Cancer - 2, Larry - 1

 Cancer won. Not without a fight, but that ugly monster won. The week of June 23, Mama called to tell me that Daddy wasn't doing well. He was more confused than usual, and somehow ended up naked outside of his closet or bathroom. NAKED! My daddy. The man who always dressed in the closet. The man Brooke peeked in on in the shower to see if Pops showered with his clothes on (admittedly, she was VERY young at the time, and very shocked to learn the truth about). After some thought and discussion with my brothers, I decided to go down to visit him on Friday (June 27) and JB was to go with me. This was probably one of the top 5 decisions I have made in my life.

JB and I headed down early that morning. Pops was in bed, but he had enough energy to give me a hard time about bugging him and to order me around. He and JB spent a lot of time together. I don't know what all they discussed, but I do know they planned a golf date for the future and long as JB was allowed to drive the cart - he doesn't trust Pops. It was a wonderful day. When it came time for us to head home, Daddy gave me a kiss and said, "I love you". Only the second time I can remember hearing him say such a thing.

When JB and I got into the car, he said, "I don't think Pops is going to make it much longer." I had to agree. Mama planned to call hospice back in on Monday. Things were quickly becoming more than she could manage alone.

During the night Daddy got up to go to the bathroom. He was so weak he needed Mama's help to make it there. While on the toilet, he leaned on her chest, sighed a contented sigh, and passed. In one of his favorite spots with the love of his life beside him. Probably the best way possible for him to go. Not a day goes by that I don't think of him and miss him. I start to call just to talk and then remember that I can't, so I just talk to him wherever I am. He managed to make a miraculous comeback for a few months, but ultimately cancer won the final battle. At least he went out on his own terms. I truly believe he held on until his could have some time to visit with his oldest grandson. To make sure JB knew he was loved and adored. I just feel honored that I got to be there, too... I love you, Daddy!