Wednesday, April 23, 2008

brooklyn hospice visit

We liked the Brooklyn facility a lot.

Jenn, Oona and I took the train down there this morning, and the people there were very warm and sweet.  We talked to the head doctor, who was very nice.  He asked our Mom's name and I assured him that she would quickly become his favorite patient.  His answer: oy vey.

It's all wood and glass in there, and there's a lot of natural light.  Just as in the Bronx, visitors are welcome 24/7.

Meanwhile at MSK, Mom apparently informed the powers that be that she'd like to go to Brooklyn instead of the Bronx (this was before we even reported back so I guess she had an instinct).  Here's how it'll go:  If a room opens up in the Bronx facility first, she will go there initially, but meanwhile she's on the top of the list (we think) to get to Brooklyn as soon as a room is available.  We're hoping there will be one move, not two, but who knows.  We'll of course post an update as soon as her location changes.

Our Grandpa flies out this afternoon - he's been such an amazing support and help with Oona (she adores him) and a real sturdy post for Jenn and I to lean on (Jenn said it's like having a grown-up in the room - heh).  He also got to see Clancy, Sarah and the kids on the tail end of their stay here, so that was way good.

Tomorrow Jenn and I will head to Mom's apartment to start trying to organize a bit. Thanks everyone, for all the offers of moving help.  We will try to get organized and ask for help as we need it. 

Visitors are welcome at Sloan.  As Jenn mentioned in a comment a few days ago, Mom's in Room 1412B, which can be accessed by entering at 1275 York Avenue, walking up the escalator and taking the M elevators to the 14th floor.  As always, please be healthy when you visit, clean your hands when you enter the room and try not to stay longer than an hour or so.  She's pretty wiped out these days from all of the radiation, and needs lots of rest.

Also, out-of-towners are of course welcome.  Everyone's been asking me when would be a "good time".  I'd say a good time is whenever you feel like it.  Mom has scores of fans and admirers, so there' s a constant flux of people around, but I think that's good.  Don't be shy.  

6 comments:

Ann Anderson Evans said...

Greetings to Janet's People:

I'm Terry's wife. I only met Janet once, but really wanted to see her again. We were busy. We didn't snap to, and I have missed my chance.

The appeal of this gorgeous diva was obvious, and I know what you all mean.

I am so impressed with your taking the time to write this all up. That is not easy. Great poem. Moving clarity and straightforwardness in everything you write.

I wanted to write to you all because sometimes you write stuff (I do) and you never know that anybody else has noticed, beyond the expected readers. Your posts have impressed me so much, and I will remember them every time I am in your shoes, even when I'm finally in Janet's shoes.

Thank you
Ann Evans

alison tassie said...

I will be keeping my fingers crossed that the Brooklyn place becomes available first and you all don't have to do two moves.
What about telephone calls?
I would love to call and have been hesitating because I don't know if I will be calling at a bad moment. I will completely understand if you do not think it is a good idea - just know that I am thinking of you all and sending lots of love, Alison

Unknown said...

Let's hope the Brooklyn place works out. There's better Chi there. And you can put me on the list for moving help. I'll arrive with boxes. Perfect for books. Love to you all.

Steven Patterson said...

Well, we, of course, are selfishly hoping Brooklyn comes through. I'll be returning this coming Monday, so please call when you need a back, a pair of hands, or just somebody to vent to. You all deserve more love than even THIS crowd can muster.

Unknown said...

Here's hoping that Brooklyn comes through very quickly and there is only one move to make. I have boxes and can help you pack up and move. Sending more love your way.
xoxo,
Kat

Peaches said...

Please, please give Janet a huge hug from me. I am following this from my travels, and you are always on my mind. Lots of love to all of you as well - I know that you are doing everything you can to make Janet feel loved and comfortable.