Dale Update 7.9.14

Hopefully everybody had an enjoyable time together with friends and family over the long holiday weekend. Mom and Dad enjoyed a nice long week at the beach relaxing and visiting with folks and lots of dogs. The weather was fantastic and there was a surprise bonus round of fireworks set off July 5th from a barge moored in Devil's Lake right out in front of the lakehouse. Dad had a front and center seat for the festivities, and has been feeling better and better these days, with more energy and oomph to get up and go. It's been over a month now since the first round of treatment, and although there is fatigue things are generally looking up at the moment.

Unfortunately, however, it's looking like the oncologist is not going to put Dad through the second round of chemo, as his blood counts are not where he wants them to be. On the upside, he has started physical therapy with good results, and soon also some occupational therapy and more alternative stuff. Cousin Judy has recommended an alternative therapy expert from Ashland and we plan to consult with him, as well. Any way you slice it there's a tough road ahead, but Dad is still optimistic. He really does not complain much if at all, and the overall crabbiness factor is pretty nonexistent. It has been nice to not have to run over to the doctors so much, and the summer has been lovely so far for just hanging around here.

Lots of other balls are in the air right now, including a deep purge and packing up of the Wygant house to list for sale in early August. In the next few days, hopefully, we will be sending along another sign-up sheet on the web page http://dale411.blogspot.com/ for assistance with packing, moving, hauling stuff to Goodwill, yard fluffing, and some meals. It's a bit of a whirlwind this month but what else is new...

There's no details yet, but Dad has also decided that in lieu of a big memorial service later he wants a big party sometime this year. We are working on the details, and hope to have that event sometime later this summer in August or perhaps September. You all will know the moment we have it figured out.

All our love goes out to you all, and a big thanks from all of us and The Dale.

And a parting shot of the fireworks on the Lake July 5th!