Post Op Day 4

Victoria is out of the ICU and into a room with what definitely has one of the best views I’ve ever seen in a hospital! She’s continuing to do very well and her MRI will be sometime between now and Monday to determine next steps.

Victoria passed her swallowing test with flying colors and, while she is able to eat and drink anything she wants for the time being, she still doesn’t eat very much. She is definitely ready to get out of here, especially since she knows she’ll be right back once a solid plan is made.

She has had some leaking through her nose, which is being closely monitored, but the doctors do not believe it to be spinal fluid.

If there’s one thing I’m nervous about, it’s the next social worker who tries to come in and talk to Victoria about her feelings. V has her strength back and I fear the next person who squats down by her bed and asks how she’s coping might get a left hook to the jaw.

Now for some real honesty: every caregiver needs to hear this because it’s so important. When your loved one is in pain, coming out of being under anesthesia for a looooong time, being given cocktails of various medications, and realizing the trauma of what they’ve just been through, they will need a punching bag. I happen to be that punching bag for Victoria. Some viciously evil words were said to me this morning, but a dear friend reminded me of the normalcy of this. I should have remembered this myself from caring for my own dad and father-in-law. I also remember when another dear friend of mine called me so upset when her mom was dying telling me the hateful things she was saying. I said to her, “that’s nothing! Listen to what my dad said…” and we had a good laugh about it. Should any of you find yourselves in the position of being the punching bag, just know you’re the target for a reason. Whomever you are caring for knows your love is unconditional and they just need to get mad at someone or something. Let them take their jabs (you don’t really have a choice anyway🤣) and then go take a walk, shower, call friends, meditate, etc. Do anything you need to do to get yourself in a better headspace. Reach out to me if you’re devastated by being the chosen one. I assure you I’ve been punched way harder and will tell you stories that will both astound and make you laugh until you can’t breathe. Punching Bag Paige has been put through the ringer. It DOES NOT last, but you will need support going through it.

Victoria is scheduled to be discharged tomorrow provided she remains stable overnight. She definitely deserves a few nights of undisturbed rest while she prepares for whatever the next phase holds.

Thank you for your continued prayers and well-wishes.❤️❤️

Paige