MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'emma'. Sat, 03 Sep 2011 02:24:13 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5181865&cid=t_186687_106_f&fid=34805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FAwfulPlasticSurgery%2F%7E3%2F9xgxjw2MxeI%2F Kate Winslet seems to have... [[ This is a content summary only. Visit MyWebsite.com for full links, other content, and more! ]] (Source: Awful Plastic Surgery) Awful Plastic Surgery blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5181865 Wed, 31 Aug 2011 06:16:37 +0100 5181865 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=5118923&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FDxrPFlGR2RY%2F I can’t tell you how many times I have tried sitting down in front of this laptop and the words just wouldn’t come. I would try to start to type and then… nothing…. blank. I have had an awesome yet horrid summer. Awesome because I really truly have 2 great kids and really have enjoyed getting to spend quality time with each of them this summer- time which I was not able to spend in previous years. Horrid because I miss my 3rd. I just plain miss Emma. I miss her quirky little smile and her eyes. I really miss her eyes. It is getting easier, but harder at the same time. I have cried less frequently, which is a great thing, but when it comes- it comes in floods. Like a typhoon. I have kept myself busy with my “new new normal.” We have visited old friends... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=5118923 Thu, 11 Aug 2011 12:49:03 +0100 5118923 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4934739&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FeKFzbBUMzVU%2F They come in waves. Sometime tidal waves, sometimes ripples that wash up the ocean shore. But they still come. I am still in the season of grief. Numbness has almost left, but grief, I can’t shake loose of. I do well talking about her to other people, actually I invite the conversation. But when I am alone…. I hate being alone. I am trying not to judge God by my present circumstances. I am trying really hard. But that in itself is hard. I know in my heart that He is the beginning and the end, that He is bigger than even this pain. But then my grief takes over and I am lost again. I am trying to guard my heart, protect it’s vulnerability from anything that satan might use to sway my trust in Christ, but even that, at times, is hard. Everything is hard when you grieve th... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4934739 Tue, 14 Jun 2011 14:14:09 +0100 4934739 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4902642&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FBVCc5LYxcE8%2F Today, on your 10th birthday, I remember…. I remember the day, 10+ years ago, while you were still in my womb, they told us that you wouldn’t be with us long. I sat in Dr. Huhta’s office, rubbing my very large belly lost in complete despair. You were our surprise baby, the baby we hadn’t planned but the baby we wanted to so desperately. I remember telling my parents on Thanksgiving day that, despite the fact that your brother was only a little over 4 months old, he would be a big brother soon. I remember the joy that filled our house for the next 23 weeks. I remember the overwhelming strength and determination I had after we found out how sick you were. I remember finding a fight in me that I never knew I had. I remember believing so strongly that you were going to ... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4902642 Sun, 05 Jun 2011 11:53:08 +0100 4902642 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4876487&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2Fu6iSqa-MJek%2F It is becoming less painful, the memories. Now when I think about you I, more times than not, smile and close my eyes. When I walk by pictures of you, I stop and remember with happiness not pain. But then there are those times when it becomes overbearing and the tears come rushing down my face. It is becoming easier to talk about you and not go numb. I’ve been thinking a lot about heaven lately. What it will be like. If you are enjoying it. I picture you, in your earthly body, running and skipping down the streets of gold, singing clearly. You have on a white dress and it is floating through the air as you twirl. But then I stop and think- Do I have a real picture of what heaven really is, or is it my human heart longing to see you and hold you again? I have so many questions tha... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4876487 Sun, 29 May 2011 11:45:07 +0100 4876487 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4848118&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FEWqFM-Ys3mY%2F They say that the “firsts” are always hard. I experienced the first Easter through tears. I experienced the first Mothers Day through agonizing pain… and tonight I will experience the first “big bath tub” without Emma. Emma loved baths. She could live in the tub, literally. We have a jacuzzi tub in our master bath and she loved to turn the jets on and laugh and splash and sing. When we would say “bath”, she would have her clothes off in a flash and all of her toys that she had to have to complete her bathing experience. Her favorite being Baby Becca. She loved to wash her hair and and dunk her under the water. Which brings me to the title of my post. My parents have a pool, which Emma loved and yet hated. She would love to go to there house, put... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4848118 Fri, 20 May 2011 13:54:57 +0100 4848118 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4841884&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F3gdxLewoEcg%2F 2 days before the Lord called you home, I walked into your hospital room and prayed. I asked the Lord to give you peace, because I knew that you didn’t have long on this earth. I asked him to take away your pain, because I know you were in so much pain. I asked him to give me strength because I did not want to say goodbye. 1 Day before the Lord called you home, I sang to you all of the songs that we use to sing together. Even though you couldn’t sing them with me, I sang them to you. “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star”, “I see the moon”,” Emma Grace she so pretty”, “Itsy bitsy spider”, and your favorite “Deck The Halls”… I held your hand in mine and kissed your fingers. I memorized your face, like I had done so many ti... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4841884 Wed, 18 May 2011 12:39:33 +0100 4841884 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4829219&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2Fhaq5b-rYPnA%2F In the past few months, I have learned and relearned what trust truly is, and what it truly means. I have cried so hard and begged so deep that the wounds are still on my heart and in my words. I have bargained, I have pleaded, I have doubted, I have screamed. Yet I still trust. I trust that He is faithful. I trust that He is sovereign. I trust that He is in total control. I trust that He knows best. I trust that he hears every tear that I have dropped. I trust that He knows the answers to every question that I have asked. I trust that He is good and loving, even when it feels that He is not.. I know that some of you are wondering how I can trust so much in someone that I cannot see, but I have seen His fingerprints all over my life. I saw Him in the eyes of my beautiful daughter, and I ... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4829219 Mon, 16 May 2011 05:00:18 +0100 4829219 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4829220&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FIV9WDR7itvE%2F I miss her smile… I miss her smell… I miss her laugh… I miss her noises… I miss swinging her… I miss kissing her goodnight… I miss watching her sleep… I miss her spoon clanking… I miss her bell shaking… I miss her tapping… I miss her clicking… I miss her goofy faces… I miss the way she called me “ma’am”….. I miss her eyes…. I miss her dancing… I miss holding her… I miss reaching for her hand… I miss waking up and hearing her playing in her room… I miss watching her play… I miss her… But, I know that I will see her again, and that makes the suffering a little easier here on earth. I know that she is up there looking down and saying to me “If only yo... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4829220 Sun, 15 May 2011 14:58:28 +0100 4829220 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4813617&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F4YyhSdXD2vI%2F That is how long it has been since you received your perfect healing. It seems like an eternity and yet like a millisecond all at the same time. Your face is etched into my soul, your eyes pierce my heart… your smell envelops my senses. I cry at the oddest moments.. Riding in the car. Petting the dog. In my sleep. I long to see your face one more time, to hold your hand, to see your smile. To hear you sing. I miss you. You were perfect, yet broken. Now you are everything that we always prayed for you to be here on earth. But that doesn’t make living without you any easier. I want you back, which is a totally selfish thought on my part. Because having you back would mean making you leave there… and I know you are whole there. You are free there. You are happy the... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4813617 Wed, 11 May 2011 20:51:43 +0100 4813617 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4753925&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2Fl_wdUISFsyc%2F Emma Grace George June 05, 2001 – April 22, 2011 Please join us in celebration of her life Saturday, April 30th, 2011 at 2pm Restoration Fellowship Church 5614 Richardson Road Sarasota Florida 34232 There will be a testimony time of memories of Emma. We will pass the mic around so you will not have to go forward. **NO BLACK! SPRING COLORS AND CASUAL PLEASE!** {All flowers and cards can be mailed to the above address.} If you are unable to attend, we truly thank you for caring about our Emma. She was such a joyous child.  You will never know how much your support & prayers have meant to us over the last 9+ yrs.  It was such a difficult decision to let her go, but there is peace that she is whole and happy now! Much Love, The Georges (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4753925 Tue, 26 Apr 2011 11:02:02 +0100 4753925 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4744911&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2Fp6YxCYSLfyY%2F Sweet Emma Grace met Jesus on Good Friday at 7:15pm. She finally received her full healing, although our hearts ache to have her back here. She is perfectly whole, and dancing with the Lord at this moment. I cannot describe the unbelievable ache we feel with her gone. It is at times unbearable. But there is peace. Peace in the knowledge that she is not hurting anymore. Peace in the knowledge that she can run and dance and sing in her perfect body. Peace in the knowledge that she is giving them heck up there…. But the silence down here is unbearable.. Please pray for our family, especially our 2 other children. Please pray that Christ would wrap his hands around their hearts and calm their uneasy minds. Pray for my husband, he is taking this really hard. Pray for me…. I do... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4744911 Sat, 23 Apr 2011 12:48:40 +0100 4744911 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4724187&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F6dZ2qPPB18o%2F ……..I’ve dropped anchor in Your promises and I am holding on…… -Steven Curtis Chapman Emma is now re-intubated. We are no closer to an answer than when we began this journey almost seven weeks ago… But He is in control. ————————————————— “He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD” – Deuteronomy 8:3 “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vai... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4724187 Mon, 18 Apr 2011 15:21:47 +0100 4724187 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4714974&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FrJLEkM6qNeM%2F “…consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.” ~Rom 8:18 That verse speaks volumes to me today. It reminds me that He is still at work and will never be done until He calls me home! The suffering here on earth is only temporary…This life is but a vapor compared to eternity…. Doesn’t that make your heart smile! Every time I want to give up, throw my hands in the air and shout “I give!”, something happens and I am reminded that I am no where near in control of my life. And that is a good thing. Anyways, onto Emma! Today is turning out to be a very good day. She is stable enough to do the swallow study, so we are having that done this afternoon. She is only on 1 l... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4714974 Thu, 14 Apr 2011 15:27:29 +0100 4714974 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4709358&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2Fyo7puXGlbEs%2F Emma during OT/PT this morning: On a better day last week: Thank you so much for all of your prayers… Your comments on my last post were so uplifting! Emma is off bi-pap and on hi-flow oxygen. Her X-ray last night looked much improved but this mornings looks a little worse. The plan is that when she is stable respiratory wise, we will start the GI studies again. The plan is to do the swallow study first to see if she is aspirating her saliva, then proceed with the lower GI studies. We already know she has motility issues from her mitochondrial disease. (slow emptying of her stomach) Pulmonology wants to do a lung CT to see if she has chronic lung disease, most likely from her immuno-supressants. Right now, she is peacefully sleeping, which does my heart good. She has definitely... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4709358 Wed, 13 Apr 2011 16:27:48 +0100 4709358 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4704879&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FpXea-jdSrvg%2F …and they keep trying to breathe, keep the body moving to keep the soul from atrophying… – Amy Voskamp (expert from One Thousand Gifts: a dare to live fully right where you are) {*before reading this post, go back to the previous post to catch up on where we are at.} I had the “ugly cry” yesterday…you know the one that you bear your heart and soul on your face. The one where no noise comes out but tears come storming like a flood down your face? That cry. I hate seeing her like this. I hate not knowing what to do or how to fix it. I hate the feeling of starting over after five weeks. I hate that we have been here five weeks. I just hate doing this all again. The plan is that we are going to do the same test that we did before (swallow study, upper GI, g... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4704879 Mon, 11 Apr 2011 16:59:06 +0100 4704879 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4696886&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2Fzodq2wN5DTc%2F When I came into Emma’s room this morning her monitor read 100% oxygen and then suddenly dropped to the low 60’s. Her chest x-ray was completely whited out and revealed that she had aspirated again. She is currently on Bi-pap hoping to not be re-intubated. Oddly, she has not had anything by mouth since Thursday morning and the fundoplication was suppose to fix the reflux coming from her stomach, so we are going to do the whole upper GI studies again. The 2 likely scenarios are that her fundo is not tight enough which would mean another surgery or that she is aspirating on her saliva which would mean she would not be able to take anything by mouth again. Again, we covet your prayers. We do not want to have to go through this all over again. It feels like we are starting over, a... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4696886 Sat, 09 Apr 2011 16:33:44 +0100 4696886 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4693467&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FJxPwlq-102s%2F I had a long post typed up but it disappeared and I don’t have time to rewrite it! Here is where we are: * last Monday emma came off CRRT dialysis and was extubated! We have been watching her kidney function closely to see if she will need hemo-dialysis. So far she has not. * this week has been a rough week for Em. She was on the max dose of 6 sedatives/narcotics so withdrawal has been painful. * she is still on Versed at .4 compared to .8. This will be the slow drug to wean because she was over the max dose. * we have finally cleared her blood infection! But now she has a urinary tract infection from being cathed for two weeks. * she still has the central line in her right femoral vein and she still has the hemo-dialysis cath in her left femoral artery. * she is still on TPN an... