her new, but knowledgeable caregiver. She continues with her improvement. Vickie is experiencing feeling in both her left arm and leg now. We know this because she tells us about the pain she feels in them when they are moved.

Vickie enjoyed the warm sunny afternoon at the home of her niece for a backyard picnic.
It was the first of many outings she will have. Transporting her is still a logistical problem but one that we will deal with.

Vickie spent some time on the deck overlooking her back yard. Then she dozed off in the warm afternoon sun.
She enjoyed a Chinese food dinner with family.

Another quiet day for Vickie, although she didn't sleep nearly as much as the day before.

Vickie's left foot is still a concern, we are keeping it elevated to help the swelling go down.
The new Dr. is still adjusting her meds. Vickie slept most of the day, probably due to some new medication she is getting for pain reduction when we move her. The new Dr. has actually called twice this week to check on Vickie, something totally unheard of these days.

The most pressing problem for Vickie now is some swelling in her left foot. It's a long way from the problems we were used to dealing with.
Vickie spent the first day with a hired caregiver since she left RIO. The situation isn't ideal but it should improve.

There were no serious problems today.

Vickie made her first visit to her new dr. this morning. Since the anti-motionsickness patch was removed several weeks ago she has traveled without problems. The removal of the patch also seems to have helped her cognitive ability.

Due to the unseasonable warm sunny weather, Vickie was able to supervise some wheelchair ramp touchup work and some yard work from the deck over her back yard.

Vickie's remarkable progress continues. So far, no new medical problems to set her back.

Vickie was visited by the occupational therapist and the VNA nurse that will be working with her at home. They came to do their preliminary evaluation and to determine what the course of treatment will be.

No problems today.
We are not sure if it's the environment or some new medication, but Vickie's cognitive ability seems to be getting noticeably better each day.

Vickie has now been in her home for a full day. We are all working to adjust to our new situation and schedule.
Vickie's appetite has returned so she won't need tube feeding for now. It will still take a lot of perseverance and some mechanical devices to deal with all of Vickie's needs.
If she can avoid the virus that seems to be everywhere now, she will do fine.

After morning therapy sessions Vickie had her last lunch at RIO. She made the trip home without problem, where she will now live barring any new medical emergency.
Providing around the clock care for Vickie may prove to be a daunting task, but we are determined to try our best, considering the alternative choice.

No holiday for Vickie, some serious therapy today. Now that she is feeling better, the therapy sessions are more rigorous, again pushing her limits to increase her ability to resume a more normal life.

Vickie returned to her room at RIO this evening, again making the trip without problems.
The primary reason for the overnight stay at her home was to determine Vickie's caregivers ability to properly care for her without professional help and facilities.

This afternoon, Vickie was in her home for the first time since the middle of last June. She made the trip without incident and without using any medication for motion sickness. After a mini tour of the house and a bowl of soup, she took a long nap. Pizza and chocolate creme pie at her own dining table along with good conversation with family were the high points of the evening for everyone present.
Tomorrow she returns to RIO for more therapy and an evaluation of her care givers performance.

Vickie had therapy today that was a little more challenging. She is showing noticeable improvement on the infection that's kept her down this last week.

Vickie resumed her RIO therapy only with fewer sessions during the day. She seems to be feeling better and is getting back to her regular self.

Vickie begins the ninth month of her recovery back in her RIO room. She was brought down late in the afternoon, just in time for dinner. She didn't have much of an appetite so she will receive nourishment thru the tube. The heavy congestion persists, but seems to be less bothersome.

Vickie is showing some improvement over the pneumonia. She was able to be in her wheel chair for a while today and feed herself. She could possibly return to the RIO floor tomorrow.

Vickie is still in a room on the 4th floor. She is still on oxygen due to the severe congestion she is experiencing.

Vickie is still at the medical floor of the hospital. She was feeling a little better this evening, although she still has serious congestion and is very tired. If the progress continues she might return to RIO Monday.

Everything changed today. Vickie became very sick early in the morning. Nausea, fever and respiratory difficulties caused all plans to be canceled. She was transferred to a medical room this evening for treatment. The tentative diagnosis is pneumonia again. Anti-biotics and oxygen are being administered. Vickie slept most of the day.

