Worth Bolton

Hi, all.  As many of you know, Worth has been experiencing cognitive impairment for some time now.  His symptoms recently began worsening, at a pace that neither Mom nor I anticipated.  We were able to get him a placement in the geriatric psychiatric unit at UNC Hospitals a week or so ago, so that they could comprehensively evaluate what is going on with him.  It is a safe place for him to be at the moment.  What has become very clear is that there are no easy answers for his situation...and no easy diagnosis. 

The nitty gritty is that he recognizes people...and will laugh and joke like always...but then you realize that he is not exactly connected to reality.  He has always been a master at adapting to his environment, but he is variably more or less coherent these days.  The situation is much more bitter than sweet, but it is nice to see his personality shining through.  We have the impression that he won't be able to stay at the hospital for much longer (maybe just a few days). ..and they have pretty tight visiting hours.  Mom and I are working on a longer-term placement for him (hopefully in the Chapel Hill area) and will keep everyone posted about that.  I think he is very very happy to have people come see him.

As an aside, if anyone reading this has some insight on what resources might be available in this situation in the Chapel Hill area, please let me know.  It has been a rude awakening to discover how few options are available.  This could be a long sad road we're going down.

Love to you all.  Thanks for all the support and warm wishes.  Mom, Emma and I really appreciate it.

Kim Hoppin  (Worth's stepdaughter)