Jack has popped into the office here and there throughout the week. Of course, we here in Atlanta are lucky we get to see his face and have a hug. Here's a virtual hug, in the form of an update, from the man himself:

These past weeks have had their measure of challenges and victories.

Since Hospice withdrew the various pain medications I was on, and placed me on Methadone only, the pain has been basically under control. I’m on a massive dosage and my ability to stay awake has been hampered, but most of the time I’m able to function rather well. In meetings, if someone will sit by me and keep me awake, I am able to give pretty sound input into the discussion! Of course, I’m pretty well bruised from Anita and Grace poking me!

I’m not sleeping as soundly as I would like at night, and for the first time in several weeks, I have to take an occasional medication for break-through pain. At times I wonder if I’m slipping to another level in my battle with cancer, but the Hospice nurse tells me that my vitals are strong and she thinks I am not in the final stage yet.


One major adjustment that I’ve had to make is not driving. I can now understand why old folk have such a hard time when their driving privileges are taken from them. It is a mark of the loss of independence. But with the large dosages of pain killers I’m taking, I would be a danger on the road—to self and others.


I’m enjoying visiting with family and friends, although it is taxing. My brother and sister and their spouses were here for the weekend. Anita’s family has also dropped by for a visit. Today, I have friends from Singapore, Thailand, and New York who are stopping by for brief visits. I’ve been reminded again how much family and friends mean to me!

- Jack

Read Jack's latest Along the Journey, posted today. Click here or go to http://alongthejourneywithjack.blogspot.com/.