Time marches on as we head to mid-January and our next decisive appointment. Arriving home from the hospital last Thursday evening, our challenges with life haven’t subsided yet.

With a feeding tube now in place, Suzanne has had some struggles so far. The nutritionist set the amount she was to have administered every day, not considering that she hasn’t been eating well prior. The result, an overstuffed stomach and gastric explosions from both directions; not what she needed. After figuring out the problem, a plan was set and we are on track to getting her caloric intake where it should be by the end of the week.

The other challenge is pain management. Suzanne’s medical team is anxious to have her weaned off the narcotics she has been on since mid-October. So another plan for that is also in effect for the week with the goal to be narcotic free by this weekend.

With lower than needed calories, Suzanne’s current energy level is depressed and she spends much of her time relaxing in her favorite chair. Each day, as her intake increases, I see improvement in her desire to do more.

Her voice also seems to be getting stronger every day as she chats with her family more often than before. I’m sure she would welcome a call or an across the room visit from time to time (hint, hint, wink, wink)

Heading into Christmas is going to be difficult, balancing her health with the desire to be with the family that day. Our joy this year will have to focus more on the celebration of a birth a couple of thousand years ago.

Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand.
Proverbs 19:21