A pain day

 A brief post to share how I witnessed the hospice in action today. My son Simon arrived by train to give valued support by the bedside. Sadly, Carol's pain increased as the day wore on.  'Wore on' is an apt description! You could not only see pain on her face and increased involuntary body movements but in the way she punctuated breaths with groans. Increasingly, staff monitored ongoing medical response. Apparently Carol began on 5 mg of one particular med while others in the hospice are at 60 mg.  When and how should they increase dosage, especially because hospital notes excluded several options like morphine because of possible anaphylactic shock?  Today, I have been so impressed by the care and time spent by the doctors on seeking a safe balance of drugs to meet her pain. So much time spent explaining to me.

Eventually, by early evening they had established the right combination of drugs for the 'driver' (the name they give the shunt in her arm).  To our great relief her face relaxed, her body stilled and her breaths, though an effort, quietened.  It is such a relief to see pain come under control and the anguish abate !

What also helped us today was the visit from our minister, Chris, who led prayers for Carol. He anointed her with oil, and with words of Scripture and trusting prayers committed Carol to Jesus' care.  Though I, and others, have prayed with Carol there was a weight and depth to this time that I pray, right in the midst of pain and anxiety, she knew Christ's grace and promises ministering peace.  Actually, it is particularly in times of pain and anxiety that the peace which passes human understanding brings comfort and hope.

Again, thank you for bearing yet another medical bulletin. I so appreciate your care.