[msk1986911]

My brother was never that motivated (I think due to an undiagnosed learning issue) and has always had a tough time fitting in. He has always had a pretty severe speech impediment (stutters when especially nervous) that could just not be resolved, which can make it tough for him to communicate.

The family that he married into can best be described as a family of takers for the most part. Since they readily accepted Will, he was, I think, easy picking for them. I don't doubt that he is suffering from some level of depression…wife dies; the "family" that you thought had supported you was ripping you off for years and left you high and dry after the gravy train ended. Making matters worse, he is pretty much a shut-in due to a physical disability (doesn't drive and walks with the aid of a walker) all at the age of 55. The living conditions after his wife passed away and he moved to his current home were deplorable. Since then, we have done what we can short of straight hand-outs. My wife found an organization in the County in which Will lives that does home repairs for those who cannot either do the work or afford the repairs. Will's place was chosen as a project last Spring. the work they did was astounding and very inspiring. Through that experience, Will connected with his next door neighbor which has been nothing short of great…taking Will to doctor's appointments and spending time with him when he can has helped us out as well since we were his primary mode of transportation prior to that point.

It has been tough to connect with my brother, although we are trying to get to some level of a relationship.

The gifts were a set f Bose headphones for each kid (6 in total when you add our sister's 4 to the mix). I am over this but, $900 for Christmas seems like a lot when you don't have much. I am letting that go and won’t be saying anything about this year's gift but will try to preempt any excess for next year.

Thanks again for the well thought out inputs from all.

Mike