The Horrors of Being a Patient in the Hospital

It was a very humbling experience being a patient instead of the nurse for 6 days. Having to pee in a "hat" (measuring device), eat horrible hospital food, rely on other people, and conform to the schedule of every one else was quite the experience. It taught me to be mindful of my patients and the inconveniences that they are experiencing. Waking up at all hours of the night for medications, vitals and dinging monitors leaves little time for rest. I was so tired because of the hospital hubub and the magnesium.

I have determined that magnesium is death in IV form. It made me extremely tired, gave me blurred vision, light sensitivity, and horrible headaches. I felt like I was on drugs. I even had trouble walking on my own. I had really wobbly legs. It was really hard for me to swallow my pride and learn to depend on other people.

Rich was amazing while I was in the hospital. He never left my side unless he had to go to school or home to shower. He helped my shower, brought me good food, helped me to the bathroom, and kept me company. Our relationship was made stronger through that time.

It was very scary being in the hospital knowing that our son could be born any time premature. They gave me steroids to mature his lungs just in case he came early. A neonatologist came to talk to us to prepare us for the worst. But, God was watching over us and our son did not come prematurely.

Thank you to all of our friends and family who came to visit, brought me food, watched our dogs, and helped at home. We love you and are thankful beyond words!