Well, it's been a full week at Allied Hospice Center for Dee.  As you all have seen, he is definitely in the best place for the best care for him with everything he's going through.  His meds have been revised once each day until yesterday, and the new combination is working for him much better.  Part of that is because he's slowly fading and not fighting much at all now.  He's had a fairly peaceful day today and isn't so combative.  Each day up until yesterday, he was still removing sheets, blankets, hospital gown, etc., all ending in a pile on the floor, but at least he couldn't get out of bed.  His breathing has gone from normal to rattling, but was a little more quiet today.  His eyes are open, but only half way, and he no longer tries to speak.  I don't think he's aware of anyone in the room at all, until the nurses come in to bathe him or give him his shots.  As soon as they stop, he fades away again.  His apnea isn't good, with about 50 - 65 seconds between breaths, some longer than that. 

I'm so glad you all came when you did.  Please remember that you can call the hospice center any time night or day.  As long as they know who you are, they'll tell you whatever you need to know.  It was truly wonderful spending time with all of you, even under these circumstances.

Cheryl