Sometimes the unexpected events of life bring stress and anxiety but as so often happens when we look back at those events, you can see that it was mostly just a bump in the road that needed a little navigation. We recently had one of those unexpected times when Papa Norm was faced with heart surgery. The good news is that he didn't have a heart attack and symptoms alerted him to the need to be checked. Or, if truth be told, it alerted me that I needed to insist that he be checked. :) At any rate, he had a very serious surgery with a few minor complications but is doing well now. The night before his surgery he was visited by several friends and family including his precious grandchildren which served to lift his spirits tremendously.
The three C's and Uncle Superman!
Following surgery, Uncle Superman urging Papa to eat. That has proved to be one of his hardest things, his appetite has not been great but improvement is on the horizon.
A good sign after a day or so, reading the sports page.
Catching up on some sleep.....
Don't look if you are squeamish....changing the dressing....
Out of ICU and doing some walking....
After excellent care in the ICU and then the Cardiac Unit in our local hospital, he voluntarily went to the rehabilitation hospital for some additional therapy. It was a good move and really helped to get his strength, mobility, and confidence back. Again several visits from the three C's were the highlights of his days.
Occupational therapy and physical therapy filled his days, and after one week he insisted he was going home. Although they would have liked him to stay another week I think he made the right decision. He has done just fine at home.
Now, looking at the highs of the past weeks, you can see that Claire and Chloe completed their Kindergarten year and graduated. What a fun day it was for all. It was Papa's first outing and he did quite well considering that he was only 2 1/2 weeks out of surgery. Chris also got to attend and enjoyed seeing his sisters and their friends in a really sweet program of singing, dancing, and photo viewing of their past year.
Chloe marching in...
And Claire marching in.....
The whole class...
Our sweet K-Class grads.....
The teacher had each child sit on a chair while she talked a little about them.
It was a great day, a great way to finish out the school year, and a real highlight for us after spending a couple of weeks focused on hearts, hospitals, therapy, and keeping things running at home. Claire happily posed with Papa and with her Nonie after the ceremony.
I am so thankful that Norm came through the surgery well and that God provided so much support for both of us through our dear family and friends. Both Norm and I felt the prayers and love extended on our behalf. Life is truly good!
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