I can't believe that in 2 weeks I get to experience hearing through my frist CI and my right ear for the first time. I am excited yet nervous in the same way. For 3 months I will only be using the CI and no left hearing aid, so this will be a journey. Speech at first may sound very cartoonish to me and peoples voices many sound like disney characters. Whoo-hoo I will be in disney world. They told me adjustment take several weeks to months but rather than my hearing worsening thing s will gradually get better. Even though my activation day is Friday the 13th, I think 13 will be a new lucky number for me. They don't expect me to get speech right away or detect all sounds but since I lost my hearing pretty quickly and yes I don't remember what things sound like that I may pick up quicker b/c I was not deafen for a long period and that has better success rate. But they want me to fully use the right ear and hearing through that to adjust. Let the adventures begin.
I just hope that this will help settle down the dizziness and imbalance on the right side. I am still having bouts of vertigo which have been frustrating but feel that they are coming from the left ear mainly. So I will meet with the doctor again on the 16th after more reprogramming with the CI. I am also beginning therapy to help with my balance but been doing light walking. I am looking forward to running and biking again for sure and that will come. Exercise is the way to help strengthen my vestibular system. It is not my muscle strength that affect my balance but my vestibular system and coordination, so I am having to retrain my brain to coordinate with my body. I am regaining my balance but I force myself in doing the activities but enjoy walking so it is something that I love to do. I am excited to get all my new toys. Yay. It has been bye to my right ear aid and soon hello to my neptune processor. This is the processor that I can go swimming with and is off the ear, so really looking forward to having something off the ear.
As exciting this, I have been wanting my mom here with me. I am so grateful that my Dad will be with me, Mom will be in my spirits. But we all miss her so just continue to pray for my family.
As God has been giving me the strength and peace on this journey, I am so grateful for everyone's support and encouragement through this time. I just ask for continued prayers as I continue this journey. Right now with all the uncertainities going on right now, God has been sustaining me through it and really helping me focus on him. Psalm 121 has been a real big encouragement in relying in him through this time.
Friday, March 30, 2012
Monday, March 26, 2012
Remembering Mom
Wow, I can't believe it that it has been 7 months since my mom went home to be with Jesus. She is free of cancer and dancing with Jesus. But yes I am really missing her right now as I am recovering and still struggling with ongoing vertigo episodes. I know she is in my heart but it is not the same as her presently being here.
Right now I am learning patience as I am yes have to admit getting restless being at home a lot and not being able to do what I want to do. I met with my allergist today and was quite interesting trying to communicate as I have noticed my left ear decrease from the last episode. Glad to have someone with me to help. All this changing of weather is affecting me and the high pollen counts. Since I am doing okay and not reacting to the allergy shots, we are going to continue them and praying that helps with my allergy symptoms. Generally it takes 5 years of injections, I am only like 3 months passed a year so have some time to go. The goal is not having to be on any medications for allergies with doing the shots. This is the 3rd time I have tried them and so far doing better than the past, I had a serious reaction the one time and had to stop. The allergies do have connection with the menieres (vertigo) episodes.
I still tire very easy and regaining my balance slowly. I may have to add in therapy right now to help. As I reflect on this journey, yes it is a long one, God is teaching me a lot of patience today and helping me to be reassured that he is in control.
Two verses that stick out to me and encourage me today are
Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (this was one verse that my mom loved through her treatment and one that is always an encouragement to me and reminds me that he has a far greater plan for me in life that I may not see right now)
Isaiah 40:39 "but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (this verse gives me courage and reminds me to be patient and put my trust in him as I am growing restless waiting for my turn on date and with this journey that I am on with my hearing loss and vertigo)
As I remember my mom today and always I am reminded of her determination and perservance that she had in life, as well as her passsion for Christ. She never gave up and let her cancer tie her down. She left that with me and will always be an inspiration in my life. She left a big impact on my life, one I will never let go of. We all miss you mom.
