Have you ever gone to a doctor for what you thought would be a routine visit and ended up getting news about a far more dire medical emergency? Well, that scenario played out for me in May. I went to my cardiologist to get his clearance for foot surgery and end up needing a triple cardiac bypass. So, in essence, my left foot saved my life!
For more than the last 50 years, I have been a caregiver in one form or another, whether it be as a mother, a daughter, or a nurse. Now, I had to face the fact that I was on the other side of the coin. I was the patient! I am so grateful for all the support I received and that I am still getting from my family, friends and the staff at Pride. I couldn’t do it without you.
I went home after the surgery unable to get in and out of the car by myself, needing assistance to get from the car to the house, unable to get in and out of bed, or take a shower and dress on my own. It was a very humbling ordeal, and I now have even more empathy for my clients. I was so fortunate to have a private care assistant for six weeks. She was such a great help with all my needs during the day and evening.
My doctor ordered Home Health when I went home. And then, with the care of nurses, physical therapy and occupational therapy, I gradually got my strength back.I am now able get in and out of bed, and I can shower on my own and dress myself! Yeah! I’m getting back to my independent self. I’m still not driving, but that is coming soon.
My surgery took place on May 14, 2019. I was discharged from the hospital eight days later, and I got back to work on July 8th. And just this week, I celebrated with family, friends, and co-workers the joy of a birthday that’s well on the other side of the age of 21 🙂
I want to thank my Pride staff for being such a great team and my Administrative staff – my three Musketeers – for keeping everything running like clockwork while I was out. I am full of gratitude for so many things. Life IS good!
-Written by Cindy Cruz, Pride PHC Administrator
