The Vigil

I mentioned a few days ago that Bubba was not doing well, and we were having problems keeping him on his feet.  He's been managing quite well with our help this week and I wasn't worried too much about him. Yesterday he was having a bit more difficulty but together we managed and he seemed fine.  However, last evening he came into the office, lay down and fell into what seemed like a deep sleep.  Our attempts to rouse him were unsuccessful and afterwards I noticed that Bubba was shivering.  Thinking it was a 'focal seizure' I put a coat on him, and covered him up hoping it would pass.  It did somewhat, but Carl stayed with him through the early hours of the morning.  I got up about 3 AM to check on him, and let Carl get some rest.  There has been no change.  He is warm and his breathing, continues to be slow and deep.  He seems comfortable, and really appears to just be in a deep sleep.  However, he is a little responsive to my talking to him, and shortly I'll wake Carl to see if we can get Bubba to wake up and get him on his feet.

Nearby is Bubba's life companion, Toby, who has not left his side, even at my insisting that he go out, he won't leave him.  Just inside this circle and watching over the two is Sam.  I wish they could tell me what they know.  When my eyes met Toby's, there was an instant that I think he may have.  I am feeling an old wound in my heart opening once again.