Update, July 19th

Mom is doing better.  No surgery, but still has to wait until the swelling goes down to put on the cast.  Ann was down all week, and left today.  Mom will be staying with Eric for the next several days, and play things by ear on when she can go home.   She is getting around pretty good, and is starting to be in better spirits.

I received the following email on July 18th, from Sallie Huntington, at Chancellor Gardens.  She is the head nurse there, and is also a very special person.  You can tell she loves her job and residents.


Celia

I wanted to share with you a special experience I had involving your day the past couple days. First you should know my Dad passed away 2 years ago on the 15th and today would have been his 72nd Birthday. So needless to say he has been in my thoughts more than usual this week.

Well yesterday when your Sister & Mom were visiting I had helped your Dad sit on the couch by them, then walked away. I don't know exactly what Charlie did or said but your sister said he wanted to see me. He came to me and asked if my Dad was with me? I of coarse said No. Your Dad then asked where he went? I told him he had passed away. Your Dad went and sat back down and I kind of pushed the thought aside.
Then this morning after breakfast your Dad was just standing by me at the Med Carts not really saying or doing anything. Went I passed in front of him to give someone their meds he looked at me and said "Oh it's you!" I said yeah it's me the medicine lady. Then he said clear as could be "No it's you. Your Dad had to leave." then he gave me a hug and kiss on the cheek. It meant SO much to me since my Dad never left without giving me a hug and kiss on the cheek. Needless to say that simple act brought tears to my eyes.
I have had many spiritual experiences during my time at Chancellor But that by far has meant the most!

Thank You so much for sharing your Dad.

Sincerely
Sallie


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We would sure like to know what pop was thinking when he approached Sallie.  Did he see her dad?  Did he see his own dad, or was he thinking about him?  We'll never know, but this touched everyone.  Dad has continued to sleep more, and mumbles incoherently, but obviously, there is still a spark of the non-Alz Charlie.   It is so hard to see him in this state, and some of us have outwardly said we wish he could pass so he could be at peace.  Then, something like the above experience happens, and I realize that pop will pass when it's time.  He clearly has a few lessons to teach or people to help, even in his current state.  Love him.