A Night in the E.R.

Last night at around 9:00 pm I was called by my grandmother. She was concerned because my grandfather was having stomach pains, and having just been released from the Lahey Clinic in Burlington, feared he may have to return. Being the dutiful grandson that I am, I packed up a small bag of clothes and drove over to my grandparents' house in N. Andover. When I arrived, my grandmother was talking to the on-call surgeon from the practice where my grandfather's Colo-Rectal Surgeon practices. A few years ago, my grandfather had a colostomy performed in a successful attempt to rid his body of colo-rectal cancer.

This major abdominal surgery, while effective, has left my grandfather unable to digest certain foods that are high in fiber. Ironic isn't it? Fiber is very "IN" as far as food goes these days. More fiber is better, it makes you feel fuller and more satisfied for a longer period of time, and keeps your bowels regulated. In a normal person, with a normal colon, fiber is essential. In someone who's had their bowels diced up like maki, fiber is not always a good thing. My grandfather is still learning that lesson. Provided of course my grandmother doesn't kill him before the lesson sinks in.

I am now on my 25th hour of sleeplessness and about to head out of here to bring my grandmother home and make my sleepy way to work. I would like to throw a shout out to Gail, the triage nurse who got my grandfather's I.V. in one shot, and to Dr. Justin Z....something, who, while he looks about 20, and not bad looking either, was very patient and kind to us while we waited. I am always uncomfortable being part of the "cared for" side of the table. I prefer to do the "caring" and help others in times of distress and illness. Tonight, though, the staff here has been extremely helpful and tolerant.

Prayers, please. I want my grandfather to get well soon!