Sunday, March 28

Thanks to the help of a contraption called a Hoyer Lift, dad is now able to get out of bed for the first time in over 2 months. The lift was delivered on Wednesday and he's now used it each day since. After being on his back 100% of the time since January 4th, it's pretty difficult to sit up for any extended period of time. However, he managed to sit in his chair for about an hour and 15 minutes yesterday including for dinner. Here are some pictures of the lift in action and the more comfortable destination:


We were disappointed to see the Boilers run come to an end on Friday night, but all in all we can't be too disappointed with the season. The next logical step is to become a Butler fan for the rest of the tournament...

Thanks for your continued thoughts and prayers!

Monday, March 22

Dad would like to give everyone an update since it's been a few weeks since his last post.  The disease has progressed to the point where he's confined to his bed 100% of the time.  He's also sleeping quite a bit more, but he would never miss a Purdue basketball game.  The real challenge will come next Friday when they play at 9pm -- we're thinking that might need to be a Tivo game.  It's been a great surprise to see the Boilers make a good run into the tournament, and hopefully they'll keep playing well.

We've had more visitors the last couple weeks as Carole's mom and brother have both been out to help.  Countless people have donated meals, flowers, contraband or so many other things.  Everyone's assistance and thoughtfulness is very, very much appreciated.

We're busy watching Dancing with the Stars on the big screen now.  Dad is disappointed that Ocho Cinco didn't get better scores -- we thought he was great.

That's all for now.  Take care!

Sunday, March 7

I've had a good couple of weeks including several visitors. Two weekends ago my sister Barb brought my mother out to Iowa from Indiana, last weekend my sister Beth came from Peoria, and this weekend my brother Mark and sister Rita came from Indiana. It was great to spend some time with each of them and catch up. It was also nice for Carole to get some much needed assistance.

I've been continuing to watch a lot of basketball lately. I'm disappointed that the Boilermakers won't have Robbie Hummel down the stretch, but I was happy to see them win a share of the Big Ten title yesterday. We also enjoyed watching the Linn-Mar girls win a state championship last night!

I told Brian 2 weeks ago that I wished I could have some Leffe Brune - my favorite beer in the world. This is a challenge since the only way you can get it in the US is on tap on the East Coast. His work colleagues in the Netherlands came through quickly though and I received a shipment of 4 bottles when Brian arrived this weekend. I've really enjoyed having 1 each of the past couple of nights. "Dank u wel" to Enno and Ferens!

Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers.