Thursday, March 18, 2010

Almost A Year

Last april, I wrote about my brother's diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and how they had given him a short time to live.  At the time, the Doctors felt his cancer was too advanced for treatment, and that he had a matter of weeks, perhaps months to live.   His already devastating situation was more complex emotionally because he's an individual with special needs and lives in a care home in Northern Idaho. 

Two days ago he was taken to the hospital after a nasty fall during which he hit his head.   He had appeared disoriented and weaker than normal that day and they discovered he had peritonitis (sp?) which is an infection commonly seen in people suffering from pancreatic cancer.   They said they could treat it, and he would stay in the hospital for a few days.

 I spoke to him twice that day, and he sounded weaker than I have ever heard him sound before.... I knew it wouldn't be long.

This morning the Doctor called.  My brother had taken a turn for the worse, and developed pneumonia overnight.   "Now would be the time to come" he said.

Burdette, or Peppy as he is called in our family, is an amazing guy.   He was a musically gifted teenager with a bright future ahead of him......but sadly he was also a child of the seventies who's life took a tragic turn, and as a result he has lived the majority of his years in a care home.

The doctor this morning said it had been "-almost a year", since my brother learned his time was short.   And although that "almost a year" has truly been a gift......it just doesn't seem like it's enough.

I have to go pack now so I can say goodbye to him.   I won't be blogging for a few days, but I hope you take the time to enjoy your weekend, and let those whom you love, know that you love them....... because "almost a year" just isn't enough. .

14 comments:

markwagnal said...

Geoff I dont know what to say except I am so sorry. I wish you a safe and meaningful trip.

Cubby said...

Oh Geoff, I'm so sorry to hear this bad news. I hope you get to spend as much good time with him as possible over the coming days.

Charlie said...

((Hug))

Will said...

All my best, Geoff to you and your family as you face this loss. Warm thoughts from New Hampshire.

Brooke Santor said...

I will say a prayer for you and your family. Take care

Anonymous said...

I lost my grandma to this a couple years ago. She was a 2nd mom to me. My best thoughts and prayers to your brother, you and the rest of your family.

Mark said...

Geoff, you have a great opportunity - we don't always get the chance to say the important things to the ones we love before they pass on. Make the most of the time you have. Sending you happy thoughts and warm hugs from New Mexico.
Mark

Lawrence said...

My father died of PC three years ago. I wish the best for you and your family at this difficult time.

ConfessionsFromATrailerPark said...

God bless

Unknown said...

I am deeply deeply sorry to hear about your brother.

Warm thoughts for you during this difficult time.

Anonymous said...

. . .
Hope . . .

kris gilman said...

Have a safe journey, we are thinking of you Geoff.

A Lewis said...

My dear friend, words fail me. I wish clarity for you as you navigate these dark and stormy waters.

KenPaul66 said...

Geoff,
I'm thinking about you. I went through the same thing with my brother 5 years ago.

Luv U,
Ken

 
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