Psalm 23

Dear Friends,

I have not written because this month has been difficult—our hearts are broken. I have little cheerful news to share.

Mom’s health is good, but her memory is growing worse. A few months ago the neurologist said her brain tells the body to do something, and because of a vascular condition, the body responds slowly. She went back to the neurologist the other day; he said her brain, like her fingers, stall, because of this vascular condition, and her days of making decisions are over.

We adjust pretty well. Conversations are about what is in front of us, not discussing anything we cannot see. We talk about food, Tiger’s putt, Wyatt, etc. She remembers everyone; she just forgets events. Before now, I could ask the same question five times and she would forget hearing the question, but she would process the information and come up with the same answer all five times. Her thought process has changed and the same answer can't be taken for granted.

Another stressful aspect of her memory loss, is when she believes she can remember certain events or dates.

My mother-in-law is on a feeding tube, cannot speak, and rehab says they can do nothing else. She is going to a nursing home this week.

Dave’s youngest sister is a sweet, shy woman with a loving heart. She has a nursing degree and a culinary degree—probably the best natural cook I’ve ever known. She’s been on disability for depression. Sunday evening, Aug. 13, the police found her unconscious on her bedroom floor. They believe it was a suicide attempt. She’s critical and still in intensive care.

We are in constant contact with her doctors and they tell us it would be nice if she heard our voice, but they have her heavily sedated and do not want her to be excited by anything. Our being there would not be benefical. One physician said it would do her the most good if we pray from here that she have peace, whether she lives or passes on.

They are wonderful. I've never seen such a caring hospital. He said they work hard to treat everyone the way they would want to be treated. I'm amazed each time I call them or they call me. One doctor called at 9:30 one night and apologized three times for calling us so late.

Thank you for your prayers! We are blessed! And please pray that Linda finds peace.

Marsha and Dave