October 27, 2025
Bruce headed out at 10:30 AM yesterday (Sunday) to Augusta, Georgia to be an advocate for his dad. 
Unfortunately, he didn’t beat the rain from the southwest. He got rained on the first part of the trip. He said that most of the way, he was in front of the rain or getting just a light rain. Is it just me, or has the weather service stopped being as accurate? On Friday and even most of Saturday, they weren’t predicting rain. 
Bruce arrived at 6:30 PM. His sister came down and they went back to their dad’s room. His dad was happy to see Bruce. They talked for a bit, then Bruce and his sister had to leave so their dad could get some sleep. They went out for dinner. My SIL shared her plans with Bruce. She planned to leave after my FIL’s surgery on Monday (today).
My father-in-law had another surgery today. The doctor replaced the drain with a different type of drain. He took samples to culture to see if the infection was destroyed. The wound area looked a lot better and it was starting to heal. My SIL got the medical update and headed home.
Unfortunately, it appears the anesthesia used this time has caused my FIL to become very confused and somewhat angry. I really feel for Bruce trying to keep his dad from removing the medical equipment. His dad even pulled out his IV. On the plus side, my FIL isn’t in as much pain.
The nurse expects the confusion to wear off after a good night’s rest.
Bruce talked with his sister to let her know their dad was very confused.
Bruce and I talked on the phone. I asked if he had let his other siblings know about their dad’s condition. He hadn’t. I suggested that he let them know in case their dad calls them. With that level of confusion, they would be really worried about what was going on. Bruce said that was a great idea and he’d do that. He said that he needed to go so he could send them a text message.
As I am writing this, I had another thought. If my FIL’s confusion hasn’t cleared up tomorrow or at least is not improving, I am going to suggest to Bruce that they check for a brain bleed. His dad’s behavior is similar to when he had a brain bleed.
Blackberry Homestead 
Oh dear. We hope to hear a good update tomorrow. Sending prayers! ❤️
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Thank you for your kind words. I am waiting for news.
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You are an excellent advocate from afar.
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Thank you for your kind words.
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God bless Bruce, his dad and you all. Good idea to check for a brain bleed. Safe travels to Bruce, too. My heart goes out to you; I know how it is to deal with aging parents. With regards to the weather, we see all different forecasts – one on Dan’s phone, one on my phone, and they all constantly change! So who knows? Good luck, Julia!
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Thank you for your kind words. Bruce was hoping to speak to the doctors when they make their rounds this morning. Bruce and I get different forecasts on our phones. Mine is usually a little more accurate than his. And they do constantly change!
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While it is definitely a good idea to check for other reasons for symptoms, it is more common than we might think for elderly people to have confusion and anger following anesthesia. With repeated surgeries such as you have mentioned, there can be a cumulative effect requiring even more time to recover from the cognitive changes that affect the brain. It is definitely alarming when we are with the person and can be very emotional to observe and feel unable to help. It is very difficult for the caregiver as well as the patient and your support for Bruce is so important.
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The doctors had already checked for a brain bleed and found a blood clot. They believe the block d clot is normal. They have assured Bruce that his dad is exhibiting normal behavior for the number of surgeries. They said his behavior will be worse after the next surgery. Bruce has a lot of sympathy for his brother that is taking over on Saturday.
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It is good Bruce can be there with his dad during this challenging time. Hopefully the pain meds causing confusion do not have be used for too long, and he continues to heal.
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Bruce said while his dad slept a lot today, when his dad was awake, they had good conversations.
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