Although many of you have already been updated on my Dad, at this point I'm not sure who knows what, so I thought this would be an easy way to keep everybody in the loop.

For the past few weeks, Dad has been failing. He became less and less mobile, and was also not eating. He became very dehydrated which led to his becoming increasingly disoriented and confused. After lying down on his bed for two days, the visiting nurse and social worker decided Dad needed to go to the hospital on November 4. He was in St. Luke’s Hospital in Milwaukee until a few days ago. Dad has been very clear about not wanting any heroic measures and, fortunately, he had spelled all that out in his Health Directive. In the hospital, Dad was given fluids which decreased his high sodium level and helped him be more alert. They also discovered Dad has some atrial fibrillation. Although the fluids helped, he was still very weak and not eating much. He wasn’t a good candidate for intensive (3 hours a day) rehab since he could do almost nothing, not even get out of bed. On November 17, Dad was discharged to the Sunrise Care Center. They will try to do some rehab with dad, but it’s not promising. Failing that, they will shift to comfort care or hospice. Although Dad hasn't wanted to go to a nursing home type place, he agreed to go there because he knew he couldn’t manage being in his apartment. It’s an independent living situation and he would only be able to get a few hours of care a week. Dad also was familiar with the Sunrise Center because my Mom was there four years ago. Dad liked the place and the staff. The day after Mom died, Dad drove over there with a big sign “Thank You” that he posted for all the staff. I'm glad he has a place that provides 24 hour care. Dad is the last one surviving of his six brothers and sisters all of whom lived into their 90’s. Dad used to tell me that folks shouldn't live as long as he has. All the doctors and nurses have been amazed that Dad had been living independently, doing all his own cooking, cleaning and bills

Some of you have asked for my Dad's address so they could send a card.

Mike Preston
Sunrise Care Center
3540 S. 43rd Street
Milwaukee, WI 53220

Over the past couple weeks I've had brief Zoom calls with my Dad. He’s very weak and not eating enough to build up his strength. When the pandemic started, Dad and I agreed that we probably wouldn’t be able to see each other again in the flesh. Dad was adamant that I not go out there because it was too risky for me given my cancer and immune status. My doctors are also adamant that I not travel. I’ve managed to take over Dad’s affairs so at least he doesn’t have to deal with that. Although I’m slightly stressed and exhausted by all this, I am trying to take care of my own health. Every day I walk, hike, bike or do water aerobics. I still enjoy cooking and try to be creative. I use a mask, keep my social distance and only do online shopping for everything. As I approach my 70th year, I continue to have a wealth of support from my friends and relatives. For that, I'm truly grateful.

Los Osos Oaks State Natural Reserve