About a year ago, our family noticed some physical changes to Norm/Dad/Grandpa. He had lost arm and hand strength and wasn't as easily able to do a lot of the day-to-day things he could otherwise do. After months of doctoring in Grand Forks, ND without any clear answers, Norm and Marti went to Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN. Day One he was given a diagnosis - lower spine neuromuscular disease - similar to ALS. (Norm's neuromuscular disease is currently in his lower spine, whereas ALS is in the spine and the brain.)

Doctors at Mayo told Norm & Marti that, at that time, he had 2 to 5 to 10 years. The disease is degenerative and there isn't a cure. We cannot know for sure how much time we have left with Norm/Dad/Grandpa here on earth, but Norm's health has quickly deteriorated, especially over this past winter, which tells us his disease is on the "fast track". He spends most of his time at home, with doctors, nurses, CNAs, Occupational Therapists, and Speech Language Pathologists paying their visits to him. Marti is his #1 caregiver (with Primo the Labrador his #2!), always there to help prepare meals, fix his suspenders straps, move his wheelchair so he can more easily move inside and out, and make sure there are cookies and coffee ready for friends and family that stop by to visit. 

While we know Norm's days are numbered and his ability to easily converse now limited by difficulties with breathing, he still loves people! Norm's life has been lived in many places with many faces, stories, and connections to be found. Please write notes as often as you wish to let Norm know that he is still thought of and loved! Even though his body is failing, his mind and his heart are strong! Caring Bridge is one way for Norm to stay connected with those that have meant so much to him in his life. We hope he has meant a lot to you in yours as well.