This past week has been filled with family, and illness. It all began two weeks ago when Elizabeth went to the hospital with symptoms that we thought were linked to her treatment. However, we found out that what she had was the flu. Karyn and I took food over, and Karyn nursed her back to health. Then Karyn got the flu. I took food to her and made her bread pudding (comfort food from childhood). I stayed and visited with her. And two days later Karyn was well. That was the night before my sister was due to arrive for a much anticipated visit.
Pam's plane arrived Wednesday at midnight. I drove her home and then at 3 AM I'm up with the flu! Pam leaves when she awakes and goes to Karyn's to stay so she doesn't get the flu from me. She is there for three days and while she's gone our visit is put on hold. I felt at least Elizabeth got to see her aunt. Aunt Pam and Elizabeth share a rye sense of humor, a ready wit and an independent spirit. If I didn't know better, based on personality, I'd have thought Pam was her mother. They really share a number of strong personality traits.
But I digress, back to the flu story... Jim has plans to go to Las Vegas with his friend, Doug. They are going to hang out, watch the Zags, enjoy the sun, do a little work at the tables and a needed break from the daily grind. Suddenly, Friday night Jim gets sick. It is the third time in 40 years that Jim has been "sick". He really gets pissed, but takes to his bed and in a supreme "mind over matter" exercise gets well enough to go on his trip. And never looked back. His flu lasted only 24 hours.
Wish I could say the same. I was sick for another day, then Pam came to stay. We planned to have some "sister fun" while Jim was gone, but it wasn't to happen. Pam got sick. She was sick from Sunday until Wednesday and left on Thursday.
Now why tell this story here? Well, as a close family I thought you'd all appreciate how we share everything— from our germs to our love and affection. Elizabeth is the current focus of our energy and concern. We are all doing our best to help her. But while she has her personal challenge, there is still the challenge of daily life for her and the rest of the family. Whether it is battling the flu or grocery shopping, or napping in the doctor's office or battling for high score on Facebook's Bejeweled, we interact and share not just the space our bodies occupy, but the emotional expanse that we each require.
Now the flu is behind us and we are each glad to say "goodbye". Another week will begin on Monday. Elizabeth is well, Karyn is well, Jim and I are well. So we will enjoy the weekend, enjoy Jim's birthday, basketball and a special meal. Afterall, getting well is about enjoying life.
Posted by
Elizabeth's Mom, Kathryn Cecelia "KaCe"
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It's great to see a family that is willing to go such lengths to help each other out. The flu is a bugger to deal with, but I can't imagine having to deal with that on top of everything else your going through. But I'm glad the flu has moved on ya'll are feeling better.
ReplyDeleteYeah, I was glad to say good blaaaye! Start back to work Monday with a whole clean system.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed seeing all of you, and being able to spend time with everyone 1 to 1. Ebeth you are a shining star! Keep doing like they tell ya. It will probably get even more tail draggin' then it is now. The good side is when you start feeling better you will feel fantastic! That's awhile ahead but it is something to think about. I love you. I love Nurse Rachit and all her power. She is the hot air beneath your wings, or something like that..See ya flip side! ant pam