My Dad by Rose

iVillage Member
Registered: 02-19-2007
My Dad by Rose
21
Tue, 02-20-2007 - 12:41pm
My Dad, Ted, was so intelligent. He knew everything about electronics and science. His passion for learning spilled onto me and my brother.
Dad had renal failure and was on dialysis. The diabetes took his vision. Ironically, Dad was a photograher. The last wedding pictures he took was that of my brother and sister in laws wedding in 2004. That all changed in October of 2006. We had the unfortunate diagnosis of terminal brain cancer. The docs gave him 2-3 months without radiation. He had 3-6 months on radiation. Do you know that the doctors talked about my Dad as if he wasn't in the room? They would make statements like, "We suggest that you stop the dialysis and don't attempt the radiation." My Dad replied, "I want to have my 72 birthday party at the end of December. We are doing everything!" MY DAD ROCKS!!!
We had his 72 birthday. My family, husband and 2 kids in college drove in from Texas to Michigan. The party was held at the nursing home. It was so much fun. Dad mingled with everyone. He was so awake, eating constantly. I loved watching him.
In January 2007, Dad had his left leg amputated. He went down hill quickly. The right side of his body was not moving. The tumor was on the left side of the brain. His eloquent speech was gone. He slept constantly.
My brother, sister in law, niece and I were with him when he passed. Heartland Hospice of Grand Rapids Michigan was with us. God I love them. It was so beautiful-peaceful. He died on Feb.13,2007, on a wintery Tuesday night,
I know in my head that it was for the best. However,my heart misses him!
I have started to work on my journal again. That has helped so much.
My Dad always told us not to be mad when someone dies. I am not angry with him- I am angry at the cancer.
I see the word cancer in red and black bold letters. I have made an appointment to talk to someone at my church tomorrow. I just don't want this anger to consume my life and block out all of the great memories of Dad.
Thanks! Rose

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iVillage Member
Registered: 01-26-2004
Fri, 03-09-2007 - 5:17pm
What you posted is just what others need to hear!
AcornLeaves

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