Friday Morning, December 28, 2007

Dave had a visit back to the City of Hope to check the progress of the cancer treatments. There was some evidence that the blood tests showed some weak signs of improvement but the true results wont be known for a couple of days.

The doors for visiting are pretty wide open now with some exceptions if Dave is out for physical therapy. Actually 4pm to 7pm during the week and all day on Saturday and Sunday is best.

One of Dave’s friends sent him an excerpt which we read to him a while ago. It helped him (and us) place things in perspective. I’m sharing part of that with those of you who have an interest today.

Commentator and broadcaster Tony Snow announced that he had colon cancer in 2005. Following surgery and chemo-therapy, Snow joined the Bush administration in April 2006 as press secretary. Unfortunately, on March 23 Snow, 51, a husband and father of three, announced that the cancer had recurred, with tumors found in his abdomen—leading to surgery in April, followed by more chemotherapy. Snow went back to work in the White House Briefing Room on May 30, but resigned August 31. CT asked Snow what spiritual lessons he has been learning through the ordeal.
Blessings arrive in unexpected packages—in my case, cancer.

Those of us with potentially fatal diseases—and there are millions in America today—find ourselves in the odd position of coping with our mortality while trying to fathom God's will.

Although it would be the height of presumption to declare with confidence What It All Means, Scripture provides powerful hints and consolations.

The first is that we shouldn't spend too much time trying to answer the why questions: Why me? Why must people suffer? Why can't someone else get sick? We can't answer such things, and the questions themselves often are designed more to express our anguish than to solicit an answer.
I don't know why I have cancer, and I don't much care. It is what it is—a plain and indisputable fact. Yet even while staring into a mirror darkly, great and stunning truths begin to take shape.

Our maladies define a central feature of our existence: We are fallen. We are imperfect. Our bodies give out.
But despite this—because of it—God offers the possibility of salvation and grace. We don't know how the narrative of our lives will end, but we get to choose how to use the interval between now and the moment we meet our Creator face-to-face.

Second, we need to get past the anxiety. The mere thought of dying can send adrenaline flooding through your system. A dizzy, unfocused panic seizes you. Your heart thumps; your head swims.

You think of nothingness and swoon. You fear partings; you worry about the impact on family and friends. You fidget and get nowhere.
To regain footing, remember that we were born not into death, but into life—and that the journey continues after we have finished our days on this earth. We accept this on faith, but that faith is nourished by a conviction that stirs even within many non-believing hearts—an intuition that the gift of life, once given, cannot be taken away.

Those who have been stricken enjoy the special privilege of being able to fight with their might, main, and faith to live—fully, richly, exuberantly—no matter how their days may be numbered.

Third, we can open our eyes and hearts. God relishes surprise. We want lives of simple, predictable ease—smooth, even trails as far as the eye can see—but God likes to go off-road. He provokes us with twists and turns. He places us in predicaments that seem to defy our endurance and comprehension—and yet don't.

By his love and grace, we persevere. The challenges that make our hearts leap and stomachs churn invariably strengthen our faith and grant measures of wisdom and joy we would not experience otherwise.

Wednesday Afternoon, December 26, 2007

The long Christmas weekend is over and not much has changed.

Dave spent the holidays with friends and family. On Christmas Eve, the family got together at our sister Peggy’s home which is slightly less than a mile from the hospital. That allowed for visits from family members. We had considered moving the party to the hospital lounge but determined it would be a bit overwhelming.

On Christmas, Dave spent the day with Marla, his children, and grand children.

His treatments are working, albeit slowly. His patience is amazing. The highlight of his days are when we read him the messages on this blog, the emails through me at JoeAltman@Altmans.com, and the cards he gets. For all of you who have sent him a message, thank you. And keep up the good work.

Friday Morning, December 21, 2007

Today is the shortest day of the year and Dave is still “hanging in there”. His spirits are good and he has been busy with a lot of friends visiting. The medical prognosis is still very cloudy, but we all understand that Dave’s future is in the hands of God, so we take it one day at a time.

Yesterday Dave had the good fortune to be visited by a flurry of people. George Selzer (who Dave still refers to as George Salazar--Dave he's German, not Mexican, I always to said) who has handled the electronic signs for the company, Santa Claus (really, Santa Claus, all dressed up with the white beard and all– I don’t know who it was but he knew Dave and I only pray I get something good this year), Frank Degelas- a business associate, and Lee Fitzgerald-a long-time friend in the RV Industry, and lastly one of Dave’s friends from church who might have seen me leave Mass early last Sunday.

Dave’s appetite is still not good. There will be pictures of Dave refusing food as memento's. For anyone who has ever dined with Dave, this is a very new experience. Being a sibling, I got to enjoy watching him eat his meal, and well as half of whatever desert I ordered.

Dave is enduring about 5 hours of therapy every day. He doesn’t really enjoy it . He questions if he’s making any improvement, but the therapists have told us his progress is normal.

It was four weeks ago yesterday that Dave fell ill. It sometimes seems like four months but we’ll just be patient. The number of cards and well-wished is astounding and very much appreciated.

The blog has not been updated for a few days because Marla and I were busy every day attending the Christmas Potlucks that each of our three locations has each year. This year the employees overwhelmingly decided the Annual Company Christmas Party would not be much fun with Dave in the hospital, so we stayed with our 3 individual, smaller gatherings.

We had our party in Baldwin Park on Tuesday, Carson on Wednesday, and Colton yesterday. Besides eating way too much, the parties were a great time to visit with our valued employees.

As I mentioned, one of Dave’s visitors on Thursday was Lee Fitzgerald. He flew down from Northern California. Lee and I are about the same age. Well actually, Lee is slightly older since he turned 50 a few months ago, and I’m still hanging in there at 44 (43 in dimly lit clubs and bars).

We’ve known Lee’s family for somewhere around 30 years! Dave served on the Board of Directors for Lee’s dealership, Venture Out RV, for several years and Dave has always had great respect for him.

Jokingly, I mentioned to Lee that he was the younger brother Dave always wanted. I was shocked (very shocked!) when Dave agreed.

Whatever happened to “No Joe, you’re the best younger brother anyone could ever want!”? Or, “No Joe, Lee would just be treated like a red-headed step-child if he were my brother.”

Debbie, Dave’s daughter, quickly grabbed all pillows and any other smothering tools in my reach, so I just sat there and sulked.

I just found out that on weekends, there is no physical therapy staff so family members get to rub this yucky stuff on Dave’s legs and help him to exercise. I hope Lee enjoys his new status as favorite brother.

The only reason I keep this up any more is the nice comments people make about this blog. Thank you. I'll update when there's more news. Or interesting stories.

Dave and Marla's Christmas Message

Christmas 2007

For at least fifteen years, it has been our tradition to enclose a Christmas letter in our Christmas cards to all our family and friends. Dave would always compose the letter and together we would send our Christmas message to everyone. We didn’t want to break that tradition.

