Just wanted to let you all know that my family is doing well. We have Christmas for the children, thanks to Toys for Tots and CoastKidsChristmas and many of you! We received two extra bikes that we were able to share with two other families. We put up our tree, and it's beautiful!
I had to go to the hospital yesterday for a chest X-ray because my pleurisy is not getting any better. I see the doctor again Friday. When I was leaving the hospital, I almost had a panic attack. Lat year, on December 9, I brought my dad to the hospital to be admitted for tests. The tests revealed that his pancreatic cancer had grown around his upper intestinal tract and closed it. He eventually had to have a feeding tube inserted, and this prolonged his life one week. He passed away Dec. 24; he was at my house on hospice. I was at his side when the angels came to get him. Our last conversation was the night before he passed away. I asked him if he needed anything. He said, "No." I said, "Daddy, I love you." and he replied, "I love you, too." Then he slipped into a catatonic state. So, being at the hospital for the first time since last year brought back all the memories, good and bad. I miss him.
Please Dmail me just to day "Hi." I miss the interaction with all of you. I'm getting one of the best birthday gifts ever. My birthday is Dec. 17, and my son in the army will be home Dec. 18 for Christmas! I am so looking forward to giving him one of the biggest hugs I can.
My mom gave me many pictures of my dad. I've scanned them into the computer and am making my sister and brothers a slide show on a CD for Christmas. Can't afford to do much of anything else, so I hope my gift of time and love satisfies them. Please let me know how things are going for all of you.
Here's a picture of me and my dad.
Love, julie