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4693467 Fri, 08 Apr 2011 16:10:55 +0100 4693467 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4670305&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F--Ul14T9JGA%2F Emma is still on dialysis but is on an upward track. The blood infection has cleared and we were able to save her port, which is a very good thing! Next hurdle to overcome is urine output and feeds. Because of the surgery to remedy her aspiration and gastroparesis, we are hoping that she will tolerate feeds. Because of her mitochodrial disease, she has motility issues but hopefully they were fixed with the surgeries. She is still vented and highly sedated. Please pray for an easy withdrawal from the sedatives. They have her on methadone and Valium to help with that process once the time comes. She is on Versed, Fentanyl and Precedex. They had her on dilaudid but DC’d it because it has the opposite affect on her. She is still waking up and trying to sit straight up in bed, which is ... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4670305 Fri, 01 Apr 2011 17:04:46 +0100 4670305 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4642921&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2Fa1c1iwZwqcU%2F Emma’s kidneys are not producing like they should. She is going to the operating room to have a cath put in this afternoon for CRRT (continual renal replacement therapy) It is 24 hour dialysis and she will be on it anywhere from 7-14 days. We were here one year ago, for those of you who have been following our journey. We covet your prayers during this time, it is going to be rough for Emma and for us. We are trusting again. Trusting in the doctors. Trusting in Dr. Danielson and his team. Ultimately we place Emma in the Fathers hands…. Yet again….. (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4642921 Sun, 27 Mar 2011 14:49:41 +0100 4642921 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4642922&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F-r8AmhBhM7c%2F I have debated what to post for the last several days. I know that my family reads this, including my older children and so I a m very careful of not putting things here that would frighten them. Keeping that in mind, here is what has transpired in the last 72 hours: After surgery on Monday Emma was not doing very well. Her Xray looked pretty bad so they chose to intubate her. Her white count was up the following morning along with her CRP. They drew blood from both her IV and her Medi Port both of which came back rather quickly with bacterial blood infection. Usually with a blood infection, they would run only antibiotics through the port and then lock it when it is not in use. Emma has limited veins & 11 IV medications going at one time, some of which are not compatible together. T... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4642922 Sat, 26 Mar 2011 18:26:59 +0100 4642922 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4626995&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FzWlzTDgTznA%2F Emma has a blood infection-Her lungs are clearing up/they want to keep her intubated-She has low BP & is on the maximum iv support for that. They are doing an echocardiogram now to see what her heart function looks like. So now we wait and watch for the next 24-48 hours. Please continue to pray. -H (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4626995 Wed, 23 Mar 2011 15:38:07 +0100 4626995 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4622475&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2Fd9QSpkXNjaM%2F Emma had a rough night. She has been put back on the vent. She has spiked a fever of 104 most likely from trauma from surgery but are not certain that she wasn’t brewing an infection before the surgery and it is just now presenting itself. They have drawn blood cultures and put her on a broad spectrum antibiotic just in case. Her chest xray post op looked rough. This mornings looked better. Please cont. to pray for her, it has been a rough go since February. Much love, Heather (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4622475 Tue, 22 Mar 2011 15:26:37 +0100 4622475 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4615371&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F38nAcBb6lEU%2F They are taking Emma early. All of you prayer warriors that are awake please pray! I will update my twitter (espheather or you can read in the lower right corner of my blog) which will update my facebook. Much love, -H (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4615371 Mon, 21 Mar 2011 11:42:58 +0100 4615371 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4615372&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FgnX1KhBDdTU%2F Trust is hard. It involves stepping back and letting some one bigger than yourself in. It leaves you vulnerable….naked to those around you. Helpless in your eyes. It means relinquishing total control. But it is also easy. It brings peace, if placed in the right hands. It brings hope if accepted by the right person. It brings freedom from fear if done with a pure heart. Tomorrow morning Mark and I will be placing Emma in the Lords hands again. She is scheduled for surgery at 11 am for a fundoplication. *During fundoplication surgery, the upper curve of the stomach (the fundus) is wrapped around the esophagus and sewn into place so that the lower portion of the esophagus passes through a small tunnel of stomach muscle. This surgery strengthens the valve between the esophagus and s... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4615372 Sun, 20 Mar 2011 15:07:05 +0100 4615372 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4566303&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F_TYlqX1yUYY%2F Emma is back in ICU at All Childrens Hospital with bilateral pneumonia. She started rapidly breathing last night (50 breaths per minute) and started to turn dusky. When we got to the ER her oxygen level was in the 50s. She is currently on Bipap: (http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/304235-overview) in hopes of not having to place a breathing tube. So far that seems to be working. She is sedated so that helps also. This is her fourth bout with pneumonia in her left lung in a year (first time in both lungs) so her transplant team and the Intensivest want to do a bronchoscopy to figure out what she has going on. Her blood cultures have never grown anything so we are at a loss. The other thought is that she may be aspirating so they are going to do a swallow study again to rule that out.... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4566303 Wed, 09 Mar 2011 16:38:26 +0100 4566303 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4560518&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FhYaas_qMqlE%2F I have struggled alot with those words. Alot. This past year has held so many changes for our family with Emma Grace. Changes that I knew in my head were possibly going to take place in the far future, but that future came way to fast for my heart. I fell completely apart when she lost her communication. I felt abandoned and lost. I still do on some days. I don’t want to turn this “hard thing” into Glory… I want the hard thing to go away! But then I remember these words: “Fear not… I am with you..” Those words were so close to my heart during her 3 month stint in ICU, yet they didn’t have the impact on me that they now do, a year later. I have lived the last year in fear. In fear of losing her. In fear of losing more of her than I have al... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4560518 Tue, 08 Mar 2011 15:36:50 +0100 4560518 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4507541&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FXdZqjtYmHQ4%2F You guys are awesome! You have officially bought Emma an Ipad! Gives me goosebumps! My incourage girls want to help me with the software that Emma needs (proloquo2Go) and a sturdy case for her new IPad. They are going to donate their items to my etsy store (linked in my sidebar) and you still can buy the jewerly that is listed! If you ordered your jewelry before 8am this morning, it was shipped out today… Everything else will be shipped out on Thursday. Thank you so much for your purchases and donations! I am utterly speechless at your kindness! Here is a picture of Emma with her new ipad: I am in awe! (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4507541 Wed, 23 Feb 2011 01:30:16 +0100 4507541 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4507542&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FPs90wEz2th8%2F When I read this blogher article, I was sold on getting an Ipad. I was amazed at it can help with, but I was most impressed with the language part. After Emma’s seizures she lost her communication skills and only says gibberish in a “sing songy” voice. It is so difficult to figure out what she wants because every day her language is different. She gets frustrated to the point of biting her arms and hands (leaving bruises) when we can not understand what she wants or needs. It is a totally different Emma. She is unable to tell us when she needs to go to the bathroom and has to wear pull ups 24 hours a day at 9 years old. I believe that she knows 100% what she is saying, but it just gets “lost in translation” going from her brain to her mouth. The Ipad would b... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4507542 Tue, 22 Feb 2011 01:12:07 +0100 4507542 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4414650&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2Fu6ELcRhF_HY%2F In the last month and a half I have: Sat next to Emmas bed in PICU for two weeks.* I have asked God why too many times. I have been full of fear. I have been full of anger. I have been disappointed in myself, in my God, in my life. I have been exhausted With trying to be strong. Pretending to have it all together. Hiding the fact that I don’t. I have been shadowed with fear, Insecurity, Doubt, Loss. I have been honest with my Savior, with myself. And I have come to the realization {again} that it is not about me. Its about Him using me for His Glory… Not mine. It is about me completely trusting Him. With Emma. With me. I am tired of being a “cancer survivor, homeschool mom and mother of a special needs child just trying to survive.” I want to be more. For m... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4414650 Sat, 29 Jan 2011 13:38:57 +0100 4414650 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4186942&cid=t_186687_109_f&fid=38950&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.shockmd.com%2F2010%2F11%2F20%2F10-questions-for-emma-watson-from-harry-potter%2F She wants to become a renaissance woman, interview has some dept so enjoy.   Related posts:Stanford cardiologist answers your questions on YouTube 4 Questions you don´t know the answers to 13 questions about depression answered by OrganizedWisdom (Source: Dr Shock MD PhD) Dr Shock MD PhD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4186942 Sat, 20 Nov 2010 07:17:48 +0100 4186942 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4018396&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Fespeciallyheather.com%2Fmusic%2F04%2520Bubbly%25201.mp3 “Bubbly” – Colbie Caillat (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4018396 Thu, 30 Sep 2010 19:05:57 +0100 4018396 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=4013439&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F5y3Ytu0I_YM%2F I make jewelry…. It started as a way to deal with my stress, and then it turned into an obsession. My mother in law got me started when she came to visit last year, and now that she is living in the same city I am… I can not stop. Literally Can. Not. Stop. Here is just a teeny tiny sample of what we have done: {click to enlarge} Here is what my garage looks like: {This is not all of it, there are more containers under the table!} Back to my secret. We have a store in an antique mall called “Beaded Bliss” with over $4000 in inventory. We tried an Etsy shop, but with the madness that is my life, I was afraid that someone would buy something and then I would get caught in the hospital with Emma and would not be able to ship it! All of the proceeds of the s... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=4013439 Tue, 28 Sep 2010 21:20:46 +0100 4013439 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3994243&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F-DHPUI4gpP8%2F Emma is doing better today. Her fever is gone and probably the result of a virus. Her blood cultures have not grown anything as of yet, and her Urine culture was clear. I haven’t seen her transplant cardiologist yet, but don’t expect to until late this afternoon because Wednesdays are clinic days. When I came into the PICU this morning, I could hear her singing from outside the unit door! It was music to my ears. I honestly can say that visions of her last hospitalization stayed with me through out the night, but this morning when I heard her singing “Emma-nese” it did my heart so good! I will update later when I know more.. Thank you for your prayers and your care for my family! (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3994243 Wed, 22 Sep 2010 14:47:53 +0100 3994243 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3816656&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FxkxapgPNk1w%2F This morning, while I was in the living room and Emma was asleep in her crib in our bedroom, I heard a faint “Mommy” followed by a very distinct “Mommy!”. She was calling me to come and get her out of her bed. When I walked in to greet her, I asked her if she called for me and she smiled and nodded her head yes! This interaction did my heart so much good! She has repeated my name when I say it first, but this is the first time she has associated a name with a person (that wasn’t even in the room!), and it just so happened to be MY name! THEN when I asked if she had actually called my name, she replied! HOLY COW! Emma has a neurology appointment tomorrow at 9am. They are going to do an EEG to see if she come off of her last seizure medicine, Phenobarbital. At ... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3816656 Tue, 03 Aug 2010 13:55:16 +0100 3816656 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3795021&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Fespeciallyheather.com%2Fmusic%2FEaston-Speak-Mix.wav Easton went to Tennessee last week with my parents to visit some friends in the music business. While there, she wrote and recorded this song about Emma and the day she seized. I cannot tell you the emotions that filled my heart the first time I read the lyrics. And yes. That is all her playing that guitar!! She is such an amazingly mature young lady, and I love her so very much. She has witnessed things that most people won’t witness in their lifetime, yet she knows that this world and all of it’s heartache is not the end… Speak-Written and Performed by Easton George Speak Lyrics Her smile can reach the sky. And her eyes will shine so bright. You hit the floor for the first time that night, and I watched your life flash by. Speak, just a word cause’ I love you is so ... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3795021 Tue, 27 Jul 2010 14:09:04 +0100 3795021 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3737226&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F3dS17V_BQyw%2F I realize that I have never written, in detail, about the day Emma had a grand mal seizure, or what the days held that led up to that horrible event on March 31st. I wrote about feeling “numb” on April 1st, but never about March 31st. So I am going to attempt to do that now… I have to to warn you that my emotions on this subject are still very raw, and the 2 images I am going to be posting are very hard to look at. I wont be offended if you leave now, before you read any farther, in fact, I will totally understand. Before I get to March 31st, I have to start back in February. Emma went into ICU because she had a 104.5 fever that would not go away. All of her labs and cultures were coming back negative of any virus or bacteria for the first week… finally we got the r... