No Resolutions...just one step at a time

Sunday, December 28, 2008

I am not one to make resolutions because I would never keep them past New Year's Day. I never had time to even think about them when I was younger and raising my two daughters alone...too much other stuff going on to take time to think about what they would even be. However during the past 15 months, I have found that I can take and do everything one step at a time.
I have found that my faith and trust in my Lord will help me and carry me further than any thing I can even think up. He will always be there for me no matter what...
I do not even make promises to McKenzie...a five year old. If she asks me to promise, I tell her I will try...that is all I can do. I promise no one anything because I would not want to not be able to keep a promise. ..and some things are out of my control. BUT I will always try to do the best I can do...just one step at a time, one day at a time. With God's help, I can do this.
God bless.
Hugs,
Helen

POSITIVES:
God
Health
Happiness
Beautiful weather
Family and friends
Being alive to celebrate a New Year

Thank you for taking the time to stop, read, and comment on my blog!!

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

MAURIZIA 12/31/2008 7:20AM

Helen, I love reading your blogs because they help me to confirm my faith in G-d and His presence in our lives each and every day! Wishing you a Blessed 2009! Mauri Report Inappropriate Comment

CUDDY521 12/29/2008 12:21AM

Thank you Helen, we make the best of each day.. Happy & a Healthy New Year to you & your Family... Hugs, Cuddy Report Inappropriate Comment

TRECECOOKS 12/28/2008 11:23PM

"If the Lord should allow. . ." Report Inappropriate Comment

LINDIEMAE 12/28/2008 10:21PM

Very good idea and attitude there Helen, as you know from reading my blog I agree with not making resolutions, most people do not keep them very long and they loose their gusto for them ... its better to take it one step at a time and one liveable goal at a time... I know that is how I had to quit smoking... concentrating on the moment here not tomorrow and definetely not yesterday as that is gone and there is nothing I can do to change what ever happened... hugggss Lindie Report Inappropriate Comment

GHOSTFLAMES 12/28/2008 7:52PM

HELEN I'M WITH YOU ON THIS ONE!WE GOTTA DO WHAT'S BEST FOR US ONE STEP AT A TIME!HE IS WATCHING DOWN ON US AND WILL GUIDE US ALL THE WAY!LOVE AND HUGS,CHAR Report Inappropriate Comment

WANDAH3 12/28/2008 6:45PM

That is the best way of living ones life...trying one's best! Have a wonderful day. Hugs, Wanda Report Inappropriate Comment

STARTINGOVER03 12/28/2008 6:07PM

HALLELUJAH AND AMEN ! Report Inappropriate Comment

GRANDMANANCY 12/28/2008 6:02PM

Halleljuah! Report Inappropriate Comment

WOWEETOO 12/28/2008 5:05PM

YEA helen!! love my dearest friend !!! mary Report Inappropriate Comment

First Kindergarten Christmas Program...What a blessing!!!

Saturday, December 20, 2008

I woke early Friday morning because I was so excited. The kindergarten classes at McKenzie’s school were putting on their first Christmas program. They were seven classrooms of 5 and 6 year old filing into and standing in the front of the gym when I got there...just over 200+ children. It was amazing to see; they were so excited and were dressed in almost identical white t shirts. The shirts were just simple white t shirt but each shirt was personalized by the child wearing it. The teachers and parent volunteers had taken each shirt and used the child’s own foot and both hands to make Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer on the front of each of them…at the heal of the foot which was toward the bottom, they put a red pompom to represent the Rudolph’s red nose. The hands were to the side at the top by their toes representing the antlers. Absolutely gorgeous little shirts. The shirts were identical but so individualized. The children sang Dashing Through the Snow, Jingle Bells, We Three Kings of Orient Are, The First Noel, Santa Claus is Coming to Town, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty the Snowman, Away in a Manager, The Night Before Christmas (each verse done by a different classroom), Up On The House Top, Deck the Halls, Joy to the World, All I Want For Christmas is My Two Front Teeth, Let It Snow, Winter Wonderland, Rocking Around The Christmas Tree, and Here Comes Santa Claus, Their closing song was We Wish You a Merry Christmas. Several of these songs were done also in sign language. It was a beautiful experience. I know the teachers as well as their music director had to spend hours on these songs as the kids knew all the words as well as the signing. The gym was filled with over 600 parents, grandparents, siblings and a nanny. The program lasted about 45 minutes. After the program was over, all the parents, etc. were invited down to the classrooms to enjoy cookies and punch with the children. McKenzie’s parents were both able to attend as were her maternal grandparents. Having everyone there just made her day. My getting to be there just made my day!
Hugs,
Helen

