Last Monday morning we checked Mrs Skoot into the hospital. I try to be strong but I am putting on my brave face. I tell her everything will be okay . . .
After we fill out the forms we head upstairs. I carry all the things that we were told to bring and I leave for work. There is nothing more I can do and I feel a bit lonely as I make my
way out the lonely corridor back to the car . I keep thinking that technology has improved to the point that these sort of procedures are safe with near perfect results. But all the same, I worry . . . What if . . . Now I get to work, I keep looking at the clock and wonder if her surgery is finished or not. It is hard for me to concentrate at work wondering
It is hard to find free parking around the Hospital and the first day I had to park what seems to be, a long way away. I am not used to walking great distances anymore. In my younger days I could walk all day and come back for more. I realize that while our minds think young, we are now old and parts are wearing out
Later that day (Monday), I received a call from the operating surgeon letting me know that all was okay, and the operation was done.
I noticed that there was what appears to be free parking for 2 wheeled vehicles, so when I came back the next day (Tuesday), I rode my bike
there is my trusty Vstrom mingled with the other motorcycles and scooters
Then I noticed a nice Honda Jazz (Metropolitan in the USA). I immediately thought of Martha . Within the confines of Vancouver you will find a multitude of small 49cc scooters and they are safe because of our gridlocked and slower traffic flows during rush hours
I've been riding my bike to work but I was thinking that perhaps I shouldn't take the risk. When Mrs Skoot is allowed to come home (in a few days), she will need a lot of help learning to walk again and to do things for herself
In the meantime, I will be the one who has to buy the groceries, cook the meals and help her do all the things that one has to do everyday. If something were to happen to me it would be disastrous. It will be hard enough to transport her to the doctor(s) for followup and it will most likely not be possible for the first couple of weeks, so home it will be with me having to answer to her every beck and call.
I would like to think that I am comfortable in the kitchen but when you only have to prepare a meal for one, it doesn't make sense to expend that effort. So for the past few days I have just been eating out
I leave for work before 7am and then I rush home, grab a quick bite and then head to the Hospital where I sit for an hour or two. It doesn't matter if Mrs Skoot is awake or resting. She knows that I am there and that is all that matters. The first two days she was groggy due to the anaesthesic drugs and pain killers, and hardly ate anything. Today (Wednesday) she actually ate half her meal but could not keep down the juices so she just stuck to water
Today I rode my bike to the hospital again. There were more bikes there today. I am thinking that this area must be for free bike parking, but I am not so sure. I mean, why would the spaces be numbered
This parking area is not level and the spaces are narrow, but I managed to maneuver my Vstrom to the same space as I parked in yesterday
It's a long day. I left home before 7am today (Wednesday), then after work I went to see my insurance agent and then headed to the Hospital again. It is nearly sunset when I finally get ready to leave and then find something to eat on my way home
I stop off for more fast food as I have things to do and the light is fading fast. I opt for take out and munch it down in record time
After a bit of car and motorcycle juggling I get my Corvette out of its hiding place and put my two bikes in its place out of sight. I managed to talk the contractor into moving that toilet to the other driveway and now I am able to free my car. I have not started my "Vette since last October so I let the engine warm up a bit, then I got out my compressor and pumped the tires backup to 32 psi all around
I have an appointment scheduled for a transmission flush so I intend to drive it to work and drop it off on my way home. From there I think it's about a mile walk
back to the Hospital . I am thankful for all these medical advancements that will allow us to live a more comfortable life, as we age and to allow us to do things that we wouldn't otherwise be able to do
Heal up quick, Mrs. Scoot! We need Bob to not look more like a lost puppy than he usually does.
ReplyDeleteDoug:
Deletethanks, but I think I always look like a lost puppy. You know that women's work is never done, I am dreading the thought of all this extra work . . . when will I find the time ?
I know how you feel Bob. All those feelings you have sort of put a person in shock. And hospitals and surgery are terrifying. Small and big changes happen- ready or not. I hope the best for Mrs. Skoot. Once again you will be called upon to take care of much more.
