Is it only a couple of weeks since I last posted? It feels like months. My days have been busy as I cruise along the new learning curve with the addition of a catheter while still putting into place some house repairs to allow us to stay in our home. So much for planning to be prepared for the unknown; it is often a mythical goal. -- A visiting nurse and a wash aide are in place. The urine has gone from an opaque, robust burgundy to a hideous khaki green, somewhat translucent and less smelly. I am assured this is progress. On Tuesday, there is a follow up appt with the urologist. Hopefully, there will be clues, such as whether there is a surgical fix or this is the new normal. -- To the someone on this thread who suggested the VA as a possible source for help, thank you so much. The social worker on our case gave me a contact number. The addition of the catheter has limited already limited interactions with the outside world. I hope the VA can assist in a home aide for respite so I can attend my Writers Group and occasionally do some shopping. -- As always, I am amazed at the resiliency and adaptability of being a caregiver. I don't know if anyone remembers me babbling about setting up areas in my home with artwork that allows me to focus on something stimulating and beautiful, even if, from the corner of an eye, zipping onto the next challenge. Well, a few small art pieces on a brick wall are doing their job. The effort was well worth the positive payoff. -- Right now, I am steeling myself for the first haircut, shower, and shave without the assistance of the bath aide. I know this must be done if the VA does not come through. That unsweet spot of what I can do and what is required is still unknown, but it is better to prepare and not be entirely at the gods' mercy. When and if I hit the wall is still to be established. -- I can never convey how much jehjeh's note meant. Again evidence we are not alone. GloRo