Hi all,
This is Andy, a long time friend of JT’s. I am writing from JT’s computer as he has been admitted to in-patient hospice today Oct. 28th. It is unlikely that he will come out this time and it is with a heavy heart that I am having to write this.
Art and I called on JT this morning and received no answer, so we went over and found him non responsive and labored breathing. So we called the hospice folks and within 20 min they were there and admisitering care, but it was obvious this is just a temporary thing and the end is soon near. We have requested that he be taken to 24 hour hospice for his own safety and he can be found at Oddessy House 74-350 Country Club Palm Desert, CA 92260.
His cat has been adopted for the time being by his neighbor Joe. He has been making it a point that JT is fed each day and takes care of Charlie when JT is not alert. Joe was very happy when we asked him if he would like to bring Charlie home. So we know he is in a good home and will be loved dearly.
I will try to update this as we know more, but for the time being, its a waiting game now. Thanks for all the comments and well wishes over the past 8 months. It has been a tough time for all us, soon he will be at peace and whole again.
Hugs,
Andy (JT’s friend)
2 responses so far ↓
Maddi // October 31, 2007 at 4:02 am
Andy and Art, you have been the angles and the extraordinary freinds to JT. It is because of you and the guys in his complex that have kept him going. Each of you in your own way have been far more to him than you can imagine. As JT’s sister living far away, I am most grateful to all of you for all that you do and have done for JT up to the very end.
He was a very independent and free spirited person. But, he was very determined and so in need of wonderful people like all of you to help him stay connected, especially during his fight against this insidious disease. So, to all of you, thank you very much for being his support , comfort, and helping him at a time when he could be most challenging.
AARON // November 3, 2007 at 7:58 am
I only knew JT for a moment in time.
But a simple moment that apparently meant a lot to him was the evening I built his model ship that sat on top of his TV. That he had had in the box for years.
He thought it would take days and I argued I could assemble it in about 30 minutes. Which is what happened. He was so thrilled.
For that moment in time JT was a child again and told me tales about being a child in New England and his father, and sailing ships. It was a special moment for us both.
I will miss him. Hail to thee blithe spiit!