Now that I've settled in to my new hospital bed, I can easily say that being bed-ridden still isn't the worst thing that can happen to you.
One thing that's definitely worse is being bed-ridden in a hospital bed IN A HOSPITAL, where you get sleep deprivation techniques that are rivaled by none, and you get treated like a lab rat.
Here at home, I get so much moral, physical, and emotional support that I have to say the difference between the hospital (which I experienced back in July/August) and home is like night and day.
Anyway, this is where I'm at, now, and although this situation would be considered bleak for anyone else, for me it's just another step in this process of slowly dying. I mean, there's no denying that I've gone downhill fast with this disease, so let's not pretend...
Of prime importance is that I have no pain, something I gather may not be the case for so many others around the world... So I consider myself infinitely lucky to live in a place where my healthcare coverage actually works. Of course, right wing sub-rational idiots would relegate me to the group they call THOSE PEOPLE who take benefits but contribute nothing anymore (no matter whether they ever did).
Well, it's true, I am one of THOSE PEOPLE who is getting maximum benefit from the socialist safety net, here in Massachusetts, despite the insurance coverage being my wife's... but it is now paying for Home Hospice care, which has provided the bed, the wheelchair, the commode, all my drugs, and so much more with frequent nurse visits, and so on. And I'm also getting just under $1500 a month in Social Security Disability payments because I worked all my life... Some people, I'm sure, would consider me a burden to society, nonetheless...
Ah well... I digress... It felt good, though!
At any rate, my daily routine is filled with visits from relatives. And now I feel blessed to have all these others who also have e-mailed to ask if I have a need/want for even more visitors... I don't know what to say, other than maybe it is more than I can deal with.
9 comments:
I will keep my visits virtual - less tiring I hope! Know that I am always thinking about you...and I sure hope the bed came with one of those wicked cool inflating mattress pads!
As someone who is often "right wing", especially when it comes to crime, taxes and spending, I can tell you emphatically that I've never considered you or any other person who worked their whole life to be a drag on society, and I'm completely in favor of all the social programs that aid anyone who is sick, elderly or otherwise unable to work.
The negative feelings only go towards people who take advantage of these services who should not have access to them.
It's not socialism to help the needy, the sick and the elderly, its the right thing to do.
Totally fine, Jeff. Just you (or Kathy) let us know if there IS anything we can do.
Glad you're getting hospice.
Jeff,
You have earned the right to be taken care of in your time of need. I am sure that your comment is tongue in cheek about you being a burden on society. You have worked all your life, and now need a little assistance. Is this not the definition of "social security". I am still in awe of your candor and willingness to share your story. You are and inspiration to all who read your blog. Hospice is a wonderful organization. They were there for my parents, and I am glad that they are assisting you now. All the best thoughts and prayers are with you.
Well we just feel the need to tell your dumbass self that we love ya. So bite me/us.
It is an honor to be able to call you my friend and be able to thank you for all that you have taught me as a writer of political thought and opinion. Or you could just reply with a "bite me" and we would be cool.
Blog on my friend, blog on. - Mat
Andy: I'd be saying pretty much the same thing as you, were our roles reversed. I just felt like a dash of political venting on it was irresistable.
Tracy and Sprout: yeah, my energy level is low, and there's a make/break on visitors, I think.
Joe: thanks for your kind words, I do appreciate it.
Matt: right on the edge, as usual!
When it comes to most social justice issues those self absorbed right wingers are clueless until they actually find themselves in a position of personal need. Be it facing daunting health care cost, legal system, or other. When they find out how it feels to have their neatly suited world abandon them, they may find the that the true substance behind their religion is not about securing votes, or a shield for corporatist to hide behind. In some cases, they may even see those crazy activist are really angels and what change, real change should be.
You are the best Jeff. Ditto what Mat and all the others said. Stay with it, press on. Courage.
Drove by the backside of CitySquare last night and thought of you...used the words cool and fanny..not consecutively last night during the meeting and after wondered if you watched the meeting...thinking of you...
Jeff-
Your occasional rants are my favorite part of your blog-- keep 'em coming! Stay in the fight my man-- we're in your corner!
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