Positives:
God and all my blessings
All the family members who were able to attend today
All the kindergarten children and their varied personalities
The beautiful weather we had...just 1.39” of rain
Everyone who helped with today’s performance
Health
The rainbow I saw and took a picture of as I was going home

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

STARTINGOVER03 12/23/2008 9:04PM

I know you were proud of McKenzie and his classmates it had to be a beautiful site. children are so precious being the first Kindergarden porgram how wonderful thanks for sharing it with us. I wish you and yours a merry christmas. Report Inappropriate Comment

TREETHESHEE 12/23/2008 12:32PM

Just wanted to stop by and wish you a Merry Christmas! Report Inappropriate Comment

HARRINGTON5 12/22/2008 5:17PM

Helen, It sounds like you had a perfect day and a wonderful time. I am glad you were able to be there too. It was a lot of work, but so worth the effort. Merry Christmas to you and your family. Cynthia Report Inappropriate Comment

MARLA7 12/22/2008 9:00AM

Ahhh Helen - I'm so glad you got to enjoy your little McKenzie's program. Aren't kids precious? Love you, Marla Report Inappropriate Comment

ITSABOUTME2407 12/21/2008 6:35PM

I have 9 grandchildren so......am busy with concerts plays programs but...wouldn't miss it for the world they are my blessings...MERRY CHRISTMAS,,,TRISH Report Inappropriate Comment

KAROUSELL46 12/21/2008 6:14PM

Oh that is so sweet. I remember when my girls use to do that. My grdaughter is in the the jazz band in school & her concert was canceled because of the snow. We'll get to hear her play toward the end of January. It really means alot to the kids that family shows interest in what they are doing, very important. Happy Holidays......Karen Report Inappropriate Comment

WANDAH3 12/21/2008 10:26AM

Helen, I really miss that part of my children's lives...the yearly Christmas concert. Always so much fun and excitement in the air. I love the shirt idea. How wonderfully creative! I must file that idea away for some possible future use! The little ones sure did learn a bunch of songs and to learn them in sign language also is remarkable. Very dedicated teachers. Have a wonderful Christmas filled with all God's blessings. Hugs, Wanda Report Inappropriate Comment

MAURIZIA 12/21/2008 7:12AM

Helen, Christmas is secondly all about the kids! (First, about G-d's gift to us) What a blessing that you were able to be there! I love those shirts!!! Can't wait to tell my friend Barbara about them - her grandchildren would love to make them. What a creative group! And what smart kids to learn all those words! I particularly love the rainbow! Don't they just make you smile no matter what?? I always think of G-d's promise to Noah!! Have a blessed Sunday! Hugs, Mauri Report Inappropriate Comment

GHOSTFLAMES 12/20/2008 10:30PM

HELEN HOW NICE YOU WERE ABLE TO GO TO THE PROGRAM!KIDS ARE GREAT BUT THEY GROW UP TO FAST DON'T THEY?HAVE A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS AND A HEALTHY AND HAPPY NEW YEAR MY FRIEND HOPE ALL IS WELL WITH YOU!TAKE CARE LOVE,CHAR Report Inappropriate Comment

WOWEETOO 12/20/2008 8:06PM

that must be a sight to see for sure and if all teachers did that sort of thing all children would succeed because there is nothing they love and deserve better than adoration that's just who they are and they deserve it just because they enrich the the world with their happiness hugs and merry christmas my friend Mary Report Inappropriate Comment

Cauda Equina Syndrome and My Blessings From God

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Cauda Equina Syndrome
Although low back pain is common and usually goes away without surgery, cauda equine syndrome, a rare disorder affecting the bundle of nerve roots (cauda equina) at the lower (lumbar) end of the spinal cord, is a surgical emergency.

An extension of the brain, the nerve roots send and receive messages to and from the pelvic organs and lower limbs. Cauda equina syndrome occurs when the nerve roots are compressed and paralyzed, cutting off sensation and movement. Nerve roots that control the function of the bladder and bowel are especially vulnerable to damage.

If patients with cauda equina syndrome do not get fast treatment to relieve the pressure, it can result in permanent paralysis, impaired bladder and/or bowel control, loss of sexual sensation, and other problems. Even with immediate treatment, some patient may not recover complete function.