We had a great year seeing friends and family across the country, making new friends in Kenya and enjoyed a fantastic Mediterranean cruise with friends in early November.

The Altman family lost their beloved mother, Lillian, to Alzheimer’s disease in February of this year. We welcomed a new grandson and a great grandson into this family this spring. Through Dave’s efforts the new MH/RV Hall of Fame in Elkhart, Ind. became a reality this year.

Tina and John keep busy with Ben, a freshman in high school and Brian in sixth grade this year and all their sports activities. Justin is in our Colton store doing a great job for the company. John’s daughter Janae and her husband Brandon welcomed Ryan William into the family in February.

Debbie and Steve bought a beautiful 2 ½ acre home in Escondido near San Diego and are doing great.

We are so glad to have Steven and Beth, Jacob (9), Audrey (6), Alexandra (5), Vincent (3), and little baby Christopher (9 mos.) near us again. Family is the most important thing in our lives.

As you know our lives changed on Thanksgiving Day when Dave woke with a terrible headache and had surgery to remove a mass from his brain. He has had the best care at City of Hope Hospital in Duarte and now at Casa Colina Rehabilitation Hospital in Pomona that we could ask for. We thank all of you for the many flowers, food, and care baskets, cards, and phone and blog messages that you have sent
It is impossible to thank you all personally, but I appreciate each and everyone more than you know. Dave and I want to thank one and all throughout the world for their prayers and kind words throughout this ordeal.

We are most grateful to Dave’s brother Joe and all the effort he has put into keeping all of you informed of Dave’s progress on the blog. I have to tell you though; he does take a lot of literary license with his comments on the blog. All of us have gotten very careful about what we say and do when he is around.

Dave and I are so thankful this season for our dear family and friends. We thank Joe, Steven, Danelle, and all the personnel at Altmans Winnebago for keeping the company running smoothly.

We wish all of you a very Blessed Christmas season. It goes without saying that wealth is not measured money, but by the many friends and loved ones you have around you. Please continue to keep us in your prayers. God willing, we hope to have him home with us soon.

Please help keep CHRIST in Christmas.

Love,
Marla and Dave

Monday Afternoon, December 17, 2007

Yesterday morning I went to visit Dave. I got there quite early and was his first visitor. He had finished breakfast and was all dressed and I commented on how good he looked. His voice is still a bit soft from the radiation, but he mentioned he felt blessed to have me as his first caller. I wasn’t sure if he was being honest or sarcastic (not knowing how many of my blogs he had read – I knew he had each comment read to him, but I think Marla spared him some of my postings).

I brought up that his breakfast looked like it was good, and he noted that his taste was not up to par so he didn’t care for it. I spotted a box of See’s chocolates and offered him some. That put a smile on his face! I figured I should have some too. We both were smiling.

I then updated him on the business, and told him of my day –getting up early for church, having to finish some work projects from home, cleaning out the cat box and spilling the sand all over my shoes, washing my car even though it was only 50 degrees outside, do laundry, and take care of some Christmas shopping. After about 15 minutes of me telling him of the monotonous day I was having, he had only a short statement to make, “You’re lucky!”.

Lucky! Lucky! Getting up at the crack of dawn to go to church! Finishing up on some projects needed for work because I couldn’t get them done by close of work on Friday. Washing a car. Have cat litter fall into my shoes. And Christmas shopping with the crowds only 9 days before Christmas! Lucky!

And then it hit me. Everything I take for granted is on his wish list; waking up in my own bed, going to Mass and seeing friends, being outside and enjoying the weather – even though it was chilly. And walking around with everyone else at the mall and finding gifts to make others happy.

I promised myself I would never preach or pontificate from this blog. That is better left to those with much greater skills, and who have led much more spiritual lives than me.

But no matter how mundane my life seems. Or how difficult a day at work may seem. I have a home, a job, a family who loves me, and a brother who thinks I’m lucky.

Without doubt, I am. Very lucky.

Sunday Morning, December 16, 2007

As I have been predicting for days, Dave completed his radiation therapy on Friday. He continues to be concerned about hair loss but I tried to explain that hair is truly over-rated and that he should just be happy to look a little more like me every day. I mean, it could be worse. He could look like Don Imus or Don King. In my own little way I try to bring peace to the lives of so many.

It’s now just a wait-and-see situation.

I also wanted to personally thank anyone who has sent candy or food to Dave. Though I guess it’s a tragedy that some of his family members might sample some of it before he can eat it all, he hasn’t lost his sweet tooth.

I was in his room yesterday and noticed a wicker basket with some cookies. Since they literally were calling my name, I decided to partake.

Now I’m not one to talk trash about nobody, but I noticed a little sticker, like those free return address labels you get in the mail from charities in the hopes that you’ll send a donation, that had Marla’s name and address on it.

Since Marla had left the room to make a phone call (that whole bra thing makes her a little uncomfortable when answering her cell phone around me anymore for fear she might give me “inspiration to put half-truths on the internet”), I decided to look around. After all, Dave was sleeping and being alone in room with stuff in it just INVITES snooping.

Everything that belonged to Dave or her had a sticker on it! Candy boxes, books, DVD’s, her brand new camera we bought so she could take pictures of Dave so we can make fun of him when he’s all better, a plate that held a cake! I was afraid to check his clothing for fear there were stickers on that.

Being the thoughtful considerate person I am, I found her stack of return address labels (My Lord she must be a charitable person), and put them on her purse, a box of Kleenex, his glass of juice, the chair she usually sits in, and the inside of her jacket. I figured I’d be like Santa’s little helper and give her a hand.

Then, because even though I’m bigger than she is, she still scares me, I decided to head out before she got back. I’m a little afraid of gong back today but I will.

Dave still loves all of the messages he gets. Marla has pages of notes she takes on his responses to each. It’s his contact with all of his great friends so thank you.

Friday Afternoon, December 14, 2007 (later)

We spoke to the doctor's and asked what's next? When the radiation treatment is complete and now that he's been on Tarsiva for a couple of weeks, when will we know the prognosis of his condition?

It's now a wait-and-see situation. Of course we were hoping that we'd know if remission was around the corner but, from what I understand, it's now time to let the treatment take its course. In 4 to 8 weeks, they will perform more CT scans (I guess you don't want them if you don't need them due to the radiation involved) to check the progress of the cancer.

I liken it to putting a cake in the oven -- if you open the door evey minute, nothings gonna change. Just wait the 50 minutes and then stick a toothpick in it to see if its done. I hope this analogy isn't disrespectful.

In the meantime, Dave will be starting his Physical Therapy everyday at 730 am. Then for about 5 to 6 hours they will be working to bring him back to full mobility. I don't envy him -- but the hospital and his family are there to support him.

Again, thanks to everyone who has left a message for Dave. And if you can't figure out how to do it, you're not alone. Just send an email to me at JoeAltman@Altmans.com and I will print it out and make sure he gets it.