ReplyDeleteYou will always have many people to talk with when things get difficult.
Thank You Martha:
DeleteSurgery scares me too. I am also scared of Dentists and needles. I don't do well when having to visit hospitals. I keep thinking that one day this may be my temp home.
First her broken wrist, and now this. The hardest part will be meal planning. I told her I need either a list, or a menu. I haven't felt so domesticated in my life
The Mrs. has a kind and caring husband to rely on. Your description reminds me of the times my ex-wife was in the hospital and I was in the same boat.
ReplyDeleteSteve:
Deletethanks for your kind words. Heaven forbid that I should require this kind of help later in life. It does put a damper on riding as I have to be close to home
I hope she recovers quickly and can get home soon!
ReplyDeleteIn the US we have home health care agencies that usually follow a patient home and deliver physical therapy, nursing care, supportive counseling, caregiver support. Just know that there are companies out there to do some follow up and help her if she needs it at home, even if you have to be away at work.
Hang in there...this will get better very soon. It is always scarey, no doubt, when our "other halves" go through stuff like this. I know of what I speak too, unfortunately.
Love to both you guys!
Deb:
DeleteFull recovery will take up to 6 months, but at least it is during the warmer part of the year. I know I have to stay close to home, but that also means I have time to mow the lawn again, and spend some time cleaning my bike(s)
I am sure we have some outreach services too, just don't know how to go about finding them. We have never been health challenged before
I am glad Yvonne is doing well. Hopefully she will be home soon. Good thing she has you there to take care of her.
ReplyDeleteBig hugs to both of you!!
Trobairitz:
DeleteI was thinking that when we were young, we were dependents. And now that we are getting older I can foresee being dependents again. Just hope we have people/family to take care of us, when we can't
This surgery was always in "our" plans, that's why we took 2 big trips a couple of years ago, to make up for this year where she cannot make any plans to do anything other than to just "get well" . We had been on a long waiting list and a time slot came up about 2 years ago, which we declined. This year another opening came up but then she had just broken her wrist, so we had to decline again.
Thank you for your good wishes.
Best wishes for a speedy recovery for Mrs. Skoot - and a return to 2 wheels for you.
ReplyDeleteCanajun:
DeleteI was thinking that perhaps I shouldn't be commuting to work. Our traffic is very aggressive and I don't need to have a mishap at this particularly important time.
I hope her recovery is "speedy" as I have already made plans for this Summer and this is the only hurdle I have to overcome before I am free to roam . . .
Very happy she is doing better and I hope recovery goes well. The scooter is not such a bad idea. I do have one that is a 150 and I really do love it. Its very easy to get around and in some spots i just pull up to the curve and park on the sidewalk. No one really cares if it is a scooter. Not really freeway worthy, but in and about town is great. About getting older: I get it.
ReplyDeleteKathy:
DeleteI should never have sold my 250cc scooter. I moved up to the Kymco X500Ri and insurance was as much as my regular motorcycle, so I let it go. It was all about downsizing my insurance expenses. I would prefer something around 200cc so I could expand my radius. Up here with our government insurance the rates would be the same for a 150 or a 400
thank you for your good wishes
I have been thinking of Yvonne this week and kept my fingers crossed for a successful surgery and speedy recovery. Please send her our best wishes. I am sure you will do your best to spoil your wife.
ReplyDeleteSonja:
DeleteI was worrying all weekend, and then worrying again all day Monday, and I am still worrying and hoping that all will end well. I think all is okay but now comes the Physio and healing, and in the meantime I am overwhelmed at all the things I have to do.
The grass is getting too long for my mower but I spend the time at the hospital instead of going home to cut the grass, and when I get home it is dark and I don't wish to disturb the neighbours with my gas engine.
