Remember when I talked about Gramps?
He's been in the hospital since the day after I left New Brunswick on my last visit (since May 16th). And tonight my dad called to say that the tests came back and Gramps has cancer in his bowel. He's 91 and he's ready for the end. He's outlived a lot of his friends and he told my great-aunt that he's tired, very tired. I just wish it could have been the easy way. Cancer is a bastard. A real effing bastard.
I feel awful for my father because, although he has experienced the death of a spouse, my mom, he hasn't had to suffer the loss of a parent. It's like some strange role reversal for us. I've lost a parent and he hasn't. My dad is 65. Not many 65-year-olds have both of their parents. And since my mom died, my dad has become a real softie. He was pretty choked up on the phone with me tonight. I wanted to hop in my car and drive the 5 hours home just to give him a big hug.
Sorry to dump this on you guys. I might be going home in the next week or so for a visit, so don't be concerned about me if I don't post in a bit, ok?
we love you!
ReplyDeleteThose things are hard no matter what age they hit you at. I hope the trip there goes all right and that you're able to comfort your dad, and spend some time with your Gramps while he's still here.
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to hear your news -- best wishes to everyone in your family as you try to cope.
ReplyDeleteIt just sucks losing family. Take care of your dad and yourself and know that we're thinking of you.
ReplyDeleteAw, sweetie, I'm so sad for you and your family. Cancer has ripped its way through my family too; this may be the wrong thing to say but I hope he goes easily.
ReplyDeleteGo see him. My granddad was released from hospital after heart problems and my brother (always granddad's favourite) spent the day with him tinkering in the shop, then ten minutes after my brother left to go home, granddad fell down dead of a stroke. It gave me so much comfort to know he spent his last day with his favourite person, doing his favourite things.
You and your gramps are in our thoughts.
Loss is hard no matter the age. I'll keep your family in my thoughts.
ReplyDeletecari
(dogsstealyarn)
Oh Steph,
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry to hear that - I read your Gramps story, he sounds like a wonderful man. I hope your trip goes well, my thoughts to you and yours.
Terra
Oh, Steph... I am so sorry.
ReplyDeleteSending hugs to you and your family. Hope you get some good bonding time together...
We just received the same news about my dad-in-law on the weekend. He's 85, and as you say, ready to go. But we're not ready.
ReplyDeleteKeep your chin up. Be dad's brave girl.
Hey Steph....
ReplyDeletewhat can I say? That totally sucks comes to mind. I'll be thinking of you and your dad. Hope you have a safe drive and call me soon, K? love you.