Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Third visit to the neurologist

Monday Mom had her third visit with the neurologist.
He asked how Mom was doing and talked to Mom a little. He attempted to give her an evaluation test, where he asked her questions such as what day it is, the month, what city she lives in, etc. After trying unsuccessfully to get her to answer questions, he looked at me and said he believed her condition had deteriorated. I responded that she was nervous because she was out of her element and that if she was at home, perhaps she would respond more successfully. The doctor sent me home with a copy of the test and I am to mail it back to him.
I really think Mom is maintaining. She just doesn't seem worse to me, but I might be denying a lot of signs too. I am really trying to be aware of her actions and condition, but I am also aware that I still am her daughter and I don't want to see a lot of things she does.
And Martha, my sister, was there.
I prayed and prayed about seeing her again after her rude behavior on Saturday. I give thanks to God for the peace that I feel right now about Martha.
I finally realized that I can't change her - I can't change her behavior or the way she chooses to react to Mom's condition. All I can do is do my best to take care of Mom.
I am such a control freak that I always think that I can make Martha change, that if I just point out to her that she is being rude or that her behavior is hurtful, that she will realize it and change her behavior. But God finally pointed out that I can't change her - only Martha can change and I really don't believe she ever will. And realizing that, and God finally slapping me on my thick skull, makes me feel so much more at peace. When she is rude or hurtful, I am choosing not to respond. I will ignore her completely. I will pray each time I think I might have contact with her, so that I am very aware of what might happen and listen to God if I do respond to her in any way. And I will pray ... and pray ... and pray ...

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