Causes
Cauda equina syndrome may be caused by a ruptured disk, tumor, infection, fracture, or narrowing of the spinal canal. It may also happen because of a violent impact, such as a car crash, a fall from significant height, or a penetrating injury, such as a gunshot or stabbing injury. Mine was caused by the surgeon who did my back surgery in 1984 and cut into the spine cord covering at the L4L5S1 and destroyed these same nerve endings. (Same effect as the stabbing injury.) I was paralyzed in the beginning and had to learn to walk, etc. again. I still deal with lack of bowel and bladder control. I have no feeling in the area of kidneys..therefore I had nor have any way of knowing if there is ever an infection or anything else wrong. This can be a blessing or a major problem...in my case it has been both. I didn't know I had anything wrong because I never have pain, but at the same time I have not experienced what is supposed to be debilitating pain in passing this blockage. Of course they used the laser and took out the scar tissue. Now I just have to finish passing the blockage.

When I say God has blessed me multiple times, I am very serious. I did learn to walk again, drive my car, take care of my two daughters by myself and found there are many things you can use if you are incontinent (pads, diapers, etc.). I just do what I have to and continue on with my life. My girls grew up with my problems and are much stronger women and much more sensitive to people who have problems or who are different from the "normal". Even McKenzie is aware of the problems and just accepts it because that just the way it is and has been from the word go. If I run into a problem, I deal with it. I keep clean clothes with me and I just clean up, or take a shower. and continue on. McKenzie will get towels, etc for me...whatever I need depending on the situation. But she is also very aware of other people and their handicaps or problems and works very well with them. She is very special in many ways...She is a very giving child and is nice and helpful to everyone. God has truly blessed me and no one could ever possibly know how much. I have been the recipient of several miracles from our God!!! Praise him...for what he brings me to, he always leads or carries me through!!!

Never forget that:
If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.
Happy moments, praise God.
Difficult moments, seek God.
Quiet moments, worship God.
Painful moments, trust God.
Every moment, thank God.

I just have to tell it like it is...without God in my life, I would truly be lost. He is my lifeline everyday. I truly have looked around and see others who are so much worse off them I am and I just count my blessings one more time. I could have been paralyzed permanently and wasn't. I retrained myself to do so many things, and I always know that God will bring the sun shining right back into my life and is the one doing things for me and with me. He brought me through total kidney failure the week of Thanksgiving and two subsequent surgeries with flying colors. I am truly a miracle child of God and will always remember that. We are all miracle children of God and if we just look around we would realize that. Today is a new day and each day is one to remember and praise Him. Daily...not a special time of year or any certain day...but every day...He gives us a new day every 24 hours and we need to remember that and make the most of each one of them. We are still to celebrate His birth and His death but also need to remember Him every day of the year.

I have been trying to gather up gifts so that Ken can take to our little neighborhood get together for the kids...things that I bought throughout the year...I am also giving the kids new Bibles for their Christmas presents and several for the parents that I know don't have any. That just makes my heart fell so good and full knowing that they will make good use of them and read them. They just don't have the extra money to buy them and all their extra money goes to their kids and other family members, heating their homes and food on the table. This is the best gift I have been able to give to anyone!!!! Please pray for them and everyone as they celebrate the meaning of the life of Jesus.
Hugs,
Helen

Positives:
God
Life
Fresh air to breath
Food, etc., enough to share with those less fortunate
My neighbor who has taken me under her wing and has become like a mother to me
Too numerous to list even those from just today

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

GHOSTFLAMES 12/18/2008 3:25PM

HELEN I ALREADY COMMENTED ON THIS BLOG AND POOF WHERE DID IT GO?HELEN YOU ARE DOING SO GOOD MY FRIEND! FOR ALL YOU HAVE GONE THRU!TAKE CARE LOVE,CHAR Report Inappropriate Comment

JUSTPEACHY1 12/17/2008 12:05PM

Helen, You are an inspiration! I'm so glad that your surgery went well. I had to laugh about your comments on the doctor's looks. My DH had a surgeon earlier this year who was not impressive to look at (for one thing he was Hispanic and sorry to say, some people around here would be bothered by that), but he sure did a good job. When he finished DH's surgery at 8:30 PM and had to tell me that they had to do x-rays to rule out cancer (which it wasn't!), my sister and I prayed with him - he looked so exhausted and did not have his work done for the day. I thought he was going to cry! I think he left the waiting room with a bounce in his step :-). Thank you for being so open with us and sharing about your health problems and needs; your testimony is such a gift to the rest of us. May your Holiday Season be blessed. Love and , Ena Report Inappropriate Comment

WOWEETOO 12/17/2008 10:07AM

helen you are a daily blessing to the woman on this end of the line ILOVE YOU 'SISTER'!!!! HUGS MARY Report Inappropriate Comment

