Visiting time is over - time for focus
I was up in Wellington for a long weekend last week and noticed how busy it has been. Between, nurses doing check ups and taking observations, Physio, speech therapists, occupational therapists, doctors, meals, trying to drink a litre of water and visitors, there is not a whole lot of time for Mum to spend by herself.
We have had discussions with Mum about this and feel that it will be better for her long term recovery to restrict visiting to her immediate family for the time being.
On behalf of the family, thank you for all of your support and kind messages. With the shock of the stroke the massive amount of support Mum has received from friends and family has been a huge boost. It has been a scary time and Mum has felt very loved and cared for whist she adjusted to the realities of where she has to start her rehabilitation from.
We are getting a better sense of the cadence of recovery. Unfortunately, there won't be massive breakthroughs that make for inspiring blog posts. The recovery ahead is not happening in days and weeks but months and years. For that reason, you won't see so many posts here either. I guess what we are trying to do is give Mum space to really start to focus on the rehab she desperately wants to get stuck into.
Mum is as focussed as she can be on the big wedding ahead, and seeing if she can get herself to place in which she can attend. I'm sure you will join me in the hope that she finds space to focus in on her rehab and get the rest she needs to help with her recovery.
In terms of messages of support please think about ways you can do so without distraction. Posting messages here and sending cards is really great as it does not require a response that again can pull Mum away from her focus.
Friends and family are so important to Mum, so thanks again for being here for her.
-Mike

Thanks Mike for this very helpful and informative post, it sets realistic expectations for all of us who want to give Sue our love and support, and to channel it in a way that doesn't disrupt her recovery. Lots of love to all of you.
ReplyDeleteDoug, I don't know you but want to thank you for expressing so well what so many of us would wish to express after reading Mike's post.
DeleteMike, thank you for letting everyone know 'the situation'. You did a wonderful job explaining things and expressing Sue's and the family's gratitude. Several years ago when I was in hospital, Alby & Genevieve sent out a somewhat similiar message. Sue, praying for you in all the hard work of rehabilitation. Much love to you and to Graham and all the family.
ReplyDeleteThank you very much Mike for your very well written message about visiting Sue. I had thought about travelling down from Tauranga to visit Sue, so your message was very timely. As Sue is such a caring person and has so many friends I suppose it was inevitable many people would want to give her their support.
ReplyDeleteIt was lovely that you included a photo with Sue in it. Thanks for that.
Please give her my love. Sonja
Thanks so much Mike for the update and visiting situation, much appreciated as we were scheduling to see Sue this week. Will continue as we are, touching base with you regards her progress. Sue, you know we are behind you with loads of support in this long journey and know that your determination and strong will will be your strong point supporting you within your rehab program. Lots of love Sue and to your immediate family. xx
ReplyDeleteWishing you all the best, taking each day at a time, or 1 hour at a time. I will be thinking of you often. Everyone has said all the things I wish for you. Thank you to you family for the updates. I wish everyone of them well also.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the update Mike. Sending your mum much love and well wishes for the goals she has set herself. My love and thoughts are with you all too. Nic Cairns-Cowan
ReplyDelete