A little background

Dad worked for the military for a long time. Mom will have to validate actual dates. I recall it being close to 30 years. 27 maybe?

After he retired, Dad suffered heart problems. He had a triple bypass. He recovered. Some time after that Dad was diagnosed with cancer. Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. I was in my twenties then. I lived in another state and didn't have the opportunity to be up close and personal with that battle. Believe it or not, that was tough for me.

Dad battled that cancer and won. He had chemo and radiation and bone marrow transplants. That was nearly 15 years ago. Maybe more, Maybe less. I only remember that I was mid twenties, working to make ends meet and felt helpless aside from the power of prayer.

Either way, dad beat it. As usual he was resilient and I've been incredibly proud of him and grateful to God for how he handled that stage in life and how God handled him. Thank you God.

Since then he has suffered many complicated health issues - primarily because of his cancer. He's had a stroke (which he denies). [Dad - If you don't like the way I've given the background, then please dictate to mom to write a new post. It would be nice to get the facts.]

In general I've felt a combination of pride and sadness for Dad for a long time. Who would want to struggle through all that he has? How can it be fair?

Yet, I don't allow myself to wallow in those feelings of sadness because I KNOW and BELIEVE that our struggles in life make us grow. I've seen dad grow. I've seen him change. I've seen him become softer and more loving and more caring for many people around him. Those are the things that make me proud. He is not bitter or angry. He speaks like a man who has won many battles in life.

I love that about you Dad. Thank you.