Overwhelmed. grateful and Re-focused

I was overwhelmed by the quantity and quality of the responses to my previous message, even by caring givers whose current problems with their loved ones (and even with their own health) far exceed those I currently face.

I was tempted to write back to each of you but pressing priorities did not afford the time. I thought about at least listing the names of the many correspondents, public and private, to whom I am indebted, but fear that my aged memory might omit the name of an important contributor. So instead let me say that the collective messages touched me deeply, evoked a sense of supportive warmth, further illuminated the value of Mayo Connect, and most important re-focused my thoughts about my quandaries about the present and the future.

Among the words and phrases that seemed leap from the screen were acceptance, avoidance of hurt to our loved ones (and thereby to ourselves), combatting aloneness, reaching out to sources of help before it's too late, sensitivity to changing conditions and responsive adaptability thereto.

All recognized that every situation is unique and that dogmas should have no place in our thinking. I am, as a result. determined to sharpen my focus on changing circumstances, my wife's and mine. To do what is best for both of us while we still have the wherewithal for astute decision-making.

Most gratifying was the recognition the support structure of this community. I was joyful that among the responses to my message were moving interactions between respondents about their own anxieties. Despite deep self-concern, people were reaching out to help others. Who could ask for more?

Thank you all again. To paraphrase an old song, "Stay as sweet as you are."

Tom