GRANDMANANCY 12/17/2008 9:37AM

Have you any clue what a blessing you are? Thank you for helping us along the way to be better servants of our Lord. Report Inappropriate Comment

KAROUSELL46 12/17/2008 9:05AM

You are a miracle. You have been through so much & yet here you are!! Praise God. You are a strong & determined woman. I am glad to know someone like you. You reinforce my belief in God. (((HUGS)))........Karen Report Inappropriate Comment

WANDAH3 12/17/2008 7:32AM

Helen, I agree with all that Mauri has written. You are a faithful service of God and God has and will continue to honor that. Many wonderful Blessings to you and yours this Christmas season. Hugs, Wanda Report Inappropriate Comment

MAURIZIA 12/17/2008 6:59AM

Helen, I've only known you a short time, but am not surprised at the miracles G-d has given you! You are such a faithful servant! You live your life according to His Word. That, in itself, is such a model for the rest of us who claim our faith but sometimes find it difficult to live it. You make us see that we can. There is nothing so great as helping others...What joy there is that!! As I always say, I will never be rich, but I am so happy and blessed for having given material things and of myself! THANK YOU for strengthening our faith!! I continue to keep you in my prayers. Blessings of Christmas to you! Maurizia Report Inappropriate Comment

A Must Read for ALL LADIES!!! UNBELIEVABLE!!!

Friday, December 12, 2008

A very strange thing happened to me this week…I mean, when doesn’t it??!!! Monday morning I changed my bath soap from the regular Irish Spring to Irish Spring with Microbeads. Not a big deal, right? Well Monday night, my legs started breaking out and the itching was so much, it woke me up and kept me awake…from my ankles to my knees. This actually is still continuing and I continue to take benedryl for it…with the doctor’s approval, of course. At nigh time this is worse because of jammies and blankets keeping my legs warmer. Anyway at my doctor’s appointment Wednesday, I mentioned it to the nurse. She said maybe it was a reaction to the antibiotics I had been taking or after telling her about switching bath soap maybe it was that…however it is not anyplace but on my legs so I didn’t think that was the answer…would have been on my torso as well as arms, etc. Anyway my MD license wasn’t renewed so what do I know…lol. She said to be sure to mention it to Dr. K which I did. He looked at it and said, “When you shave your legs did you use a new razor? You didn’t, did you?” I told him no, I didn’t. He responded with, “If you repeatedly use the same razor, bacteria builds up on it and you can spread the germs. Also did you shave with the soap you bathed with?” Again, I answered yes. I didn’t take time to use my shaving crème. Well with the microbeads removing all the dead skin, etc. from the surface of the skin already, then putting the soap back on and shaving with it, I removed part of the top layer of skin letting it open to bacteria from the razor and anything else. (Works like the scrubs people use on their faces, etc.) It is truthfully just on the area from my ankles to my knees exactly where I shaved...Amazing. So now I am dealing with that what consists of hives and who knows what but definitely multitudes of raised rash bumps and hives, which are driving me out of my mind with the itching. No amount of washing or anything else is helping. Benedryl may be helping a little...at least it is making me sleepy. It just all has to heal on its own I guess. Dr. K. checked my legs again today and said maybe they were a little better. I hate to say that although I shower every day, I don’t shave my legs often, the hair is blonde and can barely be seen…what my jeans haven’t rubbed off. ..so I never changed my razor very often… I guess I never thought about it. However, that razor has since been replaced with a new one. You can bet this won’t happen again. He advised that I change it weekly or as frequently as I shave my legs…sounds like good advice after this fine mess I have gotten into. However I am also sharing this will all my local friends and relative as well as all my sparkers….Just a little F.Y.I. and so it doesn’t happen to you. I always thought I had very good personal hygiene…
Can you tell I was a towhead when I was very young…didn’t get darker until I was about 13 or so. But it is getting white again. Once a blonde, I guess you always remain a blonde no matter what color your hair changes to. Lol
Love and hugs to all my spark friends and family,
Helen

POSITIVES:
Being smart enough to see the truth when it hits me between the eyes
God for He is so wonderful
Doctors for their advanced training and knowledge and a lot of common sense
Everyone who didn't laugh when I told them and was doing the same thing...also never thought about it...Aren't we women wonderful!!!
The rain which we received today and is truly needed
The snow when it comes, especially if it stays off the road and sidewalks
My hair which I am getting cut shorter as it is falling out rapidly from all the anesthetic in the last two weeks... It will grow in again quickly.
My neighbor who cried when she saw me come home today...so happy for me
Spark and all the members who have encouraged and supported me from day one so that I was healthy enough to have two surgeries in two weeks!! God bless you!
Too many blessings and positives as I look around...they are everywhere!!!

