After taking three years to find a primary care physician when my previous doctor retired in 2017, I finally had what I call a physical, but what is now deemed “an annual wellness visit.”  I am happy to report that I am in good health for my age (66).  My heart is functioning well, and most of my bloodwork is good (although I have high triglycerides and somewhat high cholesterol.)

This week, I purchased new hearing aids.  My previous model had lasted much longer than planned, eighteen years. They were no longer able to be overhauled and there was too much amplification. I realized I was struggling to hear in noisy environments. The new hearing aids have really helped, and I have not experienced trouble in adjusting to them. Some of you may not know that I have had severe-to-profound hearing loss in my right ear since I was 18 months old.  Until I had my first hearing aids in my late 40s, I had never heard any sound in that ear.  With the new hearing aids, my right ear has a transmitter that sends all the sound to my left ear where I have excellent speech recognition. This is a substantial improvement for me. Now, I’ll REALLY be able to hear what you say in confession!

Almost all of you know I have been preparing for dental implants for a year. I had most of my upper teeth surgically removed last August 2 and the remaining four teeth on February 14.  I have been in temporary dentures for a year with restrictions on biting and chewing almost everything. This week, my dentist made impressions and sometime in the next month, I will have the final implants and return to normal eating. One good side effect of my restrictions is that I have lost 22 pounds since last summer.

My left eye is stable, with no recent progression of macular degeneration. I receive an injection in my left eye every 90 days. I only drive at night to St. James and back, and nowhere else.  Daytime driving is challenging enough!  Fr. Hackett also struggles with this condition, and we have been able to support each other.

I appreciate the prayers and encouragement I have received from many of you. Most of my difficulties are the result of normal aging. I know many others who have had more serious difficulties, and their courage and perseverance inspire me. I remain grateful to God for the gift of my life and the gift of my priesthood.                Fr. Gary