Family Visits Dad in Phoebe Home

I arrived at about 11:30AM. Dad was a bit agitated and could not speak very loudly. He told me I "looked good". The nurse said he refused his meds. He was in pain. I got him to agree to take the morphine -- fed to him in applesauce.

Vicki arrived. Very hard to speak to him. He stared off, had a pained expression and seemed emotional at times but he was very dry (from the diuretic). We helped him drink water thru a straw. He was so weak. Very emotional for us.

Played Sara's compositions. Dad seemed to like them but asked me to "slow it down". I thought he meant make it quieter -- but no. I explained that's how Sara performed it.

Jim and family were on the way. The nurse arrived with Dad's lunch, so Vicki and I drove out to a local diner for lunch.

Jim, Peter, Andrew and Jesse arrived at around 2:30 PM with Mom. Mom looked fine -- Jesse had helped her dress.

It was so very touching. Mom and Dad kissed a dozen times. Mom was very sweet but no tears. Played Sara's songs again. I felt like crying the whole day.

I called Lin and Sara who both took turns speaking to him on the phone. Lin's loving comments caused him to break a smile. He understands but couldn't speak but unintelligible whispers.

Jim and company left and I helped Vicki take Mom down to the car. Dad wouldn't let go. He couldn't speak and had such a forlorn look on his face -- I will never forget how he looked.


- posted by Rodney B. Murray, PhD @ 4:00 PM