New Year

Our new year is not starting well. My uncle was taken from rehab to the Emergency Room early in the morning on New Year's Day. He was recovering from a urinary tract infection but they had not yet entirely ruled out the possibility that he had another TIA (mini-stroke) or a stroke. He was admitted to hospital and died about 5 a.m. Jan. 2.

We're not sure whether the infection went systemic or whether his heart gave out, but his death was very quick and peaceful. It was so fast that my brother and I didn't make it back to the hospital in time to be with him. A very nice nurse, Nancy, was with him when he died. She said it was very peaceful and easy. He was not in any pain or struggling to breath and we are thankful for that and that such a compassionate nurse was with him.

We are also thankful that he was able to attend our usual family Christmas Eve celebration and that he got to meet his newest great-great-nephew.


















After making funeral arrangements, visiting at the funeral home for two days, AND frantically getting ready for winter semester (which starts Monday), I am pretty tired. The funeral is today and it will hard to say good-bye to him for the last time.

Thank you to everyone who has e-mailed, called, sent flowers, cards, etc. I can't begin to tell you how much I appreciate your kindness and moral support.