I hate that so many people are now experts in going through crappy stuff like cancer or complicated issues with aging parents. Husband's and my parents are all still alive and in pretty good shape, but what would we do if one of them needed serious care right now? And we are far more fortunate than most people in terms of our flexibility and ability to react to situations like that.

Getting old is bullshit in so many ways. At least I can decide to have blueberry muffins for lunch.

I'm sorry, shrift. Condolences.

Matt's surgery went well -- just talked to the doctor. Will be able to see him when they get him to a room. Doc said he'd be in for two or three days... Matt thought he said it would be one night. That's a bummer, but, of course whatever it takes.

Thanks for the good wishes.

I’m sorry, Shrift. In related news, Bob’s dad passed this morning. He’d started hospice at home last week and deteriorated pretty rapidly. Fortunately, Bob went out there last Thursday and stayed so he was there. Dad was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer about 2 years ago and did shockingly well with chemo for over a year. The last few months have been rough though.

Oh no shrift and Lisa. ((((())))))

Good news Jen, quick healing to him.

Meara, I don’t think earphones would fly, not sure why but I’ve never seen anyone use them at the office here.

Oh, I'm sorry, lisah. Condolences to you both.

I don’t think earphones would fly, not sure why but I’ve never seen anyone use them at the office here.

That is bizarre! People just listen to things without headphones? Torture! I’d say just wear some earbuds and see if anyone says anything. Say you need them to concentrate.

I'm so sorry, lisah. And sorry things are so fraught, shrift.

David, my mother is still getting referrals from people who are dealing with dementia. It's a real service she does, and I think it has helped her, so I hope helping other people helps you.

msbelle, that's a weird office culture. I know that people often can't see my wireless earbuds because of how my hair is, for better or worse.

{{{lisah}}}

Bob’s dad passed this morning. He’d started hospice at home last week and deteriorated pretty rapidly. Fortunately, Bob went out there last Thursday and stayed so he was there. Dad was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer about 2 years ago and did shockingly well with chemo for over a year.

I'm sorry about Bob's dad, but I appreciate you sharing this, lisah. I shared it with Lola (who also has Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer) and she replied, "I'll take two years!"

I'm just trying to get her to focus on getting through the first round of chemo and seeing how her body responds.

Lola and her family are lucky to have you, David. I’m glad to have given her a little hope.