I want to share with you what has been happening with Bruce as of late. We, as a family, have made the very difficult decision that for Bruce to get the best possible care, he needs to have 24-hour professional care at the Poppen House, on Mt. Garfield Street, Muskegon, Michigan. Bruce is sleeping a lot, is not really mobile any longer, no longer communicates verbally very much (although he shakes/nods his head), is extremely fatigued, and is now catheterized for his comfort. Bruce is NOT in any pain (I am thanking God for this!!) We have, however, gotten him to the end of the dock and taken him for a boat ride, both of which are extremely difficult feats to accomplish but we are determined to make this part of his journey the most memorable as we can. He no longer can remember one day from the next. He seldom remembers what was told to him, sometimes even just a couple of hours prior :( Words cannot express how devastating this has been for our family. We are waiting to hear from Poppen House for an opening in one of the units. Bruce is high on the waiting list because of his deterioration over the last several weeks. I want to thank SO MANY people for coming for visits, for giving us much-needed breaks, making meals, sending cards and well wishes. Trust me, I know how difficult that can be for all of you. No one knows what to say, how to act, what is "appropriate". Please be reassured that there are no appropriate or inappropriate acts of kindness or love. Bruce is surrounded by love every day! How amazing is that?? There are too many people to thank for all they've done in the past several months. It is very humbling to know how much Bruce is respected and cherished. THANK YOU for all that you've done. We know it is a sacrifice, painful at times, but necessary for all of us to heal. I will post on the blog when Bruce will be residing at the Poppen House. T.C., one of our cats from what we call the "Menagerie", will be able to reside there with Bruce and give him comfort when we, as mere mortals, cannot be there. The Poppen House is a beautiful facility, housed on 9 acres, with lots of room and accommodations for family and friends. PLEASE, feel free to come see him anytime. He is still well aware of his surroundings and everyone he sees; he just may not verbalize it. I will leave you with a couple of photos from the last couple of weeks and what Bruce has enjoyed the most......the lake!! Natch! That's why we moved here in the first place :) LOVE and GODSPEED to all of you - Val