18 days til turn on and my world gets Noisy :)
Right now I am learning patience as I am yes have to admit getting restless being at home a lot and not being able to do what I want to do. I met with my allergist today and was quite interesting trying to communicate as I have noticed my left ear decrease from the last episode. Glad to have someone with me to help. All this changing of weather is affecting me and the high pollen counts. Since I am doing okay and not reacting to the allergy shots, we are going to continue them and praying that helps with my allergy symptoms. Generally it takes 5 years of injections, I am only like 3 months passed a year so have some time to go. The goal is not having to be on any medications for allergies with doing the shots. This is the 3rd time I have tried them and so far doing better than the past, I had a serious reaction the one time and had to stop. The allergies do have connection with the menieres (vertigo) episodes.
I still tire very easy and regaining my balance slowly. I may have to add in therapy right now to help. As I reflect on this journey, yes it is a long one, God is teaching me a lot of patience today and helping me to be reassured that he is in control.
Two verses that stick out to me and encourage me today are
Jeremiah 29:11 "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (this was one verse that my mom loved through her treatment and one that is always an encouragement to me and reminds me that he has a far greater plan for me in life that I may not see right now)
Isaiah 40:39 "but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." (this verse gives me courage and reminds me to be patient and put my trust in him as I am growing restless waiting for my turn on date and with this journey that I am on with my hearing loss and vertigo)
As I remember my mom today and always I am reminded of her determination and perservance that she had in life, as well as her passsion for Christ. She never gave up and let her cancer tie her down. She left that with me and will always be an inspiration in my life. She left a big impact on my life, one I will never let go of. We all miss you mom.
18 days til turn on and my world gets Noisy :)
Friday, March 23, 2012
Rough Patches
It has been quite a week for me with some ongoing vertigo happening. I feel mainly it is coming from my left ear which is not the one that was implanted. My right ear I have still the dizziness from the surgery and not sure if 1 attack was in that ear. This week it was certainly the left as my hearing decreased again :(. I was so grateful for the help that people stepped in to help me through it and the afterward feeling, trying to get my stomach to settle from it. There are rough patches in this recovery from this type of surgery. The most affected right now is my balance and the dizziness. My spirits remain high, but with this last episode the one thing that I wanted most was my mom and was quite upset. Even though it was rough, I know things will improve and need to allow myself to rest. I guess I got to have people sit on me sometimes as it is hard for me wanting to run, but I know my body cannot take it right now and I will be back to running, biking soon. I am making strides in taking short walks but get exhausted still very easily. Since it has been very nice out, I have taken a lawnchair outside and rest outside for a change. This journey has not been easy, but not giving up and determined every step of the way and know that God is right with me each moment. Thanks for all your prayers and support through this time.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
2 weeks Post- OP
I have reached the 2 week mark of post -op. Doing well with making progress but some set backs, which they say is normal. I will have some good days and not to good days. But staying positive through each day and remind myself not to feel like a let down on the hard days. Yesterday and today have been rough with dizziness and a spinning episode in the non implanted ear but creates pressure and pain in the implanted ear for me. I have gone back to sleeping in the recliner b/c it is more comfortable and seem to get better rest than my bed right now, but will try the bed here and there.
I am amazed with staying positive through this recovery and know that it is through all your prayers and support. I am making strives even through the rough days and using a cane to walk around or holding onto someone for support. They encourage and allow me to do light walking right now and that is good to retrain my brain with the balance. Yesterday I manage with the support from a a friend to walk 1/2 mile. Felt SO good, but yes I tire easy. I still take naps and rests through the day but about 4-5 in the early evening I am worn out. Setting goals for myself and know that the allergies are impacting me which I hear is normal. My hair is starting to regrow back slowly, I still need to keep the hair away from the incision area. From the front you can't notice it but the back you can. I feel good about the progress I am making and thank everyone for the continue support and prayers. God is certainly working in my life right now through this and helping me to remain positive but I have to say I do get frustrated with the limitations I have and i know it is temporary. I am finding different ways of managing aorund the house in the restrictions of no quick head turns or bending or washing dishes. Using paper products right now but feel that I am wasting a tree. Again it is only for now. But there are simple things that I would not think that other suggest and that is helpful. many people have asked the question already if I would consider doing the other ear and I would say "yes" even though I have not been activated I would go through with it again. The song that keeps encouraging me is "I'm Hungry" as I continue to know that I need Jesus through this time.
