Jim Atwood

Hello friends and family.  We have always known how special our Dad was - we love him to the moon and beyond.  We know we are biased, but he is one of the best men to ever walk the earth.  We believe that.

The past few days as news of Dad's battle with chronic back pain (since September) and COVID-19 (Dad tested positive on June 3) has spread beyond our immediate family and closest friends, we have been reminded of how much he has has meant to hundreds, maybe even thousands of people over the course of his life.  The outpouring of concern and love has been gratifying to all of us.  We wanted to create this page to update everyone without overwhelming our phones and emotions.  
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Dad injured his back in September when he "tweaked" it - literally stood up from washing his hands.  He has had numerous attempts at treatments and medications, but nothing has really relieved the pain.  

After a fall in mid-May, he was admitted to the hospital for observation, and following that was moved to the healthcare wing of the senior living community (Sunnyside) where they live in Harrisonburg, VA.  The hope was that with some intensive physical and occupational therapy, he could go home again to independent living with Mom (Roxana).  

On June 3, another resident and a couple of staff tested positive for COVID along with Dad.  Mom had been in Dad's room visiting each day, and was no longer allowed to visit.  Early on, the most significant symptoms for Dad were weakness and fever, as well as some confusion.

We were alarmed when Mom (Roxana) also came down with symptoms for COVID about a week later. She tested negative for the virus twice, though she also showed all the same symptoms as Dad - high fever, fatigue, nausea, loss of taste and desire to eat.  We suspected COVID as did the nursing staff at Sunnyside.   On the morning of June 15, she had an episode with high blood pressure, and was taken to the hospital as a precaution.  "Fortunately," this time in the hospital she was given the anti-body test, and she did have antibodies for COVID, so we could finally confirm she had had it.  The silver lining is that this test has made it possible for her to physically see Dad again, and following her overnight hospital stay was moved to Dad's room on June 17 for a few days to regain her strength and reconnect with Dad.  

We are grateful that the Sunnyside staff recognized the boost this would provide for both of them, and although we believe Mom will only be staying full time in Dad's room for a couple more days, this has been a tremendous gift to both of them.  He is much less confused, but still very weak.  He is delighted to see Mom again, and to have her physical presence and healing touch.
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This site was created so that we don't leave anyone out when it's time for an update, and we can pass along comments and wishes from so many people without overwhelming our phones, especially Mom's. She needs her rest, and space to heal and recover too.