I am able to climb the stairs with no help.  I change into my pajamas and go to bed. As I lay down, tears start to roll down my cheeks.  I have a sudden burst of emotion and start to cry like a baby.  It is good to be home.

            After my rest, I have my first meal at home, Rhoda's chicken soup with vegetables, and for dessert, ice cream and chocolate pudding.  When I went to the hospital, I weighed 155 pounds.  Now I am 135 pounds.

Thursday, October 14, 1999

            My first night at home I dream about Brooklyn, New York, where I was born.  I see street maps of the old neighborhood and meet friends of sixty years ago.  I sleep very well.

Saturday, October 16, 1999

            My appetite is fair.  I am still feeling weak. Last night when I went to bed I felt wet around the pouch. It was leaking. I have worn it for three days.

            Rhoda gives me towels and we prepare to put on a new pouch.  First the sheet and my pajamas are changed.  Then the pouch is put in place and we go to sleep.

Sunday, October 17, 1999

            It is morning and the pouch is leaking again.  A visiting nurse comes to the house and takes my vital signs and case history. She says the HMO will allow an aide to come for one hour, twice a week to clean me and do light housekeeping.  A nurse will also come twice a week to check my blood pressure, take my temperature and assist with the pouch.