The Klein Room

[The Kleins, Tempe, AZ]

Five weeks.
Today makes five weeks since Jesse suffered his heart attack.
Before Jesse woke up, family and friends occupied a small pocketed area on the second floor of Mayo. We pulled more chairs in. Kathy moved a small square end table to the center and brought snacks for everyone. We waited. And waited. Daily surgeries. Hours. Days. Weeks. There was something about that room that comforted me while my world was falling apart. When the evening cleaning crew returned the table to the corner, I had to move it back to the middle. This became our room.

There is another family sitting in the Klein room today. I wonder how many weeks they will occupy this spot. As I walked by I must have had a look of relief on my face, as I have seen other faces of those whose loved ones are pulling through. As we are going about our daily lives, work, taking kids to soccer games, vacationing, or having dinner out with friends, these scenes go on everyday, everywhere. Rooms like the Klein room, filled with grieving families.

I spoke to Jess early this morning and let him know I would be on my way. When I asked what I could bring him, he quickly responded, “Yourself.”

So I took myself immediately to see him. One of my favorite nurses was with him today, Mini. Mini warned me that he was feeling a little depressed. When I entered the room, Jess was pleased to see me. We chatted a little and then he admitted that he had been feeling down. He wished he could do more. I talked to him in only a way a wife can talk to a husband and I noticed his body and facial expression seem to relax. I thought he needed a little distraction so I suggested a movie. Jess looked at the categories offered and suggested, “a musical.”

Jess watched “Mamma Mia!” as I read my book.
I would get up every so often, stroke his head, hold his hand. When the movie ended he seemed distracted again. I asked if there was anyone he wanted to see. He was concerned about work and wanted to speak with his company’s outside accountant. After a couple of messages we finally touched base. As my work has made my absence easy, so has Jesse’s. He got the answers he needed. He is a responsible man and devoted to his business. I saw him nearly relax and suggested, “How about another musical?” Jesse chose the “Fiddler on the Roof” and thoroughly enjoyed it.

Mini came in and out, tended to Jess the way an excellent nurse would. Jess realizes he is in a top notch facility and is appreciative as I over the excellent care he is receiving.

Jesse’s son came in towards the end of the day. I thought it was a good opportunity to take my long drive home to tend to the pups. Matt called me shortly after and said Dad was tired and made him leave. He said he seemed peaceful and content.

May you all be peaceful and content tonight.

Doodle Kisses and sweet dreams, J, J, P and H.

[Kim Williams]

Many times I have gone into the family room to talk to the families and the "scene" is just how you described. The families seem to join together in a "fraternity" of hope and caring. I think that nurses are angels. My daughter has known since she could talk that she wanted to be a nurse. She just found out that she got into nursing school and starts this summer. I am going to have her read your blog to remind her of the wonderful profession she has chosen and what a difference she can make in someones life. I am so glad of your peaceful day. Good for your heart too!!!!

[Susan]

What good news it was to hear that Jess is concerned about work! Something to occupy his mind in the long hours confined is good. He must get so exhausted not being able to do anything. Watching musicals sounds relaxing though! I hope today was a good as yesterday!

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

am so glad that Jess is making progress and receiving such excellent care! His distraction, restlessness, etc., are good signs...they show he wants to get back to living his life! With so much love and support, I have no doubt that all will be well. Peace and contentment tonight to you too, J, J, P & H, from K & J!!

[2SCdoodles]

Another good day! Every night I read your posts and pray that you and Jess have had another good day!

[Missi]

Janet, I got home from a long weekend away this morning and couldn't wait to read all of the missed blogs on Jesse's progress! (I haven't even gone to pick up my doodle yet!). I am glad that he is making such great steps towards recovery, as small as they may be. Thank you for all of your updates, we're sending doodle love and kisses your way!

[Adrianne Matzkin]

Sounds like the tow of you had a pleasenat Sunday - except the surrroundings. Will the hospital staff allow Jesse to have a doodle visit - even for just a few minutes? That may help keep his spirits up and happy patient makes better progress.
We are always thinking of you.

[Marianne *OZZY & ZOEY]

This sounds so good, looks like things are getting better and easier for Jesse. Still praying!!!!

[Denise, Winnie, and AngelAbby]

Every day I look for your blog and every day I am so happy to hear good progress - baby steps to say the least, but still progress. You and Jesse and family are in the thoughts, hearts and prayers of so many... always remember that.

[Yvonne, Riley, Murphy and Luca]

What an enjoyable way to spend a Sunday with your husband under the circumstances. I am glad it was a relaxing day for both of you. You and Jesse are in my thoughts and prayers.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

What a joy it must be to have the days turn calmer. How great not to be in the Klein room any longer.