Ten years ago, I celebrated my dad's final birthday on earth. In the last several years prior to that time, we had celebrated our birthdays together since my birthday falls three days after his. This particular year was no different except that his partner's grandchild also had a birthday and was added to the mix, and, yes, this was also his first birthday since his ALS diagnosis.
My dad was fortunately still able to eat and move around despite having been diagnosed with ALS four months prior. I knew deep down that this would be his last birthday, although I still hoped and prayed that he would live to celebrate his birthday again.
I remember the many photos that were taken during this celebration. I also remember feeling conflicted because my dad had originally not wanted photos taken of him while he was battling this awful disease, but his girlfriend insisted. Now, looking back, they stir both positive and negative emotions. I see how gaunt my dad was and how tired he looked. This was a man who always had a hearty appetite — although he was the slowest eater, he'd happily clean the plates of others — and he loved to go off and bike on the trails for hours! However, looking back now, I also see the same old dad who I know and love; I really was fortunate to have been there to celebrate his birthday on that day.
Ten years on, I continue and will continue to celebrate his birthday/our birthdays and be thankful for the time that we had together, including playing with me as a child, attending my school performances, traveling together, but mostly, the times we comfortably sat together in silence watching tv or reading.
Cheers to you, dad. ALS may have taken you away from me, but it will never take away the precious time we had together and the memories that I will forever hold dear to my heart.
コメント