One of the challenges of fulltime RVing is handling health issues when they arise. Many of us have a place that we return to periodically to visit our Primary Care Doctor. My family doctor is at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, and I return there every two years for a checkup, needed tests like a mammogram, and to get prescriptions for my meds written. Having that connection with someone who knows your medical history is great, and it works out fine as long as you’re in reasonably good health.
(Tonight’s photos are scenes from a drive around the refuge this afternoon after picking up my new glasses in Nags Head.)
What happens, though, if you get sick while you’re on the road and many many miles from that doctor? I’ve had a few instances in the last year or so, where I’ve needed medical attention. If you are a couple, your spouse/significant other can get you to a medical facility. If you are traveling solo, you have to get there by driving yourself. I have had to drive myself to a couple of urgent care centers in nearby cities.
This opens up a whole different set of challenges. Traveling solo, I just don’t have a care giver stored away somewhere that could help in the recovery and rehabilitation process. 
The second possibility would be to have the operation done in Indiana and stay in the guest bedroom at Robyn’s. I don’t know what I’d do with the rig for the duration. Both of these possibilities would have me relying on them for post-op care which I am reluctant to do. They are both active, busy, young families with young children.
Lastly, I am considering staying in Livingston, TX, at the Escapee’s Rainbow’s End park. I am a lifetime member of Escapees, and they have a wonderful CARE facility for members that allows you to stay in your rig during the recuperation phase. Staying at the CARE facility also includes three meals a day and weekly cleaning of your rig and laundry. Volunteers would also drive me to doctor appointments. All three possibilities also leave me with the challenge of what to do about Emma. I don’t know what I’m going to do about that.
Health issues are a challenge whether or not you are a solo. They just add a few more things for me to think about. I appreciate all the thoughts and suggestions you’ve provided thus far. Several commenters suggested I start taking fish oil daily. Just wanted to tell them that I’ve been taking fish oil for the last eight years.
Thanks for stopping by… talk to you later, Judy
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That is a big challenge. Teri and I both needed to visit a dentist last year while in Presque Isle, Maine, and were stunned to find that very few would even consider a new, transient patient. We were finally referred to someone who worked out fine, but we wondered what would happen in an emergency situation. Being a single does seem add an additional element of difficulty.
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you have some decent options in mind, and it is nice to have CARE available, isn't it?
Mark
You may want to check with Escapees if you decide to go to Livingston, but someone there may be able to help you out with Emma until you get back on your feet. These days, they don't let you lay around and recuperate too long!
ReplyDeleteIf it were me, I would make my decision on where I thought I could find the best surgeon.
ReplyDeleteJust love the sunflower photos!
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to read about your situation. I know I personally would like to be around family. I think your family would not be so busy that they can't take care of you for a short period of time. You may be surprised and find out that they are thrilled you asked them for help.
We have been to Livingston several times and know that CARE does a great job!!! I agree with Jim/Gayle, they can probably help you find someone that would love to help out with Emma.
Here's another "thumbs up" for the CARE facility. We've known others who have used it positively. A quick call can confirm your concerns. They will probably have recommendations on a surgeon, in Houston probably, or even Mayo could recommend someone for you. You might ask how they handle the physical therapy appts. Perhaps there's a facility right in Livingston to take care of that. Either way, you'll get a driver. The 3 meals would be terrific, along with laundry, and you'll have lots of visitors whom you can relate to as a fellow RVer. You'd probably have more interesting blogs, too!! :) CARE would definitely be my first choice if your family works, etc. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteThat certainly is a dilemma but it sounds like you have some options. It does sound like CARE is a great alternative if you can get some help with Emma. If they can't help that way could your family keep Emma during your recuperative period? Get that cane or even a walker to help you out until you get the hip fixed. You sure don't want to fall. Love the butterfly on the blossom picture.
ReplyDeleteHaving had a few medical issues on the road, both while RVing and while working, I have the view that as long as you can find the right medical match for the treatment, you major issue will be taken care of. If you do not get the best available treatment, all the rest becomes mute. I also have developed the view that you do not have to be "home" to get that treatment.
