Hope for Cancer: June 2010

With Father’s Day approaching, I had an idea to write about my dad. The problem is, I’m not a “writer.” So, I kept asking myself, “where do I start?” The only answer I could ever come up with was... “I just don’t know... wait a couple of days and maybe the words will come.” Well, that hasn’t worked for me yet! I’ve waited a couple of days (and a couple more, and a couple more... you get the drift), and I still don’t know where to begin. So, I’ve decided to just start writing and see what happens. I was a “daddy’s girl,” at least that’s what my mom always said. I guess I can see that...we were a lot alike. Dad was a patient man, kind of quiet, but always friendly. He also had a bit of a stubborn streak... I’d like to think that I’m not stubborn, but there’s a few people that would probably disagree. He enjoyed photography, flying airplanes, and he loved to sing. He was good with his hands... he could figure out how to do most anything he set his mind to. But the thing I remember most about him was the strength and character he showed during his battle with cancer. My dad passed away on December 8, 2000, he was 68 years old. He fought cancer for five years. He fought with dignity and honor. It made me proud to watch how he treated his doctors and their staff whenever he had an appointment or was in the hospital. He was respectful, kind and always kept his sense of humor. It was apparent that he was liked and respected by them as well. Of course, he had his flaws, don’t we all? But, he was a good man, and I’m extremely proud to be his daughter! Happy Father’s Day, Dad... I miss you!

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Remembering Dad