Ron’s first and most extensive foot surgery was yesterday. He was “under” for three hours for an Austin bunionectomy and second toe arthroplasty. These were intended to correct hereditary problems that contorted his foot so badly that it was incredible to me that he could walk at all.
He’s been in tremendous pain, even with heavy medication, and nauseous from the anesthesia.
He tried to navigate between the bedroom and the bathroom with crutches, but it was extremely difficult for him.
So, this morning, I set about to get my hands on a walker, either renting, buying or getting the doctor’s order for one that would be covered by Medicare.
Turns out, one of the local thrift shops, run by the Society of St. Vincent dePaul, GIVES AWAY walkers because “it’s the right thing to do.”
I am still flabbergasted by this. The walker I brought him has some rust (I think it was kept outside because when I put it in the truck, some ice fell out of the legs), but it works perfectly well.
I stopped off to get a roast chicken at Stop & Shop. These are on sale for $5 on Fridays, along with loaves of Italian bread for $1.
This was supposed to be lunch, but Ron hasn’t had much of an appetite.
I heated up corn chowder last night, oatmeal this morning, and a couple different kinds of jello, applesauce and tapioca tonight.
I think Ron is sleeping now. I propped up his hurt foot, took his temperature and fed him an OTC med that stifles nausea.
We had no idea what to expect. It isn’t until we left the hospital that they told us the first 48 hours are bad and the first week is the worst.
Ron is remarkably uncomplaining, and I am hoping he’ll be much better tomorrow.