The best news today was that Sue would be able to come home. But, things being as they are with hospital time, it would end up being later on in the day. So, I got myself into efficiency mode, and did what needed doing. Mary had risen super early and left, but surprised me by coming back and bringing me a homemade smoothie for breakfast! So nice of her. Brandon brought me some clothes and a toothbrush and such, so I was able to feel more or less human. My dad’s best friend Don (from all the way back to when they were kids) and his wife came over this morning to visit. That was rather tough to see, I don’t think Don really expected that things had changed so quickly. They’d driven a long way, but stayed just a few minutes. Don’s wife told me privately that he just couldn’t handle it. I think my dad knew he was there, even if he couldn’t really respond much. He’d been asking about Don a couple days ago, so, I know it must have been really important to him for Don to visit. I’m glad he could.
A hospice nurse came by later in the morning, helped me with a few things for my dad, and just sat and talked with me for awhile. She gently, but clearly, told me about what I could expect to happen next with my dad’s condition, what symptoms or changes might happen, what they mean, and what to do. This helped me to feel calmer about it all, since having the facts and information at hand makes me feel a little less out of control. 🙂
Sue did make it home by the afternoon, and boy, all three of us were so glad she was home. I was pleased that I’d been able to keep up with the laundry and housekeeping details, so that Sue didn’t have to worry about a single silly chore.
Brandon and the kids came by after school again, and they played upstairs and watched the hockey game. I sat with them for a bit to take a break, and Kendall played a very physical game of pretend basketball for me. She’s so funny. Later, Sue and I were able to pause and have a lovely dinner together with the kids, thanks again to our saint on earth, Ms. Mary. I think my kids are going to adopt her as an auntie! (Heck, I think Brandon and I might, also!) Her Irish accent is so pleasant and her words so soothing, not to mention, what a chef she is! Again today, I talked to the kids some about Steve and his condition. They both somberly and sweetly went to his bedside, held his hand, and told him that they love him very much.