Thank you to all who stop, read my blogs and leave comments. I love you all!!!

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

HARRINGTON5 12/22/2008 5:23PM

Wow, I went in and threw away my razor. I was a blond too and don't have to shave my legs very often. But, I do use the same razor repeatedly. No more though. I am taking your story to heart! Thanks for the information! Cynthia Report Inappropriate Comment

MRZ1225 12/16/2008 11:51AM

I can't believe you have answered my question. I have done the very same thing. I rarely shave because I too am blonde and I usually wear pants, so ther is no regular need. Last week when I shaved I developed an itching rash but never connected it to the razor. I am still scratching but mostly at night when my legs heat up under the covers. Thanks for sharing this. I am so glad your surgery went well. God is Good. Have a Blessed Christmas. Margaret Report Inappropriate Comment

TREETHESHEE 12/15/2008 11:51PM

Wow, I didn't know all of that. I will definantly have to be careful. Glad you are doing well! Report Inappropriate Comment

LINDIEMAE 12/13/2008 1:20AM

Good advise, and by the way, soap is the worst thing to use to shave your legs, next time when your in a hurry, use your hair conditioner, its gentle even for the skin...and then it won't hurt or cause hives or such...my goodness you need some Mr. Palmer's Co Co Butter lol ..at least you will smell like Coco hehe good advise all the way around there, and also, yes I am that kind of blonde as well, and forget to shave as well because of the same reason lol Report Inappropriate Comment

KSNICKER 12/12/2008 10:19PM

Helen, Oh My Goodness... I had never even thought of that... Thanks for sharing that... I too will be more careful... Thanks so much for the nice comment on my spark page too... I pray that you will be feeling better soon my friend... Take care... ((hugs)) Kath y Report Inappropriate Comment

MAURIZIA 12/12/2008 7:15PM

Helen, I would never have thought about it...and I think by the time 2008 is done, you'll be starting your hospital internship on your way to your MD!! Thanks for sharing the info...I'm passing it onto my friends. Blessings and new razors, Mauri P.S. The only genes from Mom that I received were her weight and her lack of leg hair as she aged... Comment edited on: 12/12/2008 7:15:59 PM Report Inappropriate Comment

GRANDMANANCY 12/12/2008 2:07PM

Here is a hug for you dear helen..... thank you for thinking of all of us...and keeping us from doing damage to ourselves.. L+P nancy Report Inappropriate Comment

GHOSTFLAMES 12/12/2008 1:58PM

HELEN LIKE YOU NEED ONE MORE THING!ONCE I TESTED NAIR AS IT SAY'S ON THE BOTTLE I HAD PERCIDOUS(OR HOW EVER YOU SPELL IT) AND IT WAS EASIER TO DO I PUT IT UNDER MY ARM PITS IT WAS OK SO I APPLIED MORE AND THE BURNING STARTED I COULDN'T BELIEVE IT I TESTED IT AND WAS FINE TILL I APPLIED MORE WELL I TOOK A LAYER OF SKIN OFF AND I WAS BAD NEVER USED IT AGAIN!US POUR WOMEN WHAT WE GO THU!TAKE CARE MY FRIEND AND HOPE ALL IS BETTER SOON FOR YOU. ,CHAR Report Inappropriate Comment

MAMASALLYSOCKS 12/12/2008 1:34PM

If I were to shave my legs, hen how would I keep my knee socks up? LOL Report Inappropriate Comment

POLLY20 12/12/2008 12:53PM

Sweet Sis, That is such great advice & a need to know & pass on.. I sometimes get the uncontrolable itch in the same exact places.. My skin is so dry especially from the ankles to the knees.. I just have so much dry skin & don't shave in the winter.. I just guess that this is a bad area & I can scratch myself raw & it's probably the bacteria I have on my hands transmitted when I scratch.. A valuable thought.. I will be sharing.. Love & Heal Well.. Love You Sweetness..Always Polly Report Inappropriate Comment

KAROUSELL46 12/12/2008 11:57AM

Thanks for the FYI moment. Will defiantly tell others about this. I use an womens electric shaver and clean it after every use. You really don't need anymore problems lady! Comment edited on: 12/12/2008 11:58:44 AM Report Inappropriate Comment

WANDAH3 12/12/2008 7:54AM

Helen, that is really interesting and something I didn't know. I'm sharing it with my girls. Hugs, Wanda Report Inappropriate Comment

