Darrell "Papa"’s Story

Site created on April 4, 2024


On Thursday March 22,  my father-in-law Darrell was taken home from Mayo St. Mary's hospital in Rochester after having been in the ICU and on the cardiac unit following vascular surgery March 1.  Darrell's surgery was scheduled to help improve blood flow to his left foot after having his big toe amputated. 


Recovery from the anesthesia was difficult. After his breathing tube was removed he had a difficult time breathing on his own.  He was reintubated and spent a couple of weeks in the ICU and the cardiac floor with an NG tube.  We hoped to see improvement in the following weeks but unfortunately that was not the case.  Darrell's kidneys and heart were impacted and he was provided multiple rounds of dialysis to remove fluid from his body.  On March 21 the difficult decision was made to enlist hospice services and take him to his home.  


For the past two weeks, Darrell's wife Judy along with many family members have been providing around the clock care to help him live out his most comfortable life at home.  He is much more comfortable at home than in a hospital.  This is not an easy situation for anyone involved and especially not for Darrell however, the last two weeks have provided our family with lots of love, laughter, fun, and  a lot of great stories.  Darrell's wish is to be at home and not to be in a facility.  They say it takes a village to raise a child, it also takes a village to help our aging parents.  Darrell has a grand village.  


Thank you for everyone who has provided food, support, calls, and visits.  I know Darrell and Judy appreciate it and are thankful for the wonderful support through this time.  

Newest Update

April 25, 2024

Journal entry by Bridget Spencer —

This week has been a bit more challenging.  Papa is very sleepy, eating and drinking less and his alertness is waning.  He has had visitors and family all week.  The hospice team brought a lift to aide us with transferring him from place to place in the case we need it. As always, Papa has been kept very comfortable and has had more attention than he probably ever thought possible. Judy is still a trooper; this is very emotionally and physically stressful and she is doing a wonderful job.  The love I see between them is beautiful. 

Tricia has been baking each night, today we have fresh scones.  Last night I mowed the lawn after Steve, Tricia, Grace, Olivia, and I rearranged the bedroom to accommodate the lift.  I am sure Judy is over us touching all of her belongings but we promised to put them back. Papa no longer plays games but we do to keep everyone entertained and Tricia plays Papa's hand.  

Thank you all for visits and support.  

Until next time.  

Bridget

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