Looking forward

On Wednesday, the first day after Dad's surgery, he was chipper and anxious to be released earlier than the typical five days. By Thursday he realized it wasn't going to be that easy. The nurses had taken him for a walk and he was feeling the pain from trying to breathe deeply. It turns out he will probably be released tomorrow as expected.

I'll drive down for a visit this afternoon and pick him up from the hospital in the morning, then stay with him at home until Tuesday or so. Hopefully by then he will be strong enough and confident on his feet to be alone overnight. Several friends and neighbours will continue to bring in meals and check on him.

On Tuesday morning I met with a psychiatrist on referral from my doctor. What I hadn't realized was that this would be just a one-time session for advice—I won't be seeing her regularly—but it was informative. She suggested supplementing my diet with vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids. She will also recommend adjustments to my medication, but said that with my history I should expect to stay on meds long-term.

I don't know whether anyone had made that statement before, but it's a sobering prospect. Overall my mood has improved steadily for several years, and I had begun speculating about a drug holiday, but the past few weeks have served as a reminder how vulnerable I am to stress.

I'm feeling well today, looking forward to several quiet days at Poplar Bluff with time to write, knit, cook and play piano. I'm also looking forward to returning home later this week and re-establishing a routine.