Catherine-Ann / Pure-Grace
Oct. 26, 2022
TREASURED FRIENDS * OLD & NEW! (10.25.22)
Tuesday, October 25, 2022
6:41 PM
Hello, thanks for joining us today!
What a huge difference the hearing aids made to Larry's communication. There was no need to repeat ourselves, as he heard clearly everything that was said to him. What a gift for him & for us! We are so grateful. A friend put out on face book Larry's missing hearing aid situation & he was overwhelmed by the response. So if anyone is in a similar situation, he told me to let him know.
Therapists again came & got Larry to dress himself, sitting at the edge of the bed, then he was transferred to his wheel chair. It wasn't long before his 2nd visitor came. Larry & I were sitting face to face. He had his eyes closed, so when I saw Phil, I motioned to him to take my place in the chair & when Larry opened his eyes, it was wonderful to see their loving exchange. They've been friends for over 30 years, originally through working at GF Strong, which blossomed into fishing buddies. There was an hour of fish stories, including a couple from me. They recounted the evolution of their friendship, which included some extremely challenging times. It was a visit rich with beautiful sharing.
Larry had just finished with physio when I arrived & gave me an account of what he'd done. We did what we do to get his mouth working, so that his speech is audible & he can be comfortable, especially conversing with visitors. As I was heading out to move the car, I saw Larry's visitor walking toward me downstairs. It was Fr. Alex from Carmel Hill in Deroche (past Mission). Larry & he became friends about 4 yrs ago when working together for a men's 3 day Cursillo weekend. Fr. Alex was so upset that he hadn't found out about Larry's stroke until recently. He came as soon as he could. They were so excited to see each other & spend a bit of time together today.
I ran into Dr. D. again (from Larry's 1st wk in ICU). I shared about Larry's visit with his fishing buddy & he said that his brother has a fishing lodge, & for sure, Larry's invited to go fishing there. Of all the doctors we've seen, he is by far the most positive & optimistic. Although he's in Neuro/ICU, he said he'll check on Larry a couple of times this week.
When Phil left, Larry's energy was spent. The rest of the afternoon was very quiet. After he rested, I passed Larry's guitar to him. It's not easy to play, while in his bed, so his playing was brief.
More messages of encouragement came for Larry & he is so moved by the love & support that is expressed. Thank you!
Quite different driving home in the pouring rain & dark so early. Not my favorite, but sure doing my shoulder checks. As I sit here in Larry's office, I do enjoy the sound of the rain beating down on the 'sun' roof.
God bless you! Take care, especially driving at night in the rain! xoxo