ReplyDeleteI know that having a pet complicates the issues, but I would always recommend that your well being always should come first. I very much like to be independent, but if I needed help with rehab, I think I would still keep family near the top of the options.
Yes, beautiful sunflower pictures! I have always wondered what a solo would do in case of more serious health issues. You seem to be a person who thinks things through thoroughly so I am sure you will come up with the right decision. Meantime, just try to not stress that hip :)
ReplyDeleteIt is your family and you know them best, BUT ... if one of your children needed you to come and help them for a similar period of time, for recovery from surgery, would you go help out? Would they hesitate to ask for your help? We bend over backwards for our kids. I'm sure your daughter would help you out as well.
ReplyDeleteThese really are serious issues for a solo RVer and there are many solos out there. I hope your children would discuss your needs and be honest about how they could or could not help you. No one wants to be a burden but my father raised me up and now it's my turn to help him. I hope my daughter will feel that way also when I need help.
ReplyDeleteThat said, Escapees is a wonderful thing. What a great organization. You are right that care for Emma would be a complication but I agree with a previous commenter that as I understand it, you are not in the hospital long and do have to be up and about very soon with a hip replacement. Whether you could handle the fiesty Emma is another question but she is a part of your life and all those who care for you will want to help care for her I know.
My vote is for CARE. Knowing the kinda bird you are :) I do have a suggestion, don't wait too long. You have been suffering with that bum hip for too long already! We will be in that area November and December and maybe into the Spring if we can help.
ReplyDeleteMy stepsister just had a hip replacement (she's not even 60 yet!), but I was shocked at how much easier the whole thing seems to be these days than in years past. She was in the hospital a few days and only had issues with the pain meds (nausea from the morphine). Absolutely no hip pain though, and they had her up and about right away. She lives in a 2nd floor condo up a full flight of stairs, and thought for sure she'd have to go to a rehab facility for a few weeks after the hospital, but amazingly, within just a few days from surgery and being released, she was able to get up the full flight of stairs with her new hip, and within a couple weeks was back to full speed. She said the same thing as others-- wish she had not waited so long and suffered so much if she knew it would be that easy.
ReplyDeleteSo, if the pain is starting to limit you now, I'd vote for Houston and getting it done this winter. Excellent healthcare facilities there and I bet you could find a pet sitter service to come walk Emma daily (if the CARE folks aren't able to recommend fellow RVers or volunteers). Maybe you could ask your son or daughter to fly down for the first few days to help out (mainly to be the one listening to Dr/Nurse instructions while you're doped up?).
I'm a solo part-time full-timer and want to follow your lead and go full-time in a couple of years, so selfishly want you to figure all these kinds of issues out now and tell us the answers :-) But seriously, thank you for opening up about this subject as it is indeed one I worry and wonder about.
My vote is for the Escapees..sounds like a wonderful program!..one day at a time Judy, is all you can do..
ReplyDeleteThis is a serious subject. I go for the Escapees. I bet people would be more than willing to walk Emma. I had both knee's replaces. And I live alone. I had people check on me. But I prefere being left alone. I pre made meals to last 2 1/2 weeks and froze them. Layed in plenty of quick stuff.
ReplyDeleteI am told the hip replacement is much easier. I don't know about that but I hope their right because I am heading there too.
I wish you the best in your choice what ever it is.
BTW I passed your URL to my freind who is just stating out on her solo life on the road.
OOPS!
ReplyDeleteAll 3 option sound reasonable to me but you're the only one who really knows how this would work out if you stayed with your family - I do like that option though. Other than that - stop taking the horrible fish oil.
ReplyDeleteJudy, I know just what you're talking about. I would have been on the road the past two two years had it not been for Jack's illness the first year, and the fact that he is eleven the second year AND my back is terrible. I have put off surgery, even at home, because he is so used to being with me, and me alone, that I don't want to leave him. He moves from room to room with me. I'm afraid to travel to remote places with him in case something happens to me with my back or in case I had to get him to an emergency vet quickly. I couldn't lift him.
