Earlier this month we engaged hospice as Ken is at the end of active treatment and the most important thing now is to maintain a quality of life for him. Hospice is care that focuses on comfort and assistance where needed. The providers come to the house and are able to triage issues. Ken is still fully physically independent so we are early in the process. They can even help arrange things like massages, music therapy, legacy projects (video taping & recording) as well as all the medical stuff. We’re just getting to know our team but we are quite impressed by them.
We have also been fielding vaccinated visitors throughout March, like Kali’s Dad & stepmom, Kali’s cousins and Ken’s mom from Virginia. It’s a little bit of a juggling act but luckily everyone is staying elsewhere and the house routine remained largely intact. We are looking forward to other family visitors in April too. Ken is now fully immunized and Kali gets her 2nd shot Wednesday! We are glad to have received our vaccines–though we are still masking and taking all the precautions. Ken has been struggling with fatigue and elevated blood pressure–but we are trying to get that under control with medicine. The nicer weather is buoying his spirits and he hopes to take more neighborhood walks.
Calvin will be returning to half-time school next week which will be a shift in our daily experience but we know after being away from school & friends for over a year, he is excited to be going back. As for Sidney in middle school, they haven’t told us the plan yet.
We are grateful for all the family and friends who have been checking in, keeping us in their thoughts and sending us so much love during this time.
Love,
Kali & Ken
Our thoughts are with you guys and we’re rooting for you! Glad to hear you are able to spend time with family ❤️
My dad received hospice care, and he and my mom looked forward to the visits. We were all thankful for the wonderful hospice staff because the help was very positive. I’m glad to know Ken is receiving this care. I think of you guys often; stay strong and stay happy.
Kali, Ken, and family,
Do know that you all are in my thoughts and that I’m sending you love and virtual hugs! It’s wonderful all of the support you are receiving (family and professional care).
We read your blogs each and every time you write, Ken and Kali, and we thank you for sharing your thoughts with each of us via this service. You are a most special family and we are just two of your many admirers/supporters and loyal members of the Ken-Kali Fan Club. Love, John and Sandy Barney
I keep trying to find the right words but fall short every time. Just know that we love you all very much.
Ken, we knew each other only briefly but your story forces me to remember how important friends and family are. Thank you for sharing.
Oh, shoot. I’m so sorry to hear this news. I always think of you when I walk Millie or drive past your place, wondering what’s going on behind those walls. I was praying for a better prognosis and response to treatment. I’m happy that you found a good hospice team. They will be a great support to all of you on this journey. Sending you prayers from the Jancolas. Please know that our arms are reaching out to you, from a distance, in a giant, Covid safe hug of love and support!
I’m so grateful for this post because it is encircled with so much love. Ken, you are amazing and the family that you and Kali have built is clearly so strong. I think of you all often. Much love. God bless.😘
Thank you for capturing this beautiful family moment. It warms my heart that you are surrounded by so much love and your amazing family. Keeping you in my thoughts and sending you so much strength.