latest update

An exceptionally difficult time – the following message was sent out to only a few friends... not to the large list that most of the updates had been going to. We'd been able to communicate with Dad, and he clearly indicated that he did not want to continue. Combined with his failing health and worsening cancer, the options had run out.

hey all,
For the last few days, Dad has been fighting the nurses more and more... he doesn't want them to help him. On Friday, the doctors met with us and, based on his kidney, the unperterbed growth of his cancer shown on the CT scans, and his overall condition, advised us that there were really no more medical options that could cure his disease or improve his condition.
Also on Friday, we were able to communicate with Dad enough for him to tell us that all he wanted to do was rest. This morning (Saturday), when asked if he wanted to continue treatment, he answered clearly, "no."
We've seen it coming for a long time, but it's "real" now. Dialysis will stop, and nature will take its course. The hospital will only make sure that he's comfortable.
It may take as long as a week, but he should be completely comfortable, and go very peacefully.
I'll be in Omaha until it happens, unless I'm needed for something in Lincoln, and then I'll need to be around to make funeral arrangements & to help Mom out.
I'll send out something to my larger list once the rest of Dad's family knows... but just wanted to get this out.
I've got minimal access to email, but you can reach my cell.
take care,
-p