Ghostly Apparition on 6/8/2007 at 04:12
Say goodbye to my father...
He wasn't flashy or someone who had to have the latest fashions,
But he was rich in the things that mattered most. Character,Truth, Honesty, and a belief in hard work and family. Things that the world today seems to have lost sight of, but that never mattered to my dad. He always did what he thought was right.
He went to work every single day of his life until he retired, and raised six kids and taught us those same values. I can honestly say I can't remember him ever taking a sick day, I guess he must have, but they were so few I can't ever remember one. He gave me some of the best memories a boy could ever ask for. Camping trips and fishing in a pond, not saying a word for hours because that would scare the fish away. Not that there was any need for words between a young boy and his dad.
Now he's in a nursing home in the last stages of Alzheimer's. Looking so weak and frail. I never thought that could be possible. My dad.. a man who could literally crush your hand in two with a handshake if he wanted to, now lies in a bed unable to do the simplest things without help. But, true to form, He never complains. I wouldn't have expected any less. For this small frail man, to me.. is a giant among men.
Goodbye Dad. Thanks just isn't enough to express my gratitude for what you've given me.
maxmon on 6/8/2007 at 04:17
Wow, sorry man.
It's always hard to see someone leave.
Thief13x on 6/8/2007 at 04:17
I'm truly sorry and saddened to hear about this Ghostly. The man you described reminds me of my own dad (I'm 1 of 8) and I can only imagine how much it would kill me to go through what you are. :(
jtr7 on 6/8/2007 at 04:40
What a hard, hard thing to witness.:( :sweat:
And yet...
...your words are a great tribute to the man! What an honor to have a man such as you described as a father.
My sympathies, G.A.
Mr.Duck on 6/8/2007 at 07:21
:(
...<3
BrokenArts on 6/8/2007 at 14:43
My sympathies GA, I know what it is like to deal with a loved one that has this.
They are but a mere shadow of their former self, hard to watch, hard to deal with sometimes. Be there and comfort as best you can, you already are.
lomondtaffer on 6/8/2007 at 15:17
The best thing you can do is to always remember him as you describe him in your moving description. What an inspiration he must have been. Stay strong; many of our thoughts are with you.
LesserFollies on 6/8/2007 at 16:59
I lost my dad about five months ago, and before he died he too went through that horrible period of being lost in his own mind, unable to care for himself or recognize those around him. You have my sympathies. Alzheimer's is a cruel bastard of a disease, taking the person's soul and leaving the empty, confused shell. I hope they can find a cure or better treatment for it someday. :(
the_grip on 6/8/2007 at 18:01
i just lost my grandfather last week... he was the only WWII hero i have ever known and one of two men that i attempt to emulate in my own life.
We are also looking at putting our two dogs down this week (Thursday).
i do not mean to litter your thread with my own griefs, but i wanted to let you know that you are not the only one grieving out there right now... my sympathies are with you in an empathetic way.
Shayde on 6/8/2007 at 19:55
My condolences GA. :(
You are lucky to have had him in your life.
