I've been writing several of these posts at once, to back-fill from the time that I was visiting the Schmidts. But I'm getting tired and want dinner; also I'm not sure how much more I have to say that adds anything meaningful to what's come before. So I'll make these notes telegraphic.
Thursday, March 13
Schmidt had a visit from Hospice, to get Ma Schmidt set up in their system, right about the same time Marie had to go to the airport. So I drove her to the airport, an hour each way. By the time I got back, Hospice had left. In the afternoon, they delivered a hospital bed and a bunch of other equipment. Ma Schmidt soiled herself twice, so I went out to get a package of Depends … and some more wine, while I was at it. By the time I got back she had soiled herself a third time, so the Depends were useful.
Friday, March 14
Badly inclement weather, so I wasn't going to go anywhere. First thing in the morning, Ma Schmidt woke up calling for "Help!" I ran to her still in my pajamas. When she saw I was there she settled down, and then said she didn't really need anything. She was just afraid that she had been abandoned. It's not going to be easy for Schmidt when I do leave.
Saturday, March 15
The weather was clear, so I left right after breakfast and drove home. Ma Schmidt was sweet and called me an angel. Schmidt said I helped him "stabilize" himself, which I guess is a good thing. I have to spend the week paying my monthly bills and submitting my taxes. After that, we agreed that we would touch base with each other to see if it made sense for me to come back again. It's still going to be a lot of work for Schmidt.
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