PaulATX
Been a hell of a ride in 2 weeks. Survived several day stint in ICU on apap and/ or cpap. Found opening at hospice facility and been here 24/7 for 8 days so far. Currently looking to transfer me to home next Monday but working out getting supplies and home care I need which roughly estimated is gonna b 6k a month. Trying to hang in til April cause my 1st grandchild is due.
Beginning to think if it is selfish for wanting to hang in to c grandchild and putting my family thru all the stress I can see they are going.
hite1955 Member
Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
If you can manage it all, with your family's support, nothing can be sweeter than being here for your first grandchild - it is a feeling like no other! I can tell you that from my own personal experience. To answer your question, my feeling is, being here for your grandchild is what life is all about!!
We are all here pulling for you, Paul!!
Warmly,
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)
toplapi Member
Hec explained that I will risk transplant such as mine would likely cause substantial recovery problems. And the outlook for me was better without a transplant than going ahead with one.! What a lesson to learn.
Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member
After re-reading all there was, I can tell you I understand the disappointment you may be feeling since this explanation was given to you about not being a suitable candidate for lung transplantation. I also read the option of 'no transplantation' which, as the doctor explained, may be a better solution in your case. As with any medical procedure, each one is not necessarily the best choice for every patient. This may be the viewpoint in your particular case with your overall health!
I admire your new outlook and the future plans you are resolving to insure. I agree with the way you're managing this new information. Your internal strength sets a good example for the rest of us! Stay strong in your resolve and move forward with the best life you can live. That is what this world is all about! It's not always easy (I can share that from my own health condition(s) and clinical experience), but - it's clearly the way to be!
Again, you are indeed fortunate to have the support of a wonderful wife and loving family.
Naturally, if there is anything we can do, please let me or any other moderator / team member know. You are always welcome here!
Warmest regards,
Leon (site moderator COPD.net)
PaulATX Member
As an avid gardener watching my large backyard garden areas slowly get overgrown with weeds and neglect due to my worsening condition I talked with several staff and have arranged to get help and provide my 30+ years of experience to get several garden areas done at the hospice location including butterfly gardens and plants. I specialize in native, adaptive, and xeriscape plants for the central texas area. It will be nice to give back and hopefully provide a relaxing area for both patients, staff, and visitors. Once again, I finished my novel for tonight LOL. Oh, and they allow me to have my dog with me all the time in my room!! Be well, be strong, be kind.❤
toplapi Member
PaulATX Member
The Clonazepam I'm currently on is 1 mg which for me takes longer to kick in, 30-45 min but its effect will generally last 6-8 hrs.
For panic attacks I was prescribed 1 mg Xanax, with directions to take 1 or 2 tablets every 4 hrs as needed. For me it kicks in just about 10-15 min.
And the best advice I can give is pay attention to what your body is telling you. For instance my body will just feel off for some reason and i can sense a sensation, if that makes sense. I may become slightly nervous for no apparent reason. That's when i will take the Clonazepam, find some little thing to keep me busy awhile and I'm good for 6-8 hrs.
My telltale sign a panic attack is gonna happen is I find myself fidgeting, foot tapping, constantly moving my fingers or tapping my head. Its obvious enough for friends and family to ask if im ok. That's when I take Xanax and at times I need a second dose in 3 hrs. But it kicks in about 10-15 min.
Both meds I've mentioned also go by other generic or brand names. And there are also other medications. As after being sent home from hospice I got new ones which appear to work just as well.
Most importantly be sure to consult with your doctor as these medications can effect other medications you may take.
I hope this helped you some. I KNOW panic attacks can be so frightening and scary. I've found that saying I've been through this before, do my breathing exercises, and this WILL end like the others and try my best to remain calm helps me a lot.
My thoughts are with you.
Be strong, be well, be kind❤
Melissa.Arnold Community Admin
For what it's worth, you have made and continue to make an impact here on the site. We are glad to have you and will be here to support you and chat as often as you'd like. And truly, April is not that far away. 😀 Take each day as it comes. Hugs and best wishes to you! -Melissa, copd.net team
hite1955 Member
Can COPD and DIABETES bring it on?
It CONSIDERED HEART🫀DISEASE & SERIOUS?
Leon Lebowitz, RRT Member