Dad

Posted by danleone on October 22nd, 2007 filed in my father

Three days ago, my father was diagnosed with ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease. He has been given two years to live. The strongest man I know with no physical limitations whatesoever today will die from paralysis and asphyxiation in two years.

Will someone please tell me what the fuck I am supposed to do?

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20 Responses to “Dad”

  1. sophie Says:

    I’m so sorry for you all. I have a friend who was diagnosed in 2004–I can’t imagine what you are dealing with. Someone gave me the book Tuesdays with Morrie–not something I would usually read, but it is the story of a man dealing with ALS with gret dignity. Again, I am so sorry, but I know you will find the strength to do what needs doing.

  2. Deb Says:

    You are supposed to have all the conversations with him you’ve ever wanted to have and tell him you love him a few hundred times more than you normally would. Whatever it takes to ensure that once he’s gone, nothing has been left unsaid.

    I’m so sorry.

  3. Prudence Says:

    I could tell you what I know about ALS but then, I know that isn’t what you’re interested to hear because I think you already know about such stuff by this time. Maybe you could just go try living life, making it happy and comfortable for him. But don’t treat him as if he’s a dying man. Just treat him as a someone you love that you want to be with and you want to make happy. :-) The two years isn’t an absolute, you know.

  4. diamondssaphire Says:

    I am so sorry about your dad. Love him, that is all you do.

  5. Kristina Says:

    I’m so so sorry. My uncle passed from ALS last year. Of course there is nothing that we can say or do to take the pain away, but I wish there was. We’re here to listen, though, if that helps.

  6. t'other Dan Says:

    I’m sorry Dan.

  7. Lilacspecs Says:

    Help him be as comfortable and happy as possible for as long as he is still with you. And lean on others for support when you need it, because you will, and stoicism is not always wise.

  8. Sue Says:

    I’m so sorry.

  9. Gina Says:

    I am sorry to hear about your dad.

  10. terri Says:

    I wish I had words of wisdom for you. I wish I had answers. I don’t. Just know that I will be thinking of you and your family.

  11. Jill Says:

    My heart goes out to you and your family. My next door neighbor has had ALS for three years. She can’t do much for herself, but she can still smile and laugh. Her husband took her to a Bruce Springsteen concert and she loved it.

    Give him all the love you can. Stay strong. We’ll pray for you.

  12. paisley Says:

    what do you mean what are you supposed to do… today is today.. do what you want to do today.. you love your dad,, what you do will be the right thing… he loves you,, what you do will be more than enough… live dan.. what else is there for either of you to do?????

  13. Kristina Says:

    so very sorry!!

  14. Loz Says:

    Dear Dan
    Having lost my Dad and leaving much unsaid all I can advise is that you treasure the time you have left and value what has gone before. And if I can echo Kristina know you can vent here and ask for help [even if it is long distance] any time you fell like it.

  15. Jodi Says:

    I have so many words running through my head…but I offer an ear. And my thoughts of some kind of comfort. I know it will not ease the worry, the unknown…yet an unbaised mind and just knowing you are heard can just help with some relief.

    Peace Today my friend,
    Jodi

  16. meleah rebeccah Says:

    I am sooo sorry to hear this, or that you have to deal with this.

    My thoughts and prayers will be for you and your family.

  17. Dr. Troy Camplin Says:

    Love him. Let him know you love him. Tell him everything you always wanted to tell him but were afraid to. And do it while he knows what you’re saying to him.

  18. Tracy Says:

    I just happened over here from cre8buzz and read this. I am so sorry.
    You have lots of great advice here. Mine usually goes something like this: Try not to forget to take of yourself as you face this, it will help you take better care of him and any others who rely on you.
    Peace.

  19. Jackal Says:

    {{{ hugs }}}

  20. Columbo Says:

    Wow. This moved me to tears and has left me not wanting to read or hear anything else for the rest of the night. It has left me with words to ponder and warm feelings for many compassionate souls out there. Some time has passed since this post, but I know it is still fresh and you are still living it. You are not alone. There are some great words on this page that should be read over many times. I’m sorry Dan.

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