Steve's blog

A few years ago, I mentioned my dad's fight with cancer. He survived that, and has carried on for several more years since. He had a replacement hip fitted last year to improve his mobility, and was looking set to enjoy a good long retirement. Until... Just before Christmas symptoms suggested that the cancer had returned, and with a vengeance. Tests confirmed it.

We were hoping that Dad would fight on and win through again this time, and I was looking forwards to him being at my wedding this September. But there have been a lot of unexpected complications this time and it's just not going to happen. I spoke to him last on Tuesday this week, but he was delirious at the time. He hasn't really been conscious in any meaningful way since.

I'm composing this message in the hospital in Southport where I'm now waiting for my dad to die. We've been told by his doctors that it's not going to be long now, but they said that on Wednesday too. My dad has always been stubborn, always a fighter; we know that this is a fight he can't win, but that isn't stopping him from trying his hardest. At least he's being kept comfortable for his last few days, with plenty of strong painkillers on hand when needed. Please let it end soon.

19:19 :: # :: /misc :: 10 comments

Comments

Re: Dad ill again
Leonardo wrote on Sun, 13 Feb 2011 20:43

Steve, though we don't know each other, I just wanted to say I'm sorry for what your father and all your family are being through. Wish he could win this fight, whatever the outcome!

Re: Dad ill again
Andy Cater [amacater@debian.org] wrote on Sun, 13 Feb 2011 22:03

Steve,

So very sorry to read this. Though I know you well enough to chat to when we meet and have mailed you in the past, I've nothing useful to say except that I'm sending some thoughts your way.

Take care

Re: Dad ill again
blaw wrote on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 00:50

Steve, I am so sorry about it.. i dont really know what to say, just be strong and take cake of you and your family..

best wishes from México

Re: Dad ill again
Santiago Garcia Mantinan wrote on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 01:16

Sorry to hear this, I hope that the strength of your father stays with you to pass this moments. Regards.

Re: Dad ill again
Matt wrote on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 02:35

Sorry to hear this, I understand how you feel. My prayers are with you and your family.

Re: Dad ill again
Kevin Mark wrote on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 10:19

So sorry to hear about your dad's sudden illness. Finally had a chance to meet you at Debconf10. My sympathy to you and your family at this painful time but he is luck to have you at his side.

Re: Dad ill again
jordi wrote on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 10:53

A big hug, Steve.

Re: Dad ill again
ryan wrote on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 18:03

Thinking of you and your dad. Thanks for sharing the hard stuff too. Hugs!

Re: Dad ill again
David Moreno wrote on Mon, 14 Feb 2011 18:38

God bless you and him.

Re: Dad ill again
Mackus wrote on Tue, 15 Feb 2011 21:49

I feel for you. It's really hard knowing someone you love is about to leave and even more painful to want it happen sooner so that the suffering will end. My sympathy to you and your family.

Your Comment