Update - Saturday

This is Tammy. I arrived here on Thursday to spend time with dad and Connie. It has been so tough to see dad in the state he is in. He is completely bed ridden, has extreme difficulty speaking and swallowing, is beginning to "zone out" frequently, and sleeps constantly (from the disease and all the medicines). Dad does understand what is happening to him, as he says, "I am getting holes in my brain". He often says witty remarks or beams a bright smile to know that he is still with us. Every day gets harder and harder, as we know that we are getting closer and closer to "the day". Today we met with the funeral director to begin discussions on that process. We have to start now because since this is CJD, he has to be creamated in a controlled environment. The funeral director was so sweet, and will assist in helping to find out creamation requirements for CJD (e.g. what can be creamated, what cannot be, such as bones). In addition, we are working with the CJD Surveillance (Prion Disease) Center in Cleveland, for they will help to coordinate the autopsy, find a controlled environment, confirm his brain disease, and take samples for research, and covers all of these costs (excluding funeral arrangements). Dad/Connie have agreed that dad will allow his brain to be used for research, for they understand that will benefit current and future Wheeler generations.

I am glad that I am here not only for my dad, but also to help Connie. She is finally getting good rest and is surrounded by people who love her and dad. It really amazes me to see how moving to Oregon, finding a great Lutheran Church, and all of the love and support of Connie have helped dad to finally connect with God and our Lord Savior Jesus Christ. This will really help dad to be at peace in his final days.

We just ask everyone to continue to pray for dad, to relieve him of his pain and suffering, and to give Connie and all of dad's kids including me, Michelle, John, and Dawn, the strength to get through these tough times and the tougher times ahead.