Tag: ALS
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Ice Bucket Challenge Can Make a Difference
When I first heard about the ice bucket challenge, I didn’t get the point. What the heck does pouring a bucket of ice on your head do to help those suffering from ALS? But then I saw how much money has been raised: as of August 20, over $31.5 million has been donated to the…
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Dancing with Dad: an Anniversary Post
The day is February 28, 1998. My dad stands tall and proud, grinning in his tuxedo with polished cowboy boots. Since boots are made for jeans, he says he hopes they don’t make noise swishing in his tuxedo pants as we walk down the aisle. I show him my own boots hidden under my wedding…
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ALS Awareness Month
I hate ALS. This disease took more from Dad than his final breath: ALS stole his speech. ALS stole his ability to eat, or even swallow his own saliva. ALS stole enjoying a cup of coffee with friends at Waffle House. ALS stole cruising through the mountains on his Harley. ALS stole wood-chopping and physical…
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Grief and Denial: Head vs Heart
I’ve taken training classes about helping others through grief; I’ve read books and articles on the subject, been a listening ear for friends trudging their way through it. I know denial is the first “stage” of grief. I suppose I’ve often pictured it rather dramatically. A heart-wrenching scene, possibly even accompanied by sobbing and/or hysterics….
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Remembering My Dad
A week ago today, my dad passed on. We knew the end was near but, stubborn as ever, my dad went on his own time. He’d had a horrible night. I am forever grateful to his longtime friend for staying overnight with him at the hospice center; I don’t know how I would’ve dealt with…