my father
As you all know, I have struggled for years with my father’s sad illness with Alzheimer’s disease.
Finally, on August 25, one day after I had seen him for the last time, he died. My sister Jill and I, together with her wonderful husband Joel and their two girls, Jane and Molly, scattered Dad’s ashes in our pond, at our beloved Red Gate Farm, just a day before I came home to London. It was good that we were together.
Later on, this fresh month of September back home, I will write more about the magical four weeks I spent in America. August was a maelstrom of emotions — birthday love with my mother, emotional reunions with friends, glorious times as a chicken farmer.
But for now, our thoughts and emotions are locked in the past. A better past with our dad and grandfather. Rest in peace, Grandpa Paul.
Oh, I am so sorry for your loss. It is not easy, no matter what age…
Thank you.
Sorry to hear about your loss Kristen. It is always hard even when (or perhaps because) in a sense it is a bereavement that already happened some years ago as he succumbed to the disease. My father had Parkinson’s for many years before he finally left us and many of the symptoms were similar. Thinking about you and your family, best wishes, Hilary
Thank you, Hilary. It has been such a long time. What I’ve come sadly to realise is that even when something is “for the best,” it does not mean that is is good. But we are coming along.
Sorry for your loss, and the delayed response, lovely friend. Agreed that even when something is “for the best”, it doesn’t mean it’s not difficult. The grieving process is different for everyone, but I’ve found it comes in waves. Cherish the memories of your father and give yourself permission to feel sad. We need to catch up.
My dear, we do need to catch up. It has been a very long process, but I’m still in the middle of it. Will be in Indy for a memorial in Thanksgiving time. xx