Home for the holidays

When you think of being home for the holidays, you usually think of family gathered around the Christmas Tree, parties, etc but all my dad wants this year is to be near family in hospice.

Dad with Sister Bear and Brother Bear

Christmas 2004

Yes, he has made his decision and it's hospice care. 

It's been a difficult one and I think he is still struggling with this decision but he's tired and the fight has left him.

Christmas 2005

Dad showing Sister Bear the finer points of Candyland

I am going to be in Detroit tomorrow meeting with the doctors, social worker, hospital hospice coordinator, etc.  I found a facility that we would like Dad to be in for his hospice care but it's a matter of insurance and availibility.  I am prepared with a back up...I think.

Christmas 2008

The Henry Ford Docs hope that we can have him out of the hospital an into a care facility by the end of the week.  He's ready.

I'm not and I'm sure you aren't either but no one ever wants to say goodbye but I want Dad to be at peace.

A very good friend of his who he grew up with drove to Detroit to visit Dad today, Mike Shrider.  He drove from somewhere South of Fort Wayne.  It wasn't a long visit but I hope it was a good visit.  I was frustrated everytime I talked to Dad today.  He just didn't want to be on the phone with him.  I know he's anxious, he's made a very major decision regarding his life and his death.

So, as we get arrangements made for hospice, I will keep you posted.

Christmas 2004

Dad and Brother Bear at the VFW Christmas Party

I realize that I don't have Christmas pictures with Dad from last year because he had just got out of the hospital and was at the PT Rehab Center.  We didn't celebrate the holidays with him until mid-January. 

Please enjoy your family this holiday season.  Cherish every moment you have with them (even the one's that drive you crazy) because you never know if it will be your last.  Love each other.  Let those you love know it.  Live with no regrets.  Love...