I am still in Detroit, though I suppose I am neither decorative nor functional. I believe my Janter is an annoyance, but my intentions are good. Five days after open heart surgery, my brother has taken up residence in the Homewood Suites in order to be close to his doctors and hospital should any complications arise. It is the perfect spot: he has a handicapped room, the breakfast and dinner are served community style, and there are no interruptions during the night. His wife is a court reporter, and she has ventured out a few times to fulfill work obligations, and "Mike sitting" gives me a chance to feel less than superfluous. All in all, this process is an amazement; we live in magical times. The road back will be full of small and large challenges, and lifestyle adaptations. Mike has a healthy life style and diet, but exertion and temperature extremes will affect him forever. He will be on medications that alter his body chemistry, and he will have to regulate them. Right now lasix and beta blockers are getting him up and putting him down, and the blood thinners and greasers have made every injection site purple. But he is a gamer, and when he smiles, or hikes, or reassures us- we realize how blessed we are.
The other blessing that comes through loud and clear is family. Paul sent Mike's test results to my cousin Mark, an internist. Mark snatched Mike's care from a lolly gagging hospital up North to the one he practices at. Dr. Mark's father died after a jog in Ireland, and Mark did the autopsy. Mark knew exactly what was up, and his skill expedited the process of diagnosis. Mike's sons traveled in from Chicago before I did, to distract him before the surgery. The five siblings have called, visited and converged upon every venue that Mike was in. The outlaws, as they call themselves, have popped in, made turkey breasts, shopped and transported. They have allowed the evaporation of their spouses without complaint. I was fortunate enough to land at my sister, Marie's house, which is like a Bed and Breakfast. There were flowers on the nightstand, clean sheets, fresh muffins and cookies, good company and wonderful meals. She works for a medical practice, so she is a good translator for me.
Filed under: Uncategorized
Tags: Beaumont hospital, bypass surgery, Detroit, joliat, Steve Dahl
thank God that your brother has made it through Janet, but after reading today's blog, i can see why. He has not a family but a village supporting and caring for him. he has the guardian angels of mom and dad on his sides, coaxing and leading him along, and probably better than great medical care. we take for granted the love of those close to us and then when hard times hit, the regrouping and compassion and love returns in abundance,
God Bless Mike and his family, to Mr and Mrs Joliat, you can rest in peace that your vaues have been firmly planted in your children.
Gosh, your brother looks so young, Janet. It's so great that he has so many friends and family pulling for him plus all of your blog fans including me.
Many blessings to you and yours-you are fortunate to have one another.