Well that went as I expected, very badly

[cornerofmadness]

The X-ray in just three weeks shows a complete destruction of the first bone in the big toe and spread to the next. The doc offered her two options weeks of antibiotic treatment (which can be dangerous) to basically put the infection into 'remission' (bone infections are almost impossible to cure) which could recur again and again or, since Mom already has no use of that neuropathic toe, to amputate. She doesn't want to do that. We both tried to explain that the infection could go BAD fast.

I told her, it's her choice and it is. I can't make it for her. I agree with the podiatrist, it's time to amputate and I obviously don't say that lightly. I'd rather her not have that toe than to lose her leg or her life over this.

I knew from the moment I came home this wouldn't have a happy ending.

Neuropathic and/or diabetics you need to watch your feet, take care in buying shoes, putting them on, shaking them out before putting them on, if you can see them check them every night.

Comments

[all_choseny]

I'm so sorry things took the turn they did for your mom. I know it seems hard to let go and allow our parents to make their own decisions (role reversal can be hard for everyone), but allowing her autonomy is the right thing even if it sucks. I'm sure its even harder for you because of your professional experience. Please try to stay positive. As a doctor I'm guessing you've seen the impossible happen. Hopefully, mom will also have a change of heart as well before her condition escalates. I'll be sure to keep your family in my thoughts.

[cornerofmadness]

Thank you very much. It's hard but it's her choice (and I think she understands now how dangerous it is)

[enemytosleep]

That really sucks, and I hope that she sees reason before this becomes an even worse problem. My best to you guys.

[cornerofmadness]

thanks. I think she will, the surgery is scheduled for tomorrow. I've been hitting up all my podiatrist friends but none of us can think of an alternative plan (mostly because osteo doesn't give you one)

[scribblemoose]

That's such a tough decision, and so tough to support someone through it. I hope it all goes well.

[cornerofmadness]

thank you

[thenewbuzwuzz]

What electric-heart and enemytosleep said. *hugs*

[cornerofmadness]

thank you

[aaronlisa]

((Hugs))

I am so sorry that you are going through this. I hope that your mother will listen to you and the doctor.

[cornerofmadness]

Thanks. The surgery is in a few hours

Oh hon

[dauntless_heart]

I can feel your sadness. So sorry.

[spikedluv]

I'm sorry the news wasn't better. That really sucks donkey balls.

(What do you mean by 'shake them out & check them every night'?)

[cornerofmadness]

It does. Thank you.

Diabetics often have vision issues and neuropathy so things can be dropped into shoes (by us, by our pets) that they can't see OR feel with their feet which cause issues (I've seen combs, cat toys, nails tacks, money just to name a few) so if you have neuropathy shake the shoes out to make sure there isn't anything in them

[spikedluv]

I didn't realize that. Thanks for explaining. (I hope it never gets that bad for me, but I'll keep that in mind for the future.)

[cornerofmadness]

No problem. Always feel free to ask me diabetic care questions. That's what I specialized in for feet/ankles

[ysilme]

Oh dear, that sounds anything but nice! I'm so sorry this happened, and even more that you have to deal with it in this fashion. Not being heeded by parents/spouses etc. can be so draining and frustrating, and if you know exactly what you're talking about it's even worse! All my sympathies, also that you had to deal with the ER situation on your birthday, and also all the well-wishes and prayers for your mum! *hugs*

[cornerofmadness]

It is very frustrating.

Thank you very much

[rahirah]

Oh, man. That sucks. I hope you can convince her to do what's best for her health in the long run.

[cornerofmadness]

She had the surgery today, thanks