I am thinking of you too and your problems of getting a driver's license. I worry about you; finding a job, finding a home and settling in to your new life. No more meeting up for a coffee after work. Everytime I pass by those places we used to go, I think of you . . .
Dear Bob, I hope Mrs. Skoot is on the mend and doing well. I will put you and Mrs Skoot in my prayers and am sending healing wishes and vibes your way. Hugs to you and Mrs. Skoot.
ReplyDeleteDar:
Deletethank you for your kind thoughts. Sorry I can't make it over to Victoria for the May weekend. I don't think I could get away, but Andrew is coming over and I think some of the RTE crew so perhaps you may see something on the scooter forum, and chime in.
I'm gonna really miss your Chinese Meal, the guys really know how to eat and what to order. If things are going really well with Mrs Skoot I could consider a Sat to Sunday overnight, but I can't say right now.
ReplyDeleteBest wishes to Mrs Skoot and may she heal quickly!
Ron had the same questions with regards to riding. He continues to ride, but he feels he needs to be much more cautious than in the past. It's a tough call and one that each has to decide for themselves. Speedy recoveries!
Kari:
Deleteour traffic is no fun. Most serious bikers don't commute up here as it's not worth the risk. The morning commute is fine as there is not much traffic at 7am but after work traffic is gridlocked
A speedy recovery to Rachel too. I hope she is getting better and stronger with each day.
I'll be praying for her daily from now on. My wife has been in there several times too,
ReplyDeletebroken arm, quadruple bypass, staph infection. Scary stuff. She was there for
me too with cancer surgery and Bone marrow transplant ( stayed with me out of
town for a month!) We do that for those we're one with...
Say, did you say you we're planning a trip to the Dubuque area? Or did I misunderstand?
Dan:
Deletethere is no question that I would do whatever it takes. You just never know when you may need some care and help one day for yourself.
I was planning on passing through Dubuque, just to see you. If you are heading to AK we could meet somewhere for a night and dinner. I am leaving Vancouver on July 10th, and starting East on I-90 for the first two days to make miles . . .
Hang in there Bob and say hi to Yvonne for us. Just remember there will be a painful diet on the other side of those burgers and fries. Otherwise, my GTS might hard to keep up with after all, with the Wee carrying all that extra baggage and all.
ReplyDeleteDavid:
DeleteThank you. It would appear that all is okay and we are in the getting stronger and physio stage.
It's not about speed. We don't want to see blurred scenery . . . The intent is to have fun and experience new sights and relax, after all, it's supposed to be a holiday, not a contest of speed or endurance.
I'm sure things will work out for Mrs Skoot and with you looking after things around the house, what can possibly go wrong...
ReplyDeleteI was thinking the same thing about the burgers and fries. With all of the wonderful food options in your area, why bother with a burger?
Richard:
DeleteI hope all will work out too. So far it seems okay just that she will need weeks of physio and exercise, but will be on pain killers for a bit.
There is no time for a sit down meal. I can't afford to waste the time. I am getting stressed looking at the grass grow. It's now too long for the lawn mower and I don't get home from the hospital until nearly dark. If I come home first and cut the lawn, I am too tired to go to the hospital.
Please send my best wishes to Mrs Scoot :) It's easy to see that you will be looking after her and I'll sure she'll mend in no time.
ReplyDeleteBrenda:
DeleteThis is Round #2: First was her broken wrist, and Now this
All I can say is "women's work is never done". I'm getting tired just thinking about it
Hi Bob,
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry i am just seeing this. We have been busy preparing to leave for the United States again. Please give our best to Mrs Scoot. She is a blessed lady to have you taking care of her...:-). And you will be just fine...:-).
Pat:
DeletePlease don't go ! I'm going to miss you this year.
Have a good time in OK, and put in lots of water features. At least your new fence is up
and what do you mean about "downsizing" your scooters ?
Bob, my Sweet,
ReplyDeleteI'm sending you big smooches of love and HUGE smooches of love and hugs for Mrs. Skoot!! Now, I'm going to give you some practical advice, being that I was a wife and mother for 20 years. . .