ReplyDeleteI had emergency surgery years ago when Rich and I were traveling in South Dakota. We only had Lizzie, then, but I didn't have to worry because Rich was able to handle everything. All I had to do is have the surgery. People who don't travel/live solo don't know, really, how much more difficult everything is. Especially for someone like you and I who don't want to impose on our kids. The alternative is nursing care or rehab facility, and then what happens to Emma and Jack?
When you have one extra brain, two extra feet, and two extra hands it feels like you have a hundred more of each helping. At least that's the way I feel. Call me foolish, but I won't leave Jack to have the surgery. My kids would gladly take him, but they work, and he's not used to being alone. When I leave him for short trips to the market, he's laying in my spot on the couch when I get back. I generally take him with me and leave the truck with the air on, but his legs are starting to show some wear and tear so I'll have to get Lizzie's ramp out of the back of the truck if he couldn't jump up to the floor--don't know that I could do it any more--I carry it just in case--I guess you can do anything when you have to.
Judy, I've read that there is a waiting list at the facility in Livingston. You might want to check that out.
ReplyDeleteWhen I dream about fulltiming, those concerns over health as we age give me pause. But I think I would rather do as you do and find solutions than letting those concerns keep me home.
Whatever you decide, know that I am wishing you all the best with all my might! :)
BTW, your photos today were especially beautiful to me.
there are Mayo's in Jacksonville Florida and Phoenix Arizona if that helps...
ReplyDeleteWishing you WELL whatever you decide. I say, "follow your gut feeling" on this... if a place/decision doesn't feel right for any reason, then it prob isn't right for you. Cool cane!
ReplyDeleteGlad u have several options-I've heard many good things about CARE. I too would not want to stay with the kids, I know they'd do it but I prefer to handle it myself. Hope ur able to find good assistance with Emma, she will be vital to ur quick recovery. Those of us who love our furbabies always feel better when they're around. And I'm glad to see ur taking fish oil, it's good for so many things, brain, heart, etc. U may not think it's doing much but if u should stop, u'll probably find out just how much it was doing. That was my mistake a couple years back-it had always helped me with my RA but I got tired of swallowing so many pills so when I ran out I didn't get more. Didn't take long for me to find out just what it was doing for my feet and a few other joints. Prayers are with u as u make ur decision.
ReplyDeleteDifficult choices. Health issues is the main concern as we prepare to embark on our fulltiming plans; luckily we don't have any that we're aware of at the moment. It's also why we won't be fulltiming forever; hopefully we can get through the years traveling without any major health issues. One of your commenters said it already, but I'd go with family as long as they are willing. I'd rather do that than rely on volunteers whom I don't know no matter how willing they are.
ReplyDeleteSounds like you know what your options are. We all have to do what is best for us and I'm sure you will. Even though I have a partner, I'd probably go to Livingston before going to one of the kids. But that's me.....
ReplyDeleteYou have to have a care giver now at Livingston you canot live by your self check it out for your self. Ben Hanson
ReplyDeleteThere are also rehab places everywhere--usually covered by Medicare--to which you can go post surgery. That still leaves the issue of Emma--I know you have boarded her before--would that be possible for a couple weeks? Do you have a close friend who could stay near you and help you care for the wild child once you are back in the RV? It is amazing how fast recovery is for joint replacement these days. My Mom had a total knee several years ago and was up walking the halls the next day, home on the 4th day and staying alone in her home (my sister lives across the road) on the 6th day.
ReplyDeleteI would choose Mayo...you can hire a health care worker to come into the home is needed. Talk to the kids about it...
ReplyDeleteHMMMM..food for thought, and it's good you have time (some, anyway) to think it over...If I were you, I would talk to Mayo..I have a feeling they might have a rehab facility you could stay at. I'm sure they deal with "solo" peeps who have no family..Medicare might pick up some of the tab..AND, you know the care there is good...Let Emma stay with your son and pick her up when you are feeling better..just sayin'.