I have about 3 weeks til activation and looking forward to that. :)
I am amazed with staying positive through this recovery and know that it is through all your prayers and support. I am making strives even through the rough days and using a cane to walk around or holding onto someone for support. They encourage and allow me to do light walking right now and that is good to retrain my brain with the balance. Yesterday I manage with the support from a a friend to walk 1/2 mile. Felt SO good, but yes I tire easy. I still take naps and rests through the day but about 4-5 in the early evening I am worn out. Setting goals for myself and know that the allergies are impacting me which I hear is normal. My hair is starting to regrow back slowly, I still need to keep the hair away from the incision area. From the front you can't notice it but the back you can. I feel good about the progress I am making and thank everyone for the continue support and prayers. God is certainly working in my life right now through this and helping me to remain positive but I have to say I do get frustrated with the limitations I have and i know it is temporary. I am finding different ways of managing aorund the house in the restrictions of no quick head turns or bending or washing dishes. Using paper products right now but feel that I am wasting a tree. Again it is only for now. But there are simple things that I would not think that other suggest and that is helpful. many people have asked the question already if I would consider doing the other ear and I would say "yes" even though I have not been activated I would go through with it again. The song that keeps encouraging me is "I'm Hungry" as I continue to know that I need Jesus through this time.
I have about 3 weeks til activation and looking forward to that. :)
Monday, March 19, 2012
Day of visitors and Sunshine
Today was a full day with many visitors and surprises. Thanks to everyone who came and brought something special. It made my day. I spent quite a bit of time out in the sun and reading. I am progressing as expected and the continued up and down dizziness is expected from time to time. I have contacted my doctor and it is okay and good for me to do some light walking which will help me to regain more my balance and strength. Nothing strenguous though. I am just being cautious with the allergies as pollen counts are high and that does affect the menieres. I continue to be in good spirits, but yes there are frustrating times. I continue to ask for prayer that this does help the menieres and doing the light walking will help my balance more, just using a cane or support of someone. this is one thing I have been itching to do. I did take several laps around my apartment building today with the cane.
I am amazed how much the incision is healing up and my hair is growing back. I think I will just let it grow back rather than cut it. Activation will be three weeks from Friday and longing for that date and appointment with doctor. It will give me a better picture of returning to work. I will be meeting with my OVR counselor again the end of April (it is an organization that helps people work with disabilities).
In the meantime I am enjoying reading and spending more time writing and journaling and praying through this time. I am feeling strengthened and encouraged by many people from church and family. Any little thing, I much appreciate. So Thank-You. It makes a difference. I am grateful for the little hearing left in my left ear even though it is fading too, but I am learning to communicate in different ways but appreciate the little sounds that I do hear. I am realizing that it is something that we take for granted in life. I never imagined that I would lose my hearing, but I remain in trusting God that he has a plan for me through all of this. He is greater than I can imagine.
Thanks again for the support and prayers. Attached is a pictures of yellow croucous's from the mountain house. They open and close as I am reminded of how God created them, and even though my hearing may be fading, a new chapter of hearing is going to open up :)
I am amazed how much the incision is healing up and my hair is growing back. I think I will just let it grow back rather than cut it. Activation will be three weeks from Friday and longing for that date and appointment with doctor. It will give me a better picture of returning to work. I will be meeting with my OVR counselor again the end of April (it is an organization that helps people work with disabilities).
In the meantime I am enjoying reading and spending more time writing and journaling and praying through this time. I am feeling strengthened and encouraged by many people from church and family. Any little thing, I much appreciate. So Thank-You. It makes a difference. I am grateful for the little hearing left in my left ear even though it is fading too, but I am learning to communicate in different ways but appreciate the little sounds that I do hear. I am realizing that it is something that we take for granted in life. I never imagined that I would lose my hearing, but I remain in trusting God that he has a plan for me through all of this. He is greater than I can imagine.
