Jody & Vic Smith

As many of you know, Vic began a precipitous physical decline in the last six weeks or so. Getting weaker and weaker, he went to the hospital on April 20. They found that his blood chemistry was putting him dangerously close to kidney failure, which was difficult to treat given his ongoing congestive heart failure. Since then, it has been a struggle to balance the needs of these vital, but now weary, organs. After nine days at Chippenham hospital, it was only two weeks before he had to return, and it became clear that only in the hospital could they maintain that delicate balance. No theory-of-everything has been found, though much has been ruled out (with a lot of blood and radiological imaging taken). What remains to be investigated (cancers) would, if found, require cycling through the hospital and possibly enduring aggressive and invasive treatment. Vic was very clear about not wanting to spend his remaining time that way.

Last week, he and Jody made the decision to enroll him in hospice, and Thursday he came home. He’s where he wants to be, whether telling his stories from his “chair” or swearing in front of his computer, but more than anything, tended round the clock by the love of his life. That’s right, his Puppy.

We would like to keep you informed about his, and Jody’s, well-being, and keep you in the circle we continue to enjoy together. Certainly we welcome any thoughts you want to share. So, we’ve set up this Caring Bridge account. You’ll be alerted through your e-mail when there’s an update. You’ll also be able to communicate with Vic and Jody, whether in public or private messaging. And you’ll be able to see how you might help

We hope in this way to stay connected with you in difficult times as we have in joyous ones.