home again, home again

It was thought earlier this week Wendy might be discharged this coming weekend. Wendy tried to sit patiently with the thought of going home so soon. She thought about what it would be like to be home every minute she was awake. Her patience and her ability to trust was fully tested. After a thorough assessment this morning her team decided she was ready to go home today. At last, Wendy was cleared to go home.

The discharge process was quite extensive. Wendy went home with a Wound V.A.C., prescriptions, and orders for a home health nurse (who will start coming on Monday). Wendy will be using a walker, a quad cane, and a wheel chair.

The drive home from UC Davis was exhausting, painful, and stressful. Wendy was completely worn out by the time they arrived back in Madera. A balloon arch spanned across the front porch, waiting for Wendy's arrival, welcoming her home. She will be staying at her parents' house during the next weeks or months, while her recovery is still so critical. She has yet to see Skyler and Jadon because they are both sick and on antibiotics. At this point she is just SO thankful to be out of the hospital. She said a recliner has never felt so good. She has beyond enjoyed being home, looking at all of the framed family photos, especially the ones of the boys.

Doctors orders firmly state that Wendy is to have NO visitors. It is imperative she stay away from germs and that she get A LOT of rest. She has a long way to go and her recovery is just beginning. Please allow Wendy and her family time to readjust. Wendy will continue to share information through this blog and will communicate when she is able and ready to start receiving phone calls and visits.

Wendy will miss the amazing nurses, doctors, therapists, and staff that cared for her for the past month. Nurse Sandy from the ICU came to visit Wendy one last time early this morning. She sent Wendy on her way with a quote that truly captures the epitome of what Wendy has become. You thought Wendy was gentle, kind, and generous before the surgery? You just wait.

"The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggles, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people don't just happen."
- Elizabeth Kuber-Ross