May 21, 2014. Artemas, Pa. Rita.

Rita has always been a bundle of energy but this past week she says that she has been useless. She does not like being useless and she wants to be perfectly well yesterday. Today she and Ian have returned to Cumberland to see the good doctor to remove her stent and to check her out. Her doctor son Sean has suggested to her that he might install another stent but she does not wish to hear about that. Evidently, Rita had a stone nestled by her kidney. The stone had barbs so as it descended, it caused damage. And she had an infection so she must clear up the infection before she feels really well. They will leave on Friday and will take two days to return to Ottawa. The 8 hour drive is too long. She has an appointment next Wednesday with a Urologist in Ottawa. And her company coming for four days on Monday has been cancelled. Now she will recover slowly and steadily but not at her speed. At least she will be at home which always feels better. Both Ian and Rita have been pleased with the patient care in Cumberland. All the medical staff were excellent, according to Ian. Ian has been working away at the farm house, cleaning the siding and the outside furniture. Poor Rita has been hanging around with me in the Hill House, taking a nap morning and afternoon. She and Wendy worked hard their first week here but since last week she has been laid low, and she does not like it. It always keeps us humble not to be at our best. I have actually enjoyed chatting with her while she has been forced to sit still. Something good comes from everything.