A very special man in our family recently passed away.
Two months ago, it started out as a middle of the night ambulance ride.
Those always rattle one’s heart especially when it is quiet and then the urgent takes place.
He had a dissection of the aorta which was extremely serious and life threatening in its severity.
He made it through that long surgery then a few days later he had an aortic aneurism which was another serious surgery.
Then he had leg surgery and final number was four very major surgeries in 14 days.
Way too much for most people and he was not an exception.
The stress and the seriousness of the situation was very difficult for all of us.
So much to do and so little ability to know what he could do once he came home.
The days moved into a few weeks with him home and managing specialized care.
Then it all became too much.
He left us a few days ago. His heart just couldn’t do it anymore.
Saying goodbye is not easy.
Remembering him not easy either.
How will I remember?
He was gentle, and kind, he was peace and calm, he was deep-thinking
and a caring man.
He was like my brother I knew him over 60 years.
He was the one who nicknamed me mouse.
He was the one who encouraged me to think on my own.
He was an educator and had a way with kids, and also the elderly.
He was patient and soft, his words challenged me to think.
He loved my humor.
He listened more than he spoke and within that listening you felt heard and known.
I will miss him always.
The house where they lived is not the same now since he is not there.
The atmosphere is different.
My sister is alone and entering into the widow hood the best as she can.
We all will take that turn and walk down that road too.
A very special man in our family left us sooner than we all wanted.
I’ll say goodbye till I get to see you again.