Dad

Dad was supposed to be nearly ready for release from the hospital after nealry a month there, but Friday they discovered his problem had returned.

His planned visit to the assisted living home in praparation for his return was cancelled; the draining tube re-inserted into his stomach; he is back on i.v. feeding.

In the last month he'd already lost about 25 pounds.

Meanwhile, there is the chance he might have to face surgery, and the possibility of his needing a colostomy - which would mean he'd have to move to a nursing home because he will need a higher level of care. And given his physical condition already, the procedure would be more risky than it normally is.

He's terrified at the thought of ending up in a nursing home. I think he'd give up.

I've been over to see him almost every day. Separated from his assisted living home, he's cut off from his little circle of friends so he is very much alone. We talk, play cards.

I'm beat. This is the third year in a row with someone going down hill - mom two years ago, Nana last year. They both died. I don't know what will happen with dad. He could live for years even if he does end up in a nursing home - but he will certainly be miserable given his limitations and problems.