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3737226 Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:09:42 +0100 3737226 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3699666&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F08lMJgr83bc%2F This is Emma in May at Tampa Gen. Inpatient Rehab: {she isnt crying, it is called a “Neuro Moan” from the swelling on her brain} Notice how she is holding her right hand and turning her head to the right and how she is taking really small steps. I am amazed at how much muscle mass she lost in her legs and upper body. Laying in bed for 3+ months will do that. ————————— This is her on Tuesday at Transplant Clinic: ————————— And yesterday morning still in her bed: ————————— This is Emma’s teacher yesterday at homebound school. At the end she uses her BIGmac appropriatley to tell us she wants to “stop&#82... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3699666 Fri, 25 Jun 2010 13:49:30 +0100 3699666 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3691054&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F2HDrswe1baE%2F Thank you so much for all of your sweet comments on my “lamenting” post.  I feel somewhat more secure in our new normal, but it is still going to take me a while to come to terms with all that has happened since February 16th.  I think that when I was in the hospital with Emma, I was so focused on her needs “at that moment” that I didn’t {or couldn’t} process what was truly going on and now that we are home,  it has finally hit me. We are finally getting into the swing of things on the home front.  I am abundantly more busy than before with therapies and homebound teaching etc…. but we have made such great progress!  Mark and I went to an Autism support group that was just started last night, and we both feel so much better and not so alone. ... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3691054 Wed, 23 Jun 2010 14:33:15 +0100 3691054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3683821&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FLpyrtLIctDY%2F Aren’t they beautiful. (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3683821 Mon, 21 Jun 2010 23:46:00 +0100 3683821 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3659122&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FWwEj5CUv-r8%2F Lament:  To express grief for or about; mourn At church yesterday during the prayer time at the end of the service I started to silently cry.  Then the crying led to an audible cry.  And then, before I knew it I was trying to hold back the sounds of my tears.  Yesterday’s sermon was not really a sermon but a testimony time of the Women’s Retreat that I am so sorry I missed.  All of these women came back  refreshed, revived, RENEWED. I need that. I want that.  I long for that. But something is holding me back from experiencing that. Reading over at Sleeping with Bread this morning, Mary Lue wrote on Lamenting, and how it was hindering her spiritual growth, and how the sermon at her church yesterday pushed her to lay those things down at the foot of the cross.  It got me ... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3659122 Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:19:02 +0100 3659122 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3632404&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F-LCjcsfkDHw%2F Emma was back in the hospital last week, but it was a quick trip. She went in because she had a urinary tract infection, and while there we opted to have a G-Tube placed. On Tuesday of last week she was officially diagnosed with Cortical Vision Impairment (CVI) by her Neuro-Ophthalmologist. We {Mark, I and her doctors} feel that the G-Tube is needed because Emma has limited vision and was not allowing us put anything in her mouth because she thought everything was medicine. If you have followed my blog for the past 4 years, you will remember that she use to have a G-tube that she loving called “nubbie”. She pulled it out when she was 5 and has not required one until now. The G-Tube makes it so much easier to give her medicine, and it helps her become reacquainted with food in h... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3632404 Fri, 04 Jun 2010 20:40:56 +0100 3632404 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3621915&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FaTQ_x1i4iiY%2F You know, this last three months has been overwhelmingly painful yet utterly awesome. They have shown me my weaknesses, my doubts, my lack of faith… but at the same time it has pushed me closer to strengthening my weaknesses, trusting in the midst of my doubt and building up my faith by searching HIS heart. I have prayed so many times before that Christ would do a mighty work in me, that He would anoint my life and my words and that His will would be done, despite mine. I have doubted him so many times that I have lost count. I have lost trust in him so many times. I have lost faith that he will do what he says he will do so many times. Yet, He is still faithful. He is still trustworthy. He is still our Healer. Mark and I went to Emma’s IEP last week dreading that we were go... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3621915 Wed, 02 Jun 2010 14:31:49 +0100 3621915 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3570028&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FlMVY4od29KA%2F My mom came up to the rehab center  while we were there and brought Emma (and me) and plaque that stated “Good things will happen today.”  I  nonchalantly hung it on her window in her room at TGH and every once in a while I would read it in passing and smile and go on my way through the various therapies scheduled for that day. Today, as a sit on my lanai, it hangs over the table.  Every morning, when I come out and drink my coffee and have my quiet time, I see it.  But today I really see it. And I get it. No matter what today entails,  no matter what each moment holds- Good things will happen.  Good things always happen amidst the bad.  You would think by now, with all that I have gone through, I would have learned that.  You would think that it wouldn’t take a ... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3570028 Mon, 17 May 2010 12:04:41 +0100 3570028 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3564165&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FZb1BO6Xgj1A%2F I think that the hardest thing I have had to come to terms with is that Emma is partially blind. Being autistic, that was her main means of exploring the world around her, and now it is damaged, impaired, lost. She use to love to sit and look at books, that was her biggest joy in life. I often wonder if she even realizes that she sees differently and I wonder how she sees, which is a very hard thing for me not to know. When she first came out of the medically induced coma, there was no light in her beautiful blue eyes, there was just blank stare that honestly scared me to death. The light has come back in some ways, it is just different. I remember the distinct difference in her eyes when she was seizing in my arms. It was a soul piercing stare, and I was totally helpless. A mother is supp... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3564165 Fri, 14 May 2010 13:30:32 +0100 3564165 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3546988&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FtSlrqkRzHPQ%2F She and I both want to say a VERY HUMONGOUS THANK YOU! When we got home on Thursday, there were not only one but THREE boxes of cards from you all wrapped up in adorable baskets! (Thank you Lisa B and {in}courage for putting that together for us!) You guys will never know how much your words brightened my day… She did absolutely fantabulous at inpatient rehab.  So fantabulous, in fact, that she only had to stay for 2 weeks! More on that to come, but did I mention she did fantabulous?! She is becoming more and more like the old Emma every day! She lost most of her speech and sight from the swelling on her brain, but she is saying some of the old things that she use to say (like “dead gum it” and “NO!”) She has said Mama, Nana, Walk and other random words that ... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3546988 Sun, 09 May 2010 10:21:13 +0100 3546988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3529971&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FY9s-Muvow5w%2F (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3529971 Mon, 03 May 2010 17:42:56 +0100 3529971 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3487318&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F9d6TwVbrmRs%2F Today will mark 10 weeks we have been at All Children’s Hospital. 10 weeks. I can hardly believe it has been that long. One of the many things I have learned in these past ten weeks is how very vulnerable my walk with Christ is. I have been attacked many times by satan tempting me to abandon my faith that the Lord will do what He says He will do. I have cried more than any mother should cry. I have been numb, angry, depressed, heartbroken…wash rinse repeat. Yet the one thing I have never felt is abandoned. I have always known, even in the darkest moments of the past 10 weeks that my God has not abandoned me or my daughter. I have never lost that nagging hope in the back of my heart that says “Be still and know that I am God. Watch what I am about to do.” That has... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3487318 Tue, 20 Apr 2010 14:06:56 +0100 3487318 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3483078&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FDFLmOJ_QStE%2F Today is the first day in three weeks that we have seen her smile and heard her beautiful laugh! There is actually life in her eyes, though they still are not fixing on anything in particular… But she was bouncing in her wheel chair and twirling her head so she could feel her pigtails She is making the same noises that she made before the seizures, but she still is not talking, only making sounds. That will come in time Tomorrow we have a big day planned full of EEG monitoring in the morning for a few hours to rule out any breakthrough seizures and then in the afternoon we will have an MRI to see how her brain has healed. I am just so very superbly ecstatic with her progress, and so are the doctors and nurses Yesterday she could not suck from a straw and today she can suck if you... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3483078 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 21:16:26 +0100 3483078 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3480896&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FXVErnPPDvls%2F Today has been full of small miracles!  She is eating and swallowing on her own (you have to put the food in her mouth, but she goes for it with her tongue!) She has some purposeful eye movement.  She is able to sit unassisted and hold her head up straight.  She LOVES going for wheel chair rides outside! (We are renting a wheelchair for her)  She is consistently raising her hand so that daddy can do “this little piggy” with her fingers She picks her nose, rubs her eyes and clicks her teeth just like she use to do! She is still in there… We just have to find the right method to getting her out. She is going to be moved to Tampa General Pediatric Rehabilitation Center Tuesday or Wednesday.  She has an MRI scheduled for Monday, so be praying for that. I just want to th... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3480896 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 01:36:46 +0100 3480896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3476028&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FpjJBjYIlN04%2F That quote is so very true, only Christ controls the weather… but he gives me the freedom and choice to adjust my sails.  I can adjust them slightly and go down with the ship or I can go full force and ride the storm out until the end. I choose to ride this storm with my sails full force. The last couple days have been really rough.  We have seen some of the effects of the seizures/swelling and it is going to be a long hard road.  The neurologist, when asked if this was the Emma we were going to take home stated that she had “significant changes on her MRI and it possibly was, but only time would tell”.  I truly hate that phrase..”only time will tell.” She most likely is going to go  from here to a residential rehabilitation center, but “only time w... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3476028 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 14:02:08 +0100 3476028 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3467983&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FR3XxMEjiAPM%2F Yesterday Emma had a Visual Evoked Potential test.  This test can tell us if the brain sees.  The test stated that there were “definite signals from the eyes to the brain.”  It can’t however tell us how well she can see or how she sees. Just the fact that she can see does our hearts so good.  We won’t know anything more until she gets completely out of the medically induced coma (Pentobarbital coma).  She is down on the Pentobarbital drip from 2.5 to .5 – We are hoping to be completely off tomorrow morning.  It will stay in her system anywhere from 3 days to a couple of weeks.  It stores in the fat cells, which Emma has little of, so it may be in the next couple of days. She is off the ventilator, and not strapped down any longer.  She is still pretty ... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3467983 Tue, 13 Apr 2010 19:13:57 +0100 3467983 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3460361&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FLczL9S9qPa0%2F We have done a lot of yelling, screaming, crying and bargaining with God over the weekend.  We have both asked why so very many times,  and then we have cried some more. A commenter on the last post, Dianne posted the words and the youtube for the song Psalm 62 by Shane and Shane (whom me and my husband love.) The words that spoke to my heart the most are: Oh I am calling out. Oh my soul, oh my stubborn soul. Won’t you wait on Him. Wait in the guilt. Even in your fear. Oh your God is here to lean on. He won’t move. He never left His throne.  Though all of this has taken us by huge surprise, He isn’t shocked. He is still God.  He is still our savior. He is still my friend, even though I find it hard to even talk to Him at this time.. He still hears my heart. And He won... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3460361 Mon, 12 Apr 2010 13:52:45 +0100 3460361 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3435207&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FiDKkjbqvRO0%2F What a difference a day makes! She is off oxygen and her blood saturation is 100%.  She is down on her Midazolam (versed) drip to treat her seizures from .7 to .4!   She is making sounds and coughing.  She has opened her eyes on command but closes them quickly.  The neurologist came in this morning and said that her left side of her brain is still very very sick.  She has beautiful sleep spindles on the right side of her brain but not as good on the left.  The left is where most if not all of the seizure activity came from so she is concerned enough to mention it.  She said that it was a good sign that she wanted breathing tube out and removed it herself (with her tongue, non the less!) and that she had purposeful movement on both sides.  She said that most of the seizures were co... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3435207 Sat, 03 Apr 2010 14:53:55 +0100 3435207 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3435208&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FhHVeknInc3A%2F She is no longer having seizures on the left side of her brain according the continual EEG. We are (un)patiently waiting the viral cultures from her spinal tap that was done on Wednesday evening. That will give us a better idea of what is causing her encephalitis and seizures. We will wean off of the sedation medication (versed) which is helping to suppress the seizures tomorrow if she continues to do well. She has no brain bleeds but if she does have a virus it could potentionally cause brain damage. We will not know the extent, if any until she fully wakes up. Good signs: She has purposeful movements. When she is unrestrained she goes directly for the breathing tube and EEG chords. She has opened her eyes 3 times today and focused on us. That does our hearts so much good! She sque... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3435208 Fri, 02 Apr 2010 22:50:36 +0100 3435208 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3429405&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F9Rb9mPzhNHQ%2F I keep asking for the Lord to show me why this is happening and what we are suppose to be learning from this, but He remains silent. This song speaks the words that I can no longer pray. I see my precious daughter laying still in the bed and I just want to scream. I can’t get the vision of her seizing uncontrollably out of my head and every time I try to sleep, it comes back. Her face, her arms, her eyes, especially her eyes. I honestly prayed while she was seizing for Him to just take her peacefully, that is how bad it was. I am so angry and yet very numb. I have no more tears to cry. I have so many questions, but no more words to pray. So I sit and wait for her to wake up and hope that the other proverbial shoe doesn’t drop. (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3429405 Thu, 01 Apr 2010 12:37:48 +0100 3429405 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3411266&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2Fs2hTFydsIjM%2F (This post was originally written in 2oo7.  It speaks to the heart of my post yesterday and when I read it this morning, it spoke to my heart again.) Have you ever thought about that? Jesus wept. In the midst of his heartache, in the midst of his impending death. He wept. He cried out visibly to his Father, praying that the cup would be taken from his hand. When our children are hurting, scared or tired, they weep. We wrap our arms around them and tell them that it is okay, that it will get better, that they are loved. We rush to their sides, and attend to their needs, because thats what mothers do. After all, these are our babies. Yet, when we, as moms, wives and women hurt, we hold it in. We tell ourselves that we must push those emotions aside, because after all we are moms, wives and ... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3411266 Sat, 27 Mar 2010 12:11:50 +0100 3411266 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3408597&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FVgO7fv_mjY4%2F Almost six weeks-  That is how long she has been in ICU (minus the two days she was home last week).  To say that this has been anything less than terrifying would be an understatement.  She has been intubtated twice,  had 4 central lines placed, callapsed a lung, had a chest tube placed (which drained 2 liters of fluid from her lungs), placed on dyalisis for a week, had two major life threating infections,  her blood pressure is really high (132/90) and she is the highest dose of  iv milrinone (which she cant go home on).  Funny thing is, milrinone  is suppose to lower her blood pressure, so now she is on a new drug called Cozaar which is suppose to help lower her blood pressure. They are going to do a Dobutamine Stress Test on Monday to rule out further damage to her coronary art... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3408597 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 13:58:47 +0100 3408597 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3354534&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F7Ss5PRMaekM%2F Sorry for the lack of updates for the past couple of days… They were really really busy for Miss Em. By Sunday she was so very much done with CRRT dialysis that she twisted her entire body like a twizzler and clotted the machine.  She was at the maximum amount of all of her sedation yet literally sat up in bed.  They had to make a decision on whether or not she was ready to come off of CRRT and go to Hemo-dialysis.  She made the decision for them when she wouldn’t be still! They stopped the CRRT and started Hemo-dialysis Monday Morning. Mondays dialysis went better than expected, but Monday night she decided that she was done with her Central Venous Femoral Line and pulled it out.  For those of you who are not aware of where they put that, it is in the main artery in her le... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3354534 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 16:05:33 +0100 3354534 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3338403&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2Fray2y5l-GW0%2F Remember how I have always said “do not miss the small miracles while waiting for the big one”. Yesterday Emma’s left lung collapsed from the air pocket that surrounded it. They sent her to Interventional Radialogy to put another chest tube in. When the radiologist looked at the CT scan, her lung had re-inflated and the air pocket was decreased significantly! That is one less tube in her little already tube filled body and one giant blessing for mom and dad! Plans for the day: Removing the breathing tube. Dialysis is remaining the same as it has been the last 2 days. Minimizing her sedation to help her breath off the vent. Her echocardiogram looked wonderful today.  Much better compared to the last few. So all in all, we are on an upward swing.  She still has a long l... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3338403 Sat, 06 Mar 2010 15:23:10 +0100 3338403 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3335535&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FD7YV3iZxN24%2F There wasn’t much to update on yesterday, but today holds a totally different scenario. Her x-ray yesterday looked great, other than a small pocket of air below her left lung. Today it fills her left cavity. They are going to put another chest tube in (she still has the original one on that side which is only pulling fluid off, and is in the wrong location to pull this large pocket of air). They are going to try to remove the breathing tube either today or tomorrow if they can get this lung issue resolved. On the dialysis front, she is doing great. Don’t really know when she will be coming off of it, Emma is in total control of that. She is on track according to the Nephrologist, so that is encouraging. Thank you to all of you who have donated to our family thru paypal. You wi... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3335535 Fri, 05 Mar 2010 15:39:05 +0100 3335535 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3331533&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FB7cLcLlSlpg%2F Sorry about the lateness of this update, we were waiting on Transplant to round and they just left. Nothing much has changed today with Emma. The Neurologist came in yesterday because of her issues in the OR and Emma responded appropriately to stimuli so she feels that there is no worries neurologically. Occupation and Physical Therapy were consulted because she has been in bed now for 15 days. She has hand splints on both wrists because they do not want her wrist muscles to tighten. The are talking about taking her chest tube out in the next 48 hours, and then extubation (removal of the breathing tube) but they want to make sure that her lungs do not have any fluid in them first. Her kidney function numbers are back in normal range (BUN: 23 and Creatinine: .82) They want her BUN to be les... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3331533 Wed, 03 Mar 2010 22:16:29 +0100 3331533 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3322586&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FYeJjtAlvIp8%2F They just finished rounds. She looks so much more comfortable and stable today than she did yesterday. Her blood pressure was 169/110 yesterday and now they are 107/66 today. She is going to have a blood transfusion (1 unit) today. She is on 24 hour dialysis (Continual Renal Replacement Therapy CRRT). Her BUN and Creatinine are lower today (kidney function) We are still waiting for the heart biopsy to come back. It should be here around 4. Neurology has been consulted just because she was down for 3 minutes yesterday, but she had a blood pressure and CPR so they do not think she has any damage. She had “purposeful movement” after the cath lab incident yesterday so that is a good sign. On a scale of 1-10 (10 being the best) she was at a 2 yesterday evening and today she is at a ... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3322586 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 17:50:59 +0100 3322586 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3322587&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FLsLufUH5lEM%2F She came out of the OR successfully but she had a difficult start. She couldn’t breath and they had to do cpr 3 times while she was in there. They successfully intubated her but not without major problems. They had to put a chest tube in to drain 1.5 liters of fluid from her lungs and abdomen. They put a central line in, and successfully placed the catheter for dialysis. They were skeptical about doing the heart cath and biopsy because she was so unstable, but they were able to do it at the end because she turned around. We will get the results of the biopsy sometime tomorrow. She is now in her room on dialysis sleeping with sedation peacefully. I will update as soon as we know anything new tomorrow. Thank you for your prayers and support… (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3322587 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 00:21:40 +0100 3322587 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3318620&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FBhBwfJ6VhYc%2F Todays Plans: Heart Cath/Biopsy to rule out rejection Placement of Central Venous Catheter CRRT Dialysis Intubation On a scale of 1-10 (10 being the best) she is at a 3.  Today’s procedures are very high risk because the virus has attacked every organ in her body.  Her lungs are not fully healed and re-intubation is going to be tricky. She has to be heavily sedated for the dialysis tube that will be placed in her neck.  She will be on continual dialysis from anywhere upto 6 days-6 weeks. She will be intubated and heavily sedated until they stop the dialysis. They are going to do a heart cath/biopsy because her heart function has slightly decreased which will tell us whether her heart is in rejection or just overworked from the virus.  Her liver is still enlarged but that alway... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3318620 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 16:44:01 +0100 3318620 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3307047&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FSXTbMRQmNxw%2F I’ve been listening to this song over and over while watching my daughter fight in the PICU. I’ve often had to remind myself over the last 11 days that He really is in control. I listen to the words and really let them penetrate my heart, and then I am less afraid for her. My mommy heart aches seeing her on a breathing machine. My arms long to hold her and make this all better, but I can’t. I have cried more tears in the last week, yet I know this is what is best for her. The virus has attacked hard, and her lungs need time to heal. I look at her on the vent and cant help but ask why. Why her. Why now. Why in general. But I know he holds her heart (and mine) in the palms of his hands. I just have to trust that. Which, quite frankly, is hard right now. They are going to ... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3307047 Thu, 25 Feb 2010 17:25:51 +0100 3307047 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3280158&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FH5hXQ4az1e8%2F As I sit in the PICU again with Emma, I am reminded that I can face this unknown one of two ways. The first would be full of fear, and the other would be full of trust. But can’t it be both? I mean can’t I be fearful and full of trust at the same time. That is the question that has crossed my mind more than a few times since we were admitted yesterday afternoon. Emma has been running 103.5+ temp since yesterday morning. I brought her to the emergency room and she was admitted to PICU (pediatric intensive care unit) yesterday afternoon. So far all of the preliminary labs/xrays/echos/cultures have produced nothing. So we sit and wait-Wait for her temperature to go down and/or for someone to tell us why it is so high. As of right now, we assume it is viral and that her blood cul... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3280158 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 16:09:25 +0100 3280158 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3061528&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FyodOW2tM8II%2F “I can count a million times people asking me how I can praise You with all that I’ve gone through. The question just amazes me, can circumstances possibly change who I forever am in You?” -MercyMe That is Emma’s hand catching rain. This pictures really touches my heart because it captures perfectly how our family chooses to accept the “rain” instead of run from it. So many times people approach us and tell us how strong we are… how brave we must be to take on all that we have, including my cancer and a daughter with special needs. I never really thought we were brave, and most of the time we are not strong. What options do we have? We could either wallow in the heartache or we can praise Him through the storms…. {continue reading at incourag... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3061528 Sun, 06 Dec 2009 05:00:30 +0100 3061528 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3008365&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FgikrUome_fc%2F When you come to the end of your rope, tie a knot and hang on. ~Franklin D. Roosevelt It has definitely been one l.o.n.g week. Emma has been put on a new medication and boy has it been rocking her {& our} world. A few weeks ago she saw a new Neurologist who prescribed Tenex for her impulsiveness and ADHD. We then cleared it through her Transplant team. It worked like a charm except for the fact that it bottomed out her blood pressure. We were scared to death that she would faint so we kept her home 2 days last week. { I won’t even begin to tell you how many times the pharmacy messed this drug compound up.. it was ridiculously insane.} So sadly, we had to scratch the new miracle working drug. Her pediatrician then found an extended release version of this drug called Intuniv, whic... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3008365 Wed, 18 Nov 2009 23:59:10 +0100 3008365 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2924937&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FZUrzxQPPBhw%2F When we asked Em what she wanted to be this year for halloween {yes, we allow them to dress up for Halloween} her first response was “Hello Kitty”, but needless to say there are not many “skinny as a rail” hello kitty costumes on ebay {or anywhere for that matter}. Because that idea was a bust, her second choice was a pumpkin. My mom got creative at Target and bought an toddler jack-o-lantern custom, some orange and black sock tights, a black t-shirt and a pumpkin hat {all sold separately} and Viola! A very skinny Em-O-Lantern costume! She sat in front of the mirror and just laughed at her self! It was awesome to see her so happy and giggly! My older two are “too old” for costumes… {we will see… they always say that and then right before Hall... Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2924937 Sat, 24 Oct 2009 22:20:26 +0100 2924937 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2912486&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FvHJ-6peUh9s%2F My Proud Emma Grace For more Wordless Wednesday visit 5M4M (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2912486 Wed, 21 Oct 2009 04:00:40 +0100 2912486 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2876331&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35426&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheAlzheimersReadingRoom%2F%7E3%2FOm85MgLElSw%2Falzheimers-on-long-island-deckers.html By Bob DeMarco Alzheimer's Reading Room Editor From glamor to incoherence: Alzheimer's patient Emma Decker spent her days walking in circles and mumbling. I felt my heart rate going up. I continued to click to the next picture. I wanted to stop but I couldn't. I started to wonder... To view this picture gallery go here. To view a very moving video go here. They say a picture is worth a thousand word. I experienced my usual yin and yang while viewing these pictures and watching the video. My heart started to race, in a way it was horrific. It was Alzheimer's. Later I started to think about the caregivers--the wonderful people. I'm sure they heard thousands of times -- how do you do it. How? This is a real depiction of Alzheimer's. You'll need Kleenex. You might want to send this t... Alzheimer's Reading Room, The blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2876331 Fri, 09 Oct 2009 15:45:33 +0100 2876331 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2800661&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Fespeciallyheather.com%2Fmusic%2Fshow_698526.mp3 I have to tell you that I was so very nervous going into this interview… and it shows! I never realized how many times I said “um” in a conversation! It was a true pleasure to be interviewed by Melissa. She is a wonderful person and so easy to talk to. I was amazed at how quickly 45 minutes flew by! God is really using her to reach others through her radio show and it was a true honor to be one of those women He chose to use. Pull up a chair and listen to what the Lord has done in my (and her) life thus far! (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2800661 Wed, 16 Sep 2009 17:47:03 +0100 2800661 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2716193&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F625Aw8IJgg8%2F So last night, when Mark came home from work, he offered to watch the kids so I could go have some “me” time. It had been a really rough day (3 fillings, Emma peeing all over the world. etc.) and by the look on my face, he just knew. So I loaded up my [...] (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2716193 Thu, 20 Aug 2009 11:11:58 +0100 2716193 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2705304&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FrnFUYwfMsvY%2F This entry was posted on November 10, 2006 I am he, [...] (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2705304 Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:48:07 +0100 2705304 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2691764&cid=t_186687_150_f&fid=38374&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FePharmaSummit%2F%7E3%2FUDLauF_Rbfk%2Fsocial-media-and-pharma-spurring.html (Source: ePharma Summit) ePharma Summit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2691764 Tue, 11 Aug 2009 13:52:00 +0100 2691764 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2671060&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FikAroPw0y6g%2F When I saw my name on His name, I didn’t quite grasp the true meaning behind the name Jehovah Jireh- I knew that it meant “He will provide”, but I didn’t quite grasp that through the sobs. And then it hit me: Jehovah-jireh was the place in the land of Moriah where God told Abraham [...] (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2671060 Wed, 05 Aug 2009 12:51:39 +0100 2671060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2453075&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FK8c8DslNk6I%2F I remember the first time I saw you, you were so very puffy yet so very beautiful hooked up to every tube imaginable… yet you were here! It has been a long hard beautiful road since then: But what an amazing journey you have lead us down. We love you so very much and are [...] (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2453075 Fri, 05 Jun 2009 11:59:57 +0100 2453075 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2453076&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FK-M4rMxu0UI%2F Where to begin. If you are just coming into this discussion, you will need to read this post first. So last night we (the parents of the autism children in our county) went before the School Board Members and pleaded our case. The majority of us (including myself) brought our autistic children so that the [...] (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2453076 Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:16:14 +0100 2453076 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2442557&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FIRjgRF5P080%2F ESE stands for Exceptional Student Education. Exceptional represents any thing other than “typical”. Emma is a ESE student because she is Autistic, among other things. For those of you who aren’t familiar with her story, you should read it. Anyways. We (the parents of autistic students in this county) have been battling talking [...] (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2442557 Thu, 21 May 2009 16:10:52 +0100 2442557 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2381086&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FlS16tZcOi48%2F Isn’t she beautiful?! We are so very blessed.. The daddy and Emma dance at the end..I knew it would make you cry! (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2381086 Thu, 30 Apr 2009 19:11:25 +0100 2381086 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2299081&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FUnpchoZUfcY%2F When you use the “R” word, it hurts families like mine… Families that love someone special and unique. Society may view her as “retarded”, but to our family…She is loved Take a stand and make a pledge to end the use of the “R” word”..For Emma and special children/adults like her. Then, spread the word: The new [...] (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2299081 Tue, 31 Mar 2009 14:13:24 +0100 2299081 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2249318&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FWmy2TT8yczg%2F Tonight we turn our clocks ahead…and get up an hour earlier in the morning.  I enjoy the longer evenings of daylight and somehow find I get so much more done.  However, until the year approaches its longest day, in June, our mornings remain darker.  If we’re earlier risers, we’ll find it dark or dawn.  But…we may have the glorious adventure of watching the sunrise rather than having it fully daylight when we get up. Sometimes the changes in time will affect Alzheimer’s patients and confuse them if they have a body pattern.  In others, who simply have a nap and awake mode, they’ll not sense the time change at all.  It simply may be more difficult upon the caregivers as they adapt to the different time. Do you find Daylight Savings Time affecting yo... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2249318 Sun, 08 Mar 2009 21:28:59 +0100 2249318 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2233166&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FqmhH6baZnOk%2F Esther, at Witnessing Alzheimer’s, responded to my  post, Can Two Glasses of Milk Chase Alzheimer’s Away? with ”For what it’s worth, my husband drank 2 glass of milk a day. He’s in last stage AD.” I’ve so often found, as Esther apparently has, that many of the conclusions or speculations about Alzheimer’s don’t apply to my mother or aunt.  Then others seem to have some bearing.  In this case, my mom didn’t drink much milk and developed Alzheimer’s.  My dad drank a great deal of milk as long as I can remember.  His mind was still very alert when he died at age 92, although physically he had deteriorated.  I don’t think my aunt drank much milk, although all three grew up on farms, so  milk was a beverage in thei... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2233166 Wed, 04 Mar 2009 22:20:41 +0100 2233166 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2227493&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FZ6NPPG7CBbI%2F As I was preparing writing lessons for a group of homeschoolers, I pulled out some childhood photos for inspiration.  I’ll have the young writers use photos of events in their lives.  However, as an example, I’ll take photos from my childhood and incorporate them in similar projects. I looked at a photo of my family (Father, Mother, my sister, brothers and me) seated on a rock with the Cape Neddick “Nubble Lighthouse” in the background.  This brought back memories of trips from our home in New York State to visit relatives in Maine and our picnic suppers at the lighthouse view. So, in addition to writing about family trips to Nubble Light for my class, I’m relating some memories for our family legacy.  I marvel how Mother and Father had the patience to ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2227493 Sun, 01 Mar 2009 01:41:07 +0100 2227493 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2223524&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FdHF1e7hDTyE%2F We are back in the hospital with Emma Grace. She came back Wednesday and is doing so much better today. She has been going down hill since they discharged her Saturday, and finally her father and I decided she needed to come back (with the okay from her ped, of course). Her [...] (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2223524 Fri, 27 Feb 2009 13:58:44 +0100 2223524 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2210786&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FDhsFL-qHh9E%2F Alzheimer’s Notes blogger, Mary Emma Allen has stories featured in the new release, Eternally Yours, an anthology of poetry, light essays, devotions and meditations, edited by Mary Ellen Grisham and published by Xulon Press.   Featuring some of the best Christian writers on the Internet, this book represents work that has appeared in the Eternal Ink E-zine since it’s inception in 1999.    In addition, Mary gives presentations and teaches workshops at schools, libraries, writers’ conferences, and for other groups.  Some of her talks include topics such as Alzheimer’s and caregiving, quilt history and quiltmaking, New Hampshire history, and writing.   I was pleased when Ms. Grisham selected several of my stories for inclusion in this anthology.  It’s exciting ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2210786 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 23:16:06 +0100 2210786 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2211767&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2FajEnyhAenRw%2F I have wanted to post for the past, oh month, but holy cow has it been one thing after another in the George house. Emma has been sick for the past two weeks with the flu, which required an over night visit in ICU. Then, of course, I was the lucky recipient of said [...] (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2211767 Tue, 24 Feb 2009 13:38:43 +0100 2211767 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2206801&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F8baI-3hOqqA%2F Winter break from school has arrived for the grandkids.  We’re also digging out from a blizzard that left 12-16 inches of snow, depending on whether it drifted or not.  Along with show shoveling tasks, reading is on the agenda today. We are a family of readers in our multi-generational home (grandfather, granny, mom, dad and the two children).  Books abound around the house, the library is a fun place to visit, bookstores (new and used) hold a fascination, and online bookstores are enjoyable to access. Reading in an Alzheimer’s World My mother was a reader, too, and could sit midst clutter in her kitchen and read before the woodstove.  When any of us remarked that there were dishes to be washed, etc., Mother replied, “The chores will always be there.  But I might not... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2206801 Mon, 23 Feb 2009 17:06:06 +0100 2206801 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2206802&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F2yTW7dHVYwQ%2F I discovered that Mother liked to look at pictures in magazines.  Turning the pages and commenting on the photos often kept her occupied for quite some time, both when she was living with me and during her early years at the nursing home.  Often the pictures would stimulate memories. Here’s an interesting article, Art Cuts Through the Fog of Alzheimer’s, about museum programs, particularly one at the Amon Carter Museum gallery in Fort Worth, Texas.  I think you’ll find it interesting and inspiring.  It may give you some ideas for helping your Alzheimer’s patient. Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, art, art and Alzheimer's, art for Alzheimer's patients, Mary Emma Allen, Memories, memory-lossShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2206802 Mon, 23 Feb 2009 03:10:12 +0100 2206802 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2200700&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FuwgqeS9Q9js%2F Deciding to place a family member in a nursing home constitutes a big decision for families and for that person.  Then researching and choosing a place can be overwhelming, too. I knew, when I moved my mom from her home 275 miles to ours, that eventually I’d have to place her in a nursing home. Since I’d been through this with my aunt’s care, I realized that, at some point, caring for Mother would be more than I could manage. So I began researching before I moved her.  I located a nearby nursing home that, fortunately for Mother and me, had daycare facilities and would take her for weekends whenever I have to be away.  When Mother needed full time care, it was easy to move her here. However, that nursing home began to have financial difficulties and before long discon... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2200700 Fri, 20 Feb 2009 16:28:18 +0100 2200700 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2200701&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F3IYYh9X9ss0%2F Mixing medications, forgetting what to take when, or having insufficient knowledge about why one is taking a specific prescription becomes a challenge with Alzheimer’s patients and sometimes their caregivers.  If you have questions about prescription use, perhaps you’ll find these guidelines helpful: Guidelines for Managing Medications and Prescriptions at AgingCare.com Do you have suggestions on helping the Alzheimer’s patient in your family manage meds?  What works for you and them? (Amazon image) Tags: Alzheimer's medications, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimer's patients, caregivers, Caregiving, managing medications, Mary Emma Allen, medication guidelines, medications, prescription guidelines, prescriptionsShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2200701 Thu, 19 Feb 2009 20:19:37 +0100 2200701 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2190737&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FDd8lom89rAw%2F In addition to caring for an Alzheimer’s family member, some caregivers may operate a business at home which enables them to be readily available.  Or they would like to develop something that enables them to earn money from home.  My guest post at Susan Gunelius’ Women on Business blog gives you 10 Tips On Finding Time for Your Home Business. Whether you’re balancing a home business with caregiving or considering doing this, I hope you find these tips helpful. (Amazon image) Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, business tips, developing a home business, guest-post, home business, home business tips, Mary Emma Allen, Susan Gunelius, Women on BusinessShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2190737 Mon, 16 Feb 2009 03:45:52 +0100 2190737 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2188101&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F8weNatw-QRU%2F Happy Valentine’s Day!   May this be a special day for you.  We have been enjoying Valentine’s Day flowers, cards and candy.  This was a fun day at school yesterday with the Valentine parties.  Today the children in our household are enjoying it, too. How have you been celebrating?  Is the Alzheimer’s patient in your family enjoying this day, too?  My mom always made a special occasion of Valentine’s Day when my siblings and I were young.  Even in her Alzheimer’s years, as long as she was aware of the day, she wanted me to help her send valentines to family members. Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, celebrations, Happy Valentine's Day, holiday, making valentines, Mary Allen, Mary Emma Allen, Valentine's Day, ValentinesShare This (Source: Alzheimer's ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2188101 Sat, 14 Feb 2009 18:27:33 +0100 2188101 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2188102&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FSZE7TP3CNG8%2F When one receives a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s, how does he/she learn to live with it?  How do family members learn to cope?  My aunt was diagnosed before I became involved in her care.  When I would see her, she’d mention it, but didn’t seem to let it get her down.  However, I didn’t see her that often at that stage in her life.  Also, not so much was known about Alzheimer’s in the 1980s, so she may not have realized what was ahead for her. I don’t think my mom ever realized she had developed Alzheimer’s.  She was more concerned about finding a cure for her sister.  Mother’s only comments occasionally, when we were chatting, “Slow down, Emma.  My brain doesn’t work so fast.” How Does One Cope? How does one learn to co... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2188102 Sat, 14 Feb 2009 05:00:51 +0100 2188102 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2182753&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FYBh_1Hj8x3Y%2F We’ve often discussed tea drinking and tea parties here at Alzheimer’s Notes.  This is one activity my mom enjoyed, even after she was living in the nursing home.  My grandchildren and I often provided these for her. The word’s out that Obama drinks tea, particularly organic berry tea, rather than coffee.  