Warm comfort of visitors

The time passes slowly while waiting for death. It becomes more clear as each day passes that the remaining days are likely few. The presence of friends and family has been comforting to both of us. I am certain that JB appreciates everyone that has come to visit and keep him company.
This past weekend we enjoyed visits from several friends, some of whom have not been present physically for years, but have always been in our hearts across the miles that separate us. Family continues to play an important role in the care taking process. JB's sister Susan made the journey from Iowa to spend yesterday afternoon and overnight. Her desire was to spend time with JB as well as offer me a break from the overnight duty of keeping JB safe and as peaceful as possible.
A long time friend made the visit from Fergus Falls to see JB yesterday evening. Jesse has known JB for years, and 11 years ago JB participated with the birth of her first child as her birth coach. I have heard stories many times of how meaningful this was to both of them. Years have passed since they spent time with each other, but they have always remained in each others hearts. The energy level in the house and in JB's body spiked upon her arrival. He managed enough energy to come down stairs and 'entertain' our guests. He even gave Jesse a brief tour of our home and then looked at a few pictures of the young woman whom he helped give birth to. If only for a few moments yesterday, it was pleasant to see JB regain a semblance of his former mind and spirit. Of course the visit was taxing on his system and less than an hour passed before he returned to his cancer induced exhaustion.
Another close friend Emma visited as well. Emma, JB and Jesse all became close friends back when they were all attending college in Morris Minnesota. These were days before I knew JB but since then I have been fortunate that these special people have made a place in their thoughts and hearts for me as well. After JB returned to sleep we all chatted for a few hours and shared stories together.
A new week begins and a routine is becoming established for the day to day care of JB. Feeding in the morning before I head to work, supplemented with medications to reduce the pain. Family and friends arrive for the bulk of the working hours to keep him company. I return home later in the afternoon to continue watch over him. The hospice nurse returns tomorrow and likely an aide will visit a few times this week to provide a sponge bath. There have been no alarming details to describe from the last few days regarding JB's status, which hopefully means his pain is managed and he is passing the time as peacefully as possible.