Healing Magic of Animals

. Dad is scared and we want to keep it positive and as peaceful for him right now so please keep it upbeat when talking to him.

The hospital advocate, Marie, was telling mom today that she is there for them and that mom can call her anytime, etc, etc. What a wonderful person we have found in her! My heart broke as my mom said Marie was going through all the things that my dad can't have....and then she added "But Phyllis, if it's not salt or potassium or alcohol derived and he really wants it, give it to him. Let him enjoy what he can at this stage.... Let him enjoy."

My dad really loves the dogs so much and it's crazy how much they love him. Both Biscuit and Coco go CRAZY in the car as we approach their house...as soon as I take the turn on their off ramp from the freeway!! They bark and lick him and go nuts when he walks into the room ....it's all so sweet. Anyone who knows him knows how much HE LOVES animals....a raw, unconditional and crazy love.
I plan to have the dogs visit dad everyday, if only for a little bit. I really do believe in the magical healing power of touching a beloved animal. I see my dad light up when they are around

A Welcome Home

My dad was released from the hospital Thursday afternoon. He was given a prescription of meds to relieve the water retention he is experiencing. He was SO happy to be home that he was Mr Jibber Jabber and we couldn't get him to stop talking and laughing. IT WAS GREAT! He couldn't stop holding his beloved dogs, Biscuit and Coco...what joy they bring him! My goal is to have them visit for a bit everyday as I really do believe in the healing power of animals.

It was a very rough two nights. My mom has been up with him trying to break his fever (which finally did break) and keeping him comfortable. Uncle Frank visited on Friday afternoon and stayed for dinner. It was great to have him around although my dad gets tired so quickly and is obvious pain/discomfort.

His ankles and knees bloat up uncharacteristically due to the water retention. His latest challenges as per the specialist:

• No sodium/salt whatsoever;
  
• Only one QUART of liquid PER DAY--so challenging! he can't even relax with a cup of herbal tea at night now! My mom has to measure out each portion of any liquid intake to monitor this;
  
• No potassium...or in very, very low amounts. 
  
• No turkey (chicken is ok);
  
• No beef or pork;
  
• Lots and lots of other "not's..."
  

he needs to walk to reduce the swelling in his ankles but he has to limit water so he has to limit exercise. He needs to move around but it hurts him. His new pain medication requires it to be drunk with plenty of water but he can not....Oh golly!

He has also been experiencing very bad pain in his prostate area. He sees another specialist for this on Monday. I hope to have a consultation with his doctor then, too, and can provide more info.