Thanks again for the support and prayers. Attached is a pictures of yellow croucous's from the mountain house. They open and close as I am reminded of how God created them, and even though my hearing may be fading, a new chapter of hearing is going to open up :)
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Change of scenery Thanks to Dad
This weekend I got out of the house, which was nice and to our mountain house. Although I was not able to do the normal hiking and active things, we had a great time and rode on the 4 wheeler making sure I made no quick head turns and got to visit mom's memorial spot. We saw some signs of spring with crocous blooming and shoots of the mountain flowers coming up at mom's memorial. And yes it got to be 80 up there. Next time it is kayaking time. :) I am able to get around with the support of a person or using a cane. I have to admit I am getting quite ansty, wishing I could go for a long run in this beautiful weather and do my normal things. As I unpacked I bent over and yes have to be very careful. But I am learning that I need to be patience and take it slow. I hope by next week to try some short distance walks with people and having support. Any takers? They encourage a little to help me to regain my balance back.
I still wear out quickly, but all that I am feeling with the woozies (dizziness) is normal and sometimes worse than others. I did have a vertigo episode last week, so still watching that. My incision is healing and my hair is starting to grow back making it feel fuzzy. I am still deciding if I want to cut it short and let it all grow back to it normal or wait for it to grow back by itself.
I am learning a lot of patience through this, even though there are periods that I am getting frustrated. It is hard for an active person like me to be sitting and resting, but reading and watching movies and taking a lot of time to spend with God is passing time through and encouraging me through times of struggles. Wednesday will be two weeks and about three weeks until my turn on date. I am looking forward to hearing nature sounds and voices. I know it will take time and patience but determined and ready.
As I am getting antsy and restless the song "I am Hungry" comes to my mind, as I rest on him in needing his strength day by day.
I still wear out quickly, but all that I am feeling with the woozies (dizziness) is normal and sometimes worse than others. I did have a vertigo episode last week, so still watching that. My incision is healing and my hair is starting to grow back making it feel fuzzy. I am still deciding if I want to cut it short and let it all grow back to it normal or wait for it to grow back by itself.
I am learning a lot of patience through this, even though there are periods that I am getting frustrated. It is hard for an active person like me to be sitting and resting, but reading and watching movies and taking a lot of time to spend with God is passing time through and encouraging me through times of struggles. Wednesday will be two weeks and about three weeks until my turn on date. I am looking forward to hearing nature sounds and voices. I know it will take time and patience but determined and ready.
As I am getting antsy and restless the song "I am Hungry" comes to my mind, as I rest on him in needing his strength day by day.
Thursday, March 15, 2012
One week, One day post-op
Well it has been one week since I returned home from John Hopkins and had my CI surgery. I am doing well and getting around with the support of a cane. I started with a walker but have progressed to a cane. I am trying to lessen the pain medication and continue to use ice. My incision is looking good and my friend and I got creative with drawing smilies around my implanted ear. It tells how I am grateful for this opportunity. It has been getting itchy and want to scatch but that is a "no no." Today has been a rougher day with balance and vertigo but taking it easy but practicing doing slow motions with my head.
I have been blessed to have someone visit each day to see me and tonight my sister is coming from MD with the kids to see me. This has been encouraging and helping me keep my spirits high. I am eager to get back into running and biking and have enjoyed the beautiful weather. I even took a nap outside on Tuesday soaking the sun up.
Yesterday and last night I was just encouraged but the people who visited me and having a worship night here at my place. People bringing it to me. It meant so much. Even though I can't follow the songs I can read the words to the music and allowing those words sink into my heart was so powerful. The one song we sang was "Never let Go" it always reminds me that God is right with me and that through challenging days and moments he is there as my comfort and to lean on him. I often struggle with fear of acceptance and insecurities and the uncertain of my future and have to remind myself event though yes I have a disability and there are some things that I cannot do, I rather look at it more in what "I CAN DO." My appearance on the outside does not reflect my heart on the inside. It is hard for me coming to terms in using a cane and support for walking but at least I can learn other ways to manage. THis is an ongoing struggle for me, but God accepts me for who I am in him. Having my pastors come yesterday was another blessing and encouragement to me and taking the time to pray with me through this time period. Before the countdown was for the surgery now it is the activation. April 13th will be here before I know it and yes they will test my other ear for getting a CI in that one too. One moment, one step at a time. 28 days to activation :)
I have been blessed to have someone visit each day to see me and tonight my sister is coming from MD with the kids to see me. This has been encouraging and helping me keep my spirits high. I am eager to get back into running and biking and have enjoyed the beautiful weather. I even took a nap outside on Tuesday soaking the sun up.
