Monday, September 29, 2014

Kathy and I Visit Daphne, Den and Irene


Sunday, September 28, Kathy and I met with Daphne Dempsey at her new residence in Bothell.  She is safe and comfortable in her apartment where breakfast is served in her room and she is surrounded by her artifacts and memorabilia collected over a lifetime.  Daphne treated Kathy and me to lunch in the dining room then we returned to her apartment to meet Den and Irene Dempsey and Den’s care giver, Sam.

Den has been challenged this past year with an aneurism followed by a stroke which has not affected his memory, cognition, reasoning or ability to read, but has affected his motor skills.  He can stand but requires a wheel chair to get around.  He has limited use of his left arm and hand.  He is able to speak, however, the stroke has immobilized the right side of his face which makes forming words difficult. 

Kathy was able to understand much of Den’s conversation and Sam is able to express clearly Den’s meaning.  Irene is arranging for a speech assist device to enable Den to communicate clearly on his own.

Irene explained the medical procedures Den has experienced and their anticipated move to a small home in Everett.  Daphne shared news about herself and told several jokes which caused bursts of laughter.  Den spoke about his experiences and got a few laughs, too.  He asked about my health issues and expressed concern for my well being.  Kathy related news about her quilt making and showed photos on her phone.  Sam good naturedly listened to all the conversation and clarified when needed.

After Den’s visit to the Tri-Cities last year he and I felt not only a kinship but a brotherly affection as we share common values and interests.  Daphne, Bob and Burt have been very generous sharing photos and family history with me.  I will make a priority to visit Den, Irene and Daphne when in Western Washington.

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