Finally Free: Home Once Again

I finally checked out of the North Shore Manhasset "hotel." I rolled into my house around 6 PM last night after what felt like an eternity waiting at the hospital pharmacy for a shit ton of new meds. They wheeled me out of the hospital in a wheelchair, wearing my lovely back brace that looks like a backpack. Honestly, I must have been quite the sight—if I were someone else, I’d probably be cracking up.

Check out my backpack (back brace) strap…..it’s a whole style

Getting home was absolutely amazing, especially getting to see my kids after a whole week apart. Thrilled I will be home for Briggs birthday tomorrow. (Side note can’t believe he will be 5!) I’m wearing a mask since the hospital said I don’t need to quarantine anymore because of the flu, but I’m not taking any chances and keeping it on until I finish my Tamiflu. The first thing I did when I got home was jump in the shower because I felt gross. My hair was a rats nest! After that, I spent about 45 minutes sorting through all my meds for the week. It took forever because there are so many different times, dates, and dosages to keep track of, I even have directions from the hospital 🤣.

I’m definitely not going to miss those daily blood draws from the vampires, leaving me with ugly bruises all over my arms. The staff had some real characters, though. There was one guy who totally gave me the creeps with his awkward, stalker-like stare. One morning at 5am, I dozed off while he was checking my blood pressure, and this jerk smacked my arm, telling me to wake up. Seriously?! Why are you touching me? Then he went on to take my blood and blew my veins two days in a row, getting blood everywhere and not even bothering to clean it up! What a gem he was… I’d love to have a chat with whoever interviews these people to find out what their qualifications are. I’m guessing if they can breathe, they’re good to go! Northwell, strive for better, no one wants a creeper in their hospital room at 5am…..true story!

Warning image is disgusting…..Looks great right?!

This morning felt a bit odd since I didn’t get shaken awake at 5am for my meds and blood pressure check. It was actually nice to sleep in until 7am. Making breakfast myself was strange as I’ve gotten so used to the gourmet hospital meal of hard-boiled eggs, potatoes, and coffee. Today, I took it easy, mixing in some laundry and tidying up around the house. No worries though, I used my walker to get around like a real old Jewish yenta. I also called up my doctors and scheduled my follow-up appointments for next week. And trust me, it’s a lot—some days I have two appointments in one day! 🤦🏻‍♀️

Gourmet meals

I’m starting a new treatment plan which was put together by the rheumatologist. Switching to another class of drug that is stronger because the current meds are not making enough progress. The meds I have been on are making it impossible for me to get off the steroids which are slowly destroying my hot ass pillsbury body one part at a time. Between osteoporosis, neuropathy and permanent knee damage, I’m the perfect example of steroid toxicity; sounds amazing doesn’t it….. don’t be jelly you can live vicariously through me!

I love in the hospital when they ask you about your mental state….. really?! How the hell do you think I’m doing mentally…. I’m currently living in Tower 7 with a kidney infection, fractured spine, narrowed blood flow in my knees, flu (provided to me during my lovely 2 day stay in the hallway of the Emergency room) and sugar issues due to the steroids; I’m just fine and dandy! NOT, my body is coming apart like Ms. Potato Head and slowly I’m loosing whatever sanity I had. Even if I had therapy everyday, I don’t think that would stabilize my current mental state. 🤪 My mood swings and lack of patience are similar to that of a prison gang leader. Best for those who are sensitive to stay out of my path…..I ain’t got time for no tears these days, aside from mine. So, brace yourself prior to contact.

They made me put on the hot hospital gown in the emergency room- soon as I got a room that came off and sweats went on!

I am thankful for those friends and family who have had the patience for me and continue to check in, even if I’m currently a shadow of my former self. Im going to continue laughing at my life circumstances because it’s the best coping mechanism I have and saves me from some ugly crying. I also came home to the sweetest cards handmade by the kids in Ella’s class….. really made my heart melt, so kind and honest!

So sweet!