Inspirational Stories

On April 20, my 79-year-old father was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) after a routine blood test. A scientist, he explored all of his options thoroughly. The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) was instrumental in providing us with accurate, up-to-date information about AML. He has chosen to prioritize his quality of life. Instead of chemo, he is spending his final chapter with friends, family, and favorite activities.

On May 31, we hosted a special event celebrating him while he is still with us. One hundred and thirty guests flew in from around the country for the event, including his five college roommates from when he was 22 years old. We looked at photos, watched videos, and sang Thank You For Being a Friend and My Way together. We heard from numerous friends and family from all phases of his life, funny, poignant stories, memories, jokes, and even poems. It was beautiful.

As his only child and daughter, I gave the opening remarks. Here is a draft of what I said:

I’m so happy that many of our friends and family are with us here today. What an unexpected and surreal situation we find ourselves in. Bubba, who was born not in a delivery room but in his home. Bubba, who has never been to an emergency room. Bubba, who has never undergone elected or required surgery. My dad, the epitome of health, vim, and vigor, who has never needed to go to a hospital from birth until today, has suddenly been afflicted with a disease that has no cure for someone of his age. He may be gone in weeks, or perhaps months. We are shocked, we are saddened, we are angry, we are confused. Yet, I am SO happy to see you all here today. Bubba has lived a BRILLIANT life. Tonight, we will look back and reminisce – WITH him.

My father is an outlier among people, a one-of-a-kind individual with an unparalleled mind and disposition. It is not that we expect him to defy the natural cycle of life. Death is a singular certainty. Yet, it is our deepest hope that his final chapter will be as beautiful and as exceptional as the rest.

Tonight, together, we are creating a love-filled thank you and goodbye for a beloved father, husband, uncle, teacher, and friend.