Where's the Silver Lining?

Not again!

I hadn't written in this journal for so long because Robert was doing so well. Any bad spells weren't really dangerous and lasted a short time.

Then about three weeks ago, he started having trouble breathing again, not severe, but trouble. About two weeks ago, the edema begain to appear, not a light amount, but a great amount. This breathing became labored and difficult. I made an appointment with our doctor. The day I made the appointment, we heard about Avandia, a diabetes med which triggers or aggravates cardio vascular problems in some people.

Almost a week after the doctor's appointment, Robert nearly died because even under oxygen he couldn't breathe. I took him to the doctor's office. The doctor sent him to the ER. Many tests later, we hear that the CHF is much worse and the congestion backed into the liver. Not good.

The ER doctor told us that Robert's heart is wearing out, that they would be able to stablize him this time, but he wouldn't be at the level before this flare up. Then in a short time he'll get worse again. Each time, he'll be worse and not come back as well until he doesn't at all.

The doctors say to be prepared to consider a nusing home before long. I will keep him home as long as I physically can.

No, I didn't want to write in this journal again. Oh, dear Lord, help Robert and help me. We can't do this alone.