Hello Caring Community-  

My apologies for not updating sooner.  Days are running into days into weeks into months.  We are in a holding pattern for the moment.  Tom is not worse; not in pain;  seems to be basically comfortable; relatively alert; and moderately engaged.  He is bedridden, stills enjoys listening to music, and hearing a poem at night; appetite still good and sometimes fully present with me.  He is not anxious, depressed, or agitated.  I'm not really sure what he understands about his present situation which perhaps is a blessing.  I, however, completely understand our present situation, and I'm emotionally exhausted.  I am seeing my therapist, and the Hospice Social Worker who are both very comforting and supportive.  I have just realized that I can and I should start taking advantage of the live-in help and make plans to leave the house besides going to grocery store, post office, dump, and doctor's appointments.  I started teaching - just one course -- and have been seeing my clients in my office.  All of which helps me feel almost normal.  Claire and Chris are coming this weekend which will be great to see them.  And we still have visitors which is important, especially for Tom.  He doesn't talk much, but he does recognize people and usually smiles when he sees a familiar face.  Again we can't express our gratitude and appreciation for all of you who have supported us in so many ways on this long journey.  Since Tom's bicycle accident in October 2021 it has been two years and five months.  As always, he keeps pushes the envelope and exceeding the average survival rate, but for all of you who know him,  you know he is not your average guy.  His spirit and love of life continues even though the parameters of his life have narrowed.  He has a magnificent view from the porch which is now his bedroom and mine,  watching the birds and hearing their sweet songs, enjoying his chocolate, and another episode of Frasier every night with dinner.  Much love and gratitude for all of you.  We couldn't have done this without you.  Tom and Michele