MY STROKE

Approximately at 8am on Saturday May 17, a2025 I suffered a severe stroke that completely incapacitated me.The Doctor was so concerned for my survival that she called my son,Daniel in Victoria, as well as to call my Rabbi to meet my spiritual needs. Daniel was woken at 5am and told the situation was dire. He immediately came to Ottawa to be with me. Although I was semi-conscious during the stroke I vaguely remember some events. Namely, the attending physician asked me if I wanted to go to the Ottawa Hospital to receive treatment. I recall that I refused treatment. In conversation with one of my nurses who was on duty during my stroke, he noticed I had facial paralysis on the right side of my face, with the right side of my body being prone.The nurses had to turn me every 2 hours. I couldn't speak, or raise my hands or legs. Sunday morning when Daniel arrived at the hospital he placed a sheet of paper before me with :"Yes" and "No" written on it. He wanted me to point to the correct answer which I was able to do.Several family members phoned that day but I was unable to respond verbally. Monday. I am gradually beginning to recover. I was able to lift my arms and legs and had a rudimentary form of speech. At this stage, some 4 weeks later, I still have some residual effects of my stroke. My speech is moderately impaired, my upper body strength is noticeably weaker and I easily tire. The Doctors have indicated that the stroke was on the right side of the brain. They marvel at my recouver.They have told me that they have neither seen anybody recover to my extent without receiving treatment. I am thankful for my recouver and for the medical care I have received on 5 South St. Vincent Hospital. G-d bless the health care workers on 5 South. David

5 SOUTH PALLIATIVE CARE ST.VINCENT HOSPITAL

I have now resided for over 3 months on 5South Ward, St. Vincent Hospital.On February 13/2025 I was taken by ambulance to the Ottawa Hospital Emergency Department.After a Cat scan was administrated I was told by the Doctor that the colon was completely blocked.Further consultation with the surgeon indicated surgery would be an e3xtremely risky with danger it would rupture  the bowel line..I was given 2 weeks to live. 

 It was decided that the most appropriate placement was in the palliative care unit at the 32 bed unit at th St. Vincent Hospital.This decision was taken, after consulting with the palliative team.The decision was made to enable me to get the best possible medical care  

After waiting 2 weeks for a bed I was admitted to 5 South Ward on March1/2025.As a palliative care patient  the mandate was too kept me comfortable until my demise. 

During my stay at St. Vincent I have had 3 blockages and a severe stroke.Miracolous ,due to the medical care I have received I have managed to survive. The care, compassion,of all the staff, orderlies.health care aids,nurses and physician has been exempty. I am truly thankful for their services and feel blessed to be here.Above all I feel safe in their care.

 The staff is highly professional, offering services in a very calm and control manner. 

To give you some examples of the care and compassion the staff demonstrates on a daily basis I refer to one on the palliative Doctors who are available on a daily basis.Ater consulting about my medical needs the Doctor asked if I wanted something and proceeded to get me an ice cream.When I suffered my stroke the Doctor immediately spoke to my family to indicate the series on the stroke and in addition spoke directly to my Rabbi that I needed spiritual help.I literally owe my life to the care I am receiving here.

 Another example that just occured today.I was in the hall getting ready to wheel myself downstairs when one of the nurses stopped me to adjust my tubing so i wouldn't be exposed.A simple act of kindness that demonstrates the compassion and care the staff bring to each and any ever patient on 5 South Palliative Ward.

 I am in the end stage of my life, trying to say goodbye to my family and friends.I feel blessed to be in a safe and secure environment. 

Love David

 Be kind to each other

CLOSE TO THE END OF MY JOURNEY

 The bomb, within my body, has just exploded. For the past week my bowel has been completely blocked.Immediate medical attention was required. A call to the paramedics and I was almost immediately taken to the Ottawa hospital. After waiting in the hallway for about half a hour I was taken to an observation room in Emergency. 

Upon  examination the Dr. ordered a CAT scan of my abdomen as he was concerned I had a blocked bowel.As expected the Cat Scan confirmed ,

my worst fears. My cancer had spread  to my abdomen where indeed  my bowel was massively blocked.This was a life alternating event which would shorten  my life expectancy,If the blockage did not clear I had less than 2 weeks to live, 

 Discussion with the surgical resident indicated surgery to put a stent in the bowel, was high risk and not recommended. The plan was to involve palliative care to keep me comfortable.In addition, the social worker would apply for hospice care outside of the hospital.I was simply to sick to go back to my senior residence. 

The next day,suddenly my bowel begin slowly to work. My appetite returned and I was able to eat and digest normally.This was a shock to me however the surgeon pointed  out that it would have no effect on my life expectancy.

 At this stage I know I have a significantly lower life expectantly.The journey is not over,but I am close to the end of the life I have known.

 Thank you all for your support,love and prayers.

 Shalom 

G-d bless

 Love David

WAITING

 I find myself with stage 4 colon-rectal cancer waiting for the bomb to go off. I have no idea, when or where my untreated cancer will go.At this time my cancer has not hit a major organ. I realize that could happen at any time.Truth be told I am living on bored time.

 Currently I am battling an abdominal flu which has incapacitated me.. For now I have restricted myself to my room so as not to infect other vulnerable residents.Isolation has allowed me to reflect on my situation.I have resided for 8 months at this senior residence and for the most part it has gone well.I realize I need to be here for the care and support I am receiving.

 My restricted mobility,fatique associated with my cancer have all served to limit my energy. The only times I go out is to medical and dental appointments. Socially I have a few dedicated visitors but for the most part I receive very few invitations from my previous social contacts.

 I have tried to meet new people here and to attempt various  new activities. At this stage I hope to blog regularly,try drawing.to attend lectures and play the odd game of bridge. 

Financially I have budgeted well and for the most part I have not had to go into capital to reside here.

 My goal is to try to reach my 80th birthday.

My faith,compassion and empathy remain at the highest level.

 Thank you all for your support and prayers. 

David