Brian - many, many hugs and sympathies, for you and your family.

what about either you or Pat taking James for a short visit very soon?

Thanks, Hobbitbabe, for having the courage to say this first - 'cause I was thinking that too and wasn't sure if it would be right to say. Brian, I agree with Hobbitbabe that if there are doubts as to whether your father will still be around and up to receiving company in June, then it's likely a good idea if the family visits him sooner.