Norman had a large thymoma removed on March 20, 2025. They needed to crack open his sternum to get access. Then it will take a minimum of 6 weeks (he thinks it'll be longer) for his sternum to heal. Until then he needs to be careful not to use his arms as weight bearing, so he doesn't break open his incision. While recovering at home he may need help getting up and down, lifting his legs onto the bed, etc. He will need to take walks, initially around the house and then outside, and needs to have a buddy with him. When Rachel is tutoring, it would be most helpful to have friendly visitors who could cover these tasks. In our kosher kitchen, Norm is the only one who cooks and eats beef and poultry. He would appreciate occassional fleishig meals prepared in a kosher kitchen, since he won't be cooking for a while.
Since Norm is immunocompromised, when you come to visit or drop off food, we will need you to wear a mask, and only come if you are well and have not been recently exposed to any contagious illness. If you would like to help us out by providing a meal, we are basically on a plant based, low salt diet, although we do eat fish. Norm and Rachel eat dairy and eggs. Micki is on a kidney diet, so she mostly avoids animal products including dairy and only eats eggs when they are hidden in something like bread or cake. Rachel avoids spinach, sesame seeds(tahini) and chia seeds. Norm appreciates medium spice/heat. Rachel & Micki prefer mild spice levels. We typically use organic produce and use only olive and avocado oil. Norm also likes to order take out foods through DoorDash. Thank you for all of your love and support. Any help you provide is truly appreciated!