My father, again

[Alaric]

Some of you may remember that a couple of years ago my father was diagnosed with leukemia, and I'm pretty sure I've also mentioned that since that time he's also developed kidney disease. A few weeks ago, he started dialysis- which he had been resisting for some time. This time, the doctor told him point blank that without dialysis he had about ten days to live. After the treatments started, he was moved to a nursing home to recover, and at first he seemed to be doing very well- he was tired, but seemed more like his old self than he had for a while. I was up there for a couple of weeks at that time, and visited him often. Then, he developed very bad pains on one side. X-rays seemed to show fluid in his lungs. Unfortunately, at this point, a nasty stomach flue broke out at the nursing home, and he was very sick for a couple of days, further weakening him. Earlier today (I'm writing this after midnight, so I guess it was actually yesterday) he was taken to the hospital. It was found that what's in his lungs isn't actually fluid, but some unknown substance, apparently mixed with blood. Because it forms pockets, rather than simply filling the lungs, they can't drain it. (Note- I got the description of his current condition from my mother, and neither she nor I are doctors, but what I've described is my understanding of the situation.)

At this time, he's still in the hospital. We'll know more tomorrow (or, actually, later today).

I was planning to go up there for Christmas, but now I'm feeling like maybe I should see about going up a little sooner- having trouble figuring out what to do with my cats, though. If I bring them with me, someone will have to drive down and meet me half way (I don't drive, and the bus doesn't allow pets- and the only train line that allows pets only goes half way). Also, there are other complications- won't go into the details right now... need to get some sleep.

[Uncle Yuan]

Sorry to here this Al.  I hope everything works out OK.

[Glitch Girl]

Here's hoping for things to work out for the best Alaric.  I know this must be hard, all the waiting for news. 

[ow_tiobe_sb]

I wish I could offer to care for your felines, Al, to ease your burden; unfortunately, both my better half and I suffer from strong allergies to cat dander (We would likely die within 20 minutes of exposure.).  Good luck to you, and I wish you comfort in your time of grave concern.

ow_tiobe_sb

[The Phantom Eyebrow]

Very sorry to hear this Al; my best wishes for your father and I hope everything works out okay.

[The Hitman]

Sorry to hear about all this, man. You all will be in my thoughts.

[bat1987]

Sad news indeed. Really sorry to hear about your father.
Hang in there Al, you and your family are in my prayers.

[Lionheart]

Our prayers are with you and your family, Alaric.

[MJB]

I hope everything works out for the best. Just know that you & your family are in our thoughts.

[Tawodi Osdi]

Prayers!

[John Jr.]

Your family is already on my prayers.

[Alaric]

Spent the last few days in Massachusetts, much of the time in the hospital with my father. For a couple of days, he seemed to be improving a little- getting a little stronger, communicating more. I came back home yesterday. Today I got a call from my mother- he's much, much worse- don't want to go into details right now. I'm going back up there as soon as I've made some arrangements.

[daglob]

I am really sorry to hear that.

[Glitch Girl]

As am I.  My prayers are still with you and your family Alaric.

[Alaric]

My mother just called again. My father just died.

[Reepicheep]

Thats terrible news, buddy. My thoughts are with you.

[John Jr.]

I'm sorry for your loss, Alaric. My condolences.

[herodad1]

sorry for your loss A!

[Epimethee]

My condolences, Alaric.

[Cyber Burn]

I'm very sorry for your loss Alaric, my prayers are with you.

[Tawodi Osdi]

Condolences

[bat1987]

Condolences Al, I know its hard, hang in there.

[docdelorean88]

I too am very sorry for your loss Alaric, my prayers are with you.

[captmorgan72]

I lost both of my parents six months apart 11 years ago, I know what you are going through. My condolences.

[The Phantom Eyebrow]

My deepest condolenses Al; I am very sorry to hear of your loss and my thoughts are with you and your family.

[Uncle Yuan]

So sorry to hear this, Alaric.  Expected or not, the death of a loved one is always hard.  My deepest condolences.

[Glitch Girl]

I'm very sorry to hear this.  I know it was somewhat expected, but that doesn't make it much easier.  My deepest condolences to your and your family.

[Alaric]

Thank you all. During the past several years, every time I told my father that a bunch of people he didn't know were pulling for him, sending thoughts, well wishes, and prayers his way, it always made him very happy. You guys are the best.

[Viking]

Really sorry, Alaric.  I'm sure that your dad was also made happy by your unwavering devotion to him.

[BentonGrey]

Ohh Alaric, I'm so sorry.  Our prayers are with you and your family.  I've seen both sudden and prolonged deaths in my family, and I can't decide which is better and which is worse.  When you come right down to it, loss is just always going to be a terrible experience.  I'm sorry.