Have a great weekend.

Oh yeah, if something big develops, I'll let you know. And silence on my part is an indication of lack of time and possible laziness, not bad news about Dave. Any big news will be updated immediatly.

Friday Afternoon, December 14, 2007

I guess this blog has been a lifeline to information on Dave’s condition. Please accept my apologies for not updating it since Tuesday.

There actually isn’t much new news. Dave did get his catheter removed (I ran from the room when I heard that was happening; I’ve never had one, don’t ever want one, I know somewhat what they are, and I didn’t want to see it removed!). It can be viewed as one small step for the nurses but one giant step for Dave. 30 minutes later when I had the courage to return to his room, he was smiling and glad it was removed.

Today is the final day of his radiation treatments at the City of Hope. That will give his current care facility the opportunity to work on his Physical Rehabilitation full time without the mid-day excursion to another hospital.

We’ve been warned that the radiation therapy caused fatigue and a loss of voice – that is happening – but hopefully it will be short lived. Marla stopped at McDonalds this morning to get him a McGriddle with egg. I guess he likes them and he’s more likely to eat what he likes than what he doesn’t really care for. Hello cholesterol!

Many people wonder what goes on all the hours Dave is in the hospital. Well, here’s an example. Since we all know that one of the biggest factors in Dave’s recovery is rest, when he finally falls asleep, no one want to do anything to wake him up so we whisper, write notes, panic if one of our cell phones rings, etc.

It was the last thing that might give you an idea of how we spend Dave’s sleeping hours. On Saturday morning, Marla and I were in the room, whispering when Marla’s phone went off. In her back pocket! For the next 15 rings, she struggles to locate her phone and then answer it. Well by that time, the caller had hung up. I decided to show Marla the great “vibrate” mode which wouldn’t wake Dave but still let her know of an incoming call.

We put the phone on vibrate and she put it in the pocket of her jacket. I explained that she needed it next to her body or she might not feel the vibration. After much consternation (the whole back pocket thing wouldn’t work well still) she decided that (oh, she’s gonna kill me for this one!) her bra would be handy.

Well, the first time that phone rang, the new experience of the vibration first sent a shocked look to her face and then a funny smile. (I prefer a front pocket but that’s how bad, bad, bad rumors get started). By last Sunday afternoon, each of my six sisters and Dave’s two daughters had adopted the “bra” thing.

Picture it, 9 women grabbing their bra every time some little buzzing took place. It was so precious I couldn’t let it go.

Also, last Sunday evening, when just Judy, Anne, a family friend, Bonnie Baller, and I were in the room, Dave fell asleep. We all started conversing in whispers, and I noticed that Dave’s mouth had fallen open. You know the look – that phenomenon that we’re all afraid will happen to us if we fall asleep on a plane – the jaw drop!

Since we were making fun of Dave in his sleep, I found a felt tip pen that I thought would be nice to maybe draw a removable moustache and thicker eye brows on Dave, and headed toward Dave’s little, angelic, sleeping face.

They caught me and stopped it, but I just blamed my hospital room boredom. Dave woke up, I denied everything, and we conversed for a while. Dave commented that my humor, including my remark that Marla would be “madder’n Jesse Jackson being paged to a white courtesy phone” if she saw the moustache, was in bad taste.

Then Dave thoughtfully fell asleep and we were back to whispers.

We then got the bright idea to learn about all the features of our cell phones. Our sister Judy decided that she wanted to take pictures of each of us so the appropriate picture would pop up when we called her.

Does Judy really think she’s gonna forget what we look like? Am I the only one who finds it hard to be truly sarcastic when whispering? Losing that battle, we all decided to take each others pictures. And then we each wanted editing rights. A bad picture is a bad picture no matter where’s it’s used.

Seven or eight pictures later, Anne is in the bathroom re-applying her make-up and fixing her hair!

My friends, this is what Dave and I have to endure, day after day.

Dave started to stir and we were out of Krispy Krème donuts to pacify him, so we dropped that project, and just sat there in silence.

So if anyone wants to know, that’s what happens when you fall sleep around my family.

Tuesday Evening, December 11, 2007 (later)

Oh yeah -- State Senator Bob Margett visited Dave today. Dave actually didn't wake up but Bob was very gracious and left a kind note. The Cardinal, a State Senator. I guess I should have been nicer to Dave all these years.

Tuesday Evening, December 11, 2007

I stopped by the hospital tonight and visited with Dave. The radiation treatments are taking a toll on his alertness so he was sleeping much of the time. That’s not so odd – as he got older, from my experience when traveling with him, he went to bed earlier and earlier. That turned out to be ok, as I get older, I want to hit the sack earlier and earlier also.

His appetite is waning a bit and that’s new to al of us. The doctors indicated it was due to the treatments he’s undergoing but it was important that he keep eating. I told Dave I would record that statement for future use by him.

They gave him some medicine that they hid in apple sauce that would increase his appetite. I asked the doctor if he could get medical marijuana if that didn’t work. The doctor actually took me seriously, and said that the drug they were using is preferred.

I told him me and Marla would like to try some (as the only stuff I ever had was the stuff that grew out by my Aunt Angie’s lake house in Nebraska when I was in high school. I tried to inhale but was never too successful. I tasted like alfalfa).

But I told the doc we would give it another whirl if he wanted to leave some. Marla never really agreed to it, but I figured heck, we’re sitting in a hospital, who’s gonna find us? Oh Lord, LOCAL BUSINESSMAN AND GRANDMOTHER ARRESTED FOR STEALING MEDICAL MARIJUANA FROM SLEEPING PATIENT. That’d be a headline.

After the doctor left without giving us any other interesting information, Dave and I talked about what’s happening with the business, so I updated him on all the important things. I also read him a couple of cards but I think he finds my voice annoying.

In addition, I discovered a box of toffee that someone had brought him and Steven and I ended up eating the entire box. I don’t think Dave could eat it in his condition, so we probably did him a favor. Of course we didn’t mention the candy to Dave, or he might have wanted some. Steven and I will chock it up to pre-marijuana munchies.

Dave has three more days of radiation treatment and then he gets to spend all of his time at this hospital. That will be good. Marla is doing well also and taking all of this a day at a time. The family is trying to make sure she gets lots of rest and eats well (except for toffee).

Again, thanks for all your comments – he loves them so keep ‘em comin.

Tuesday Morning, December 11, 2007

A friend of Dave's arrived yesterday afternoon with a snack from In-n-Out, one of Dave's favorite places to eat. Since he has few dietary restrictions, he started eating. His appetite is affected by his treatments, so there was quite a bit left. Not one to allow good food to go to waste, his daughter Debbie jumped in to save the day (and the food for herself!).

