I am in awe of the love and concern shown to me and my family by my Ebenezer family. If you are a part of EBC, I want you to know how much I appreciate you and that you folks mean the world to me. If you are not … well, you need to be!! With all of that written, many people ask me about how my dad is doing. Sometimes I say “about the same” and sometimes I’ll even admit to “not too well.” But I think there is a deeper answer. One that I do not want to give, but I believe it to be true.
Dad’s disease is progressing. That is NOT a positive thing. Dad has NPH (normal pressure hydrocephalus), which basically is too much spinal fluid in his brain cavity. It acts like Alzheimer’s, or Parkinson’s, or that catch-all diagnosis of dementia. The bottom line is physically, Dad is not doing too bad. But mentally, he is not well at all.
With Dad, the main problems are memory loss that grows more severe every day and loss of muscle control in his feet and legs. The physical symptoms really don’t seem to be getting worse. His memory, however, is another story.
Years ago, all of this started with small holes in his memory and thought processes. Most of the time, you would never know he had NPH. Slowly, however, the small holes have grown bigger. Now there are small moments of clarity and more memory loss. And it continues to grow. And my Mom, who has ALREADY earned sainthood in my eyes, feels her heart break a little more everyday for her high school sweetheart to whom she has been married for almost 59 years.
Yes, there are treatments for NPH. A cranial shunt is no longer an option, although Dad had one that helped for over 5 years. He does have a lumbar shunt, but it only does so much. So we place all of this in the precious and loving hands of God. And, you’d better believe this is a painful thing for my Mom, for me, and for my family.
So many of you have asked “What can we do for you??” Right now, pray for us. Especially for my Mom, Janet Wike. And know that your prayers are greatly appreciated!!
The Random Thinker 
Your mom is more than a saint. I often wonder how in the world she is holding up and keeping that beautiful smile on her face. My prayers are definitely for your dad but more so for your mom, her health and her heart as it surely breaks a little more everyday. Love to you all.
David I saw your Mom and Dad last week at golden Corral. They of course were with Frankie, Charles and Sue. Your Dad knew me (I am glad) I leaned over to hug him and he responded as though he were happy to see me. Your Mom is a super woman. I know it is hard both physically and emotionally on her. I remember when they were just sweethearts. I will keep them in my prayers and their children too. I know the hurt a child goes through with parents.
Love you brother! We will definitely keep you all in our prayers. It is so wonderful to see them @ Anita’s. We don’t make it on Friday nights like we used to, but when we do, it’s a pure joy to see them there.
Hey, I completely understand. My dad has the same thing. Although he does not have the diagnosis, side effects are the same. That’s why we are not at church more often. We r always taking care of someone.
I know the struggles you and your family are facing……my heart breaks for you all…but know that our prayers are with you!