Uncle

I love my family...and it is times like these that make me realize just how much.

My Uncle is losing his battle with prostate cancer.  He has been fighting it for over 20 years and with his medication, had it under control.  Until about 6 months ago.

He looked thinner...he was tired...and a little cranky. 

After getting all the blood work done, the doctor could see the something was going on.   The medication that he had been taking for over 20 years was no longer effective and the cancer had spread to his bones.  He was determined to fight it and get stronger...but this damn thing got the better of him. 

He can't get out of bed and can barely talk.  He isn't eating much anymore, but is still taking small sips of water and juice.  The pain in his body is so unbearable - morphine is now administered to help him sleep.

My Auntie, his wife, is just so sad...I can't imagine losing the love of my life.  The mere thought gives me a knot in my stomach and tears flood my eyes.  My other Auntie, his sister, is stronger than I have ever seen her. 

We went to see him Thursday night with the boys...he LOVES his great-nephews.  I couldn't believe how thin and frail he was...but I smiled.  I gave him kisses and brought the boys to him.  He opened is eyes and he looked happy to see us.  I told him that I loved him and would he just get stronger so we could take him to Carson City?  Maybe it was wishful thinking, but I swear he winked at me.

After the boys wake from their naps, we will head over this afternoon and spend some time with him.  We'll watch the football games because he enjoys them so.

That man has been like a father to me since my Daddy died in 1989 and Mom followed 3 years later.  Life without him will be strange. 

I just keep thinking in my simple way that he is on his way to see his brothers, his parents, and joke around with my Mom like he used to.

Oh Uncle.  I just love you.

That's all.