Hospice of Dayton

Hi everyone,

Dad has moved to Hospice of Dayton. It is a lovely, lovely place. No more beeping, flashing monitors and less tubes. Everyone we've talked to really appreciates this place and their staff.

Everything is very nature-oriented and just set up to be as relaxing as possible.

The entry:

The view from Dad's room, which many ducks wander past:

And some folks you may know.

As for Dad, right now they're calling his condition "fragile", they consider him only in the first of three stages of Hospice care....however, with all of his various issues, he could accelerate the timing. We may have a better idea tomorrow.

When we first arrived, around 6:00p or so, Mom was very leery about leaving Dad right after landing in a new place. One of the nurses on staff happened to be Mom's second cousin, Donna, who was just about to finish her shift. She offered to sit with Dad while we went to dinner, which was a great transition for us.

We did stay at our local friend's again overnight, but I think we're at enough of a comfort level now that we'll actually make it home tonight. At the hospitals, Mom always liked to be around for the staffing shift, to get reports and answer any blanks, as well as be an advocate for Dad's wishes. That's not needed here, as that's their whole focus, and if we miss the doctor making rounds, we can just call her back to the room any time of day.

Hospice is also very focused on family support as well, and among other things, we've enjoyed therapy dog visits and fresh strawberries plucked from the solarium! We've also made sure Dad knows how much of a gift he's given us by being very clear about his wishes to be here, not only for his peace, but ours, especially in his desire to make this as easy for Mom (and me) as well. Before Dad had ever gotten sick, he had a friend taken care of here and had expressed that if the time ever came he'd like to be here at Hospice of Dayton. And yesterday morning, he expressed that desire at least six times to various health professionals. He also immediately seemed more at peace once he realized we were indeed following through with his decision. I have to say, I agree with him. Have I mentioned it's a lovely place?

Visitors are allowed, any hour of day, and if you'd like to come, it's fine with us. A rough idea of when you might drop by is a great headsup so everyone doesn't show up at once. He's currently still recognizing friends, and often reaches slightly to hold a hand, but is increasingly sleepy with shorter responses. 

So many people have told us how much of a difference Dad has made in their lives. We have passed the messages along, often eliciting a "Wow." We even stopped by the 6th floor nurses at the hospital before we left and they discussed some "good advice he gave me." I love hearing the stories and sharing photos. Please feel free to continue, by sending them my way. Thank you all for all your kindness. I know you're reciprocating the life he lead....which is very cool.