The Great Pain Med Adventures: Finding Carmen's Goldilocks Zone

Ladies and gentlemen,

Welcome to today's episode of "As The Hospital Turns," where we're witnessing the ongoing saga of finding just the right balance in The Tale of the Three Pain Meds: Too Strong, Too Light, and Just Right!

Yesterday, our heroine channeled her inner Olympic athlete, showing off some impressive moves with her physical therapist that would make any yoga instructor proud. But in true Carmen fashion, she got so caught up in her performance that she "forgot" to take her starring role in "Pain Pills: The Musical." By nighttime, let's just say she was feeling more like "Phantom of the Opera" than "Sound of Music."

Then, it turns out what's "light as a feather" for some folks hits Mom like a ton of bricks – or should we say, hits her like a marathon of "Nexflex" shows all at once when it comes to pain meds! The doctors are playing a real-life version of "The Price is Right," trying to land on that perfect dose that's not too hot, not too cold, but juuuust right. We're looking for that sweet spot where Mom can show off her physical therapy moves without feeling like she's on a dreadmill.

Meanwhile, your faithful correspondent (that's me, Tina) is channeling my inner Perry Mason, surrounded by enough appeal paperwork to wallpaper the entire hospital. My mission: Operation Get-Mom-to-CC-Rehab continues! I'm pretty sure I've now read enough medical documentation to qualify for an honorary degree in "Paperwork Psychology."

Prayer Warriors, we've got some specific requests for your heavenly hotline:

• For the medical team to find that perfect balance of PAIN medications (we've now switched to plain Tylenol)

• For Mom to stay comfortable while still being able to participate in her recovery

• For our continued efforts to secure her spot at CC Rehabilitation

• For Mom to keep her signature sense of humor (though the Carmenisms seem to flow even better when she's sleepy!)

Until our next update, remember: Life is like Mom's pain meds – it's all about finding the right balance!

The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace. - Psalm 29:11

The Villarreals

P.S. If anyone needs Mom, she's in the middle of auditioning for the role of Sleeping Beauty. Though between you and me, she's already got the part! 😴👑