So, the possibility that tea becomes an even more popular beverage looms before us.  What about tea parties?  More of these, too? (Amazon image) Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, Barack Obama, Mary Emma Allen, Obama, tea, tea partiesShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2182753 Fri, 13 Feb 2009 05:00:07 +0100 2182753 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2182754&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FAluerqEqEP0%2F Even though the snow is still deep here in New Hampshire, the air is warmer, ice is melting and days are getting longer. Spring is on it’s way so thoughts of gardening become frequent. In fact, you can’t find snow shovels and ice melt in most of the stores. They’re stocking their garden supplies. Gardening is a stress reliever for many people and caregivers are no exception. Also, gardens often have a calming effect and bring back memories for Alzheimer’s patients. I grew up on a farm where a large garden was necessary to feed children, hired help and other family members. Throughout the years, Jim and I’ve had gardens in several of the many places where we’ve lived. I even wrote a gardening column for a magazine for awhile. So…I’ve begun a g... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2182754 Thu, 12 Feb 2009 05:00:34 +0100 2182754 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2177596&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fn3u624MSQwY%2F Watch out for your Alzheimer’s family member (and yourself if you’re “senior”) if Obama’s Stimulus Bill sneaks through in its current form.   Deep within the multiple pages of the bill is a provision for a collecting one’s medical records on a national data base and appointing health care coordinators who will “approve” your care and perscriptions.  As ultimately planned, your doctor will have to get permission for your treatment, possibly by someone not medically trained but only looking at the bottom dollar or cost effectiveness:  Is the cost of treating this person (you or your Alzheimer’s family member) economically worthwhile, considering age, life expectency and contribution or drain upon society? Will this person be a prod... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2177596 Wed, 11 Feb 2009 15:19:22 +0100 2177596 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2173050&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FNvHwWSB1j6o%2F The latest evidence appears to indicate that head injuries during football playing and practice result in dementia and death even in younger football players in their 40s, not just the older ones.  Check out Football’s Hard Hits at Alzheimer’s Weekly for a video interview and article on this topic.  Food for thought for parents of youngsters and the younger players. Consider the evidence and don’t simply say, “It couldn’t happen to me.  It couldn’t happen to my kid.” (Amazon image) Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, dementia, football, football players, head injuries, Mary Emma AllenShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2173050 Tue, 10 Feb 2009 05:00:18 +0100 2173050 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2169861&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FwBLvnI6xRd4%2F As I was substitute teaching the other day and involved in a Valentine’s Day writing activity with the youngsters about a valentine’s journey, I was reminded of my mom and all the activities she did with us children surrounding this day.  She, too, used to talk about the travels a valentine, as well as other letters, encountered as they went from one place to another. It was a way to understand the postal system and the geography of our land where a letter or card might travel.  Even in her early Alzheimer’s years, Mother liked to send valentines to her friends, grandchildren. and great grandchildren. Here’s a writing prompt, A Valentine’s Journey, I’ve posted at my One Book Two Book blog. (Century Novelty image at Amazon) Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzh... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2169861 Mon, 09 Feb 2009 03:44:29 +0100 2169861 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2167751&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F7z7RtpMRRFA%2F Valentine’s Day was a fun family day when I was a youngster because Mother made it so.  She had been a school teacher and held parties for her students.  Even though she was no longer taught after we four children were born (school districts were very reluctant to hire married teachers, particularly ones with children, in those days), she introduced us to many of the activities she’d enjoyed with her students.  She also cooked special foods for Valentine’s Day, midst her busy day of mom and farm wife duties. Mother decorated a cake with white frosting and red hearts.  When we were old enough, sister and I did this. She helped us children decorate a mail box for our cards. We had a family fun time making and addressing valentines for family members.  When we were... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2167751 Fri, 06 Feb 2009 16:24:36 +0100 2167751 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2160506&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FVvUiKwjpwis%2F According to researchers at Northwestern University, the use of insulin may help protect Alzheimer’s patients from this disease.  It may slow or prevent memory loss in those with a prevalence toward Alzhimer’s.  In other findings, scientists indicate that Alzheimer’s may be a form of diabetes. For more information and scientific details, visit Insulin May Protect against Alzheimer’s Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimer's Research, Alzheimers, Alzheimers-disease, diabetes, insulin, Mary Emma, Mary Emma Allen, memory-lossShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2160506 Wed, 04 Feb 2009 23:25:57 +0100 2160506 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2150860&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FytIbbUvhVo4%2F Swedish boxing champion Ingemar Johanssen died of Alzheimer’s disease in his native Sweden.  He was noted for defeating Floyd Patterson to become the first Swedish heavyweight champion of the world.  Patterson later took back his title, but Johanssen went on to other feats in the movies and the singing world. It has been noted, in recent years, that sports figures, such as boxers, football players, and soccer players, who are regularly hit in the head during their exploits, develop Alzheimer’s in their later years.  Floyd Patterson also developed Alzheimer’s disease. See Related Posts: Parents Beware!  Are You Setting Your Kids Up for Alzheimer’s! Ex-NFL Players Suffering from Alzheimer’s Qualify for Assistance The NFL, Concussions and Alzheimer’s D... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2150860 Mon, 02 Feb 2009 00:32:48 +0100 2150860 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2147639&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FQZvQc1ygnEw%2F Edie Dykeman, at Elder Care Cafe, mentions Alzheimer’s Notes and comments: Many times, once someone’s caregiving time is finished, they choose to move on. Mary Emma has returned to help the rest of us along. Some people have asked me, “Why?” when so many caregivers and Alzheimer’s family members choose move on. I want to reiterate:  First…it’s okay to move on.  Second…I’m not stuck in the past. As Edie has glimpsed, I chose, through my writing and speaking, to remain involved and help those who are still going through caregiving.  When Mother and Auntie developed Alzheimer’s (Auntie first in the 1980s and then Mother while caring for her sister in the early 1990s), there weren’t many resources for the caregiver. ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2147639 Sat, 31 Jan 2009 04:13:11 +0100 2147639 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2134803&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FxZYcontxhX4%2F The Food Bloggers have some up with some more recipes that may help you create interesting meals.  Alphabet Cake Pan Personalize your birthday cake with an alphabet cake pan. Make their initials, or their age in cake!  Busy Family Meals Vindaloo sauce can be used to flavor meats, but we like it best as a vegetarian delight! Chocolate Covered Buttercrunch Bars                                                                                                       Chocolate and buttercrunch treats made with a surprise ingredient. Cooking Gadgets Space saving genius: collapsible colanders! Horehound Drops A herbal home remedy for a sore throat or cough. Old Woodenware Stirs Memories Mary Em... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2134803 Mon, 26 Jan 2009 16:56:12 +0100 2134803 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2131374&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FwsiJDTpxP48%2F Throughout the ceremonies surrounding the Inauguration of Barack Obama as the 44th President, we began to hear more about Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of the United States.  Some people may have wondered what the connection was as: *Obama followed Lincoln’s route as he came to Washington for the weekend of festivities.  He used  Mr. Lincoln’s Bible for his swearing in. As we hear more about Abraham Lincoln, we may want to refresh our knowledge about the Civil War, his Emancipation Proclamation freeing the slaves, and his famous Gettysburg Address.  Our children may begin asking questions, and you find they might not have full knowledge from studies at school. Some of this discussion might stimulate memories in the minds of your Alzheimer’s patients (as I relate i... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2131374 Sat, 24 Jan 2009 17:56:42 +0100 2131374 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2104619&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F6sChKBrMarY%2F THURSDAY THIRTEEN In Writing Your Alzheimer’s Thoughts, I talked about times when I found it difficult to write about crises in my life, even though I’m a writer by profession.  However, I did mention, “Writing and sharing your experiences often helps others to cope and realize they’re not alone.”  So when I was over the emotion and challenges of that occasion I wrote newspaper and magazine articles, a book, and now blogs to share and to encourage others.  Many caregivers do this and maintain blogs where they share. Here are 13 I’ve discovered: Alzheimer’s Team by Krista Alzheimer’s Speaks by Lori Alzheimer Cafe (in French) SandwichINK by Kaye (for the “Sandwich” generation caregiver) Knitting Doc, The Diary of a Psychiat... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2104619 Thu, 15 Jan 2009 05:00:38 +0100 2104619 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2097988&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FBuzwApGw7FE%2F After I wrote last week’s Thursday Thirteen  about 13 Birds Creating Memories in my mother’s life, Krista at Alzheimer’s Team, left me a comment, “My dad remembers he had horses but he can’t go in to detail about it. Maybe if we talked with him more about it he might remember more.” Yes, often if you talk with your Alzheimer’s family member about places, persons, things and events, they will remember more. These may be bits and pieces of memories that you’ll enjoy jotting down or recording for family history, too.  Sometimes they will be lengthy stories.  You also may find that the Alzheimer’s patient thinks he/she is back in that memory world. Also, pull out some pictures, either actual family photos or simply pictures in magazines.... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2097988 Mon, 12 Jan 2009 17:23:21 +0100 2097988 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2067722&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FO1SXBzhptJU%2F Favorite Posts It’s often difficult to choose simply 10 posts from a year of writing, but here goes.  Some of these are my choice.  Others received a number of reader comments, so were popular with my viewers. Not Home for The Holidays - Celebrating in a Nursing Home Enjoying the Small Triumphs of Caring for Alzheimer’s Patients 13 Ways Alzheimer’s Patients Bring Joy Alzheimer’s Finger Food Suggestions Is Alzheimer’s a “Closet” Disease? Are You “going green” in Your Alzheimer’s Home? When Caregiving Becomes an Obsession Sundowning in Mother’s Alzheimer’s Life Do You Take Photos of Your Alzheimer’s Family Member? Time Travel Experiences for Alzheimer’s Households Which one of the above is your favorite?�... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2067722 Sat, 27 Dec 2008 05:00:08 +0100 2067722 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2061125&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FV03xZP7UuZs%2F Alzheimer’s Finances There often comes a time when elderly parents, especially those who experience strokes or develop Alzheimer’s, need help with their finances.  Eventually someone may have to take over their finances entirely. This generally is a difficult time for both parents and children or whomever becomes in charge.  I found helping my mother make out checks, decide which bills to pay, and go over accounts was no problem.  It was when she began to lose the ability to understand and made unrational decisions.  There is a reluctance within many of us to take financial matters out of our parents’ hands, even when we know they are no longer capable. This also becomes the time when unscrupulous people also can take advantage of the elderly.  The frustrating part o... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2061125 Tue, 23 Dec 2008 05:00:11 +0100 2061125 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2056166&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FjkYpTD61q-Y%2F Favorite Posts Periodically b5 bloggers post their favorite posts of the week.  I write three blogs at b5media, Alzheimer’s Notes, Quilting and Patchwork, and One Book Two Book.  (The latter I co-blog with Marcie Pickelsimer.) Sometimes it’s difficult to choose your very favorite for the week.  However, here are the three for this week: http://www.quiltingandpatchwork.com/…ilt-mysteries/ http://www.onebooktwobook.com/mary-e…storm-of-2008/ http://www.alzheimersnotes.com/not-h…-nursing-home/ Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, b5 bloggers, b5media, favorite posts, Mary Emma Allen, One Book Two Book, Quilting and PatchworkShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2056166 Mon, 22 Dec 2008 05:00:53 +0100 2056166 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2056167&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FwQoauS6IcQw%2F Winter Solstice Today was the first day of winter.  Here in New Hampshire, where I live, a blizzard hearlded the day.  My family and I have just come inside after shoveling and blowing the snow, about 15 inches, on our deck and along the long 400 foot driveway.    Fortunately the snow was light and fluffy, so wasn’t such a chore to shovel.  However, this was truly a “wintry way” to greet the winter solstice or shortest day of the year.   Here are a few books to learn more about winter and the winter solstice, when we have the shortest amount of daylight.  Some have colorful pictures, something that often entertains Alzheimer’s patients.  They also often like watching the snow fall and reminiscing about the days when they were children in the snow. The Sho... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2056167 Mon, 22 Dec 2008 03:22:22 +0100 2056167 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2056168&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FYECQWtDP1DQ%2F Giveaway If you’re a quilter or simply like giveaways, why not stop over at Quilting and Patchwork and participate in the Giveaway of a Mini Quilt Book.  It’s in progress over there. Perhaps you’re not a quilter yourself, but know of someone who would enjoy this book by Patricia Mainardi.  Perhaps your Alzheimer’s family member is a quilter and still enjoys reminiscing about the quilts in her life. Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, giveaway, Mary Emma Allen, quilt book, quilters, Quilting and Patchwork, quiltsShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2056168 Sun, 21 Dec 2008 18:42:58 +0100 2056168 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2056169&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FSU6lBnNT3xw%2F Giveaway If you enjoy giveaways, check out the one I’m hosting over at my Quilting and Patchwork blog, Giveaway of Mini Quilt Book.  The author is Patricia Mainardi and the book is QUILTS The Great American Art. Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, contest, giveaway, Mary Emma Allen, Quilting and Patchwork, random drawingShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2056169 Sun, 21 Dec 2008 04:47:19 +0100 2056169 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2052913&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FKpTECLmvD6M%2F THURSDAY THIRTEEN   Often it’s difficult to think of gifts for the Alzheimer’s patient.  Also, it depends on which stage they’re at in their illness…whether they recognize or remember.  Below is a list of suggestions.  Some may entertain and bring comfort.  Others may simply make caring for them easier. Baby Doll Stuffed Animal Clothing with Back Closures Non-skid slippers Food they like and is good for them A non-breakable snow glow ball A tea party in the activity room A lap quilt or afghan A pretty pillow Family pictures in non-breakable frames A small scrapbook or photo album of familiar scenes A CD of familiar music A DVD of a movie they enjoy  What suggestions do you have for Alzheimer’s gifts? Tags: Alzheimer's gifts, Alzheimer's Notes, Al... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2052913 Thu, 18 Dec 2008 21:35:54 +0100 2052913 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2040185&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FI_a6wNvvxjg%2F According to recent reports, Peter Falk (81), the famed Columbo of the TV series by that name, supposedly has Alzheimer’s.  His daughter has filed for conservatorship of him and mentioned that her father no longer recognizes various people.  Falk also is recovering from hip surgery  A court hearing on the conservatorship is set for late January.  We’ll see how it all plays out. Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, celebrity, Columbo, conservatorship, Mary Emma Allen, memory-loss, Peter FalkShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2040185 Wed, 17 Dec 2008 05:00:43 +0100 2040185 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2036058&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F483703290%2F Emma has decided that she didn’t like her “Page Boy” hair cut, and replaced it with this lovely do all by herself, just in time for Christmas pictures.. sigh. Before: So being the creative person that I am, I experimented this morning with my head bands from when I was first losing my hair…. and VOILA! After: Santa [...] (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2036058 Sat, 13 Dec 2008 15:43:26 +0100 2036058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2027286&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F2Qs7h2N2iF4%2F Giveaways More and more bloggers seem to offer giveaways/contests on their blogs and web sites.  Some of these encourage viewers to visit.  Other giveaways share with visitors items they produce and/or books.  Still more are for pure fun. Do you visit blogs and web sites for giveaways and contests?  Or do check out blogs mainly for the information and resources offered there, participating in the giveaways as an incidental bonus? Or do you stay away from blogs that offer giveaways? I’ve put up a new poll (to the right) about giveaways.  I’d like you to vote there.  Also, leave a comment below if you’d like and let me know if I should run more giveaways here at Alzheimer’s Notes. Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, blog giveaways, blogging, contests, giveaways, Mary Emma ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2027286 Thu, 11 Dec 2008 03:19:41 +0100 2027286 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2027287&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F1R6hhnYtUVM%2F Picture books and children’s stories often stimulate memories for Alzheimer’s patients.  Sometimes reading from a book on a particular topic will initiate conversation and communication. I mentioned that many of today’s Alzheimer’s patients lived during the World War II/Pearl Harbor years or have relatives who did.  They may like to discuss these times, if even only intermittently.  What they have to say will give you insight into your family history. To find some children’s and YA books that give you more information and might help stimulate memories, visit my One Book Two Book page. (Amazon image) Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, children's books, Mary Emma Allen, Memories, One Book Two Book, picture books, stimulating memories, World War II, World War II booksSh... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2027287 Wed, 10 Dec 2008 04:03:53 +0100 2027287 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2018489&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F477020180%2F Don’t ya just love it?! Thanks to Karen at Simply Amusing Designs my blog is all dressed up for the winter..although it looks like spring! I can’t praise Karen enough, really. She was SUPER easy to work with, reasonably priced and fast too! She took my not so focused design needs, and turned [...] (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2018489 Sun, 07 Dec 2008 01:45:35 +0100 2018489 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2013695&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FQP7P3uOF174%2F Here at Alzheimer’s Notes, we often discuss tea parties and tell about special ones with our family members. What would you think if you were invited to a tea party hosted by Harry Potter author, JK Rowling? This happened to 200 school children to celebrate the launch of her latest book, The Tales of Beedle the Bard.  Check out the details at One Book Two Book.  If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll probably find this particularly interesting. Then think about you can how you can plan special tea parties connected with the quilters and youngsters in your life. (Amazon image) Tags: , Alzheimer's Notes, Harry Potter, JK Rowling, Mary Emma Allen, One Book Two Book, tea partiesShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2013695 Fri, 05 Dec 2008 05:00:10 +0100 2013695 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2011254&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FbxLXoE5JQ-0%2F Tea Parties My grandchildren and I enjoyed tea parties with my mom when she resided in the nursing home.  They became a ritual, even after Mother no longer really knew what it was all about.  She smiled and chattered and seemed to enjoy the children.  From this evolved memories the youngsters and I shall treasure. Why not plan tea parties for your family members in the nursing home?  Victorian tea parties can be such fun. Read about one my friend planned for her mother at Seasoned Citizen Activities.  You may enjoy organizing one for a family member.  Perhaps you can find someone who does this on a regular basis…hosting tea parties. (Image from Art of Appreciation Gourmet Gift Baskets) Related Posts: Tea Parties for Alzheimer’s Patients Tea Time at Alzheimer’s No... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2011254 Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:47:31 +0100 2011254 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=2011257&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FIMiDWzBx9rQ%2F You’ll find a series of giveaways at One Book Two Book, running from Dec. 2-7.  Check out the rules and leave comments at the following links.  You can enter any or all of the giveaways.  These prizes will make great Christmas gifts for youngsters, too. Book Swim Giveaway Readeez DVD Giveaway Baby Can Read Giveaway Wii Pop Star Guitar Giveaway Fly Me To The Moon Giveaway Giveaway - Celebrity Arthur Book from Speakaboos Giveaway - Countdown to Bedtime Soundbooks Giiveaway - ECO Baby Organic Playdough Baby Potential Teacher Onesie Giveaway Natural Pod Giveaway RideMakerz Giveaway Happy Green Bee Giveaway Mead Writing Fundamentals Giveaway Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Christmas gifts, giveaways, Mary Emma Allen, One Book Two Book, random drawingsShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=2011257 Thu, 04 Dec 2008 05:39:53 +0100 2011257 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1999172&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FIrZr_WQho_o%2F Eileen, from The Artful Crafter, shared in a comment on my post, Writing a Thankful Poem, about sending “Thankful E-mails” this Thanksgiving.  What a great idea!  For Thanksgiving or any time of the year.  (The Thankful Poem idea also was mentioned in a post, Writing a Thankful Poem for Thanksgiving, at Alzheimer’s Notes, as a fun family activity.) I wrote thankful emails to some special people this year. I know it’s not as personal, but it’s immediate and I thought that would be nice - for them to know I was thinking of them and giving thanks at that very minute, said Eileen. I agree, Eileen.  E-mails are our method of communication (along with text messages, Facebook, Twitter, etc.) nowadays to let friends and family know we’re thinking of them. ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1999172 Sun, 30 Nov 2008 01:56:09 +0100 1999172 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1996452&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F_WSQozVGcJ4%2F                                                                                                                                              Bloggers from around b5media’s Lifestyles, Health and Wellness channels are giving readers a special surprise. We’ve created a virtual mall to help ease the anxiety of shopping for those on your Christmas list who may be a little more difficult to buy for.   Stop by Kettle and Cup and select your favorite hot beverage, kick back and browse this years Holiday Gift Guide Shopping Extravaganza.  Cherie from Career and Kids has the perfect list for the business woman/working parent. Mary Emma from One Bo... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1996452 Fri, 28 Nov 2008 19:07:00 +0100 1996452 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1996453&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F6ALEnIeRV-s%2F Super Shopping To aid you in preparing for Black Friday and Cyber Monday, we at the b5 Lifestyles and Health/Wellness channels have compiled shopping lists and suggestions.  The lists also are usable beyond these two shopping days.  You can get ideas here for your gift giving. I have lists (in the Pages sections of my blogs) posted at:  One Book Two Book, Quilting and Patchwork, and Alzheimer’s Notes.  One Book Two Book: 2008 Holiday Gift Guide (Mary Emma) Quilting & Patchwork: 2008 Holiday Gift Guide for Quilters & Fabric Artists Alzheimer’s Notes: Holiday Shopping for Alzheimer’s Caregivers Did you find one list more helpful than another?  If so, which one? Enjoy! (Christmas Central image) Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Black Friday, Christmas shopping, Cybe... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1996453 Fri, 28 Nov 2008 00:00:59 +0100 1996453 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1990977&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FVmW9Ydw7PVU%2F HAPPY THANKSGIVING May this be a joyous day wherever you are, whether celebrating with friends, family, at work (yes, some people have to work on holidays) or doing something special alone.  Have you worked on your Thankful Poem? Is it snowy, warm, rainy or bright and sunny where you are?  Have you traveled or stayed at home? We’re enjoying a relaxing day at home with our immediate family, cooking favorite foods and playing games, watching movies….and yes, shoveling snow left over from yesterday. Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Happy Thanksgiving, holiday, Mary Emma Allen, poetry, Thankful Poem, ThanksgivingShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1990977 Thu, 27 Nov 2008 01:10:34 +0100 1990977 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1990978&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FeVgaUjTzO6Q%2F Snowy Day We woke up to 5 inches of snow this morning and wondered if school would be delayed.  However, when the grandchildren checked (we live in a three generation household), it was school as usual for them and substitute teaching for me.  Snow can interest Alzheimer’s patients, too, as long as they don’t have to go out into it.  I can remember ,when Mother lived with Jim and me, having to get her up on a snowy morning and take her to daycare so I could go to my teaching work.  In these cases, snow may look lovely, but can be a challenge when you need to transport an Alzheimer’s patient.  (These were the days before the rest of our family lived with Jim and me.) The youngsters in the classes I taught were excited by this actual snowfall since we’d only ha... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1990978 Tue, 25 Nov 2008 21:00:58 +0100 1990978 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1985028&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fhv89eGCNpSI%2F Thankful Poem Why not write a Thankful Poem for Thanksgiving?  This can be an activity you’re involved in with your children, your Alzheimer’s family member, holiday guests or simply yourself.  For details on one way to do this, check out my post, Mary Emma’s Writing Tip - A Thankful Poem, at One Book Two Book. Another way to write the poem is to spell the word THANKSGIVING down the page.  Then write something for each letter, such as Traveling to Grandma’s, Having a festive family meal, etc.  Then decorate the page with  a Thanksgiving motif. Thankful Poems might be a Thanksgiving Day activity or something you do over the weekend. Happy Thanksgiving! Tags: Alzheimer's activity, Alzheimer's Notes, Mary Emma Allen, One Book Two Book, thankful, Thankful Poem, T... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1985028 Tue, 25 Nov 2008 03:22:28 +0100 1985028 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1980964&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F4-u8uJYJKh0%2F Alzheimer’s Awareness Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness at EverydayHealth.com offers a great deal of information about this illness. The Alzheimer’s Association provides a wealth of information.  The National Institute of Aging (NIA) provides Alzheimer’s information at the Alzheimer’s Disease Education & Referral Center (ADEAR). Alzheimer’s Australia lets you know about information and resources in that country. OurAlzheimers.com at Health Central is another good resource. What has been a good resource for you? Tags: Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimer's resources, Alzheimers-disease, health, Mary Emma Allen, mental health, National Alzheimer's Awareness Month, online resourcesShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1980964 Fri, 21 Nov 2008 21:55:38 +0100 1980964 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1976187&cid=t_186687_136_f&fid=36469&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.feedburner.com%2F%7Er%2Fespeciallyheather%2FEH%2F%7E3%2F459484863%2F Edited To Add: The IEP has been rescheduled due to Emma’s Teacher having strep throat… The migraine inducing  IEP meeting for Emma. Although I am super confident in her school and she has an amazingly awesome teacher and nurses; none of things change the fact that she is such a unique child with unique [...] (Source: Especially Heather) Especially Heather blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1976187 Thu, 20 Nov 2008 08:00:43 +0100 1976187 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1975309&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F1N2M6ruDo0c%2F Alzheimer’s Triumphs As I recall my experiences with Mother and Auntie and read some of the comments I receive here at Alzheimer’s Notes, I realize there are small triumphs, or joys, if we’ll but recognize them…and remember them. Write them down in a notebook.  You can read them when you have frustrating days and add to them as you go along.  I find, even several years after Mother and Auntie’s deaths, that remembering these incidents can bring a smile and fond thoughts about these ladies. Amanda says:  I’ve worked with demntia patients in a nursing home, and it’s very sad to see what there going through.  But I found it very rewarding also since they are still wonderful people even though they’re lost in time. I like Amanda’s expr... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1975309 Thu, 20 Nov 2008 01:26:12 +0100 1975309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1969045&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fn6tpQlTgTdM%2F Cardmaking If you and your family enjoy making holiday cards, I have some resources at Party Pizzazz to check out.  Here you’ll find ideas for your cards, invitations and thank you notes. I discussed cardmaking in a previous post, something the whole family can enjoy, along with your Alzheimer’s patient.  