Dad came to visit

[robinh]

I am so sorry to hear this Sandie. It is so heartbreaking for you; knowing that it was best for him to be in a facility, but also knowing that you could no longer do everything for him. It does sounds like this is a wonderful place for him.

{{HUGS}}

[Freedom]

Thank you Robin.

[kaycountrygal]

Hi Sandie, I just read this entire thread and got tears in my eyes. Hon, You have had alot on you. It had to be (and probably still is)hard and sad for you that your father cant stay home and has to be in a place that can take care of his needs. I am sorry it has to be that way; it was wonderful and loving of you to want to do it yourself but it would have been too much as you were told. I've never had firsthand experience with a loved one who doesnt remember his home but I know it would hurt me to the core.
May I ask... does he know you? and your pet crew? Does he recognize them? I think it's sweet that they know him. I'm sorry things are the way they are and he cant get better. It's a good thing he can be at a place where he gets the care he needs. We do what we have to do. You're both in my prayers.

[Freedom]

Kay, he knows who I am about half the time, Kay. The rest of the time he just knows I am a friendly face, someone he 'should' probably know, and he is safe with. That last bit is important, as he is still willing to leave and come with me to doctor appts. At some point in time, he may not feel that way and then we - all Caregivers for people with dementia - have to pay one of the CNAs to accompany him to the doctor and dentist visits.

He knows we have fluffy white dogs -- he has not been able to tell them apart for 3 years and never remembers their names now. I can tell him that is Willy in your lap (when we go visit at the NH) and a few moments later he is asking, which one is this?

I should say, he knows we have fluffy white PETS. He has not been able to tell if it is a cat or a dog for over a year now.

[Asiel]

I'm so sorry to hear about all you've been through. I always followed you and your dad when he was still at home and didn't know what had happened when I didn't see any more pictures or read anything.

What a bittersweet story, I love the pictures and thank you for the explanation of everything. I've just learned a lot from what you wrote. Ihope your dad can keep seeing his furry little pals, he and they look so happy together again. Very heartwarming. I admire your strength and courage, your dad is lucky to have you as his daughter...

[krazyaboutkatz]

Sandie, I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. I didn't realize that things had gotten so bad. I'm glad he's getting the care that he needs and that he's able to visit his home and all of your furkids too. I know that all of this is extremely hard for you. Please take care. (((HUGS)))

[Varga]

Can't imagine how difficult it must be to deal with all this. Even if he doesn't recognize the fluffs (and kitties) anymore you can still tell it means a lot to him and they for sure seem happy to see him. Just look at that smile! Those photos are priceless

[cassiesmom]

I like the first picture best. Sandie, when I think of your Dad that is exactly how I picture him, surrounded by fluffs and/or kitties, and smiling! I agree with kaycountrygal -- how sweet that Riley, Willy and Crystal came to be with him! He may not remember exactly who's who but they know he is one of their people. I am also very glad they can go to visit him and I bet there are lots of smiles when he receives a visit from them!