Health issues and self-defense

elm_creek_smith · #1 09-02-2018, 10:21 PM

My wife is on a liver transplant list and a few months ago underwent a "TIPS" procedure where a shunt is placed in the liver between the portal vein and the hepatic vein. This procedure reduces fluid buildup in the abdomen which makes her more comfortable. The downside is that it allows her blood ammonia level to increase which can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, basically behaving in an irrational manner, inability to remember important information, and believing that no one else is behaving normally.

Lactulose is a medication that binds the free ammonia in the digestive tract and allows its elimination and must be taken as prescribed (3 times a day) to be effective. If the patient takes the medication, there is no problem. If not,...

Twice since the procedure, I had to call 9-1-1 to get an ambulance to take my wife to the hospital because she refused to take her medication. (To be fair, she thought she WAS taking it in her "altered mental state.") Those hospitalizations were for four days to get her stabilized and restore her compos mentis. We almost had to hospitalize her again this last week but were able to catch her diminished mental state in time.

My recent third retirement now has me in the role of primary caregiver, ensuring that my wife takes her medications on time, every time. So, what does this have to do with self-defense?
It means I no longer have a partner in defending our home. After her last hospitalization, I took her revolver, unloaded it, and secured it. She's never left alone, and, if there is a threat, I, or my grown daughter, will have to deal with it. If my wife receives a new, one-owner liver, this issue should become moot. Until then, we are her line of defense.

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shouldazagged · #2 09-03-2018, 12:26 AM

I'm sorry to hear that your situation is so dire, and I pray she receives a liver soon. I'm sure the waiting is terribly hard.

I have friends with parents and other relatives who have been forced to see that firearms are not available to them. It's a tough decision, especially if the relatives in question have been gun people.

Rustyt1953 · #3 09-03-2018, 12:32 AM

I echo what Mike said and offer my prayers as well.

elm_creek_smith · #4 09-03-2018, 02:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by shouldazagged

I'm sorry to hear that your situation is so dire, and I pray she receives a liver soon. I'm sure the waiting is terribly hard.

It is a tough situation since she has been so strong these 44 years, and I thank you.

Quote:

I have friends with parents and other relatives who have been forced to see that firearms are not available to them. It's a tough decision, especially if the relatives in question have been gun people.

She has not been a "gun person," more the lioness determined to defend her pride. She doesn't care about manufacturers, models, or calibers, just will it go, "Bang!" with enough authority. She is quite good, but not that interested in shooting as a sport.

Again, my thanks.

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elm_creek_smith · #5 09-03-2018, 02:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rustyt1953

I echo what Mike said and offer my prayers as well.

Thank you, sir.

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jimbo728 · #6 09-03-2018, 03:36 AM

I am sad that your wife suffers because of this disease process. Your courage, dedication and understanding of the liver disease and its complications is truly impressive. Taking on the responsibility as her caregiver is a most commendable decision by you rather than leaving her in someone else`s care.
It is my sincere hope that defense of life and limb is not necessary.
I add my hopes and prayers that she finds a liver donor and you and her can live and love always.
Jim

Old cop · #7 09-03-2018, 07:40 AM

I’m so sorry for your situation and understand how difficult this can be. My wife became ill last year and I’m her full time care giver. She has good day and bad days but has never been a gun person so I remain her protector.

elm_creek_smith · #8 09-03-2018, 09:32 AM

Thank you, jimbo and old cop.

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joeintexas · #9 09-03-2018, 10:21 AM

Sad to hear this news. You and your wife are in our prayers.

jwk · #10 09-03-2018, 11:33 AM

Best wishes and a prayer for your wife and family.

16thVACav · #11 09-03-2018, 01:37 PM

Prayers for you and your family.

wnderr · #12 09-03-2018, 01:45 PM

Sorry to hear of your predicament. Prayers from Illinois. Be strong, Brother!

CA Escapee · #13 09-03-2018, 01:59 PM

It sounds like you're on top of the situation and making all the right decisions.

Bill

bigggbbruce · #14 09-03-2018, 02:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by elm_creek_smith

So, what does this have to do with self-defense?

Sorry for your wife's health problems, but I have the same question.

Practical · #15 09-03-2018, 02:55 PM

Don't forgot to put things like car keys and other dangerous items out of reach.

lrrifleman · #16 09-03-2018, 03:16 PM

I can empathize with your situation. I will pray that your wife's wait for a donor is short.

SRG · #17 09-03-2018, 03:24 PM

Sorry to hear of your troubles. A person has no greater responsibility then to protect and provide for those they love.

Praying for strength for you and your family.

elm_creek_smith · #18 09-03-2018, 04:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigggbbruce

Sorry for your wife's health problems, but I have the same question.

I thought I explained that. Thanks for your concern.

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Whitwabit · #19 09-04-2018, 09:44 PM

Sad you had to do that but it is for the best under the present circumstances .. .. Hope a transplant is available soon

Prays going skyward !!

bigwheelzip · #20 09-04-2018, 11:42 PM

Being the caregiver is twice as hard when working with diminished mentality. You just can't predict actions and the anticipation is exhausting. Like sleeping with one eye open.

I'm sorry to hear of your situation and am praying for you both.

elm_creek_smith · #21 10-07-2018, 12:42 AM

Update: Things are going well. She still has trouble finding words and explaining exactly what she wants me to do sometimes, but she's taking her medicine and feeling well, most days. We just got back from a week at the beach house on Jamaica Beach, Galveston Island, Texas. She loves hearing the waves. Life is good.

Old cop · #22 10-07-2018, 10:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by elm_creek_smith

Update: Things are going well. She still has trouble finding words and explaining exactly what she wants me to do sometimes, but she's taking her medicine and feeling well, most days. We just got back from a week at the beach house on Jamaica Beach, Galveston Island, Texas. She loves hearing the waves. Life is good.

Glad to hear it! Things for us are day to day and I have my own mobility challenges, but support of friends & family help. I do wonder where the Golden Years are however.

pawncop · #23 10-07-2018, 11:02 AM

Prayer from Texas for your wife and her condition.

You have done the best for her.

wingriderz · #24 10-20-2018, 12:13 PM

Sorry to read the news so late .Prayers sent

elm_creek_smith · #25 11-03-2018, 10:18 PM

In Texas for more evaluations at a different hospital. Good thing my Oklahoma handgun license is good here. Long drive only to find a big time motorcycle rally at the end. Wish I still had my '56 Harley. These people would go nuts

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Yiogo · #26 11-03-2018, 10:33 PM

I am sorry for your troubles. I pray that all will be well for you and your wife. Prayers sent.