July 15

Dear Family, Friends and Fans

Yesterday and today Bob has been having significant pain in his stomach area. The doctors note that it is likely do to a flareup of one or several of his infections that have been living in his stomach cavity.  This flareup has occurred despite an aggressive antibiotic treatment. They also note that Bob would not survive another surgery. When visiting Bob early this morning, he noted “I’m not getting any better… I don’t have any strength or determination.” So after some tears and a bit more discussion, Bob and I decided to make his remaining time as best as possible. In consultation with his treatment team, aggressive medical care was changed to palliative or comfort care.  Palliative care was initiated this evening at about 6 PM.  What this means is they are now trying to make Bob as comfortable as possible and yet be able to visit with family, friends and fans.  I inquired about how much time Bob may have left. Of course staff was not able to make any predictions.  However because of Bob’s poor condition, the withdraw of antibiotics and the stopping of dialysis it is my anticipation that Bob has very little time.

On Thursday morning the 16th I will be meeting with his medical team and staff from the hospice house.  Bob will be moved to the hospice house here in Bellingham later on Thursday or perhaps Friday.  As soon as details are available regarding Bob being at hospice house I will post an update about the details. 

So this morning after a few tears, true to Bob being Bob, he said “we need to set the time and place for this party”… And I told him he needed to come up with the guest list and the theme for this party…he cracked a little smile.

So with a heart full of love, The PARTY IS ON!!!  Come and say hi, share some stories and wish Bob...Fairwinds, Tall Tales and Safe Passage for his next big travel adventure…LOL.

Tim