Message from Albert's Family

***Thank you for all your continued support and patience. We will be communicating with you via this blog and via the albert6363@gmail.com email. Please DO NOT CONTACT ALBERT'S FAMILY BY PHONE.***

The family apologizes for the delay in updating you. This was due to the suddenness of the events that have occurred, the family's wish for privacy and respect for Albert.

On Wednesday August 6, Albert and his family went to see his oncologist to discuss treatment options, prognosis, and possibly get his second round of chemo. However, a variety of tests indicated that his blood oxygen level was below the target level. The oncologist was very concerned and Albert was transported to the nearest hospital, Fair Oaks.

The rest of Wednesday and Thursday, Albert was tested and given oxygen in the ICU. Tom saw him Thursday night and although Albert had to pause to breathe and think at times, he was otherwise engaged.

On Friday night, Albert's breathing had become labored and as a result, a breathing tube was put in and then later a feeding tube as well. At this point, Albert was under a lot of sedation and pain meds and was not very responsive.

The next several days were spent trying to determine the cause of Albert's reduced lung capacity. During this time, the visits were not interactive and there was no news.

On August 14 and 15, it was confirmed that Albert's breathing was irrevocably impaired and primarily due to the cancer. The lead doctor guessed that 50%-75% of his lungs were affected. The doctors asked Albert's family to consider when they might terminate breathing support.

Over the next several days, Albert's family considered and pursued all alternative options but these efforts were unsuccessful. They also discussed the possibility of visitors but decided against it for a variety of reasons including Albert's preference in his waning days.

Today Albert's family will set in motion the process of removing Albert's breathing support. This will likely end his life, but if things go unexpectedly well Albert may be transferred to a hospice facility or to a non-ICU hospital room for a while.

The family has decided that Albert will be cremated but will not announce any formal memorial plans for several days. They would like to have a large memorial in the Bay Area that would incorporate all facets of his life (kayaking, rollerblading, One Brick, poker, school, work, San Diego, UD, etc.) Having a big repository of memorabilia about Albert will not only be comforting for the family but also will give them a blueprint by which to remember him in the future.

The family would like your thoughts and ideas on the best way to do this. Please email your thoughts and suggestions to: albert6363@gmail.com.

Thank you once again for your patience, support and understanding.