ReplyDeleteRehab after joint replacement is typically very quick these days. Medicare should pick up 100& of the hospital stay, as well as the rehab stay. If you go in-patient rehab, Medicare pays 100% for the first 20 days (altho rarely does a simple joint replacement need that long, unless there are other health conditions). They will also pay for outpatient rehab - typically 3 times a week for several weeks, based on the doc's recommendation. It all boils down to your comfort level, really. Your concern for for Emma is a top priority for you - who do you feel most comfortable with to care for her? Where would you feel most comfortable recuperating? It is good advice to see where your kids weigh in - can they be available for a few days, a week? You really won't need much help during recuperation, it will surprise you how quickly you will recuperate. You can get in-home nursing care for a couple of weeks, also, if needed. (that is not daily nursing care, typically, however) A home health agency would be able to answer a lot of these questions for you, and would be more than happy to do so, I bet. Just a few thoughts - decisions, decisions, decisions!
ReplyDeleteI'd opt for the Escapees Care facility. I think most young couples with jobs and kids just don't have the time to take proper care of someone who is recovering from a serious illness or surgery. I had to drive myself and Katie from Quartzsite to San Diego for my emergency surgery in January, so I know what you mean about just getting there to be taken care of. Luckily my son is in San Diego and they took Katie for me, but they are super busy and were not around the house much during my recuperation. Not their fault, just the way it is, but someone needs to bring meals while you're still unable to function much, and the Escapees will be there all day for your needs.
ReplyDeleteI also like the idea Dennis and Donna had about Mayo and a rehab facility, with someone taking Emma for you.
It will all work out, and when you are done, it will be so worth it to feel really good again. :)
Like some others, I would probably go with Escapees and CARE. I'm an independent gal and - as much as I love family - I personally would recuperate better in a place of quiet with my peers who have similar lifestyles and interests. I would bet that there would be plenty of loving care at CARE for Emma, too, in neighbors and staff who would be more than happy to walk and feed Emma. I'm sorry for your discomfort and such tough choices. I know you'll make the ones that are right for you!
ReplyDeleteAs you are aware, I had a total knee replacement a couple of years ago and Denny just had a total ankle replacement a few months ago. Recuperation on both surgeries were relatively short altho mine was a bit longer than Denny's. We have heard from other people that a hip replacement is alot easier than a knee. The MAIN problem for both of us was being able to get in and out of the RV because of the steps. Denny was not able to put ANY weight on his ankle for 2 weeks - after that no problem. Important to check with the doctor on any weight restrictions before surgery not after!
ReplyDeleteWhen checking with the Mayo in FL, we found they do not accept any type of ins - it is self pay only and FL residents have proprity. The original Mayo is still the BEST!
I understand your first concern is Emma (as ours is with Brandy) - since she doesn't mind being boarded, that could be an option for a couple of weeks (in MN)- it would give you piece of mind while you are getting stronger. She would be getting good care and excercise as well.
My first thought was CARE also but... We know you will make the best decision for you - after you give it alot of thought. Just don't put it off too long. Life is too short - enjoy it to the fullest as long as you can.
It's nice to have some options thought out. Being where you can get the right doctor is probably the prime mover. I think I would mention what you are considering to the kids. You need to do what is right for you but they may be hurt if they don't get to offer to help out. I have also heard that hip replacement is far less stressful than knee surgery and recovery is very quick so your kids might not have to do as much for you as you think. And you might be able to hire a neighbor to take Emma out while your kids are at work.
ReplyDeleteOh gosh. Sorry to hear your hurting Judy, but don’t go all jumping the gun. One opinion from one Doc-In-the-Box does not a diagnosis make.