Vickie responded to her therapy well today. She is now receiving a new medication that is supposed to help her cognitive ability.
We will be doing around the clock care giver training this weekend so Vickie won't be able to have any visitors at RIO Saturday or Sunday.

The therapy is still ongoing. Vickie is now being pushed beyond her comfort zone. At times Vickie is almost terrified as she is urged to do tasks she hasn't been asked to do before. Sitting on the edge of her bed is a frightening event for her. Even though it's difficult, it's a necessary part of the recovery process.

Preparations are continuing for Vickie's return home sometime later next week.
Vickie is still progressing. She still has her good attitude from before.

At the weekly meeting this morning the RIO staff expressed their concern about our ability to care for Vickie in her home. Apparently they don't realize how determined we are to not have her return to a nursing facility.

Vickie's improvement continues.
Since she has been at RIO there have been no medical problems.

Vickie had therapy sessions in the morning and then had the rest of the day to goof off. She is eating her meals [ the food quality is somewhat better than Rest Harbor's] and she is paying attention to her environment.

Even the RIO staff is remarking about the improvement in Vickie's behavior in the few days she has been with them. She is more alert and cognizant than she has been since June 16th.

The motion sickness patch is off, maybe a coincidence but Vickie seemed more alert and aware today. She participated in vigorous therapy and had a good appetite.

Vickie was tired and ready for bed early in the evening after the full day of therapy.
The therapy includes training Vickie's care givers safe methods for moving her when she goes home.

Vickie had a full schedule of therapy sessions today.

Vickie made it through her second day at RIO without any serious problems.
The staff believes they can work with Vickie to improve her ability to help with her basic needs. They will just have two weeks to accomplish their goal.
We have begun modifying Vickie's home to accommodate her when she comes home to stay. A tilt type wheel chair has been purchased and a donated bed will arrive this week. A wheel chair ramp is now under construction.

Vickie was transported to the R.I.O. at Good Sam. this morning without problem. She spent the rest of the day getting to know the people who will be working with her while they evaluated Vickie's condition.
The task of helping Vickie become more self sufficient and less dependent on others for her most basic care and needs is the number one priority. It would be best if visitors arrived after 5 pm so as not to interfere with the more intense therapy.

Unless there is a sudden setback Vickie will not be at Rest Harbor after Monday morning. R.I.O. is where she will be for at least one week participating in a therapy regimen that will help her make the transition to going home.

Another day without serious problems. Vickie's appetite has returned, so no more meals using the stomach tube.
Vickie is becoming more aware of her environment each day now. She sometimes notices and makes remarks about what's on the television or things on the wall.

Vickie was in good form today. Ate her meals[almost all]and interacted well with her visitors.
While the RIO situation has been scaled back from the original plan, everyone is still excited about next week.

The patch was replaced and there was no repeat of the nausea from last night. Vickie had a good day although she was a little more sleepy than normal, probably one of the side effects of the anti-nausea medication she was given. As usual, the cure for one problem causes another.

A pleasant day for Vickie. She resumed eating her own meals and lost the feeding tube for now.
When she was being transferred back to bed this evening the nausea returned. The last patch has been off for several days, a possible related cause.
Barring any serious setbacks R.I.O. is on for next week. It will be an abbreviated version due to the same $$$$ issues that have always been there.

For reasons unknown Vickie seems to have lost her appetite. She is now dependent on tube feeding for nourishment. We don't know if this is a phase or if there is a problem that's not apparent. Otherwise she appears to be well.

Vickie had a good day, one without any new or serious problems.

Vickie is eating more of her meals but not enough to avoid the tube feeding procedure.
The rash and the pneumonia seem to be clearing up, chalk another one up for modern pharmaceuticals.
Vickie was in a good mood today, a little entertaining with her off-the-wall comments.

Vickie was awake and fairly alert today. She ate a portion of her meals and interacted with visitors well. The congestion persists but the rash is going away.
She is definitely able to move and feel her left leg.

Vickie slept much of the time today. She was given benadryl for the severe rash, benadryl can cause drowsiness.
Vickie didn't have much of an appetite this evening so the tube feeding will continue.
Staff was reprimanded by the supervisor today for lack of care regarding the infection Vickie is experiencing. We'll see if there is any positive change.

