Tuesday, November 29, 2005
Last Time Alive
I still don't feel like providing a detailed break-down of my dad's condition, so I am going to give the short version. Before the holidays, the doctors told his wife that he has about a month left. I'm not an expert, but judging by his condition, I'll be surprised if he lasts more than 2 weeks. Sunday, after two of my brothers said goodbye, my dad became very depressed & refused to eat. Yesterday, he refused to drink too. To me, that is a sign that he is ready to go. He will definitely be much better off because this is no way to live.
His wife is planning to bring him home the middle of next week (assuming he makes it that long). We talked to hospice on Friday & they'll bring a hospital bed & visit as often as needed. My youngest brother is planning to wrap up work & pack some things this week to head back to help take care of him.
Fortunately, it was easy to see that he appreciated our visit. There were 2 particular times that he was extremely alert. Once was when my brother (middle one) offered a family prayer on Thanksgiving. I was peeking & saw my dad's eyes fly open & he was intently listening. My brother talked about not being worried about us because we are well taken care of. He also said it was ok to pass on and that we were so thankful for his wife. The other time, he was very alert was yesterday morning. One brother, Steve & I had gone to see him before heading out. His wife asked me to let him feel my belly. Suddenly, his eyes were wide open and he was desperately trying to soak in the moment. That is a weird thing to experience, but I think it meant a lot to him. There were other times that he was definitely trying to interact, but was not quite as alert.
My eyes filled with tears many times over the last week, but I think hugging his wife goodbye in the hospital was the worst. We all knew it was the last time we would see him alive. Her sadness made it too hard to keep it together. We will always cherish this last family visit with him.
my name
Husband:
Steve
Baby: Lexi (born Jan 26th)
This blog is like a journal for me. It is also a way for my friends to keep tabs on me.
For people who don't know me, I come from a big family (3 brothers & 1 sister). We moved around a LOT, so I am not really from one particular place. I like to call Katy, Texas my home though.
Recent news, my Dad & Mother-in-Law were diagnosed with Terminal Cancer in April/May of 2005. My dad passed away 5-Dec-05 .
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