Saturday evening, January 19, 2008

Good Evening,

I will write with the bold itallics, because like me most of our friends eyes are getting a bit weaker. Chris and Amy just got back from seeing Dad. He was able to smile a bit, but was really "bucking" the ventilator. He remains restless and agitated. He still has quite a bit of third spacing of fluid. I have a feeling as soon as he starts diurising, he is going to feel better. It is so hard to see the man you have loved and cherished, be in such a helpless situation. I know it is temporary, but, I just wish I could do something to help him feel better. The ironic piece of this situation is that I have done very similar work with patients who have suffered catastrophic injury and trauma. It is overwhelmingly difficult on so many levels. Writing at least helps me work through my immense feelings of not being able to help fix this situation for my sweetheart.

Now, I must write a little bit about my daughter-in-law, Amy Elizabeth Anders. She joined our family two and a half years ago. She has been a blessing to Christopher, and all of us in the family. She is our "closer". She is all about what is right and what is the best way to handle a situation. She has been a stoic support for John, Chris, Marcus, and me, since this awful ordeal began. She was the one who suggested the blog, and then set it up for me, because I know very little about these types of things. She is our spiritual support as well. I don't know what we did to be blessed to have her, but I am so grateful that she loves our son, and our family.
Marcus' very special love is Catherine Beaudry Fienup. Even though they are not engaged, she has become such a positive role in our family, as well. Anybody who can tame Marcus, is definitely a keeper! She also has been with us the entire time, being supportive, providing us with games, and books, puzzles, and silly anecdotes. You can't help but laugh when you hear her laugh. She makes Marcus and our entire family, very happy, and we are blessed to have her as well.
These two very lovely, kind, and bright young women have come into our lives, and we are so fortunate that they are here. Those that know me well, know I always wanted a girl. We could not have asked for any two more perfect for our family. Thank you Amy, and Catherine. We love you.