November Update

Hi everyone,

I have been out of commision for a while since I had to return the tobii dynavox system a few weeks ago. I received a loaner system from Prentke Romich last Thursday and have been setting it up and getting used to it. It runs on Window 8 and is more sophisticated than the tobii. It has support for many more Windows programs than tobii. I also find that it is more accurate typing on the keyboard which means my eyes don't get as tired.

I like the system,although I miss my iPad. Apple needs to get a product in this market.

I am doing okay but not great. I am having some congestion and trouble breathing. I have no ability to stand on my own and very limted use of my arms and hands. My neck is very weak and I have difficulty holding my head up unsupported.

The good news is I am sleeping better than I have in months since I put a memory foam topper on the hospital bed and I sleep in bed every night now . Since I can no longer read on my iPad, Kim usually reads a chapter or two to me every night after I am in bed and getting a nebulizer treatment before Kim goes to bed.

My power wheelchair still is not comfortable or usable without assistance. I have been very disappointed with Dicks Medical because it takes a few weeks every time we call. After three Months it still isn't usable.

I have been blessed with regular visitors and emails cards and letters .I plan to start responding to you now that I have a communications platform.I also hope to be able to write more blog posts. Chuck visited in August , Forest in September , on and Helen in October ,and Chuck comes back for another visit this weekend. Other friends visit on a regular basis including KC and Paul, Ellen, and Eric.

Kim and I celebrated our 28th anniversary on October 24. I also had 2 years of symptoms the first week of November .Kim is an amazing and strong woman and has had to deal with her own serious health issues and major surgery the last few months .

As a result we now have 2 aides at all times.  Now in addition to Catherine, we also have Emily, Tim, Sherry, Cindy, Crystal, and Rebecca from 3 different companies.


Our house renovations are moving very slowly but the floors and painting are finished . The kitchen and master bathroom are started but a lot of work remains . It will be sometime in December before we can move.