Naps are Wonderful

Dad had a great night's sleep last night (almost 7 hours). When asked about his favorite part of the day, Dad replied "I like napping." And it's true, he was able to also have two long naps during the day. Janice reminded Dad that it makes sense he's so tired: he's recovering from major surgery, he is sleep deprived after 7 nights in the hospital and he took a long walk today.

How long a walk you ask? Half a mile! For those of you who know our neighborhood, we started at the circle and made it up to Orchard and Elwood and back. About half way through, Dad said he felt like he was doing a marathon. The feeling is understandable, but he made it. We all enjoyed being able to take a walk together and Charlie (Janice's 100+ pound Old English Sheep dog) keep us entertained as usual.

We have been really enjoying the quiet time at home. For those of you who are wanting to help, our friend has asked that I pass along her message via this blog. As of right now, food might be appreciated. Mom has asked for healthy, fresh food. Please also keep in mind that Dad has to watch his sugar intake now.

Local support for Jay and Emily

Many folk in the Albany area are asking what they can do to be helpful. Jay and Emily are delighted to know how many people care about them deeply. It's important that the help doesn't bunch up at the beginning and then dwindle over time when it is most needed. The nature of help will be changing from week to week as J& E may be going to Boston some times for treatment. Also Jay's diet requirements are likely to change from time to time. To avoid lots of "what can we do?" phone calls, Sigrin Newell has agreed to be the point person. She will talk to Emily each week to find out what is needed and get back to volunteers with the requests. She is setting up a weekly schedule with at least one person/family for each week throughout the summer. When that's full, others will be called for specific requests. Some weeks it might be a meal, others might be chocolate, flowers, someone to hang out and watch a ball game with Jay while Emily is out of the house or to go hiking with Emily, some weeks it might just be "we need alone time, thanks anyway."

If you would like to join the J& E support group, send an email to sigrin.newell(at)waldenu(dot)edu. Tell her what kinds of things you might provide, your email address, phone numbers and dates when you are available. Make the header J& E support so it's easy for her to find it. Thanks!