Approaching New Years

Today Dad started a transition to a new type of pain killer. The plan is to replace direct injections of hydromorphone with a patch that steadily releases medicine through the skin.  This is a step towards less intensive care, with the intent of eventually moving him home to Langley.  

The transition is hard, and there have been opportunities for some pain to break through. In addition, over the last few days, Dad has had to say some very hard goodbyes to his brothers and sisters with more to follow in the coming days.

I feel like everyone needs a break. These past weeks have been very hard. The New Year will also bring new opportunities to spend time together, but for the last day of 2010, I would like very much for Dad to be free for the day so that he can spend some quality time with family.

-Pete

Good Spirits

A lot of family and friends popped in to see Dad today, and I think he enjoyed these brief visits. There is some talk of moving him to Langley hospital if his pain can be appropriately managed. I hope that can happen soon!

-Pete

Prayer Meeting Tomorrow

Hi Everyone,

There will be a prayer meeting tomorrow at Langley Immanuel Christian Reformed Church (21713 50 Ave., Langley, BC) at 7:00 pm.

Everyone is welcome including friends and extended family.

Palliative Care

Dads first day in palliative care went okay. He started having visitors, which he really appreciated. As a family we got together to talk, share stories, play guitar, and take family pictures by the Christmas tree. While eating is very painful and requires loads of morphine, Dad is trying to take down a bit of food.

Thanks everyone for your support over the last few days, it has really helped.

-Pete

First Post

Hi Everyone, this is Pete and Mom with an update about Dad.

Yesterday was a very hard day. Today was better because his pain is being closely managed by a team of doctors. He was moved tonight to palliative care on the 16th floor (the penthouse) at Vancouver General Hospital. Things are up in the air as to whether or not he will be transferred to Langley hospital. 

 

VGH is very far away but he is in good hands there. We as a family take turns staying with him. I know that dad always loves visitors, but I have seen also how quickly it drains him. He is sleepy because of the pain killers. If you come to see him, please keep your time with him short. Next week more of his family arrives.

Thank you so much for all your prayers, love, concern, and wishes.