Here Is To You Dad...!!!

   Well I am back and it really feels good.  My father did pass away on August 8th surrounded by his loving family.  So this blog is totally dedicated to my father who courageously fought and lost the battle to lung  cancer and the many people who made his last months so wonderful, peaceful and comfortable.  It is also a kind of cleansing, purifying and closure for me to share some of the last months of his journey...this is really good for my soul.
   I can only sing praises and accolades for the hospice where my dad was a patient.  The nurses and staff have an amazing approach to each and every patient filled with love and understanding.  They are kind, caring and it's not unusual for any nurse to give a patient a kiss good night and a little reassurance with a loving touch or squeeze.  It is truly a special one that can work in a hospice environment.  The nurses  just "get it" there and they know each family is going through turmoil filled with emotional ups and downs.  And lucky for me I bonded with each one of my dad's nurses in such a special way that 2 weeks later and I am already missing them!  For the families of the patients, the hospice feel is one of a "make your self at home and comfortable" by the little basket of treats offered, or the fold out into a bed couch, or even the shower in one of the family lounges decorated just like someones home.
   Nobody ever wants to be in hospice but I feel that if your loved one has to go to hospice...consider them and you lucky to be at a place like hospice!  It sounds funny to say it this way but it sure makes sense to me!
   And in this past 2 weeks it has been entirely overwhelming and so very touching all of the people that want to give you or send you their thoughts and prayers...my mail box has been full of cards and hand written notes.  I am a big believer in "Pay in Forward" and when you are the recipient it is very comforting and oh so touching !!!
   So readers...thanks for letting me put my heartfelt thoughts into this blog, while writing this, many tears have rolled down my cheeks.  But as I am writing this I have had Burt Bacharach music in the background which only reminds me of my dad...so here's to you dad and thank you for the many many memories that are now filled with love, joy and devotion to your family and I will always save the last dance for you!!!