Dave made it to his radiation treatment in the nick of time. A combination of traffic and a driver who wasn't totally familiar with where he needed to go, caused a bit of consternation but, in the end, all worked out ok. Just four more treatments to go.

Dave's spirits are still great -- he's in very little pain (just on his backside from laying down so much) and is eager to continue whatever therapy it takes to get him back on his feet.

Thanks again for all your thoughts and comments. Our "reading the blog comments and cards" time is a bright spot in his days. Please don't stop. He has replies for everyone but this web log doesn't allow for responses to comments so just know he's having kind thoughts back.

If you want to get a private message to him, you can always email me at JoeAltman@Altmans.com and I will print it out and take it to him.

Have a great day!

Monday Afternoon, December 10, 2007

Dave's first full day of rehab started today. I'm amazed at all the things they do. They also wanted to check his mental clarity so they told him a story and then asked him questions about the story to test his memory.

They also asked him some questions like "what do a calendar and a clock have in common?" I thought the answer was they both started with the letter "C" but he answered something about time. I think Dave got the more correct answer. I suggested they change the question to "watch and calendar" and I would have gotten it easier. I'm not sure if they paid attention to my recommendation.

He was also taken by special medical unit (no sirens, I asked) to the City of Hope for his final week of radiation. Marla and I went shopping for a new camera for her.

Also, an old friend of the family, Bobby Griffith stopped by. He came to California shortly after we did and worked for Dave while waiting to complete his pharmacist boards. That was back in 1970! Well now, he's some big famous race car driver or owner or something. But the big thing, is that he owns a place at PGA West out by Palm Springs.

And that isn't the big news. The big news is that on the Soaring Over California ride at Disney's California Adventures Theme Park (arguably the best ride in the world), you see his house when your pretend-hang glider soars over PGA West. In our own little ways we touch the stars!

Dan Wilson’s Blog Entry

For those of you who don’t know Dan, he is married to Dave’s sister Mary Lou.

Each day we are faced with a test of our Faith. From the moment we wake up, we have opportunities every second to either keep that Faith or not. This is what our Lord and Savior has in store for us, the choice to go to Him or not.

We pray His prayer,

“Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, THY WILL BE DONE on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we for those who trespass against us and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, amen.”

Note the highlighted words, “THY WILL BE DONE!” In Dave’s case this is our Faith, anticipating God’s will. It is the accepting of His will that is our problem. From the moment we wake up each morning we are confronted with that decision of accepting his will for ourselves. Accepting what He has in store for his servant David, is forefront in our minds today as we all struggle with this situation. All of us are praying for a speedy recovery and that Dave comes back to us better than he was when he went into the hospital on Thanksgiving Day.

We just started the season of Advent in the Catholic Church. Advent is the 4 weeks before Christmas and it is a season that we prepare the way of the Lord. Prepare for the coming of our Lord and Savior in the form of a human being, born in a manger in Bethlehem. All of the chorals, the festivities, the decorations, the manger scenes, all of this reminds us of this blessed event. This is the coming of Jesus, the coming of our Savior; the coming of what we believe will be our salvation.

In preparation for the RCIA class that I help teach at St. Joseph’s, the parish Mary and I belong, there is a second meaning in Advent that is very appropriate to us with respect to Dave and all of us for that matter. That second meaning is the Second Coming of our Lord. Jesus told his disciples that he would come again, but we would not know the time for the coming. In Matthew’s Gospel, Chapter 24, verse 36 it is written, “As for the exact day or hour, no one knows it, neither the angels in heaven nor the Son, but the Father only.” Then in verses 40 - 42 it says, “ Two men will be out in the field; one will be taken and one will be left. Two women will be grinding meal; one will be taken and one will be left. Stay awake, therefore! You cannot know the day your Lord is coming.”

That second coming might be tomorrow, or next year or the day any of us pass away. On the day we pass away we will meet the Lord spiritually and if we have pleased him with our life here on earth, then He says we will have His reward, eternal life with Him.

I asked the RCIA class how many shopping days until Christmas on December 4^th, and they all said 21, actually it was 20, but who’s nit picking. I suppose if you really had to get that last item on Christmas morning, you might find a 7 – 11 open or something, but I digress, back to the point.

The question was then changed to how days until the second coming of our Lord. There was silence in the room, for no one knows. So I asked what about our own personal “second coming”, how many days until then? Actually it is a trick question, because as it says in the Gospel passage quoted above, no one knows that time or date but the Father, we all have to plan that TOMORROW could be the second coming for any of us. We do not know when the Lord will call any of us back to him, and that applies to Dave as well. So the question for us is, “Are you ready?”

If it be the Lord’s will that Dave come back to us completely healthy, fantastic, if he comes back to us with in any other condition, great, but if it is God’s will that this is the time for David to come back home to Him, then we are charged with the task of acceptance. I for one find it very hard to accept anything less than coming back completely whole, but at the same time my Faith tells me that I am not in charge. All we can do is pray that the Lord will be merciful and give Dave his health once again. If it were anything else, then we all have a burden to bear. I ask all of you to pray and pray fervently for his recovery. Also pray for his family in that the Lord will grant them strength and courage in this time of crisis. We all can surely use all of those prayers. God Bless you all for your efforts and Merry Christmas!

Monday Morning, December 10, 2007

On Friday night, Dave was transferred from the City of Hope in Duarte to Casa Colina Hospital in Pomona. Casa Colina is a beautiful place – when entering, it resembles a vacation resort.The rooms are beautiful, the courtyards and public areas are extremely nice, and the rehab facilities are state-of-the-art.

It is also a lot closer to nearly everyone in his family – within 10 miles of most of us (less than a mile for our sister Peggy).Casa Colina is a hospital that specializes is Medical Rehabilitation.

In Dave’s situation, there are two medical fronts that must be addressed – the underlying cancer and his ability to regain physical strength and mobility.The underlying cancer is still being treated, on an out-patient basis, by the City of Hope. Dave will be transported back there every day this week by trained medical professionals for radiation treatment. He is also being treated by special drugs to supplement the radiation.

His Medical Rehab is very aggressive. He is scheduled for 5 hours of rehab (from 9am to 2pm) every day with different specialists working with Dave to get him up and moving as quickly as possible. The regimen seemed a little “strong” to us but the goal is to get him out of hospitals and back to home or work soon. That is best for Dave’s health, to open beds up for other patients in need of rehab, and for the pocketbook.

The weekend was pretty quiet and the cancer therapy is taking its toll on Dave’s waking hours. He sleeps a lot, which is good, but always finds time to wake up and talk when anyone arrives. Dave has also left the non-confines of a hospital gown, and is dressed in street clothes daily. That certainly gave everyone a morale boost as he looked more like the Dave we all know.

Though, last night when we were sitting there, I was dying to ask if a Mint Green shirt actually ever goes with Olive Green slacks? Ever the compassionate brother, I stayed silent with the occasional eye-roll. And since his wife, Marla knows better, we figured his son Steven picked out the clothes.

