Your Child

I know many of you are patiently waiting for an update on my Dad. It's a challenge to keep you informed because my Dad's personality and physical condition can appear almost 'normal' one minute, and then change in a moment, making everything I say obsolete.

Physically Dad is coming around. He still has a catheter, but he is now eating well and enjoying his meals. We bring in his favourite home-made treats which he thoroughly enjoys and devours. He walks with his therapist every day and is comfortable sitting up in a chair. On a couple of occasions we have had opportunity to take Dad downstairs in a wheelchair and this change of scenery seems to give him great pleasure. Today when we arrived Dad had finished shaving and tidying up his room. Everything looked so clean and neat. If only his mind was just as 'tidy'!

Dad is still struggling between reality and fiction. I believe this is our 'new normal'. He has no recollection each morning that his family has been with him the day before. Our entrance each day is always a 'first'. Although he can still tell time, he has no concept of it. He often remembers events in the distant past, but forgets things that have occurred only seconds before.

When he is passive he resembles a sweet little child, just wanting to be loved and cared for by his family. We embrace such times. Then suddenly, without warning, we begin to see agitation. It manifests itself in several ways. Fidgeting is a forerunner. Pacing. Organizing. A glassy stare. We prepare ourselves for a mood change.

This evening Dad called three different family members, begging them to come and take him home. Oh Dad, if only we could. If only home really could be a safe place for you right now. Father, can You help Daddy know that He can be at home with You? Help him rest in knowing that You will never leave him or forsake him.

Many decisions need to be made. Please pray the Lord will grant us wisdom and unity. As I sat and looked through information on different care facilities and options last evening, the choice that appeared so clear when it was far away, seems unbelievably difficult and impossible now. Father, show us what You desire for my Daddy and Your child.