My Dad is Gone but Not Forgotten

by Vicki
(Chicago, IL, USA)

It's been almost 9 months since my dad passed away from lung cancer on April 15, 2011. Although we suspected his illness for years, he was officially diagnosed only 4 months prior to his death. Needless to say, my mother, two sisters and I were not prepared for his passing away. There were so many things I would have told him; I would have held him and talked about the things that were held so tightly in my heart. Although he knew how much I (we) loved him, it doesn't change the fact that he was not conscious when I arrived to spend time with him at his bedside. We were all there with him when he took his last breath - and I haven't thought too much about that moment since that day. Until now. It's all coming back and grief is really setting in ...

I miss you every day, Dad. I wish I could chat with you on the phone about the trials and tribulations that I am having with my own two little ones. I know you'd tell me that it goes fast and to enjoy it - and not sweat the small stuff. It's truly all small stuff when you think about it. It's so hard to let you go, but in my heart I know you'll always be there for me.

I'll always love you, Dad.