Wow what a story!

It sounds like Dave has not only a peaceful temperament, but a sense of humor to boot. Sending positive thoughts to you and your family and an extra pint of Haagen Daaz for Dave!

Alexa

Being the worrying sort I asked Sis if she thought he was in any danger of neglect or harm. She says no. The folks there have good intentions but lack good sense. In the words of a friend: simpled minds with overwrought imaginations.

Does he look good? No. Does he seem any worse than a few months ago? Sis says no. She also believes that her dad, if he could communicate better, wouldn't want her sitting there and waiting for him to pass.

Wow...what a story! You have a great gift of story telling! I laughed so hard I almost had coffee coming out of my nose. Then I read it aloud to my DW and laughed again.

Sounds like a John Irving adaptation.

Duane

Although the subject matter isn't funny, your storytelling certainly is! Well put - I was cracking up.

AM

As they say here in Texas, Bless your sister's heart, and your Dad's. Your Dad sounds like a cool guy.

By the way, what part of the country, or which country is your dad in? I've never heard of "Board and Care" home. Is that the same thing as a nursing home?

Sally

Honestly, that sounds like an episode from "Waiting for God." Too funny -- after the fact. Someone should have asked Dave if he planned to kick the bucket any time soon.

Oh Eileen you do have a way with words. Pam, I was thinking the same thing. LOL!

I'm California and the family is in Arizona. Sally, there must be regional differences in what these are called. Here is a good description from ezinearticles.com:

"Board and Care homes (also known as RCFE’s - Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly) are residential private homes that have been licensed by the Department of Social Services to provide services to seniors. Most accept no more than six residents, but offer a cozy, home-like setting for frail seniors. At least one caregiver is on the premises at all times to assist residents."

It isn't a nursing home. It's a house with a family-like atmosphere.

Dave seems to be very fond of the couple that care for him in spite of their daffy ways. The caregiver is an RN.

Sis and I are bonded through adversity. We are like war buddies or asylum mates, we understand one another's experience. She knows she can turn to me for validation and a sympathetic ear. Sometimes I am very grateful to be living in another state, though!

What a great idea. I never heard of the concept, but it seems so obvious now. They have group homes for all other kinds of needs, so why not seniors?

I agree with the others, Barnmom, you're a good writer.

Sally

LOL! I agree with Sally. Bless your sisters heart!

Great writing.

Dave, my stepfather, passed away early this morning.

His soul has been set free from his damaged body. May he be at peace at last.

Seven long years? RIP Dave, you deserve a peaceful rest.

Sad, but a release.

I didn't cry at my dad's funeral. After five years trapped in his badly damaged body with no hope of improving only gradual decline, his death was a good thing.

I hope Dave is skipping and jumping in a special place.

Eileen, I'm sorry to hear about Dave but 7 years is long enough. Elery saw his mother spend 7 years in a nursing home with Alzheimer's, and he says it was a blessing when she finally passed on.

The family left here will miss him, though, and so you all have my thoughts and prayers.

Annie

Oh my.....and the ladyw ho saw the black bird wasn't wrong.
He's at peace now, and "knowing" as I do the situation, I hope the services go without incident.
My condolences.
Linda c

I am sorry Eileen for those loved ones left behind. He is at peace. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Gina

My prayers are with you and your family Eileen

I'm wishing peace for Dave and you and all of your family.

Lee

I too am sending prayers and peaceful thoughts for you and your family.

Alexa

Thank you all. I come from a rather peculiar family in some ways. As semi-Christian Scientists little has ever been made of the passing of a family member's corporeal being. I have never attended a funeral for a family member. Ever, really. Cremations are common and ashes are scattered.

Oddly my mother has never called me to tell of any of this, even that Dave passed away. As a dutiful child I made a call to the care-giver's number and asked to speak with my mother. Request denied. I then had a strange conversation with her about Dave's death and that in her words it was "time for Dave to go to heaven" and found myself speaking in those quiet careful tones one reserves for someone holding a gun or sitting on a ledge. So I quickly asked her to give my regards and condolences to my mother and to tell her that I'd love to hear from her when she is able to speak. Duty fulfilled, sort of. The caregiver called my sister a few moments later and wanted to know why I would call my mother there. Sis explained that it was the right thing to do. (Thank you, Sis, for being the rational being you are.)

There is to be a memorial service on November 1, All Saint's Day. Since my family is neither Catholic nor religious this escapes me but I suspect it the wishes of the caregiver. Sis says there will be lots of marigolds...

I probably will not travel for the memorial but will send whatever seems appropriate or is requested. I told Sis I would go if she needs me there. Dave was a patient and kind man. Sis inherited his easy temperament and wise way. I didn't know him well but learned to appreciate him as an adult.

We believe Dave escaped. Finally.

I'm sorry for your loss Eileen.
LR

My condoleances to you and your family, I only read this now.

Oh, gosh, I missed seeing this for all this past week. I'm so sorry. My heart goes out to you, your sister, your Mom and Dave's caregiver.

Sally

Sending my sympathies to you and your family~

My sympathy to you and your family. Dave is now whole.