Yesterday and last night I was just encouraged but the people who visited me and having a worship night here at my place. People bringing it to me. It meant so much. Even though I can't follow the songs I can read the words to the music and allowing those words sink into my heart was so powerful. The one song we sang was "Never let Go" it always reminds me that God is right with me and that through challenging days and moments he is there as my comfort and to lean on him. I often struggle with fear of acceptance and insecurities and the uncertain of my future and have to remind myself event though yes I have a disability and there are some things that I cannot do, I rather look at it more in what "I CAN DO." My appearance on the outside does not reflect my heart on the inside. It is hard for me coming to terms in using a cane and support for walking but at least I can learn other ways to manage. THis is an ongoing struggle for me, but God accepts me for who I am in him. Having my pastors come yesterday was another blessing and encouragement to me and taking the time to pray with me through this time period. Before the countdown was for the surgery now it is the activation. April 13th will be here before I know it and yes they will test my other ear for getting a CI in that one too. One moment, one step at a time. 28 days to activation :)
Creativity with markers on my ear
Creative with Hair duos
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Update day 6
I am still remaining upbeat and looking forward to get back to running and biking again. I hope to get outside a little today :) I am slowly trying exercises with my neck and legs to lessen the stiffness and to see if it helps with the dizziness. My pain is still there but is a little better. I may consider PT for the dizziness to help as that has not improved much, but trying to move around despite it.
I have to admit I been going through some emotions in missing my mom and wishing she was here with me, so that has been very hard. Some moments are harder than others but know that God is with me through this time.
I have a month til activation and so looking forward to hearing things and just having that gift will be incredible. I am thankful for the visitors and had my grandparents come in yesterday it was a joy laughting with them and talking.
the quote that I am reminded of is "Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it is about learning to dance in the rain." Even though times may be stormy and bleak I am learning to dance through this season.
I have to admit I been going through some emotions in missing my mom and wishing she was here with me, so that has been very hard. Some moments are harder than others but know that God is with me through this time.
I have a month til activation and so looking forward to hearing things and just having that gift will be incredible. I am thankful for the visitors and had my grandparents come in yesterday it was a joy laughting with them and talking.
the quote that I am reminded of is "Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it is about learning to dance in the rain." Even though times may be stormy and bleak I am learning to dance through this season.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Some things worth the wait
Now that the Surgery is done, activation is right around the corner and God is teaching me the patience I need through this time. I am overwhelmed with the goodness of Gods grace as people are reaching out to help and lend the help I need right now. So grateful.
When they activate me they will be testing my other ear to do a CI in that ear. Yes another hearing test and my favorite thing in the world right? But it is all part of the process in me to hear better and that is the end result :)
I am grateful for everone lifting my spirits up and keeping me in a positive mode as this recovery is not easy. We are talking of doing PT to help my balance and not thrilled but if it will help to get me back to running and biking I am for it. I am still in for running a 1/2 marthon in September with some friends, something to look forward and a goal to have in mind.
I have been on antibotics and it has caused thrush in my mouth so they have discontinued that and changed some medications for me. Thanks for everyone helping me out with the surgery and anything I need during this journey into hearing. Rough but possible.
God is with me all the way. Hopefully I make sense the medications make me loopy :)
"THose who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength...Teach me Lord to Wait."
When they activate me they will be testing my other ear to do a CI in that ear. Yes another hearing test and my favorite thing in the world right? But it is all part of the process in me to hear better and that is the end result :)
I am grateful for everone lifting my spirits up and keeping me in a positive mode as this recovery is not easy. We are talking of doing PT to help my balance and not thrilled but if it will help to get me back to running and biking I am for it. I am still in for running a 1/2 marthon in September with some friends, something to look forward and a goal to have in mind.
