Updated

Monday's Update.

When the attending doctor came in Monday morning we discussed Hospice Care, she felt as long as we both understood it, it would be an excellent choice for him.

Respiratory Therapy agreed that to be able to choose going home like this with him in control of the rest of his life was a gift. 

His decision was not weighted lightly. At this stage of his diseases, he would more than likely be making multiple visits and long stays at hospitals. We'd told his daughter of the decision the day before. 
He is tired. He wants to be home with his silly dog and watch the mules eat in the pasture.

The hospital social worker came in next and went over how Hospice care worked and she'd get started on it.

The attending doctor said it had to be in place before he was released.

He was moved to a regular cannula to see if he could tolerate it to make his move home safely.

He looks rather normal and his spirits are pretty good along with his vitals. If he'd stayed under hospital care he'd probably see another week in the hospital.

However, that is not for my husband who would rather be surrounded by his forest and his animals. 

By 2:30 we had a plan. 

I bring him home at noon thirty and meet the Hospice nurse at my house for his paperwork and going through his meds.

Interesting to note that when you enter Hospice [you can come out anytime] you get to choose your medications. So if he decides he no longer wants to take 10 meds in the morning, we can stop taking the blood thinner and other meds if he chooses not to.

He doesn't have to nebulize if it makes him uncomfortable. 

The other rules that will come into place is that I will have to be with him 24/7. So in order to get errands done or groceries, I have to have respite. The VA team is working on home health for that. I say good luck with that.

Rural home health is sparse and hard to get. 
I don't know if you all recall my Geologist Friend. The pony tail guy with two shaggy dogs. 

Last night Jason offered to come out once a week and stay with Rich so I can get things done. He and Rich get along well. 

Rich's long time friend and hunting/fishing partner has offered the same thing. He came to the hospital yesterday and brought Rich a mini Charlie to hold and hug.

Rich took his mini Charlie and made it growl at the therapists and nurses for fun. His spirit seems to be in a good place right now. 

We will be getting him home just before a huge weather event hits. Winter storm warnings and advisories with heavy rain and run off! What a way to come home!

I'm feeling a lot worn out but somehow more settled now.

This guy stole my heart 30 years ago and is my soulmate.

So now we enter our next phase of life.

It sure has been a Long Journey....