Sunday, August 15, 2010

A new week

I think from here out unless I mentioned otherwise you can assume that I (Kristin) will be doing all the posting. That way I don't have to say that each time.

Dad's left side is experiencing paralysis and his right side shows definite signs of weakness. He is not able to get up on his own anymore and is mostly bed bound. A hospital bed was brought this last week since he is not able to sit himself up and mom is not strong enough to lift him. He is sleeping more but is still mentally alert.

Mom has been home for a week now and is making improvement. Kara, Brian and Bethany have been carrying a full load of being with Dad and Mom as Dad is almost to the point of needing care 24/7. Kara has been scheduling people to be with our parents when my siblings are not able to be there. There are also hospice and veteran's aids coming on a daily basis as well.

My family and I (James, Ranae - 2 yrs. and Cody - 6 months) will be heading up to New Jersey the second week of September. We plan to arrive on September 13. James has permission to work remotely for a month. I am so grateful for his job that allows him to do this. We have found a very adequate place to stay that's in the same neighborhood as my parents so thank you for all the people who have given suggestions and offered their homes. We are truly overwhelmed with everyone's generosity.

6 comments:

Nancy Tyler said...

Kristin, thank you for the update. I know how stressful it is to be far away when a parent is so ill. I'm praying for you as you're making plans to bring your family home. Please tell your dad and mom that I'm praying day and night for them--for all of you.

n

Anonymous said...

Kristin we met but I'm not sure if you remeber me. But I have an 8,6, and 5 year old and they will all be in school this year. So I will be home from about 9:15 to 11:00 if anyone needs anything, or if you need someone to watch your kids (they don't know me, but I can come while you are home in the beginning, so they get to know me). Just keep that in mind. Jordan will be going to the school near the church and I believe I will be driving her so I will be in that area.
Sherry Connelly
sb3con@verizon.net

Vic Hanson said...

Joel and Dottie,

Thanks to Ken's post on Facebook, I too heard about your current struggles, after losing contact with you after you left Hawaii. I have just retired after being a short term (6 years) missionary in Peru and am living on the road fulltime, currently traveling in California. I pray that God will strengthen you all as you walk through this difficult time with Him. I also pray that your (Joel) remaining time on your sojourn here will be blessed by your family, friends and God, and that you will be a blessing to all as well, and that you all will be prepared for your Homegoing in God's perfect timing.

Vic Hanson

Terri Ely said...

Dear Joel, Dottie and family,
Thank you so much for the updates on Joel and the family. I have been praying for you Joel, you Dottie and the family as they care for you Joel. I pray God's presence is so sweet for you in this time Joel. I just want you to know that you are in my thoughts and prayers daily. You and Dottie are very special to John and I. We love you both very much. Let us know if there is anything we can do for you, we would be glad to help. God bless you all with His love and strength. Love, Terri Ely

cheeringUon said...

Joel and Dottie, how ecouraging to hear of all the helpfulness and acts of kindness provided by those who are close to you! May God's presence to be real and uplifting for each and every member of the family in the midst of these difficult days. Love and Prayers, Mary

Anonymous said...

I continue to pray for you guys, but at present have a major challenge in my life with Mother falling and having a brain injury.

Continued prayers and love to all

...Colleen