Knee surgery is no joke. The doctors cut your leg, the joint is replaced. The day of surgery and many after the leg hurts, the worst pain. I was lucky, I have a husband and great physical therapists. Albert was not so lucky.  Surgery 08/17/26, 2 falls 3 days later, a long stay in Faulkner medical center for kidney injury.  Spaulding Brighton to learn to walk again. Returned home, was not able to stand up from a standard couch. Back to Faulkner medical center, than transfer to John Scott House in Braintree for almost 1 month. 

     Tomorrow, Albert is going home, his insurance denied the appeal to stay longer in care. He still asks for help to get into bed. He is not able to sit on a couch, it is too low. His shower needs grab bars or a complete renovation to make it accessible. Albert can't drive. He needs more help than his insurance will provide, the same insurance that gave him a notice of discharge. Albert is 69 years old on an old age pension with a per diem job at New Bridge on the Charles, that he can not do while in this condition.

    Albert is the kind of friend who shows up to see you in hospital or rehab. He did not have children, but has always taken care of his dogs. Albert helped us move to a new apartment, he took care of his good friend's Ronnies father, so he could stay in his own home to the end. Albert worked in public television and supported a homeless friend when he was needed. He tutored a friend in english. Albert is too busy to come to your birthday but he will show up if you need helping hand. 

    Now it is our turn to give Albert a helping hand.