I have been on antibotics and it has caused thrush in my mouth so they have discontinued that and changed some medications for me. Thanks for everyone helping me out with the surgery and anything I need during this journey into hearing. Rough but possible.
God is with me all the way. Hopefully I make sense the medications make me loopy :)
"THose who wait upon the Lord will renew their strength...Teach me Lord to Wait."
Sunday, March 11, 2012
4 day POST OP and Chipper
Four Days since my CI surgery. Recovery has been rough but staying positive and up beat attitude. I just keep in my mind that things will improve and and looking forward to hearing again. I am not using any hearing aids right now b/c of the bandage and using more sign language and writing things out.
My experience with JH has been amazing. Beofre leaving on Thursday I saw my doctor and audioliogist and they are all thrilled that things are going well and love seeing my positive attitude despite the pain, it is worth it. My Dad just keeps on telling me to give it time and REST, REST, REST. When they activate me if you have not heard they are going to re-evaluated my other ear and try to set a date for surgery on that ear as well b/c it is going down so fast. They are also going to work more in treating the menieres too and getting that settled down. We are working on seeing about getting me a walker to help.
I been getting a big kick out of my bandage decorating it and having fun with flunky hair dues. I am so grateful for family and friends helping me out and being a support through this time and having the company I need. Hug Answer to prayer. God is sustaining me each moment.
For a story, when I walked into the OR with the surgircal team I made sure I had a strong person to help, (my doctor's collegeus). We walked in to gether as we were walking into a prom and said "I am sorrry I forgot to get you a coursage." Just an Awesome team of care they have been. I am in great hands. My courasge is now on my ear.
My Right ear is swollen and red but no infection yet. One day at a time. It is neat seeing thr humor and positve attititude I have right now. Having any barain surgery or type is not easy. My friends and I decided when I come to church we ar all going to wear our hair flunky for me. Thanks for your prayers and support. Let me know if there is anything that you think of that could be of help.
AMber
"I can do all things though him who gives me strength"
My experience with JH has been amazing. Beofre leaving on Thursday I saw my doctor and audioliogist and they are all thrilled that things are going well and love seeing my positive attitude despite the pain, it is worth it. My Dad just keeps on telling me to give it time and REST, REST, REST. When they activate me if you have not heard they are going to re-evaluated my other ear and try to set a date for surgery on that ear as well b/c it is going down so fast. They are also going to work more in treating the menieres too and getting that settled down. We are working on seeing about getting me a walker to help.
I been getting a big kick out of my bandage decorating it and having fun with flunky hair dues. I am so grateful for family and friends helping me out and being a support through this time and having the company I need. Hug Answer to prayer. God is sustaining me each moment.
For a story, when I walked into the OR with the surgircal team I made sure I had a strong person to help, (my doctor's collegeus). We walked in to gether as we were walking into a prom and said "I am sorrry I forgot to get you a coursage." Just an Awesome team of care they have been. I am in great hands. My courasge is now on my ear.
My Right ear is swollen and red but no infection yet. One day at a time. It is neat seeing thr humor and positve attititude I have right now. Having any barain surgery or type is not easy. My friends and I decided when I come to church we ar all going to wear our hair flunky for me. Thanks for your prayers and support. Let me know if there is anything that you think of that could be of help.
AMber
"I can do all things though him who gives me strength"
Saturday, March 10, 2012
It is day three since the CI surgery and Amber continues to be a trooper. Since
she is still in a lot of pain and experiencing nausea and vertigo/dizziness,
simple tasks of sitting up, standing, or walking short distances are a
challenge and require two people to help. But she is slowly making progress and the dizziness is not uncommon after CI surgery.
Amber was able to sleep a little better last night with less coughing interruptions. Due to the nausea, Amber has only been able to tolerate Gatorade, sips of water, and baby food (which she likes).
Today Amber enjoyed getting her first warm bath/shower since the surgery and is looking forward to getting a “funky” hairdo to keep her hair out of the incision area.
Despite it all, she is finding opportunities to laugh and smile and is enjoying the times spent with friends and family that stop by to visit her.
