Changes

I cannot believe how quickly things have changed for Dad this week. He can hardly stand long enough to transfer from his wheelchair to his red chair. Everyday activities consume all his strength and some are beyond his limits. He is very quiet and increasingly in and out mentally. He uses his whole stomach to breathe. He sleeps a lot.

Bill and I took Dad to see his cardiologist yesterday. Dr. Nish has taken care of Dad's heart since his quadruple bypass in 1989. He gave us a few tips for Dad's current condition, but made it clear that Dad's accumulating fluid in dependent areas is just not fixable. He emphasized keeping Dad comfortable.

This morning we switched Dad over to hospice care. We feel like this is a very good fit for Dad's current condition and needs. This afternoon, hospice had medical company deliver to the house:

*an extra long hospital bed
*a bed tray
*a hoist
*an oxygen concentrator
*oxygen tanks for emergencies

A real change in the decor for mom! Dad does not need oxygen yet, but I can see that day coming soon. I appreciate hospice' prompt response and even anticipating what Dad might need in the near future. We've never done this before and the changes are bewildering. It is nice to have someone come alongside.