August 7, 2004
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Eye Patch Diaries
While a picture is worth a thousand words, the picture in the previous entry hasn't told even a portion of the real story. At the specialist pediatric eye-doctor (and there is only one in the whole state) it was decided that an eye patch for a mere hour a day to improve her 'lazy' eye was not going to help. On to patching all day. So, with tongue in cheek, I give you the story behind patching ALL DAY LONG for four weeks.
Day 1: The doctor's office has given us two ideas to make patching more fun. First we'll get stickers and put them on the eye patches and second, we'll make a scrap book of all the patches she's worn. I've also told her that she'll get a prize when her book fills up. There is excitement on all fronts... for about 10 minutes. Realization that an eye patch won't be fun despite the decorative stickers purchased hits hard.
Day 2: Eye patch put on upon waking. There is still some enthusiasm since putting stickers on patches to decorate them is still colorful and interesting. We take an extra half hour for each errand as Seeta must explain to anyone within hearing distance that she is wearing this to make her eye strong. This is followed by my interpreting for the lucky 'victim'
Day 3: Eye patch put on only 1/2 hour after breakfast... oops, let's not forget this thing here! Some kitty stickers found on back of a chair. Patch replaced three times within the day. Those suckers just don't want to stay on! Either that or someone is sneakily pulling them off to peek (but of course not our girl!)
Day 4: Much like Day 3. Fun design eye patches found on-line (oooooh I absolutely love the internet) and purchased.
Day 5: Loads of attempts to 'peek out' have been foiled (curses!) Extra tape is purchased and dire threats are given out hourly.
Day 8: Able to remember to apply patch before lunch time. Four weeks of decorative stickers used up. Dad wears eye patch in sympathy (which is especially funny since the junior size only just covers his eye and the 1/2 inch thick of Winnie the Pooh stickers makes him look like a freak.)
Day 10: Half box of eye patches found 'decorating' the bedroom door and wall behind the bed. The supposed month's supply of patches must now be replenished.
Day 14: Eye patch generally applied before 3 PM. This event followed by a major temper tantrum from both mother and child. Father generally found hiding in garage.
Day 17: Largest dog knocks himself out after running into the door. Eye patches found glued into facial fur.
Days 20 to 28: Eye patch forgotten and family happy again.
Day 30: Visit to eye doctor reveals treatment to ineffective and blinding drops are recommended.
Now, remember that we haven't actually been through days 10 thru 30, but let's just say that I can see the writing on the wall.
Comments (12)
Oh my!
Sounds truly eventful.
I had to wear those things as a kid.
I felt like a geek.
Argh, I'm sorry, girl...clearly traumatic for BOTH of you
Been there with Carrie, and don't envy you at all!
In order to avoid your dog's accident I'd recommend removing all the doors in your house (including the front and back doors). Oh, and remove all the walls too, just to be sure.
Oh my.. I'm sorry, I know it's gonna be a pain, but this was so funn I can't help but cackle. *HUGS*
I'll be thinking of you all!
Hmmmm, may I say your suggested outcome actually happened to my girl. Eye drops were the only successful endeavor. Even a pink eye patch was repeatedly "lost" and either I was going to see a change or I would be a new patient at Western State Mental Hospital.
I've just been doing some xanga surfing and wanted to let you know that I enjoyed visiting your page. My youngest son had surgery to correct his eyes. They crossed and had they not been corrected, at least one would have quit working. He now has no natural depth perception, but has learned to compensate. You and your beautiful princess will be in my thoughts. Infinite Blessings
I like dad wearing the eye patch! That's fantastic!
I'd love to see your beading.
You're such a great parent.
She'll remember back to this.
I must commend you and your husband for your efforts in making Seeta feel comfortable and enthusiatic with regards to the patches. You took it as far as you could, though I suppose she would protest at some point. It's a shame the patches really didn't do the necessary job. I feel for Seeta having to endure all that for the better part of the month. I hope the next treatments work better for her!
Enjoy your evening, and best wishes!
So if I come visit, you won't make me put drops in her eye will you? I can't even put drops in my own eye.
oh dear... I was laughing at all the places the patches & stickers found (or will find) themselves, but... oh dear...
"blinding drops"? that doesn't sound pleasant...
This is going to be a battle. You'll win. But it'll cost ya
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