It reminded me of the days, several years ago, when my mom and dad were still alive. I’d go over to their house for breakfast before work, and Dad would be heading out the door to play golf, wearing something so mismatched that my mom would pronounce, “Gary, you’re not leaving the house like that!” I guess we all turn into our parents sooner or later…

Our sister Judy, from North Carolina, headed back home today. She has a son graduating from Appalachian State University in Boone, NC later this week. She needed to get back and get ready for that happy occasion.

Friday Afternoon, December 7, 2007

I’m learning more about cancer management than I ever thought I would. That being said, Dave is now ready for the next step – rehabilitation.

The severity of the initial brain lesion, and its removal, has necessitated physical rehabilitation for Dave before he can head home and eventually back to work. The need for hospitalization is past so he is scheduled to be moved this evening to Casa Colina Hospital in Pomona, a facility that specializes in physical rehabilitation. It’s located at 255 E Bonita Ave,Pomona, CA 91767. It’s on Bonita Ave just east of Garey.

We don’t know yet what the visiting guidelines are, but will update when we discover them.

Dave will continue his radiation therapy at the City of Hope (Casa Colina will provide the transportation) for one more week and then it’s kind of wait-and-see to determine the effectiveness of his treatments. They will be performing tests on him in 4 to 6 weeks.

In the meantime, the new facility will work on restoring Dave’s physical strength and abilities with the goal of sending him home to complete the healing process.

Dave’s spirits are great; he wants to make sure his new “home” will allow Christmas decorations, and Dave has already decided he wants a hand in determining what, where, and how the Altman family will celebrate Christmas. For those of you unaware, we have a fairly large extended family, and Christmas Eve often sees a celebration with as many and 75 people.

I cannot thank everyone enough for their kind thoughts, comments, and prayers.

Reading those to Dave has even surpassed visits by his dear, loving brother as the highlight of his day (his wife, children, and grandchildren have always ranked first. Let them spend hours every day updating this website, I say!).

Until more news, God Bless.

PS. It’s Friday and I’m not sure of how much news we will have over the weekend. That doesn’t mean something’s gone bad, it just means that time may get away from me, and all of the sudden it Monday!

Friday Morning, December 7, 2007

Sixty six years ago today, the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor and thrust the US into World War Two.

Also, 66 years ago today, on a cold Nebraska Sunday, a litle boy was baptized into the Roman Catholic faith. He was the first child of eight, the son of Gary and Lillian Altmanshofer - most of you know him by Dave Altman.

Since I took the day off yesterday to spend with some friends and family members, I have no update. Yet.

I expect a visit today and some conversation with Dave's wife Marla and his children will yield some information. I'll be back later.

Thursday Morning, December 6, 2007

Yesterday (I’m am honestly sorry about all of the “yesterdays” but when I get home from work, I just end up eating and konking out) they put Dave in a special chair so he could sit up. Though it was kind of a weird chair, it’s a big step. He was sitting there when a group of managers from the company and I walked in the room.

He immediately knew who they were and jumped right into conversations about business. He congratulated Bill Burko, from our store in Carson, for being the top location in November and then wanted more details on how everything was going.

December is rarely a great month in the RV business with the concentration on the holidays and the cooler weather, so I kept trying to change the subject but that didn’t work well. Thank God for nurses coming in the room to check his vitals. They are more interesting than I am, I found out.

Oh yeah, whatever happened to literary license? My point is that my sister Judy is blond and pretty and my niece Debbie is blond and pretty and it was actually Debbie who was shovelling the food, not Judy. That was pointed out to me yesterday. Since they all look kind of alike to me (and they all sound EXACTLY alike on the phone - you tell me what you would do if someone calls you and says its your favorite sister or niece), I offer no apologies. I'm going to buy them some hair color for Christmas so I can tell them apart easier. I think it would help Dave also.

Dave’s family had a meeting with his team of doctors. They are starting to talk that that soon he will no longer need hospitalization, and will take the next steps (possibly a skilled nursing facility and physical rehab place) on his way back to his home. Hooray! The road will still not be an easy one but at least it’s a road.

Dave has a friend, Dr. Vince Fortanasce, who also came and visited and helped with the translation of what the meeting actually meant. This gentleman is truly a gem, not to mention an expert in the field of Neurology and two other words that I cannot spell or even know what they mean. His visit with Dave was such a kind and helpful act, the entire family is indebted to him. And since none of us can pronounce his last name (some Italian name from Long Island), we just call him Dr. Vince.

We also learned that there were some early signs of this problem. On his recent trip to the Mediterranean with Marla and a big group of friends, he noticed some decline in his eye sight. He thought it was merely age (welcome to the world of the rest of us). It wasn't but it didnt stop him from winning $67 from his good friend Steve Simon playing Gin on the plane coming home. Even though he couldn't distinguish between hearts and diamonds. You won't see me playing wth him anytime soon. That $67 would pay for the hair dye for my sisters.

Dave also had a long talk yesterday with his family members explaining that he knew he might die and that, while he will fight this with all of his strength, that if the Good Lord is ready for him, he is ready for God’s will to be done.

He hopes to continue to live, and love, and watch his grandchildren grow up (and probably annoy his younger brother). But whatever the outcome, God had granted him a great and blessed life with a family he loved, a tremendous group of treasured friends and colleagues, and a business that fulfills the people’s dreams everyday.

At first, we were all saddened and afraid he had lost his will to fight. But we discovered he wanted us to know he was at peace with what ever happened.

In June I had planned an outing to Disneyland with lunch at the very exclusive, very secretive Club 33 with some of my sisters and a friend. That day finally came so I won’t be much in touch with Dave. I have moles on the inside though to get me information so, until tomorrow, have a great day!

Wednesday Morning, Dec 5, 2007

If anyone notices the time this is being posted, yes it’s very early. But today is a big day for me at work so I wanted to get this finished on time.

Yesterday, Dave had his second round of radiation treatments. The effectiveness of the radiation won’t be known for a little while but he seems to be taking them well.

With the passing of every day, his interaction with others gets better. He asks more questions, engages is more conversations, and watches everything that happens around him and notices (to the chagrin of his visitors sometimes) pretty much everything.

The staff at the City of Hope have a “Family Meeting” scheduled for this evening which will engage his family (wife and children) with the team of specialists who have been evaluating and treating Dave. It will give the family of chance to get the whole story on his condition, progress, and prognosis, and ask questions as necessary. It’s a pretty important meeting.

Dave (from my non-medical point of view) is doing good. While his attention to his surroundings are good, his appetite is even better. His hand-mouth coordination is still a bit sloppy so, in the interest of making sure he gets the large amount of food he wants, his wife and sisters assist him in feeding.