RSTAGG 12/12/2008 7:10AM

Thanks for sharing, Helen. Report Inappropriate Comment

KM1304 12/12/2008 5:31AM

Hi Helen, Wow, that is interesting. Thanks for passing that on. {HUGS} Karol Report Inappropriate Comment

CUDDY521 12/12/2008 3:19AM

Hi Helen I had that itch every day I shaved & I was going crazy itching, so I only use Johnson`s baby wash now & it rarely happens. If you don`t have to shave why bother, you should be resting & not worrying about your towhead legs lol..... Get your R & R, Hugs, Cuddy I also have to go to sleep its 3:20am & I only got 4 hours sleep last night, but my prayers were answered ..... Report Inappropriate Comment

WOWEETOO 12/12/2008 3:07AM

YEEHAW!!!!!!!!!! YOU GO hELEN!!! love and hugs my special friend mary!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

JIBBIE49 12/12/2008 3:04AM

When I had the razor that took "blades" I'd soak them in alcohol for about 15 min. while I was taking my bath. I also soak my toothbrush and then rinse it really well. Now I just use the Bic disposable one and toss them. I am surprised the doctor didn't give you some antibiotic for the legs, as those "raised bumps" can become infected hair follicles and that isn't good. I use Neutragena soap, as since menopause, my skin is much more sensitive. I use to think it was a "waste of money" but had to apology for that comment, when I HAD to start using it for my "sensitive skin." Report Inappropriate Comment

WONDERFUL NEWS...SURGERY IS OVER!!! WOOHOO!!!

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Good evening everyone. Hopefully this will make sense and isn't a legal document. Dr. K said that I wasn't to sign any legal documents for at least 24 hours after surgery because they would be invalid due to the heavy meds. lol
Anyway, my surgery started right on time at 11:45. Those guys were right on schedule time wise with everything...it was wonderful. My surgery took a little longer than they thought because they used lazar and sound waves and the size of the blockage was 11 x 8 and just seven weeks ago was 7 x 3...so it grew by leaps and bounds. I am starting to pass sand like particles already, nothing big and actually looks like sand and grit. I have to keep drinking gallons of water so just remember 8 cups of water is nothing when you have to put out at least 2 quarts a day. But I am a water drinker so this is ok with me. It is just hard to eat when everything in you is sloshing around...lol. God has truly blessed me again. He continues to carry me when everything seems to darkest and bleak...drab and dreary. He loves me and is always there for me...Praise him my Almighty God!!! He was the guiding force behind Dr. K's hands again today and everything is fine. We have to catch and save all particles, sand or stones, that are passed and I have to take it to Dr. K to find out what they are made of so my diet can be adjusted accordingly. There is a lot of old scarring, no cancer, and a huge stone and several small stones still in the kidney itself. They may remain there forever and never cause a problem. I still have the stent in and it will remain until all the blockage is gone. I will have another x-ray in a couple weeks to see what the status is (I pray it will all be gone). When it is all gone and I still have no infection (all gone at the moment), then he will safely remove the stent. That has to be done in the OR room at the hospital but I don't think it is any big deal...just safer that way if something would happen when they pull it out of the kidney, ureter and bladder. I guess you never know what could happen. But all will go well with that also. God is guiding the hands of my great surgeon.
I was in the recovery room from 3:00 until 3:55, drank two very small cups of diet ginger ale, and was able to keep it all down. No nausea whatsoever. However they did put a patch behind my right ear which remains until tomorrow afternoon...can't touch it and have to wash hand immediately if I do...definitely don't touch it and touch eye area because it will dilate my eyes immediately...amazing. They also put four shots in my iv's to prevent me from getting sick. Two weeks ago I became deathly sick from just two ice cubes. I told them that today and they made me a mixed cocktail of drugs (shots in iv's) to prevent that. We left the surgical area about 5:00 to come home. All I wanted after surgery was Shorty's Hot Dogs ( a hot dog shop in Washington) French fries/beef gravy...no hot dogs just the ff/gravy. So my DD and Ken took me there and that is what I got. Then when we got home Ken heated three ff in the microwave for me and I had them dipped in the gravy...yummy. The doctor sent me home with an icebag and percacet pain meds because this is supposed to be so painful. I have a lot of bruising on my left side, but absolutely no pain...due I am sure because of my Cauda Equina Syndrome where the doctor cut into the spinal cord in 1984 and left me without feeling in many places below the waist. But you know what, I learned to walk again, I am alive and I believe in my Lord God Almighty and he has made me a wonderful person...nothing like blowing my own horn. But I am a much better, stronger person today for all that I have gone through because of this and my belief. My daughters are much stronger women also because they had to go through it with me...it was the three of us as they were growing up. And we are all three very strong women with strong personalities capable of caring for ourselves if necessary. I have to remember though that while it may be a blessing for no pain, it is also a disaster waiting to happen because I can't tell when anything is wrong also because of no pain. So I guess this is a win/win, lose/lose situation.
However today's surgery is over...I am in great shape (for the shape I have)...and the doctor is proud of me, himself and God...another happy and healthy patient!!! He also said something today that made me laugh and is so very true... READ AND REMEMBER!!! VERY IMPORTANT!!! People do not choose their doctor based on the doctor's looks. That is so true and you have to see Dr. K to appreciate it...little short guy with very receding hairline (totally bald on top I think, probably about 65-70 years old, graduated from grad school in 1972, black rimmed glasses, about 5'5" tall and possibly 180 pounds (probably really bad guess), grandfather to 3 wonderful kids ages 2, 3 and 5 whom he loves to death, a wonderful wife and two adult children, but I love him to death or life... whichever.
He knows what he is doing, is outstanding in his field and is a God loving, very respectful of himself and his patients...always ready to go the extra mile for his patients for their needs...doesn't guess on anything, believes in testing to make sure and LISTENS to his patient's fears, whatever they are. Just wonderful!!! I am so blessed that God brought him into my life when I needed him. If he was not happily married and I didn't have Ken, I could probably chase him and catch him because I am so much younger. lol Remember you can't hold me to anything I say because of the influence of drugs. lol
But I am so fortunate and blessed for God to have led him to me when I needed both of them so much. I can't praise God enough or thank Dr. K enough as they together saved my life...although I know that God was the leading force and he is the one who guided Dr. K's hands through everything. I am so thankful...you cannot begin to imagine.
Now the hard work begins...I am looking forward to getting the left kidney kick started into working at least 25% and I know with lots of prayer this will happen. Together with the left kidney totally blocked, I was brought back from total failure to 49% with the right kidney. So if anyone is looking for something or someone to pray for, please try to remember me. I know I will not get full function from the left kidney as it has atrophied quite a bit and will probably never be full-functioning again, but I am only asking for it to become the best it can be again. I praise God that with his help, this will happen. If you have time for a quick prayer, try to remember me...just briefly if that is all you have time for. I will be keeping all our Spark members, friends and families in prayers for all your spoken and unspoken needs. God knows you all and knows all your needs whether they have been spoken or not. My prayers will continue to be lifted for you.
Forgive me if this seems to ramble a bit but it is all from my heart!!!
Love and hugs always,
Helen

