Dad is home once again...

After almost a year, Dad come back home. Mom and I went to pick him up at the hospital yesterday. They said goodbyes with lots of smiles and a few tears. Mom was surprisingly calm, not what I expected. We arrived by 11:30am, and tried to settle down. Unpacked a few items (bedrail, walker, feeding bag pole). It was sort of a non-event to Dad. As far as I know, no offer of help from anyone else (brother or Dad's side of the family were absent of course). We got into the Meds and the feeding schedule. Figured out where and how to position Dad so he would be comfortable. After a long day we all went to bed for a well deserved sleep.

Dad is more comfortable going to the bathroom without people watching him and waiting for him. I don't blame him. He no longer has to rely on the nurses or support workers to get him to the bathroom. I went and got bagels from one of our favorite spots. It's been a year since he's had one. We took out the soft inside and buttered it for him. I think with the ability to feed him at any time, Dad will gain weight even faster.

His sister called but only said to Mom "Can I speak to please". No hello, no acknowledgement. I'm not sure if I would be brave enough to step foot in the house after what she and brother did with trying to get POA.

Brother wanted to come over but declined after learning I was here. I'm staying for a few days to help with the transition. Mom's got everything under control however.

Brother is having a dinner at his house, I suspect to "celebrate" Dad's return. He didn't invite Mom however. Or me (not that I care - he hates me for what ever reasons he has). I insisted to Mom that brother be aware of Dad's schedule and agree to it. Dad can leave after his meds at 5:00pm and return before 8:00pm for his final feeding. Mom still doesn't understand that she does not have to be a victim. If he doesn't agree, don't let brother take him. If brother screws up and doesn't return Dad, then don't let brother take him next time. It's simple isn't it? Just keep in mind what Dad wants as well. Quality of life. For everyone.

This division is the result of a disagreement on the use of accupuncture. We agreed to accupressure (no needles), but when they wanted to persue needles, Mom and I didn't think this was the right time.

Dad is finally able to resolve the condo issue. He kept talking about condos, but it was for the future. The social worker at the hospital told him that the maintenance fees on the condo would be much higher than the operating costs of the house as it's mortgage free.

I'm very proud of Mom and Dad for getting through the last year.