More on Dad's Condition

Mom; my baby, Sharon; Dad

It was a hard day; early this evening we thought we were losing him and they even had us have mother brought to the hospital (by her cousin in Fowler), but he surprised us and rallied and even asked if he could be shaved because he chin itched.

The heart catheter procedure was cancelled because they thought he had pneumonia and his kidneys were closing down. It turns out that his lungs are filling with water because of the kidney failure and heart damage. Nothing they have tried is having the effect needed on his kidneys. I finally got to talk directly to the doctor, and he says at this point it is wait and see; he could slip away quickly or he could rally and be able to go home and live productively again. He says there is little chance with his condition that he would become a bedridden invalid, Thank God! He would hate that. He did tell us that he would like to be able to live until his and Mom's 70th anniversary on January 25, but only if he could have a fairly normal lifestyle.

My kids and some of the grandchildren and great grandchildren came to visit yesterday, as well as two of Dad's nephews from the Denver area. 2 neices from Albuquerque drove up today; Katrina is spending the night in Dad's room and Carla took Mom home and will take her to church tomorrow and then bring her to the hospital. My brother, Steve, couldn't get a plane this weekend, so is driving and will be here Sunday afternoon. My kids are coming back down tomorrow. Our huge family from California, New Mexico and Colorado are constantly in touch by phone. I am so thankful that we have such a close, loving, supportive family.

Thank you, all, for being there and listening, and sending notes of encouragement.