If you don't have a crockpot, buy one. Start with frozen chicken (or your favorite frozen meat) then throw in chopped, hard veges. Think onions, turnips, carrots, etc. Chop them large; no need for tiny chops here. Then throw in a jar of sauce. I buy all kinds of Indian sauces, spaghetti sauces, barbeque sauces, etc and a can of chicken broth. Just make sure the liquid comes close to covering the veges. Put the lid on, set on low, cook 6-9 hours. Dinner is served. I love this because it's easy, versatile and anyone can do it. It also makes enough food for dinner for 2 and lunch for 2, maybe twice! Make a huge pot of rice or noodles once or twice a week and serve your Pot Meal with your starch.
Hugs to you both! Seriously, this is easy!!! You can do it!!
Smooches,
Sash
Sash/Tina:
Deletewe do have a crock pot and we use it all the time. I was trying to cut down my meat intake. Otherwise I would have already made; ribs, pulled pork. Once I start eating, I can't stop.
I need a new belt. Somehow mine is too small, must have shrunk
You can do all vegetables with sauces too. And many sauces are lowfat. But the fast food will kill you quicker than riding naked. Don't eat that crap.
DeleteSmooches,
Sash
http://www.sashmouth.com
Sash/Tina:
DeleteHmmm, sounds good . . . Can't eat healthy pure food all the time, then if you travel to 3rd world countries, your stomach won't be able to cope.
Bob - speedy recovery to Mrs. Skoot - I know your tender loving care will tip the scale.
ReplyDelete(PS, after the A&W burger ... pushing the lawn mower is just what the doctor would order! You could just add a few halogen lights to the front of that baby and you'd be good til the middle of the night!)
Karen:
DeleteThe grass was so thick it kept stalling in the heavy grass. I had to keep starting the engine and now my arm is hurting from pulling the cord. Then it stalled and wouldn't start. Must have been when I turned it over to free up the grass inside.
It was probably flooded. I let it sit for a while, and then it finally started again so I could finish cutting. Took a while to clean my green stained feet and then had a shower
I'm sorry to hear that your wife is not well. I wish her a speedy recovery. I'm sure you will take good care of her.
ReplyDeleteBB:
DeleteThank you. It was elective so she is now feeling better. Just needs physio and try to start walking a bit.
I hope Rich is feeling better too so you can ride a bit more
Sorry I am late to this Bob, glad to hear the surgery went well and Mrs Skoot is recovering.
ReplyDeletedom
Dom:
DeleteThank you. It was good that you came before her surgery. She should be normal the next time you see her
Bob:
ReplyDeleteI am totally sure that if you can ride without falling over while Mrs. Scoot is well, there is no danger of your racking up two wheeled miles while she is put up. Twist that throttle bro!
Chris:
DeleteI know what you are saying may be true, but with our traffic down here I just thought that perhaps I would be more cautious
Looks like I may miss you until you come back
Bob, say hello to Mrs Skoot for me and tell her that if I was there, I would visit her in hospital and bring her a Durian. I remember well when she taught me how to open and eat one. I am not sure it would go down well with the hospital though. Best wishes to you both.
ReplyDeleteBob --
ReplyDeleteOur thoughts go out to Mrs. Skoot and you. It's hard, hard, hard when your precious one is in the hospital.
My Goddess has been in the hospital several times for this and that. (She's feeling just fine now.) It's all turned out well. You just get used to the routine of the other person getting well and being the caregiver when required.
When I'm eating alone, I make a dinner that will be good for the next two or three nights. Something like a broiled tri-tip with salad and a veggie, or even just a rotisserie chicken from the grocer. I'm set for dinner for a while, and it's cheaper than having to go out to Carl's Jr. for a burger every night.
Suze and I have been going back-and-forth on health care. Our current US system is the road to the poor house if your work does not come with health insurance. Are you happy with what's available where you are?