A few days ago, Judy (our sister visiting from North Carolina) was helping to feed him and he kept asking for her to go a little faster. She replied “I can’t just shovel the food in”. As she continued, and sometimes got a little distracted by the others in the room, he would sit there, mouth wide open, and mumble “Shovel!” His dining experiences have now been labeled “Shoveling time”. Sweet!

Those of you who have dined with Dave in the past know he has a deep appreciation for good wine and pretty much any type, good or mediocre, of food. Well that hasn’t changed. The City of Hope has a menu from which to choose each meal and he is taking full advantage of that. The doctors are pleased he hasn’t lost his appetite. Those who know him figured that is something that he never could lose.

Two nights ago, I had the great pleasure of having Marla, her sister Kathy Jackson from Columbus, NE (our true hometown), my sister Judy, and niece Tina to my house for dinner. It is difficult to imagine a more gracious group of guests. They not only praised my cooking (under no threat of course), but also my talents as a host. It’s odd how we love people who like us.

As I look back on that night, they also left right after dinner, supposedly to get back to the hospital to say good night to Dave. But that also meant I didn’t have to start turning off lights, yawning, start putting on my pajamas, flashing the porch light, yawning some more, and turning off the final lights to have them leave. Like some other members of my family. Who I love. Dearly. Very dearly.

Anyway, off to work soon. It’s Wednesday and, for those of you who know Dave, know every Wednesday morning we have our weekly management meeting at the company. They are stimulating times where we review sales, the marketplace, news (scuttlebutt--gossip is for women talking over the back fence), watch Dave get interrupted by a cell phone call confirming a golf game, employee updates, marketing efforts, another cell phone call, this time from Marla who can’t find something Dave told her to look for, topics anyone needs to bring up, and the final phone call from a golf buddy confirming that some long lost friend is in town and will join their foursome.

Though Dave won’t be joining us this morning, we will be making a field trip after the meeting to wish him well. Maybe he’ll get a phone call! Oh yeah, I’ve forwarded all of his cell calls to my phone. Darn.

Until next time, God bless everyone who has the courage and stamina to read these. Keep those comments coming!

Tuesday Morning, December 4, 2007

I spent much of the late afternoon and evening with Dave yesterday. His spirits are good (he told me a few jokes to include here but I restated that I work alone) and he is getting a little impatient on when the actual treatments will start.

Actually, they did start. He is receiving radiation therapy on his brain. This will continue for two weeks. They said he will probably experience hair loss (welcome to my world, Dave!) and will have some redness around his head.

I guess radiation is kind of like a mild sunburn. Without the sun. And with some healing capacity. Darn, I guess I should ask better questions next time. But the bottom line is that they want any progression of brain lesions to halt. It will make him a bit sleepy which has its benefits and its downside.

He is also being given some kind of pill, it sounds like Tarsiva (I wanted to get the spelling but I didn’t want to sound stupid). My sister Judy thought they said placebo and Dave thought they said Viagra so all I could do is laugh. It’s a chemical treatment for cancer of the lungs that works very well on some patients and not so well on others. They don’t know why it works sometimes and not others, but they think Dave is an excellent candidate for it.

As for Dave, he still wants the Viagra thing. My reply to him was a kind, brotherly, sensitive comment, the details of which I will let to your imagination.

While lying in his bed, Dave has had a lot of time to be reflective. Last night he spoke to Judy and me, and expressed his hope that, if this is his time to leave this earth, that he’s walked on this earth as an example of how one should live their life.

We told him that only God truly knows the answer to that question, but the wishes and comments of people whose lives he’s touched may be a good indication that he’s done ok. He smiled after that, closed his eyes and peacefully fell asleep.

Life is such a fragile gift. On Sunday, the mother of a friend passed away in Long Beach, CA after a struggle with cancer. The mother of an Altman’s employee is having a difficult time recovering from back surgery she underwent last Friday. And the sister and her family of a good friend had to evacuate their home last night in Centralia, WA due to flooding, and may well have lost everything. But in the end, I guess we were never promised a straight, easy path. The twists and turns and bumps help define our life, and how we handle them defines who we are.

Without doubt, the lives of Dave, and those close to him, will be forever different after this bout with cancer. What Providence has in store is unknown.

But the strength and love of those surrounding Dave, whether at his bedside or thousands of miles away through their thoughts and prayers, will prevail.

As I write this, Dave is listening to a Christmas CD, performed by the women of Regnum Christie smiling. Again, thanks for everyone who has prayed, called, sent cards or gifts, or written comments on this blog. It is Dave’s contact with the outside world and is the highlight of his days.

Until more news, God bless you all.

Monday Noon, December 3, 2007

Well, I guess there was more news. Dave had entertainment on Sunday night from his neighbors who are excellent singers, some thoughts he wanted to pass on to his friends, family, and business associates, and treatment is beginning.

My dear, dear, sweet brother had the bright idea to tell one specialist that his voice was annoying to him and the other, a Dr. Chow, received a new name - the Chowmaster. Oh that's gonna ensure great treatment!

Time for damage control.

I now have the wireless modem in my laptop functioning properly so the updates can be even more timely. As I'm typing, I'm racking my brain trying to find someone to blame for the news blackout over the weekend. I've not come to a conclusion as of yet, but have faith -- I can and will find the true culprit. I know it was not merely a part of me being lazy -- that one's for sure.

I have had some requests for guest writers. Well one. From a pushy brother in law. I'll include his input on the next update.

Monday Morning

There isn’t much news yet. Dave has been moved to the main hospital part of City of Hope and the team of specialists has ordered a battery of tests to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.

The weekend was fairly uneventful. Dave’s doctors are most concerned about his rest and have yet to “open the doors” for visitors. He did watch college football on Saturday and had his entire family there to make sure he wasn’t lonely.

Your comments, thoughts, and wishes are one (besides eating) of the highlights of his days. They truly boost his mood and make this difficult time a bit easier.

Sorry for the lapse in news. I was attempting to make my home computer faster and it took me two days to undo my handiwork. It’s back working (as it did on Friday night – no faster though) and I’m counting the days until Dave takes this over himself.

Friday Morning, November 30, 2007

Just as I predicted, Dave is now at the City of Hope in Duarte. His room is private, has its own bathroom, TV/VCR/DVD, plenty of chairs. His food is served by a staff member in black pants, white shirt and tie – “what is this, room service?” I asked. Hopefully soon they will ok visitors. By the way, he’s in
City of Hope
1500 Duarte Rd
Duarte, CA
Room 8507A

His spirits are still great; sometimes a little annoying (he wants treatment to start right away even though the doctors want to continue some tests to make sure the treatment is appropriate). This sounds silly, but they still do not know for sure where the cancer is originating, or exactly what type of cancer it is. I guess it’s been less than a week since they knew it was cancer, so I’ll admit to being a bit impatient myself.

The City of Hope has a great method of treating patients. They do a team approach so all of the experts are on hand at once to determine the best way to approach the problem without being shackled by a lack of information from one discipline or another. And I have a feeling they don’t like to fail so he is in great hands.

