Thursday, April 22, 2010

April showers bring May flowers.....I hope.

The month of April has been kinda crazy for my family and I am anxiously awaiting May's arrival. On April 8th, my grandma ("Nani") passed away very unexpectedly. She suffered from a hemorrhagic stroke (massive brain bleed). Nani had dementia and it had definitely worsened over the past few months. She also had cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration so her vision was very very poor. About 3 weeks before she passed away she had cataract surgery and her vision actually improved slightly. On Easter Sunday we took pictures together and she was able to see Hudson. It was a really big deal that she was actually able to see his face. It meant so much to me. Nani had such a cute sense of humor and we miss her so much.


Today was a very very hard day. Our cat Max (short for Maxie) has been very sick and we had to put her to sleep this morning. She was born with a bad bladder and after 8 years of strict diets, medication regimens, and surgical procedures it was time to let her go. I know some people may think that she was just a cat, but she was much more than that to me. She was a part of our family and I miss her more than words can say. It is such a strange feeling to have control over the life of another being (even if it is just an animal) and it was so hard for me to make the decision to put her down. How do you know when they have had enough? I feel so guilty. Pets are so much fun and they bring such joy into your life, but I hate this part. It is miserable.
I love you Max and I miss you so much.


Today, our nephew Ben had to have his second open heart surgery. This one was even more extensive than the last. He had an EKG last week and there was a little change that concerned the doctor so Ben was sent to Primary Children's for more testing. The testing showed that his left ventricle was failing so surgery was necessary. We have been on iChat all day with the family at the hospital, which is wonderful I might add because it makes us feel like we are actually there with them in the waiting room. On a happier note...the surgery went well and Ben is in the ICU doing good. They had to leave his chest open because of the swelling that will take place, but they hope to be able to take him back into surgery to close it on Saturday. Keep him in your prayers.

3 comments:

d.jo said...

What a sad April. I love your post title. You're such an example of keeping your chin up. I've got to believe that you have to be right. May has to be better than your April, and maybe some good will "bloom" from all of the struggle you've been facing. Keep reading your scriptures and saying your prayers and it will help you feel just a little bit stronger each day. Sending prayers and hugs your way!

M + L said...

Chippa! You should have called me! I would have brought you something to make you happy. I'm so sorry about Maxie. To be honest, even though I only had a bird growing up Zazu was my pet and when he flew away I cried for hours, even my Dad had thought someone had died because I cried so much. And now that I have my own dog, I know what it's like to love an animal. They are so much fun, especially once they are potty trained :P I'm SO GLAD Nani got to see Hudson. That must have been a special special day. I love you tons!!!

Sherri Romney said...

O Jenny I am so sorry. I feel like crying for and with you. I am so sorry about your Grandma. I am glad she was able to see Hudson and that you were able to share that moment with her.
I can't imagine the pain over letting Max go. I have my dog buddy that has been my baby, slept in my bed (until recently) and gone on every trip I take. I have only had him 4 years and I would just die to lose him. I am so so sorry. You are so brave.
My heart hurts for Ben and his family! That picture you posted made me cry and made me so greatful Steele is so healthy. The things we take for granted....
I was complaining about lack of sleep and I have SO MUCH to be greatful for! My prayers are with Ben and the family.
I am glad I am not the only one that feels like I nurse ALL DAY LONG and that can't keep a sleep schedule going! Not that I am glad you are there too, but it is nice to not feel alone. :)
Take care and I hope May is a lot better month for you and your family.