5.21.2012 - Long, stable period
James still goes to the GARDEN in Livermore (http://www.futures-explored.org) two days a week (Monday and Friday). Sometimes he asks to go on other days, and if there is time to contact them, the bus comes and gets him. He sleeps a lot, watches television (mostly game shows, although he seems to like Fairly Odd Parents as well), and goes on nice neighborhood "walks". He still has his preferences and enjoys food sometimes: when I ask what he wants me to bring next time, usually it is chili dogs or various Taco Bell offerings.
One annoyance: his wheelchair has needed a lot of attention recently. The front wheels needed replacing, then a week later, one fell off during a walk and had to be replaced again. I am still grateful for our generous Chevron insurance plan, although it does come at significant cost.
The next time you hear about state budget cuts to "adult home services" or "independent living services", that is James they are talking about. The fantastic agencies that provide these services are under the same kind of pressure in California that everything else is, but they have never left us high and dry. Where there are gaps, we pitch in (mostly Mary!), and we are (Mary is) glad to do so. I worry about the others who do not have family to help them, though.
Above is a recent picture with our beloved dentist, Dr. Nakhla. She calls James her "angel", but so is she.
Enough! Please keep praying that James stays healthy and happy. B