Some have asked if there’s anything they can send. Other than your thoughts via this website (he now is getting a little demanding of me to print them out and bring them over to read), DVD’s or VHS’s of funny movies would be a good idea. It will occupy his “down time” and make him laugh. I think there’s a lot of truth to the “laughter is the best medicine” adage. It’s certainly helping us family members through this.

Last night he asked Judy to make some notes for me to include in this blog. I guess that I forgot to tell him that I work alone, and, what does he think this is, Open Microphone Night at the local honky tonk? Is there no respect for creative talent? The writer’s strike going on, and all.

Yesterday afternoon, while at Verizon Wireless securing a modem so my laptop (and God-forbid, eventually his) will connect to the internet without having to find a wi-fi hot spot, I get a call from Judy that he wants to know if I have a tape recorder so he can record his thoughts?

A tape recorder? Record your thoughts? Who are you, Elizabeth Taylor? Well, I got him one so world, prepare yourself. And don’t say I didn’t warn you. Was I supposed to put batteries in it? Darn.

Thank you again for reading this. If you’re new to it, it reads the most recent posting first and it goes back to day one in the very back. And please feel free to make a comment. Or two. Or three! Dave lives for it. In fact, I got a call at 6:30 this morning from him (he convinced the nurse to call my cell phone) to make sure I would print out any new messages and bring them in.

Here Dave, here’s an M&M. It’s yummy! I know it might look like an Ambien CR but that’s probably just the poor lighting. Eat up!

Thursday Afternoon, November 29, 2007 City of Hope

Dave is being transferred today to the City of Hope Medical Center in Duarte, California. We had some indication last evening that this may happen but the City of Hope is very difficult into which to get (ending a phrase in a preposition is something up with which I should not put). Today we got word that the arrangements had been made by a good friend of Dave and that he is being moved.

The City of Hope is a world renowned cancer center, known for both treatment and cutting edge research. It is also fairly close to most of us, about 8 miles west of Covina where Dave and Marla live.

He will be in what appears to be a private room so visiting will be easier. We will let you know what the visiting status is as soon as we get our feet on the ground.

Again, for everyone who has left a message, thank you. Except those who have left disparaging ones about me.

One of our relatives, Mary Lou's son Mark and Michelle Wilson's daughter Sara Lilly, is also in the hospital with a M.R.S.A. staph infection. They will be performing surgery on her this evening I think. Those infections are very resistant to antibiotics so it can be quite serious. She is only two years old and a little angel -- please keep her in your prayers also.

When it rains it pours I guess.

Thursday Morning November 29, 2007

There's not a lot of news from yesterday. We are still waiting for the results of testing so a course of action can be determined.

There is a chance that Dave will be transferred today to another facility; one that specializes in the treatment of cancer and cancer related illnesses. I'm including this in case anyone plans on trying to get a hold of him at San Dimas Hospital. I will keep you informed.

What? Who? Oh, I have to run -- someone from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles is on the phone. This is what I get for my lame attempts at humor.

Wednesday Afternoon November 28, 2007

This afternoon, Dave was visited by His Eminence, Cardinal Roger Mahony of Los Angeles. Dave and the Cardinal are no strangers, but it was certainly an honor to have the Cardinal at his bedside. I wasn’t there but I got excited calls from my sisters who were.

(It is only a rumor that Dave, in his woozy state, requested that the Cardinal record commercials for Altmans Winnebago, with the admonition that if you bought a Winnebago elsewhere, you’d go to hell. I’m sure that even Dave wouldn’t come up with that one. And thank the Good Lord Cardinal Mahoney would have the good sense to respectfully decline.)

Where is that knife I used to slice those bananas?

Wednesday Morning, November 28, 2007

Today is a big news day. The oncologist just met with Dave and some family members and explained the results of the latest tests. I am not medical expert so my translation may be a bit off (or inadvertently way off) so please be tolerant.

There is significant cancer in Dave’s body, it has spread beyond its point of origin to the lungs and brain but the point of origin is important because that will provide guidance on what course of treatment is most appropriate.

Most information points to the colon as the source of cancer but a colonoscopy is required to verify that. They will be trying to schedule that for tomorrow.

If colon cancer is found, there are different treatments available including chemotherapy. They will probably be starting radiation therapy to treat the cancer that has invaded the brain as well.

The obvious question is “what is the bottom line of all this in terms of Dave’s future?” . It is still unclear and dependant upon the extent of the cancer and his response to treatment. My experience has shown that Dave tends to ignore any prediction on his longevity, and makes the decision himself. It appears he hasn’t changed.

After the oncologist left, I read to Dave the comments that many have posted on the website. I first told him who wrote the comment and the actual thoughts themselves. His faced beamed when he heard of all the people who were keeping him in their thoughts and prayers.

He, of course, explained to me who everyone was, how he knew them, and what nice people they were. He then had the brilliant idea to respond to each one. Through me! Well, that wasn’t going anywhere. I’ve helped write letters with him before and I may be a very loving brother but…

When I explained to him the facts of life with a few sarcastic comments, (me, sarcastic – never!) he wanted me to let everyone know that when he is able to type, that HE will respond. But in the meantime, he wanted everyone to know that he will walk out of the hospital soon, and he will do whatever it takes to beat this.

There have been some inquiries regarding sending Dave flowers, gifts, etc. It goes without saying that nothing is required or expected, but Dave’s physical and medical needs are well in hand. What means more than anything, and is truly a gift of inestimable value, is your prayers and thoughts. His spirits jumped when we read him the comments from this blog and the cards that were sent to him.

The doctors have emphasized that right now rest is his best therapy so visitors are still being restricted. This isn’t easy for Dave as many of you know – the more people around, the happier he is. When these restrictions are removed, we will let you know.

And Marla and the family are all doing fine. This is a difficult time but thankfully, God never gives us crosses to heavy for us to carry.

A side note (Geez, am I gonna add these every day?)
When I arrived this morning, Steven was there but Dave was just being served breakfast. He wasn’t really happy with the hospital fare and we asked him what he wanted. “I’m in the mood for Honey Bunches of Oats” “There’s some at my house, with my black bowl and a touch of sugar.”

In the mood? In the mood? This is going to be a long, long, long recovery on me, I thought. So I quickly called his house and asked if they could bring a box of Honey Bunches of Oats. And his bowl. And a spoon. And some sugar.

Well they did, and his precious sister Judy was preparing it and then he asked about a banana. Sliced. Judy noticed an extra pillow I was eying to see if it would fit over his mouth and nose. She grabbed it before I could, and sent me to the cafeteria to get a banana. And a knife.

I guess it’s good I’m such a loving brother.

Tuesday, November 27, 2007

We got some update on Dave’s condition last night. The primary cause of the bleeding in the brain is cancer. The exact cause of the cancer is yet unknown, but an oncologist (a cancer specialist) will be meeting with him today to figure out where the cancer is originating, and then a course of action can be determined.