POSITIVES:
God for being and staying in my life
Dr. K for coming into my life
My DD and Ken who are always there for me
My DD co-workers and bosses who have called to check on me
Our spark members whom I have personally talked to or chatted with, emailed, spark mailed, etc. I love you all. Thank you so much for all your support and encouragement always.
Too many blessings and positives to list, but know that I know that all!!!

Thank you for stopping by, reading and/or commenting on my page and blogs. I love you and I won't forget you!

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

JEPSON 12/12/2008 2:26PM

Helen, I am so very thankful that you came through another surgery. Praise God! May the Lord continue to bless you on this road to health, Paula Report Inappropriate Comment

MAMASALLYSOCKS 12/12/2008 1:29PM

Praise to our awesome God! Glad your on the mend! ((((cow cuddles)))) Report Inappropriate Comment

JANETELIZABETH1 12/12/2008 11:36AM

Helen, Praise God that all went well for you and I pray that you continue to get healthy and well from now on. You take it easy now.... Blessings and hugs, Janet. Report Inappropriate Comment

KM1304 12/12/2008 5:31AM

Praise the Lord Helen. I'm so glad surgery went well. Now the healing begins. {HUGS} Karol Report Inappropriate Comment

MARLA7 12/12/2008 5:09AM

Helen - So glad your surgery went well & you're now home recouperating. Please take care Love, Marla Report Inappropriate Comment

LINSUARA 12/12/2008 2:14AM

I really loved hearing the things that God has done for you and Praise God with you for all that He is going to do from here on! He truly does love you and will continue to do the miracles you need. Linda Report Inappropriate Comment

