Manny update

Dear James, Daniel and Emily

Sad sad news tonight. We had the family for dinner tonight, which was good, because the prognosis after a second opinion from another neurologist is that, barring a miracle, Manny is not coming back, the brain damage is too severe.

The kids: Dennis, Tammy, Kim and their families (including Steve) are planning on going to Connie's tomorrow and clean the house up, not remove his stuff or anything like that, just clean it up. That and assess exactly how much work remains on the kitchen remodel so we can plan that out and get it done as soon as is feasible.

The goal is to soften the blow for Connie as far as 'real life' as much as possible. She is very sad of course, but she has also very clear rationally made some decisions on the things that she needs to do as far as the finances etc. My biggest fear is her withdrawing into herself in response to all the tragedy in her life in recent months and years. Which was why it was so important to have another fun family dinner tonight, despite the circumstances. Because the bottom line in a situation like this is that the people you look to is your family. And one of the things I love so much about Kim's family is that despite their differences and difficulties they are very close and quick to go to each others aid when necessary. So I think we can pull her through this, but I will still look for a professional to help her as well.