Update: Relief
Thank you. Your words have meant so much.
I'm now at home - my parent's house. Everyone is well. My father was released from the hospital on Friday and now has a fancy pacemaker/defibrillator in his chest and is recovering very nicely.
(The wonders of medicine.)
I'll be spending time with my family the next few days, not doing much of anything. My husband's back in Boston with the two boys - this was the first time I've flown without a child in 3 years. It was relaxing, even in seat 20D waaaaay back in coach.
In much more interesting news, it looks like I'll get to meet the police officer that saved my dad's life. I don't know what I can say to him to fully convey how grateful I am to him. I'm considering getting his name tattooed across my forehead, but that may be a bit too much. We'll see.
Next project - enrolling in a CPR class. I'm serious. CPR is the new black. If I were to suddenly become a Miss America contestant, that would be my cause/platform: CPR. Learn it. Love it.
So glad to hear that all is well! FYI, Newton/Wellesley hospital offers CPR classes in late June if you are interested. I was checking for classes the other day (on your reminder!) to update my certification and that's what I found.
Posted by: Erin | Saturday, April 26, 2008 at 10:59 PM
I'll second the Newton Wellesley classes. I took mine there, and my daughter took hers in order to beef up her babysitting cert, and we both liked the class a lot. Not too scary, but life saving.
I have the same inplanted device your dad just got, an ICD. Did anyone warn him that when and if it goes off, it's like a horse kicking you in the chest? That's what they told me, and although I've had it for 2 years, it's NEVER gone off full strength. A couple of little buzzes, but nothing kablam! Thank goodness.
And he'll NEVER have to wait in an line for metal detection again. There are good things that come from an ICD. :-)
Posted by: margalit | Saturday, April 26, 2008 at 11:22 PM
I'm glad to hear that he's home and recuperating.
Posted by: margaret | Sunday, April 27, 2008 at 07:40 AM
I'm so glad that you father is doing okay and that you get to be with your family.
Posted by: lissa | Sunday, April 27, 2008 at 12:11 PM
So glad he is doing ok. And, you know, maybe just a tattoo across your arm would suffice.
Posted by: Fairly Odd Mother | Sunday, April 27, 2008 at 09:17 PM
So sorry to have heard the news and so happy to have read about the outcome. My grandfather was a state trooper, they rarely get a heartfelt "thank you." I know that he will be touched.
Maybe a little CPR diagram tattoo?
Posted by: Easy and Elegant Life | Monday, April 28, 2008 at 03:37 PM
I am so happy to hear that your father is home and feeling better. God bless all those wonderful people who helped him. A big hug to your family from mine.
Posted by: Gina | Wednesday, April 30, 2008 at 09:41 AM
I am so sorry to hear about your family's struggles this week, but I am so grateful and relieved for y'all that things are getting better. You're in my thoughts!
Posted by: Leanne | Friday, May 02, 2008 at 10:02 AM
Thanks to everyone for your comments and best wishes for my husband's recuperation. Margalit, I was so happy reading your post and knowing that you had an ICD for 2 years and doing fine. Maybe we can open a website name Living with an ICD with comments and experiences. Love from Miami!
Posted by: Paula | Sunday, May 04, 2008 at 05:56 PM
What a rough experience for your father and you and the rest of your family. I'm so glad to hear he's doing so well.
I hated CPR class, but you are so right - it's something we should all know.
So relieved for you.
Posted by: debbie | Wednesday, May 07, 2008 at 12:30 AM
This is a bit delayed - but my thoughts are with your family and so glad your father is in recovery mode now.
CPR class is a must - its not too bad!
Posted by: Neha | Tuesday, May 20, 2008 at 12:25 PM