We reluctantly brought Vickie back to Rest Harbor this afternoon. She didn't show any negative effects from the trip.
We were informed earlier today that Vickie couldn't go to R.I.O. due to lack of bed space.
Vickie still has a lot of congestion from the pneumonia, she also has a serious rash, probably from the anti-biotic.
She didn't have any appetite this evening so she will be tube fed.

Vickie was feeling a little better today. This evening she had a small amount of food.
She still has a serious congestion problem, but it appears to be under control.
Vickie will probably be discharged from Mt. Hood tomorrow if there are no further problems.

While Vickie is still enduring the annoying side effects of the anti-biotics, she seems to be improving. She is not eating now, but is receiving nourishment thru IV and tube feeding. Tomorrow she may resume with regular food if the progress continues.
She is having some therapy at Mt. Hood, it's a little different from what was available at Rest Harbor. It was reported that she moved her left leg on command today, that would be remarkable.

Vickie was feeling better today despite some unpleasant side effects from the medication. She will remain at Mt Hood Med center at least one more day.
She had a new patch put on this afternoon so she was a chatty cathy this evening, wide awake when everyone else wanted to get some sleep.

Vickie was transported by ambulance after noon to Mt. Hood Med. Center to be treated for a serious case of pneumonia. She was admitted as an inpatient and she will be there at least one more day. They will administer a powerful anti-biotic and she is on oxygen.
No one said it would be easy.

A lab test determined Vickie is suffering from a urinary infection. Staff was alerted to the possibility by an experienced aide a week ago but they disregarded the suggestion.
Vickie was started on anti-biotics this morning and she seems to be responding positively today.

After midnight things took a turn for the worse. Vickie has experienced severe nausea for nearly 24 hours. She has not been able to retain any nourishment or fluids. She has been sleeping almost constantly. This evening she had a temperature of 101 degrees.
It appears there might be a connection between the a-ms patch being removed and the nausea, but we can't be sure yet.

Just another day without any significant problems for Vickie.

The trip to the R.I.O. evaluation went well for Vickie despite a transportation snafu.
The evaluation itself is the cause of cautious optimism that Vickie's situation will take a significant turn for the better soon.
We now can start thinking about the real possibility of Vickie returning to her home in the near future.

The staff has decided Vickie has lost too much weight, so they will begin tube feeding again. They refuse to eat the same food that is served to her, but they can't understand why she doesn't finish her meals.

The staff put a new anti-motion sickness patch on Vickie today. It's to insure a trouble free trip to Good Sam on Wednesday. She seemed a little anxious tonight, possibly caused by the patch medication.

Today, Vickie got her first professional hairtrim since early summer. She likes it, even though it's quite different from the pre-June 16th look.

At last, a day without any problems. Vickie made it thru breakfast, her Saturday bath, both meals and several transfers without the troublesome nausea reccuring.

Transferring from her bed to her chair, or back to bed ,causes Vickie bouts of nausea. This is new problem, possibly the anti-carsickness patch is the culprit.
The patch is necessary, Vickie will travel again to Good Sam next week for the important R.I.O. evaluation.

Despite a minor medical problem probably caused by a staff miscue, Vickie was able to eat a lite dinner and maintain her good attitude thru it all.

Now that Vickie is eating normal food and feeding herself, she is getting home cooked meals smuggled in occasionally. She seems to prefer them to the institutional fare.
She's even asking for Burgerville now[no onions, sauce with the french fries].

Vickie had inhouse therapy this morning, she did well. This evening she was talkative and somewhat clever with her quips. The increased level of interaction with others is quite noticable.

Vickie made the trip to Good Sam without any difficulties. The not so good news ,the evaluation didn't happen due to a miscommunication concerning the time. The appointment has been rescheduled to next week.

Two days into 2005 and no problems.
The evening shift nurse, who returned from a three day break said she thought Vickie's eyes were tracking noticeably better than they were before the holiday weekend.
R.I.O. evaluation tomorrow, hopefully it will be a positive experience for Vickie.

The new year started fine for Vickie. She continues her slow but steady improvement.