This is Mac. I was able to visit with Bill this week. If love, brains, and dedicated support systems will have any effect then Bill has a shot of making it through this terrible thing. It looks to me like he has the best that can be offered. Abby is an angel - at his side constantly with such loving attention - but she is going to need as much help as possible. Arlene, Kris, and many others who I did not meet are all working hard - and Bill is certainly responsive to these efforts.

Seeing Bill for the first time is a bit of a shock. He's lost weight - from 145 to about 100 - and, of course, is very sick; so don't be surprised. He sleeps and dozes frequently, but is very much there when awake. And while he's obviously dismayed at his condition, he retains his good humor and awareness. Talking is an effort and sometimes painful, so communication is difficult. But his great smile is all there, and he easily indicates "yes" or "no".

There was good news this week. He is responding to an increase in his diet, and has gained about five pounds in the past few days. His heart function is back to near-normal. And antibiotics seem to have cleared up his latest infection. He may have had a bit more color in his face when I last saw him on Wednesday. So it feels like possibly he may be on a long slow grind toward a better place.

Where this better place may be remains a mystery. But Abigail is all in to make the trip with him. Whatever anyone can do is helpful - visit, sit, write, ........anything.