With the idea that we would be moving out of the hospital today, I packed everything up, and Harry shaved. He had moved through the Don Johnson stage of stubble, to the Harvey Weinstein look. There was some talk of not shaving until this was all over, but neither of us could stand it for six to eight weeks.
Shaving without a sink or a mirror 
The return of Handsome Harry 
Nurse Donna, a woman of many talents
Jane came for a visit today, and Pat moved out to Surrey Place. Luckily, Jane was here before Pat left, so we had a lot of fun! Of course, I forgot to get a picture of the party in Pat’s room, but here is Jane with Harry…
It was a long and trying day, and in the end, it was decided that Harry should stay one more night. So much for getting packed up early! Jane, of course stepped right into the void with Marianne to look after things. The dogs are beginning to think Jane is their pack leader, and are quickly forgetting us. I didn’t even need to think about matters at home, thanks to those two saviors, and I didn’t try to drive back at all tonight. I will not leave Harry at the hospital, except for a quick trip home – I admit to being a control freak. At the same time I do know that control is an illusion.
Harry had a “vagal episode”, which you can google if you want to. Basically, he got faint and nauseous and almost passed out. Another twenty years off my life! Luckily, I was reassured by the hospitalist doctor, Svetha Chuduri, who looks about 12 years old, but is very good at her job, and extraordinarily nice, like everyone at this hospital. She and Occupational Therapist, Cindy, arrived at the same time. I needed more therapy than Harry, who was completely exhausted and back in bed. I called Peter and he came to the rescue with an emergency trip to Whole Foods for some fruit sodas, containing sugar, to perk Harry up. The anxiety over something happening to the leg before it heals is quite taxing in and of itself.
So, it was a difficult and disappointing day, but we do love the staff at this hospital, and we are resigned to our fate. Harry has made great progress – the Physical Therapists are amazed at how far he can walk (well, hop) and how strong he is.
The patient ate a very healthy dinner (not as delicious as last night’s Chinese takeout, maybe). We settled in to watch a movie – Can You Forgive Her, with Melissa McCarthy. Lo and behold, Cherie arrived bearing popcorn from Plaza Frontenac (best movie popcorn around). She had just figured we’d probably be watching a movie, and popped in. She is a doctor, after all, of course she knew! It was so much fun to see her, and just the tonic I needed… not the popcorn, but being with Cherie! The popcorn, too, was great, and so was the movie.
I may have to give this blogging up. I’m pretty exhausted. Harry is a better, and is learning just how to manage the leg with as little pain as possible. But it still seems sort of beyond ME to get him in and out of bed without a “trainer”. I sound like a horse show person! It’s a daunting injury, and each day brings new lessons in just how fragile our lives are. One minute we are fine, and suddenly, utterly dependent. Control is an illusion. Celebrate every day you are independent, and relatively pain free, everyone!
How about a little good news? Dorothy came through her surgery well. The doctor was pleased with the way things went, and she may get to go HOME tomorrow! We are very envious, and very thrilled for her. She is way ahead of schedule.
Now for a glimpse at Harry’s sketchbook, his version of blogging. Sort of sad to see the sketches done of ordinary days, so recently, with no premonition of the rough time ahead. Harry’s sketches are always good… so here are a couple of the artist’s blog entries.
Jack at play practice 
Chin up Harry and Anne, better times ahead. Bodily functions are always good cause for celebration 😊
Painting pictures with words! The greats are humble and human. It really comes thru, rosy and raspy, as is life.
Ted, you should be a writer!
Dear Harry, I’m so sorry to hear about your accident. Doing what you love has brought you blessings and now injury and pain : ( as the best things in life so often do! I had a minor leg injury skiing at Xmas, so I’ve been recently reminded of how hard it is and how much sleep you need in recovery.
Great job keeping spirits up both of you : ) : )
Good luck from the other side of the pond!!
Ps we were visited by an injured fox just this morning wanting to rest up in the bushes of the garden. I ran out to buy food, excited to nurse a fox which I quickly named Harry. He’s hopped away though and now The Magpies are having a party with the food!!
Thank you, young cousin Rachel. Be careful on those Alpen slopes! You may be much younger than your old cousin across the pond, but we must keep these bodies intact. Harry is a good lesson on that! I hope Harry Fox returns and heals. Naughty Magpies!