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When my mother-in-law was released from the Massachusetts rehab facility last Saturday morning,  she and Diane headed straight for Logan airport in Boston.  Dot was thrilled to be on her way.  Her dementia caused some doubt and paranoia about what was really going to happen to her.  When she spotted us in Atlanta and knew she really was going to be with her son and not dumped somewhere, she brightened up.  She came willingly to NC knowing that after establishing her residency here, her new home would be the nursing home close to us where we could take her for day trips and visit often.  The release from rehab, the long day of flying, and all the new surroundings just increased her anxiety and the dementia took over.  Rehab orders stated that she required 24-hour care and was not to be left alone at all.  On Sunday morning, the roller coaster ride plummeted.  We all figured she was worn out and would react a little better Monday morning after a good night's sleep.  For two nights, Diane, Cliff, and I slept with one eye opened and both ears alert for her calls. She was not allowed to get out of bed without with of us with her.  Sunday night, Diane was up three times with her.  Monday morning, Dot had such anxiety and paranoia, she wouldn't even allow her Coumadin blood draw.  Her mind was totally shot.  The MA case worker and the ER doctor told Cliff and Diane the only left to do for her safety and well-being was to court-order  commit her to a nursing facility.  The hardest thing Diane and Cliff ever did was to meet with the magistrate at the court house and sign the papers.  There is still a lot of paperwork and discussion happening.  It's been a very emotional week.  We're facing things we never would have imagined.  Things change from hour to hour.

Today is Cliff's 70th birthday.  When his mother agreed to move here, we rejoiced that he could celebrate this day with her.  But seeing him or Diane sets her off so badly, we're staying away from her hoping she will acclimate to her new home.  The nursing home staff advised us to allow this process and it's not unusual to blame those you love.

On a happier note, our second great-grandchild was born Tuesday.  Alexandra Lauria came into this world just under 8 pounds and looks like her mother. 

The roller coaster ride continues.  We'll probably scream on the way down and laugh on the way up wondering what the next dip will bring.











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