SHAREDJOURNEY 12/12/2008 2:14AM

What a wonderful praise report. You warmed my heart with your honesty and gratitude. We are so blessed to have the Lord on our side to take care of all our needs and calm our fears. I am so glad to hear that you have improved kidney function and that you will be able to learn to adjust your diet to prevent further stones from forming. PTL for your good news. God Bless you my friend. Report Inappropriate Comment

CUDDY521 12/12/2008 1:15AM

Dear Helen, I`m so happy your surgery went so well & I will keep you in my daily & nightly prayers. You are a miracle & God`s angel... Hugs & Blessings, Cuddy Report Inappropriate Comment

POLLY20 12/12/2008 12:26AM

Helen My dear Spark Sister..You are sounding pretty positive & so very Thankful for all of your Blessings.. I am there right by your side holding your hand..God has His arms gently cradling you next to His Precious Heart..Feel the Powers of healing & thanks for being such a great patient for Dr K.. Your Family deserves to be applauded for being right by your side.. I am sending oodles of Prayers your way.. My DD Jen has gone through that procedure twice with the stent..The last time she had it done she had a 1 centermeter Huge the size of a laarge diamond & a five mm..The stent came loosened right after the procedure because of all of the fluid that poured out of her & the Most horrible Dr that did her Liptotripsy told the nurse to rip it out.. Jennifer suffered for over a month with the large stones passing without the stent..We were up every night with her with all of the pain..The dr didn't want to see her & told her to go to the ER & she waited for many hrs writhering in so much pain..She just wanted to die.. She made quite a few trips to that horrible ER waiting rm.. One time she got there at 10:30 at night & wasn't taken in until 5;30 A.M. 7 hrs of so much pain.. That Dr Mustafavi should be shot..The nurse was also in tears for Jennifer after she had to rip out the stent.. She never did that before..The Dr never came back to see her..He should have been reported for all of the torture that Jen was put through..Nothing even touched her pain until she went to the ER & that didn't last..I'm so sorry to lay this on you, but this was such a sore subject..Her regular Urologist wasn't available for the surgery.. Her first one By Dr Susan Glover was such a better experiance..My DD will never be the same after that.. Many nightmares.. Please take care & Heal well...I'm here for you My Sweet Helen.. Love Always Polly ((HUGS)) Report Inappropriate Comment

KAROUSELL46 12/11/2008 10:52PM

Helen, What a blessing! I am thrilled to see you are so much better. Always in my prayers. (((HUGS))) Karen Report Inappropriate Comment

HOUSECAT609 12/11/2008 10:08PM

Helen, I"m so glad your surgery went well. Will keep you in my prayers. Now get some rest . Huggs Jean Report Inappropriate Comment

DEUCE119 12/11/2008 9:47PM

SO GLAD THAT SO FAR SO GOOD. DR. K SHOULD GIVE YOU HALVIES FOR THE GOOD PUBLICITY. THANK GOD THAT YOU FOUND SUCH A WONDERFUL DOCTOR. I THINK THEY ALL HAVE GOOD INTENTIONS, THEY JUST DON'T ALL HAVE THE BEDSID MANNER TO MAKE YOU FEEL LIKE YOU CAN PUT YOUR LIFE IN THEIR HANDS. TAKE IT EASY NOW AND REST. WE ARE ALL HERE WHEN YOU FEEL UP TO SNUFF. THE PRAYERS WILL BE SAID FOR YOU TONIGHT! Report Inappropriate Comment

PONSELLE 12/11/2008 9:42PM

Praise God for His many Blessings! Report Inappropriate Comment

MAURIZIA 12/11/2008 9:38PM

Helen, my prayers tonight will be of thanksgiving for your successful surgery...and prayers will continue for your return to the best health you can enjoy! Yes, indeed, Praise be to G-d! Mauri Report Inappropriate Comment

GHOSTFLAMES 12/11/2008 9:35PM

HELEN I AM SO GLAD EVERYTHING IS GOING WELL for YOU MY FRIEND AND THANKS FOR LETTING US KNOW HOW EVERYTHING WENT!GLAD YOU GOT SUCH A GOOD DOCTOR!PRAYERS ARE CONTINUING MY FRIEND FOR A SPEEDY RECOVERY!TAKE CARE AND LET ME KNOW IF I CAN DO ANYTHING!LOVE,CHAR Report Inappropriate Comment

LINDIEMAE 12/11/2008 9:19PM

Helen, so far so good yeaaaa for DR. K...I'd hug him tooo if I could, he's a gem for sure... now follow orders and take care of you first...thank you for thinking of us and letting us know but now we prolly want you to take care of you ... after all we want and need you around here for all your loving support that you give to us sparklers... Lindie Report Inappropriate Comment