We got a chance to catch up with Charley, his wife and kids Saturday night for some Chicken George. In fact, it was a bit of an impromptu reunion with two other high school buddies and a great friend from college. 10 adults ... 9 kids ... loads of food and pool party next door at the hotel. It was a great time catching up and watching the kids create memories of their own.
We talked a bit about how Boss was doing, and that he and Charley were able to have a few hours of quality time and lucid conversations over the course of Friday and Saturday. It was clear that Boss was in a significant amount of pain and his condition was deteriorating quickly. Charley sounded happy to have made the trip and relieved that Boss seemed ready to move on. Everyone offered their help if Charley or Boss needed anything in the coming months. We parted ways excited to have seen each other and eager to get together again.
Rebecca, the kids and I had just started our drive home down Highway 40. It was bitter, cold, and barren. I heard from Charley a few moments later...
My Dad passed away earlier this morning. I feel incredibly blessed for the time that we were able to share with him. It's clear now that this trip was something that he was waiting for and once complete he felt he could let go. Seeing the joy and laughs that the kids created within his pain was incredible. Thanks for your prayers and support. CharleyNot quite a fairy tale ending, but one that offered Charley and Boss the opportunity for closure. Boss lived a long life, particularly for someone with such a challenging disease like MS. While the opportunity for closure may not seem like much, both Rebecca and I lost parents suddenly and at a young age. It was refreshing and uplifting to see the process happen as it was intended.
During the rest of the drive home, the wintry scene seemed less bitter and more peaceful. Less cold and more serene. Less barren and more hopeful. Thanks for all the prayers and support.
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