Everything for Tatay today.

Thank you for being here. I typed all of this myself, in my own words. Call me only if nothing on this page fits — I'm finally taking a real break.

— Joël

Today · Tatay

Dad was up most of the night, so he'll probably sleep till noon — that's normal, let him. His foot's been sore this week (gout), so no meat-heavy food and no soda today, even if he asks. He might tell you he already ate — check the kitchen; no plate means he didn't.

The basics · Tatay

He gets up around noon.
Pills in the white box on the microwave — noon slots, with food. Remind him or he won't take them.
Lunch: rice and fried fish is the safe bet.
If he says no to food, wait 20 minutes and offer again — don't push.
Keep his water cup filled.
He'll watch TV most of the afternoon — that's his day, it's okay.
Fresh briefs are under the bathroom sink. If one gets left, just bag it — don't make it a thing.

Watch for · Tatay

If you see
He heads for the door, says he's going to the store
Then: Don't argue. Tell him lunch is almost ready and steer him back to his shows. That usually settles it — mention it in your note after.
If you see
His foot swells, or he can't walk on it — That's the gout.
Then: Sit him down, foot up. It'll keep till he's home — only call him if the pain looks severe or he can't put weight on it at all.
If you see
Suddenly way more confused than usual, or shaky and sweaty
Then: Get some juice into him and call Joël right away.
If he doesn't come back to himself quickly — call 911.
If you see
He says something that doesn't make sense, or sees something that isn't there
Then: Don't correct him. Keep him calm, put his shows on. It passes — mention it in your note after.

Who to call · Tatay

Comfort & connection · Tatay

What to call him: Call him Tatay, or Papa Joel.
TV: He likes his shows — westerns, Wheel of Fortune.
Treats: One sweet is fine — the sugar-free cookies in the pantry. No soda.
How to talk: Short sentences, one thing at a time. Don't quiz him — no 'do you remember.'
Avoid: Pushing conversation. If he's quiet, sit with him — he likes the company more than he lets on.

Thank you, Shawntae.
You're giving him the break he needs.