Setback *Triggers* *SU SH triggers*

[JustEM]

Hi Paula!

Physically, my weight has been increasing gradually because I'm receiving the best nutrition for me through the feed they're giving me. My blood pressure was the best it's been so far yesterday and they are able to take my bloods easily each morning now. I'm meeting with the doctors today so hope to get some clarity on how long they want to tube feed me and what requirements need to be met for me to be discharged. My mother and auntie both said I looked brighter yesterday too.

Only thing I'm struggling with physically is the tube. It's causing discomfort and the feeling of being full from the feed is a bit unpleasant for me but I trust the medical staff here completely and know they're doing what's needed to get me well. It will be nice to get the tube out and be able to take things orally (even if that predominately means supplement drinks) but for now the slow feeding if the tube is the safest way to re-feed me without me getting ill because I had so severely restricted.

[Suzi]

Are you talking to them? Telling them how you are feeling and that it's uncomfortable? Can they do anything to help with that?

What's the plan for today?

[JustEM]

Saw the doctor today. She prescribed tablets for nausea. Told her my mood was low and she said just say if I ever feel I need to talk to someone. The doctor said a minimum of two weeks and couldn't promise me a set date, understandably. I really, really hope it will only be two weeks!! She also said they don't have a specific target weight or number for me so that I can leave and that they are more concerned about seeing improvement! I really liked this approach because the ED services have always been obsessed with numbers!

The nurse re-taped my tube and it feels much more comfortable!

Having a much better day so far. Slept well, painted ANOTHER Rudolph pot, have had two visitors and now I'm going to start my new book before my mam comes to visit. When she comes, we can pop off the ward together for a bit and maybe I'll pick up a magazine.

Tonight, I'll watch a bit of telly and then that's day five DONE!

[Suzi]

You are amazing! I'm so proud of you for talking to the Dr - who sounds fab. Really lovely, hold on to each positive. xx

[JustEM]

Thanks everyone!!

Seeing the clinical lead doctor tomorrow who is excellent and very specialised.

[Suzi]

Good! Make sure you ask any questions you have - maybe write a list?

[magie06]

Good luck tomorrow. You'll do great I'm sure of it. You have been amazing and anything that has been thrown at you, you have come out the other side with a great big smile on your face. I can see it from here. Honestly!! Hugs for tomorrow.

[JustEM]

Cheers, Suzi!

That's a good idea. She's really lovely and so positive. I much prefer the medical approach to treating this illness than the negative approach of the ED services. When I am discharged, I'm going to ask if I can work with someone other than the OT from the team - preferably the team leader who is more gentle and has much more insight. The OT honestly put the fear of God into me about going to hospital when it should have been portrayed in a positive light and a safety net - not a threat, a jail sentence or something to make me eat out of fear of being sent there. This anxiety - paired with the three times a week weighing at the clinic prior to admission - only sent my anxiety through the roof. When I was admitted, I was close to hysterical with fear and was crying after with relief. My experience of hospital has been very positive. I feel cared for and supported. The OT's negative comments ('it's not good enough'), her not bothering to make appointments and her clear lack of medical knowledge (she has admitted this) is also a concern. I've actually contemplated putting in a complaint but I'm not really that kind of person!

Sorry, bit of a random rant there!

I'll let you know what the doc says today!

[JustEM]

Thank you, Magie! The hug worked wonders again - Another good night's sleep haha!

Thanks, I do work my real hardest to stay positive and keep going no matter what comes at me. We have to right?
I will let you know how it goes with the doctor today.

Thanks again xx

[Paula]

Hope today is ok, hunni