One of my best friends and roommates before I was married, Anne, lost her father yesterday. He had been very sick, but had never gone to a doctor. Friday, he called Anne and complained that he couldn't feel his left side. We thought stroke, but when they examined him at the hospital, tumors showed up in his lungs and in his brain. The one in his brain was bleeding, causing the paralysis.
We gathered to be with Anne Friday night around midnight at the Harris hospital in downtown Ft. Worth. He was moved to the Paliative Care wing of the hospital (Hospice). It was really nice and quiet up there. We stayed most of the weekend in that area. Monday, he was moved to a non-profit hospice free of charge (very much a blessing). We knew it wouldn't be too much longer, though.
Tuesday around 11am, his already-labored breathing changed. Anne was there with a few of her friends from church. 20 minutes later, Anne's dad's friend, Roger, showed up. It was pretty quick after that.
I said on facebook that it was peaceful. Let me explain. Mr. Holibaugh (Anne's dad) had this favorite song that he called "The Christmas Song." He gave CDs of this song to everyone he met. Anne's friend Heather had received a copy when she went to take care of him while Anne was in India earlier this year. She happened to still have the CD in her car. They played his favorite song, and he breathed his last breath. Anne was there with support for her, and her dad had his friend Roger. I can't think of a better way for it to all happen.
My prayer is that God will continue to carry Anne through this tough time. He's definitely answered that prayer so far! I know the next few months are going to be very tough for her. Please join with me in praying for her.
Our group of friend from college ("The Sassy Seven") are gathering. Kristi is coming in tonight from Alabama, but can only stay for the day. Allison is finding a way to get here from Pittsburgh. Jenny and Dearing are driving up from Austin. Angie and I live in the area. Please pray for safe travels.
