If you have been to Caitlin's room at St. Mary's you know that it is quite a distance to the elevator. When Clare and Jess, Caitlin's college roomates, arrived Michael, Tim and I left so the girls could visit. We could hear Caitlin's laughter very loudly all the way down to the elevators. Clare and Jess are just about the two kindest women anyone could ever meet. They showered Caitlin with love and a sense of all that she had shared with them during their college days. Catching up with them was so important because the weekend after Caitlin's first stroke she was to have been in Seattle reunioning with Clare and Jess. Clare has been in Africa for the last three years, Jess and her husband visited Clare in Africa, so together they had many pictures and stories to share. The smile on Caitlin's face the entire weekend was great. Her heart was lifted and only contrasted by the tears we all cried this morning when the girls all had to say good-bye. Once again we are reminded how blessed Caitlin is to have such good friends in her life.
Today Caitlin got a pedicure and a manicure while in her hospital bed. Denise, a friend and colleague of mine, did the deed. Caitlin was excited and Denise loved pampering Caitlin. It was a relaxing event for Caitlin as she got her fingers and toes looking holiday ready! Today is also the start of Caitlin's seventh week in the hospital. So much has happened and yet so much needs to happen that I am not sure it is good to be counting on more that just today. We are working on getting Caitlin to eat more. The hospital pureed food leaves a lot to be desired for the picky eater Caitlin is. Her feedings with her feeding tube are being cut back in hopes of increasing her appetite. This seemed to work tonight as Caitlin ate pureed chicken and cranberries. I think it helped that she had visitors from Sierra Eye Associates to concentrate on rather than the taste and texture of the food! As always I try to imagine how I would feel in Caitlin's position and I know I wouldn't have the tenacity and courage that she does. When Caitlin gets discouraged and frustrated she will cry and somehow through her tears she will still be able to laugh and crack a smile. It was great when Clare and Jess said that Caitlin's spirit hasn't changed a bit. It is that very spirit that will drive her recovery day by day!
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4 comments:
Caitlin so happy to hear that you had such a wonderful time with your college roommates visit. I can just imagine the roar coming from your room. As far as the hospital food goes. after attempting to take a bite of the meatloaf last week I am with you girl. I bet your Mom can whip up some of your favorites for you in her new Magic Bullet. Let me know how she does and we will add new favorites for you at your request. It is the beginning of another new day and new goals and accomplishments are ahead of you. I send love and strength your way for another day of cheering. Love you Caitlin.
Oh yayaya! I'm so glad you got to visit with Clare and Jess, they are amazing women and friends and I'm so happy they were able to share their love with you. The three of you shared so many memories, laughs and experiences together that should always be cherished. BUT! There is always room for MORE memories, MORE laughter and MORE experiences!
Continue to have hope, continue to have determination and continue to keep your spirits high. You are working so hard and it's soooo great to hear about all those people who are sharing in your journey with you. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your journey.
I love you and look forward to seeing you in just a weeks time!
MUCH LOVE-Rubio
Hey Caitlyn1 It was so great to see you yesterday. Seeing you're beautiful smile made me realize that our vibrant, funny, smart beautiful Catilyn is still here with us. :)
Love, Patty
Glen, Christie, Vibeke, and everybody from ICU says "Hi!" We are glad you are doing so well and we hope you will come back to visit us as soon as you can.:)
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