How??

[Rosy]

I wish you were closer to me...I could have come to your rescue.

[Maria]

I'm sorry to hear your relatives are so far off and you've not really much of a support system re actual hands on help. Do you shop over the internet for groceries and such?

I know you cannot get out much tho I was thinking about some local group that might be helpful to mothers at home in your circumstances like sort of networking with other "moms".. and then perhaps checking with the Red Cross in your area to see if there are services that could be helpful to you.

I wonder if you qualify for a patient care assistant? I don't really know just throwing things out there. Wish I could throw myself out that way for a while to help out tho I'm not really helpful with babysitting as I get tired just playing with my 20 lb dog a while..

wishing you the best as always and less pain!

[melodyl]

Dear Mary,

My heart goes out to you and your little one. One thing that helped me continue watching my grandchildren after surgery was an electric hospital bed. With a remote control I could lower the bed enough that my one year old granddaughter could pull herself up without help. Her three year old brother was very happy to be in control of raising and lowering the head or foot of the bed as needed (or not!).

Others on this site know more about pain meds than me....please take their advice and find a good pain management doctor to help you. There are several choices when it comes to managing pain. Keep trying until you find the best combination of relief without too many side effects

Is there a volunteer center near you? If so, could you contact them to see if there is a surrogate grandparent or auntie that could help with your little one? I work with a young mom who does not have family nearby. Somehow she and her daughter were connected with a retired couple that didn't have any children or grandchildren. It was a match made in heaven!

Like others here, I wish I lived close enough to help you. Please keep all of us updated on your situation. We care!

Hugs, Melody

[NeNe]

Mary,

I couldn't IMAGINE what it is you are going through. I am SO sorry for the loss of your husband. You must be devastated!! Your baby is BEAUTIFUL!!

I have to say this to you. You have found the right place, the people on here are the most caring people one could ever have the chance to get to know. They are here for you through the good, the bad & the ugly. Never do they pass judgement.

You are a very young lady with ALOT on your plate. I have read through alot of these replies and I have to agree with the idea that you should check your area for churches, groups etc that may be able to offer you help. What about a daycare for your daughter? Even if it is only a couple days a week, at least it will give you a chance to rest.

I wish I was able to come and help you out. My heart breaks for you!!

PLEASE keep us posted on how you are doing and don't forget that we are here for YOU!!

Wishing you nothing but the best always!!

NeNe