Cancer is always a serious concern, but the extent of the problem is still not certain. There appears to be no issues with his memory or thinking, so the issues will be primarily with healing his body.

Dave is alert and informed about his condition and is in favor of charging forward with whatever tests and treatment are appropriate. Last evening, when with his sisters, the topic of menopause came up (yes, you figure that one out!). Dave then asked the group if they knew the difference between a woman in menopause and a terrorist. When no one knew the answer, he explained, “You can negotiate with a terrorist.” His sense of humor is still intact.

The road to health can be a struggle; sometimes the road is smooth and other times a bit rocky. Your prayers and thoughts are very much appreciated and helpful.

With the arrival of our sister Judy today from North Carolina, the entire family is now in Southern California to give Dave support.

One last note; many people have asked about visiting. Dave is still in the Intensive Care Unit at San Dimas Community Hospital, and visitors are restricted to immediate family. He may be moved to a regular room soon. When visitors are permitted, we will update this website.

You too can add your thoughts

Should you wish to add your thoughts to this site, you can click on the little "COMMENT" word and add what you wish. Dave will be getting these read to him now that we know he understands what we are saying. You will have to establish a Google Account which is free and pretty easy if you don't have one. I don't know why, it just says you have to.

Monday Morning

Great News. At about 10am this morning, the breathing tube was removed from Dave's mouth and throat, and he is able to talk sensibly and see. We were very concerned about this functions and until the tube was removed, those abilities were in doubt.

Hopefully today we will get information from the lab tests so we know what actually happened and the doctors will probably evaluate his functions to give us a better idea of his long term condition. When we get that information, we will update this site.

Your thoughts, prayers, and well wishes have been and will continue to be so valuable for both Dave and his family. I can't say thank you enough.


A SIDE NOTE:
Today Dave and I were supposed to be traveling to the National Recreation Vehicle Industry Association show in Louisville, KY. The show opens on Tuesday and we typically arrive there on Monday evening. For years we have had dinner with Patricia (Trish) DeBacker, long-time friend and Editor-In-Chief for Kelley Blue Book (those little guides that give dealers and banks information on the value of used cars, trucks, and RV's).

I spoke with Trish this morning to let her know we wouldn't be going and she also has a dear friend, Curt Hoffman, who had been diagnosed with cancer and recently contracted pneumonia. She will not be attending the Louisville show either so she can help care for her friend and I ask that you please include him, and Trish, in your prayers.

Sunday Update

Great News! This morning when I visited Dave, Debbie and I were in his room and the nurse came in to adjust his position from being flat on his back to tilting him a bit to one side.

It look a little effort for her to do it and when she was done and pillows under one side of him, his eyes were wide open and Debbie started asking him questions, requesting that he squeeze her hand in response. For quite a while we communicated with him.

Later in the day, when Marla, Tina, and Debbie had left for lunch, Mary, Leslie, Sue, Peggy and Anne were in the room and had the idea to see if a pen and paper would do any good. And it did. He actually wrote "no" to the question if he was in any pain and wrote "I love my family and sisters [and brother - well, he didn't actually write the word brother but I know he meant it]".

When Marla and family returned, he continued.

I know these are baby steps, but we still are in the dark as to what happened and what caused this entire episode so even little rays of light give us more and more hope.

Tomorrow, they will be doing more CAT scans and should get back the results from the lab on what was removed from his skull. That information will give the doctors the direction in which they need to go next. They will also hopefully remove the breathing tube which will make him much more comfortable and allow speech when he is able to talk.

It seems like a month ago that this all started but it was actually only a little over 2 days ago. The spirits of Marla and the rest of the family are good. Marla is an amazingly exceptional, strong and loving person and her strength radiates through the rest of the family. His two daughters, Tina and Debbie, and his son Steven are an inspiration as well.

Please keep Dave in your prayers -- we should hear more tomorrow.

Saturday Update

Your thoughts and prayers over the past few days have been a great source of comfort for me and all of my family. Even more so, they have been a great help for Dave.

I wanted to update you on Dave’s condition:

Yesterday (Friday) there was little news, though today there have been some encouraging signs. Early today, the nurse went into his room in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at San Dimas Hospital. She said “Wake up David!’ and he actually opened his eyes. Later today, Mary Lou was at his bedside and asked him to squeeze her hand which was holding his right hand. He did. She also asked him to raise his index finger, and he did that also. She then asked him if he could open his eyes so they could all see his “baby blues”. And he responded to that.

These seem like very small steps but they are very encouraging to know that his upper level brain functions are there to some extent.

We have yet to know exactly what happened and won’t probably know until mid next week when the lab results have been returned. We don’t even have a clue and the doctors, rightfully so, refuse to speculate.

They are reducing the medication that keeps him sedated and his breathing tube tends to annoy him so he is somewhat agitated. It appears what he needs most is to rest and allow his brain to settle and have any remaining swelling reduced.

As time progresses, we will begin to know more, what caused the problem, if there are any long term effects, and his prognosis for returning to work. Those of you who remember his stroke about 14 years ago, know that he is a strong, determined individual and if the Good Lord isn’t waiting for him right now, there’s little chance he’ll give up.

Keep up your good work. I plan on being in the office on Monday unless something changes drastically. Thanks again and God Bless!

Thursday Update

Early Thursday morning (Thanksgiving Day) Dave was admitted into the emergency room at San Dimas Community Hospital for complications resulting from a blood clot and possible tumor on his brain.

Surgery was performed about 9 am on Thursday to remove a fairly large amount of blood and other tissue. The tissue will be examined by a laboratory to determine the exact make up of it as well has hopefully determine the cause.

Dave has been sedated since yesterday morning and will continue to be asleep until sometime Saturday or Sunday when the swelling of the brain reduces.

Nearly every member of his family (except for Steven who was in Baton Rouge, LA but is on his way back, and our sister Judy is in High Point, NC) was at the hospital much of the day.
While I cannot minimize the seriousness of the situation, we are hopeful that Dave will emerge soon as healthy and vibrant as ever.

Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated during this time.

The company will continue on its course as set by Dave and will continue to be managed by me. When Dave and I spoke Wednesday evening, we discussed how thankful we were for the great staff at Altmans. I am counting on each of them to be as productive as they can be during this difficult time. The concerns of all of you are heartening.

On behalf of Marla and myself, thank you and we will keep you informed.

First Entry

If you got to this blog, you are aware that Dave Altman was hospitalized on Thanksgiving morning at San Dimas Hospital with signs of bleeding in his brain. The exact cause is still unknown but test results should give us a better idea of what caused the problem.

Dave's wife, children, grandchildren, and sisters and brother have all been at his bedside as have a wealth of friends.

This site has been created to update everyone on his condition as well as add thoughts, prayers, and well wishes.