Since Amber is confined to her recliner, her church friend Lauren has been kind enough to stay with her 24/7 the last few days and nights to help. This has been a great blessing. More friends are needed to step up to help Amber for the next days/nights and possible weeks, until she is more secure on her feet.
Amber is grateful for all the prayers and support she has received from her friends and family. So please keep it up.
Well that is all for now. More updates will come. So stay tuned…. (written by Kara)
Amber was able to sleep a little better last night with less coughing interruptions. Due to the nausea, Amber has only been able to tolerate Gatorade, sips of water, and baby food (which she likes).
Today Amber enjoyed getting her first warm bath/shower since the surgery and is looking forward to getting a “funky” hairdo to keep her hair out of the incision area.
Despite it all, she is finding opportunities to laugh and smile and is enjoying the times spent with friends and family that stop by to visit her.
Since Amber is confined to her recliner, her church friend Lauren has been kind enough to stay with her 24/7 the last few days and nights to help. This has been a great blessing. More friends are needed to step up to help Amber for the next days/nights and possible weeks, until she is more secure on her feet.
Amber is grateful for all the prayers and support she has received from her friends and family. So please keep it up.
Well that is all for now. More updates will come. So stay tuned…. (written by Kara)
Friday, March 9, 2012
Back home
I returned home yesterday evening from JH. In a lot of pain and extremely off balance, can't walk without help. The surgery was an success but waitng with the vertigo thing to see if that help that portion but for sure my hearin. The bandage hurts too much for my other haring aid so using writing methods to commmucaite. I met with my doctor and my audiologist yestrerday which was a highlight of th day for me. they are thrilled with results and will restest my other ear at activation to plan in doing that ear b/ it is dropping fast. I will post later but need to rest please feel free to stop in just text. I have a friend with staying so gtaeflul
Amber
It is rough but WILL make it
Amber
It is rough but WILL make it
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Th BIG Day
I am now just hours away from my surgery. Still bursting with excitement. I thought I would take a little time this morning to write beforehand as everyone else is eating breakfast and that I don't have to leave until 10, since my surgery is not until 1:30. I am still amazed how I am staying calm and confident and just filled with excitement. We arrived in MD last night around 10:45 due to traffic and accidents along the way. I dozed and practiced some sign language with Kara. I got something to eat before I went to bed and drank some water. I did get some sleep but very little, but I know that I will be taking a long nap soon. I am ready as ever and overwhelmed that I am just hours away from the surgery. Soon will come the activation day and so looking forward to that. The best part is being with Austin and Penny along with my family right now. Austin greeted me with a hug and kiss this morning. Love that little guy and Penny gave me a big smile.
Thanks for all your prayers and support during this journey. I will keep you posted and write as I feel able to.
I know that God is with me through this and never leaving my side. Last night as I was awake the song "Everlasting God" played into my head, just putting my trust in him as I take this next step. My dad and Kara are going to be with me today and my mom in spirits. I have apart of her with me and always will.
Psalm 121 gives me the reassurance that I need today.
Yes I am hungry and thirsty.
Before Picture (all my hair)
THe Right Ear Markering
smilies the surgeron added to my bandage
Thanks for all your prayers and support during this journey. I will keep you posted and write as I feel able to.
I know that God is with me through this and never leaving my side. Last night as I was awake the song "Everlasting God" played into my head, just putting my trust in him as I take this next step. My dad and Kara are going to be with me today and my mom in spirits. I have apart of her with me and always will.
Psalm 121 gives me the reassurance that I need today.
Yes I am hungry and thirsty.
Before Picture (all my hair)
smilies the surgeron added to my bandage
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Pre-Surgery Day and full of Excitement
As I sit back on the day before my surgery for the cochlear
implant, tears come to my eyes. Both
tears of joy and sadness. I am overjoyed and filled with so much excitement that is it bubbling over right now. It is hard to believe that it is coming and the reality that I am getting my first CI is hitting me and there have been NO problems with the insurance. WHOO. Yes it will be frustrating at times I am sure
but worth it and READY, SO READY!!!
The other set of tears comes
from not having my mom with me on this day.
I so wish that she could be her and know that she is so proud of me. As
hard as this is and really hitting me today, I know that she is my angel right
by my side and cheering me on in heaven the same that she would be if she were
here with me.