ReplyDeleteFirst get a reputable orthopedist to make a definitive diagnosis, then you can plan accordingly. Often hip pain is actually referred pain from a back problem, not the hip itself. A hip X-ray would show deterioration for most people in their 60’s, and many of them would report no pain and require no surgery. Get better testing. Please! Surgery should be a “last resort” option.
First thing: Change your telephone plan to high or unlimited minutes for the next couple of months, and then start calling all of the attendant and peripheral places around each possible location and ask your list of questions about your needs, i.e. what assistance is available, at what cost, and will Medicare and/or your supplemental insurance pay for it.
ReplyDeleteMake yourself a chart with the items on the left-hand side, and the prospective facilities across the top. Leave plenty of room in each square to put notes.
If feasible, get a spiral-bound notepad of a comfortable size for you, and ALWAYS write your notes in there as you speak to people on the telephone. Date each entry and write down the name and contact number for each person that you speak to. Secure a writing tool to the pad so that you don't have to search one down for each instance of use.
Don't be afraid to ask people to slow down their line of patter so that you are sure that you understand exactly what they are saying. They say the same thing over and over, thus it becomes so routine for them that they don't even know they are speaking at such a rapid speed. Just chuckle, and say that you are a bit hard of hearing, and can they please slow down a bit. This usually does the trick.
If at all possible, type up your notes at the end of each day so that you have a clear record of what transpired. As you type, you will probably think of things that were said that are not in your handwritten notes. If you have the capability, printing out this information on a daily basis will not be wasted. You can even write handwritten notes onto the printed pages if something comes to mind after you have printed. Try to remember to go back to add it to your computer copy, if at all possible.
Doing this in a timely fashion will give more complete information in the long run. Also, if someone needs to access this information in your absence, it is clear and concise on paper, and not just in your head.
Needless to say, your basic medical information should be printed out and at the beginning of the compendium of information that you are gathering. You will need to reference various identification numbers, and having them at hand without having to dig cards out of your purse, will be very handy. If possible, just put all your insurance cards on a copy machine and photocopy them. This provides the ID information, plus the address of each insurance entity. Entry clerks will love you for this!
Ditto for a list of all your current medications. Every place you go, you will be asked for this information. If feasible, make a list of your medications and then either photocopy or print out about ten or so copies that you can just hand to the admission clerk or doctor's receptionist.
Can you tell I've been down this road more than once? ;->
Virtual hugs,
Judie
http://dorrieanne.wordpress.com/
Today: Elusive roadrunner
Wow, so much great advice! Nothing much for me to add. I was worried about the steps too but that doesn't seem to be a problem. Staying with family is great but works for me only for a short time! It seems though that you're going to be up and 'running' whithin a couple of days already so I think any option could be fine but I'd go for CARE. Love my independence but also my privacy especially when I don't feel well.
ReplyDeleteAnd like others have said I'd think you'd have no problems to find someone for Emma. Who wouldn't want to walk such a calm, well behaved puppy :)!
So there you are. Go with your 'gut feeling',... you know!
I think you've gotten all the advice you can possibly handle today Judy, so I'm just going to wish you luck in the decision process. I know you'll make the decision that is right for you and Emma.
ReplyDeleteI am one who believes that most things just sort of work themselves out. When the time comes, you will know which is the best alternative. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteJudy, so sorry about your hip issue. It seems that you have some good options with all being good possibilities. Hope your hip allows you time to contemplate your best decision. We will keep you in our thoughts. We know you will make the best decision!
ReplyDeleteMy mind set as to where to get health care was thrown out the window when my wife took ill at Glacier national park in Montana. We live in Massachusetts and have top, top, did I say top doctors there. As they airlifted Jan from the Blackfeet Indian reservation hospital to Kalispell, 100 miles away, I saw my life flying away. When I finally got the RV and toad to Kalispell Jan was resting but soon the problem required emergency surgery. Things went well but her drug-induced coma really beat me up!!!! She got better! After all is said and done I tell anyone who will listen “if your going to get sick get to the Kalispell medical center” There is something to be said for the quality of a medicine from professionals that WANT to be there.
ReplyDelete