So, at least for the time being, Mom seems to be holding her own. The hospice nurse was BESIDE HERSELF when she saw how different Mom looks today from yesterday. She had no explanation, although she did say that in most cases when people are suffering from CO2 retention, they're not able to correct it... I told her that Mom did have a period overnight when it almost looked like she was slipping back into that kind of "comatose" state... but then she just kind of got herself out of it by becoming more restless and vocal and agitated... nurse didn't have any idea. Mom has been expressing a little bit today that she is indeed having some trouble breathing, the nurse sat with Mom for a little while and talked about the use of morphine for difficulty breathing... I had asked her to talk about it a little bit to try and help Mom not be so scared of the idea. I don't know if that's possible or not, it IS a very scary drug, one that most people associate with "the end", but in Mom's case, it's also likely that it would be very helpful when she starts feeling like she can't get enough air. Mom wasn't happy about the talk but she sat and listened and became a little more informed. I like that the nurse kept reinforcing that it's really Mom's decision... that it's all up to her... that it'll all be by her wishes. Mom needs to hear that. She is still so strong and wants to have as much control as she can over her body and her care.
Anyway, the day was pretty smooth. Annie and Eric decided to stay even though Mom has made this turnaround. We had a good walk, and Mom spent most of the day up in the chair. Had a nice visit from Irm this evening... she showed up with casseroles in hand, including keilbasa and sauerkraut... which has been a family favorite since Mom used to make it when we were kids. That was probably the last time Annie or I even had it! It was 2 years ago this month that Irm lost her mother. I am in awe of her giving and her endless thoughtfulness. Mercy will take over the night shift tonight so Annie and I can get some sleep.
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