"Six Months or Less"

These are the words a doctor we met with on Friday spoke to us. Shocked, numb, relieved, sad, overwhelmed, at peace, and hoping she was wrong were feelings that coursed through our veins in a matter of seconds. She went on to say that David's disease is progressing at a rapid rate and his body is simply slowing down. He has not been eating much of anything and drinking little as well. Our goal is to simply help David be as comfortable as possible. We have no idea how long David actually has to live but we are going to make the most of the time we have with him. At times we get little glimpses of the David we all know and love. He laughs at some of the weirdest things. Asking him if he wants a cigar and whiskey normally always gets a small smile.

We have decided not to use a g-tube. When David asks for food or water we give him as much as he wants, but forcing it into him will only make him feel more uncomfortable. His not eating and drinking are a result of Batten's disease. Forcing him to take food or liquids might prolong his life, but it would only prolong the place of suffering he is often in.

Chris and his girl friend, Brittney, were here this weekend. We took them and Daniel out to pick apples, had dinner together, and then we shared with them what the doctor said. It was hard, but we were all in agreement we don't want David in the place of suffering he is currently in. We rest knowing that this is not the end for David. Our faith in Christ, our faith is the resurrection give us hope. David will see again, walk again, communicate again, and all the why questions he has ever pondered related to his disease will be answered. I look forward to that day.

We are still working at trying to find just the right combination of drugs to keep him from being anxious, sad, and emotionally overwhelmed. He is on three medications which for the most part are helping him. There are still periods of time where he cries, rocks back and forth, and whimpers. Pray these periods of time would come less and less.

We rest knowing we are covered in prayer, supported by a loving family, friends, and church, and upheld by a God who is always there for us.