Journaling - My Dad went into the ICU this morning with trouble breathing caused by the fast growing cancer in his lungs. I wanted to go see my Dad after lunch, as I had s14 with me and thought we could go together after he woke up (late sleeper).
But brother had different plans. B/c Dad was on a breathing tube, they wanted me there first thing in the morning, and then they would remove the breathing tube. This seemed too fast to me, but my brother and sister were the ones who had all of the information, so I moved as fast as we could.
S14 and I went over and it was a nice surprise to see 14 other family members there to give my Dad their love and support. The Pastor came and gave Dad 'The Commitment'/Final Rites, which was beautiful. The Pastor removed the tension in the room when he had us all join hands and sing 'Jesus Loves Me'.
The breathing tube was removed, and we expected Dad to pass away shortly after. But he is strong, still has his sharp mind, and he wasn't going to pass away today. One of his highlights was after they removed the tube they gave him ice cream to soothe his sore throat.
I kept W and kids updated with texts.
After it was clear Dad was doing well, I took s14 out for lunch then back to W's place. S14 was being quiet and stoic (just like my Dad!) W greeted us when we pulled up, and W came and gave me a hug saying "it's not right for us both to lose a parent in the past year" (W lost her Mom a year ago), and I agreed.
W then asked if I was going back to the hospital and I told her I was. W then asked me if I wanted her there with me. I told her "no".
Right now, as I am thinking and praying for my parents and my family, having W around is uncomfortable and an unwelcome distraction. I think om is still living with her, and I know I can't be around her b/c of this. This is why I did not want W at the hospital with me.
Tonight Dad got moved to a hospice care facility close to my parent's home. W loves my Dad, and they have known each other for over 20 years. So when W texted me asking if she could visit my Dad, I answered "of course" and gave her the hospice's address.
I gave my siblings a 'heads-up' that W may show up at the hospice at any time, so they should be prepared. Sister gave me a crazy face emoji response. This is a tough week.
PS thanks bttrfly for your prayers and kind words.
