Granny

Although it just about broke everyone's heart,

My parents, along with my Mom's siblings all agreed that it was time for Granny to be in a nursing home. 

For several years, my Mom, Aunt Mary Sue and Uncle John took turns living with her in her home to help care for her. 

She is such a nurturer by heart, always taking care of everyone.

When she wasn't able to cook anymore, I think that's when we knew she needed live in care. 

The past few years (and longer really if we think about it, I suppose) 

 she has become very forgetful, and very weak as well. 

Somewhere along the way she was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

We have seen definite change the last few times we have visited. 

Last year, I brought her some recent pictures of our family. 

Matt didn't come that time, and she repeatedly pointed to Matt's picture and asked me who he was. 

 She will be completely "there" in conversation, but only 10 minutes later she'll repeat herself

and we'll have the conversation all over again. 

It has been hard on her three children, as sometimes her behavior, and personality 

bear no resemblance to our real Granny.

Well this month, Mom was staying with Granny, 

and they had quite a scare. 

Granny wasn't able to get up, and was saying she was having shortness of breath. 

Mom called the ambulance. 

Thankfully, Granny was healthy as a horse. 

The ER Doctor explained that these types of things can 

unfortunately happen quite a bit with Alzheimer's disease.

Patients will from time to time literally forget how to walk, 

and combine that with weakness,

 I can only imagine how frustrating and scary it might have seemed to Granny.

It was after a very serious conversation, and recommendation from the ER doctor...

that the realities of the situation were just all too clear. 

So on Monday, January 21st

Mom drove Granny from Leitchfield, to Lexington's Richmond Place Nursing Home. 

They explained that they were coming to Lexington to visit Mary Sue, 

and that Granny would be getting some physical therapy to help her with walking. 

Mary Sue and my big sister met Mom there to help with the transition. 

At one point, Granny said "Well I'm getting out of here." 

and starting jetting to the door with her walker!

Even with a rough start, the day went pretty well.

Much better than I think anyone anticipated!

They got her settled in, and ate lunch. 

Mary Sue was able to stay a few nights with her to make it easier. 

This is such a change, 

a right, and necessary one of course. 

Still difficult just the same. 

So thankful for a wonderful facility though, 

we have heard nothing but wonderful things about Richmond Place.

Praying our Granny will love it there, and even make some friends. 

I know they will just love our sweet, funny, tough and feisty Granny.