As I reflect back to the day that the news was confirmed that I had a hearing loss the first thing that stuck me was fear and a load of questions that remained unanswered. This fear lead also to a lot of anxiety in myself. All this fear, anxiety, questions and uncertainity, scared me. Yes I admit I wanted to hide and not anyone know. As my hearing continued to drop and very quickly I look back it has been 18 months since I was diagnosed and in that period hearing aids have not been very affective for me and now getting the opportunity for the cochlear implant. I relate this 18 months as to my mom, that was her time frame with her battle with cancer. With my hearing dropping so fast, yes scary as it has been for me, letting go of wanted to hide it and open up in sharing about it has helped me more to accept it. Yes it is a disability but I often look at it as not about what I cannot do or hear, rather what I CAN do. I am learning that I am accepted in anyway and you cannot judge a person from the outside or the things that they are not capable of doing. Yes there are a lot of sounds and conversations that I cannot hear or follow and things I do need help with, but each little sound big or small I take for granted even though it is not much. God is sustaining me through this trial and I have been so eager in how he has been faithful to me and working in my life. Yes there still are fears, questions, times of uncertainity and anxious feelings with this all, but I am learning to lean on him and continuing to trust that he will lead me through.
By this time tomorrow I will be having my surgery
We are heading down tonight with my dad and friend, as well as my sister and my niece and nephew. I have to arrive at the hospital at 11:30 and my surgery is at 1:30.
The song "By Faith" has been encouraging me today as I put my trust in God (2 Corithians 5:7) "we live by faith and not by sight"
Psalm 121 also is encouraging me as I reflect on the passage
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Almost 2 days
Thank-you to everyone who spent time praying with me today as my surgery is basically 2 days away. It is hard to believe, I remember when I started counting the days down it was 51 and it is now fast approaching. I feel very blessed to have so many people praying and supporting me, I really appreciate it.
Imagine yourself being a kid again at Christmas or your birthday, all that excitement that you have with the big day. This is how I am feeling with this surgery. I view any little moment with hearing as a gift and that with my hearing improving through this surgery is a HUGE gift for me. I have to say the one thing I am looking forward to hearing most is my family and friends voices and to understand them clearly.
The sermon was very encouraging to me today as it reminded me in facing challenges no matter how big or small they may be, to "come and see" and trust in him to lead me through. I may be weary somedays and feel frustrated and overwhelmed with the trials that I am facing, but God is sustaining me through them as I need to remind myself to rest in him. I know what ever the outcome of the surgery and whatever God has in store for me, he will provide and sustain me through this journey and lead me through.
Tonight I got to spend time with my family as my sister is up from MD with the kids. It is always a joy to see Penny and Austin. They have certainly filled out family with joy as we continue to miss my mom. I have to say you know that they are here or at least Austin is b/c the sweeper is always out. He will be a great house cleaner soon.
The words from "Everlasting Lord" stick into my mind from the message and the closing song "Come to Me"
Have a great night.
Imagine yourself being a kid again at Christmas or your birthday, all that excitement that you have with the big day. This is how I am feeling with this surgery. I view any little moment with hearing as a gift and that with my hearing improving through this surgery is a HUGE gift for me. I have to say the one thing I am looking forward to hearing most is my family and friends voices and to understand them clearly.
The sermon was very encouraging to me today as it reminded me in facing challenges no matter how big or small they may be, to "come and see" and trust in him to lead me through. I may be weary somedays and feel frustrated and overwhelmed with the trials that I am facing, but God is sustaining me through them as I need to remind myself to rest in him. I know what ever the outcome of the surgery and whatever God has in store for me, he will provide and sustain me through this journey and lead me through.
Tonight I got to spend time with my family as my sister is up from MD with the kids. It is always a joy to see Penny and Austin. They have certainly filled out family with joy as we continue to miss my mom. I have to say you know that they are here or at least Austin is b/c the sweeper is always out. He will be a great house cleaner soon.
The words from "Everlasting Lord" stick into my mind from the message and the closing song "Come to Me"
Have a great night.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)