Why not carry it over into holiday and Christmas card ideas. (Amazon image) Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, cardmaking, Christmas, holiday, holiday cards, Mary Emma AllenShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1969045 Mon, 17 Nov 2008 18:41:48 +0100 1969045 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1947349&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FJvk_wa0M5fs%2F Veterans Day Commemorating the sacrifices of veterans over the years to protect and provide for our country brings back memories for many Alzheimer’s patients. Those experiencing the illness often served their country or had family members who did in former wars like World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam. They take seriously the meaning of this day and often enjoy watching parades, on television or in actuality, waving flags, and singing songs.  Even if they’re not so aware of what’s going on, they often like to participate in any celebrations at home or in a nursing home. My mom was especially proud of the flag given her, at my uncle’s death (her brother), in recognition of his service in World War II.  When she began to lose of what it was for, she gave i... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1947349 Tue, 11 Nov 2008 05:00:49 +0100 1947349 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1947350&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FW15Xdc4BaJ0%2F Alzheimer’s News In order to bring current news about Alzheimer’s, dementia, and caregiving, I’ve been finding various web sites and resources for you to put onto your list that you can refer to frequently.  I’ll also develop a page of resources in my “About” section here at Alzheimer’s Notes. Recently I mentioned Alzheimer’s Daily News in a blog post. I discovered that the Alzheimer’s Association also has a very informative In the News page on their site. Today’s topics are:  C.A.R.E. Pharmacy Award Winner Announced, Gardening reduces stress for busy caregivers, Alzheimer’s Association launches interactive Caregivers Stress Check. Tags: alzheimer's news, Alzheimer's news resources, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, Caregi... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1947350 Mon, 10 Nov 2008 05:00:56 +0100 1947350 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1945355&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2Fye-7kmQb7_I%2F Thanksgiving Ideas As Thanksgiving approaches, your family is thinking of celebrations and special recipes.  The children (and your Alzheimer’s patient) may be looking for books to enjoy. Check out my list of books with fun, facts, activities and recipes at One Book Two Book.  Fun & Fact Books for Thanksgiving & Harvest Season Favorite Thanksgiving Books Do you have any to suggest?  Favorite books, activities and recipes? Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, books, caregivers, family gatherings, Mary Emma Allen, recipes, ThanksgivingShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1945355 Sat, 08 Nov 2008 22:48:09 +0100 1945355 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1939287&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FAPaePmYSwoQ%2F Bloggy Giveaways Carnival Katie’s name was drawn as the winner of the Bloggy Giveaways Carnival for the book, Glass Full of Tears by June Lund Shiplett.  Congratulations, Katie! “Sadly, I have watched a few of my grandparents struggle with dementia,” said Katie in her comment.  “It’s very scary.” Yes, it can be scary.  However, if we look with love, we often can bring joy to those family members who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s. Thank you, everyone, for visiting Alzheimer’s Notes and leaving your comments for the giveaway.  I appreciate your sharing your thoughts and stories with us. If there is anything you’d like to see here at Alzheimer’s Notes that will encourage you in your caregiver or patient situations, do let ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1939287 Thu, 06 Nov 2008 23:45:31 +0100 1939287 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1939288&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FjOYgkspXrRc%2F Alzheimer’s Finger Foods We have a guest post from Dee, who has some great ideas for finger foods for Alzheimer’s patients.  Dee is a health care seminar trainer and dementia practitioner.  Most of these ideas/recipes are very simple to prepare and easy for the patient to eat.  Finger Foods are great for continuing independence at meal time. If you choose to use a utensil - only put one choice. Ideas for fingerfoods are only limited by your imagination. Have a child help you with ideas - they LOVE helping, and can come up with some super ideas for solving many problems. Finger food ideas: * French toast - made with egg, ensure, cinnamon, and protein powder. * Jelled delight - jello crystals, 1 small pack unflavored gelatin, 3/4 c-BOILING water to dissolve. Add vanilla ensu... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1939288 Wed, 05 Nov 2008 22:27:38 +0100 1939288 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1918083&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FLxGhormMPWo%2F Green Living Are you practicing “green” living in your home?  Perhaps it’s difficult to do so in an Alzheimer’s home.  Perhaps you’re not too enthusiastic about “going green” and feel it takes too much effort.  Maybe you don’t believe it helps. You don’t have to be a fanatic, simply practice some frugal ways that also may help the environment and your home. At our home, we: Separate the cans and bottles to take to the town recycling center.  (They sort of require this.) Used cold water rinsing for the clothes.  (This should help cut down on the electric bill if you heat your water with electricity.) Kept the paper trash separate from the kitchen trash so we can put it into the paper collection at the recycling center. (This also i... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1918083 Thu, 30 Oct 2008 04:32:36 +0100 1918083 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1918084&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FJPn7AYfgAnc%2F Closet Disease Keeping one’s illness, when it involved mental or emotional conditions, “in the closet” was common when I was growing up.  You only whispered about someone’s mental disorders.  Families tried to keep that person at home, while not literally “in a closet,” figuratively so. You tried not to talk about Aunt Mollie who laughed at inappropriate times, wore her clothes backward, took walks in the middle of the night, or held conversations with people of the past.  Perhaps she even had to spend some time in a mental institution and have “shock” treatment, the common way of dealing with mental and emotional conditions then. Is Alzheimer’s in “the closet?” Although we’re able to talk more openly about dementia... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1918084 Wed, 29 Oct 2008 15:37:20 +0100 1918084 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1911426&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FpNn4T4n9YtQ%2F                                                               I’m offering a copy of A Glass Full of Tears, Dementia Day-By-Day by June Lund Shiplett as a giveaway here at Alzheimer’s Notes as part of the Bloggy Giveaways Carnival. In this book, June Lund Shiplett shares the journal she kept during her husband Charlie’s encounter with multi-infarct dementia and the challenges she faced as his caregiver.  This is a particularly good book for a spouse caregiver since so many books are written from the child caregiver point of view, as mine was. June Lund Shiplett is the author of numerous romance novels and is known to many readers of this genre.  Sometimes we don’t realize our favorite authors often face the same or ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1911426 Mon, 27 Oct 2008 18:51:22 +0100 1911426 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1908870&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F9WrU8Z7OILU%2F Hot Finger Foods Cheryl has a question, after reading my post, Finger Foods for Alzheimer’s Patients: My father is also in the same stage, he no longer uses utensils while eating. In order to give him his dignity we are starting finger foods; I should say the home he is residing in suggested this. He loves to eat!! I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions for some hot meal fingerfoods. The best I can suggest is to cut foods, like meat and vegetables, into smaller pieces he can pick up with his fingers.  For instance, you might serve steak, chicken, roast beef, carrots, green beans.  These will be a warm meal, but cut in pieces he can pick up and pop into his mouth easily. This is something you tell a child, “No, use your fork (or spoon)!”  But in his case, usi... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1908870 Mon, 27 Oct 2008 03:30:01 +0100 1908870 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1907726&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FXl3hNTLsPuI%2F Bloggy Giveaway Stay tuned for a Bloggy Giveaway here at Alzheimer’s Notes, from October 27 - 31.  Since I had so many readers indicate an interest in a previous giveaway book, I’m offering another copy of  A Glass Full of Tears by June Lund Shiplett here at Alzheimer’s Notes. June journals her story about caring for her husband, Charlie. Come back and enter on October 27! (Amazon image) Tags: A Glass Full of Tears, Alzheimer's Notes, Alzheimers, Bloggy Giveaway, caregivers book, contest, dementia, giveaway, health, June Lund Shiplett, Mary Emma Allen, memory-loss, men's health, mental health, women's healthShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1907726 Sun, 26 Oct 2008 02:46:45 +0100 1907726 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1901693&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FZ0NcpSMkGqs%2F Crafts for Alzheimer’s Patients Alzheimer’s patients, at least while they are still mobile, can use their hands, and have some connection with reality, enjoy participating in crafts.  Even those who can no longer participate often enjoy watching. Susan S. wrote me an inquiry about crafts for patients with dementia who live in nursing homes. Our church group gos once a month to a home that has people with dementia. We go there to do crafts with them I have so much fun.  Can you help me with some of the crafts that I can do with them? Tell me what kind of things that they can do. Thank you. Do you have any suggestions to help Susan?  I have worked with assisted living residents and dementia patients in a nursing home in scrapbooking and family history/memory projects.  My ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1901693 Fri, 24 Oct 2008 03:32:53 +0100 1901693 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1901695&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F2gJgU8v12Vw%2F VOTING & ALZHEIMER’S PATIENTS This seems a popular topic, particularly at this time of year. Readers are responding to my post, with their thoughts about whether people with dementia or Alzheimer’s should be allowed to vote…and at what stage. Alicia, from Mental Health Notes left this comment: Wow, what a thought-provoking bunch of questions! I don’t know that there should be any kind of legal deciding factor in when an Alzheimer’s or dementia patient can no longer vote, but I do think that as long as the patient can say, “I want to vote for [candidate] this year,” the patient should be allowed to do so.  Let’s face it: There are Americans out there with perfectly healthy minds who vote for whomever their friends, family members, employers, etc. tell them... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1901695 Thu, 23 Oct 2008 00:55:54 +0100 1901695 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1895111&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FN1uZw7ukaTM%2F THE RIGHT TO VOTE “Should Dementia/Alzheimer’s Patients Vote?” This concern continually crops up at election time, whether national, state or local.  In Presidential Election years, it’s more prominent than in others.  Should someone with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or some form of memory and reasoning loss have the right to vote? More importantly…Do they know how to vote and whom they’re voting for?  Are they easily led by someone who wants to control their vote?  If they use an absentee ballot, do they really vote or does someone else do it, perhaps even against the party lines the dementia patient would? When do you decide someone should not vote?  Who decides this? We often don’t think about it until we’re confronted with an Alzhei... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1895111 Wed, 22 Oct 2008 03:19:57 +0100 1895111 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1886463&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F_doZWkNmtL8%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Do you associate any memories with a rocking chair?  Perhaps it’s connected with your Alzheimer’s patient.  Did he or she enjoy relaxing and rocking?  Maybe grandchildren or great grands surrounded them, listening to stories, playing, or sewing. I think of my mom, when she had Alzheimer’s,  sitting in a rocking chair.  My grandchildren (her great grands) surrounded her.  She reached out and touched the peach fuzz hair of the youngest, smiled and said, “Nice children.” I don’t think she knew whose children they were and if they were related to her, but the children smiled back and enjoyed these times with Great Grandma. Memories are made at times like these.  They may be rocking chair memories or ones involving other events. ... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1886463 Sat, 18 Oct 2008 05:00:14 +0100 1886463 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1883420&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FtRl6i98f0jw%2F AlzheimersNotes.com THURSDAY THIRTEEN Numerous words come to mind when you’re caring for an Alzheimer’s family member or when you think back upon those days of caregiving. Numbness upon learning the diagnosis Frustration with Mother that she can’t understand Tiredness when I never get a full night’s sleep Laughter at unusual antics Annoyance with the patient, the situation, the world Bewilderment - Why am I the caregiver?  Why did this fall to me? Confusion - Who has the Alzheimer’s?  Mother or me? Joy at the pleasure I give Mother with a smile, a hug, saying, “I love you.” Awareness of the world from a different perspective Overwhelmed with all I have to do Thankful that my husband is so supportive Pleasure in seeing my grandchildren enjoy visi... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1883420 Fri, 17 Oct 2008 03:50:46 +0100 1883420 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1873146&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2F4sCXTPmaeJk%2F AlzheimersNotes.com QuiltingAndPatchwork.com Join the Arts Bloggers for fall creations and other projects.  These may be activities your Alzheimer’s family member may enjoy as well.  If he/she can’t participate, watching you often provides pleasure, too.  My mom enjoyed anything that had to do with the colorful autumn leaves. Celebrate fall colors Tangled Thread is inspired by fall colors to create a new fall flower wall hanging. Change Your Writing Tools Encouragement to use differernt writing tools in your journal Layers Upon Layers Come see some of the work that has arrived at the home of the “Ties That Bind” collaborative art project, raising money for ovarian cancer research.  Make It Pink Challenge at CraftStylish Upload your pink craft project to CraftS... Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1873146 Tue, 14 Oct 2008 06:00:32 +0100 1873146 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=1873147&cid=t_186687_137_f&fid=35357&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAlzheimersNotes%2F%7E3%2FlzHR6oHtzaY%2F AlzheimersNotes.com Tuesday, October 14, is the last day for the first Quilting & Patchwork Blogtober Fest giveaway.  If you haven’t left a comment, you’ll want to do so. You have until Friday, October 17 to leave comments at the second Quilting & Patchwork Blogtober giveaway. The time runs out on my other Lifestyles blog, One Book Two Book, Blogtober giveaway on October 17.  There will be a second Blogtober Fest post at One Book Two Book on October 15. Have I made this confusing?  I hope not!  Enter the Blogtober Fest giveaways. (c)2008 Mary Emma Allen Tags: Alzheimer's Notes, Blogtober Fest, giveaways, Mary Emma Allen, One Book Two Book, Quilting and PatchworkShare This (Source: Alzheimer's Notes) Alzheimer's Notes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=1873147 Mon, 13 Oct 2008 23:32:49 +0100 1873147