Our Visit With Bob
For many years I worked out at the back of the pool , near the deep end, with my friend, Bob Willis.
We did aquafit together but our mouths got just as much of a workout as we chatted most of the class.
Bob is an incredible man. Kind. Funny. Mind like a ‘steel trap’ as they say.
If I’d forget someone’s name of the 50 or so folks who would swim Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, Bob would casually whisper the answer.
He usually had a joke for me every week.
Our pool group is so unusual as most of the group became friends even outside of the pool environment. We continue to be in regular contact with about 20 of them!
Bob is a husband whose bride has left on her journey to Heaven a few years ago.
I think he raised 3 boys and 1 girl and is beloved by them and their families. Everyone loves Bob.
St. Joseph’s is a beautiful hospital but we were kept from visiting our 91 year old friend due to Covid restrictions.
But since arriving home the restrictions have ended (while protocols continue) and we were able to finally visit our wonderful friend who now resides in palliative care.
He has a bit of dementia and is very tired . I wondered if he would remember us?
At first there was no recognition but when I pulled my mask down for a minute he said in a loud voice, “ This is AMAZING!” And we went on to have a wonderful visit for about a half an hour.
Of course Bob (with help from his daughter, Sandy) would write a note on the board to all the staff who take care of him. That is Bob to a ‘T’.
Although I could tell he was getting tired, Bob was clearly aware of all the folks we mentioned and we had a really nice time visiting with our dear friend.
God bless you, Bob. Not sure how long we will have the blessing of your earthly presence but every day with you is a gift!