I hope you and your family have some quality time with lots of good memories, laughs, hugs, and peace. I have not yet experienced sharing the end of life with someone. I lost my father due to a car accident 9 years ago, so I didn't get to say good bye. The thought of having to walk with someone at your father's stage of life is terrifying to me, so when I come up to that experience in my life, I will remember your posts and that book. I guess we will never know which is worse, a long, sad good bye or not having the opportunity to do so. You are a strong person and a good son for being so supportive of your Dad and step mom. Your Dad is your hero, but I'm sure in many ways you are a hero to him. Just think of the pride and satisfaction he must have for you knowing that he raised a compassionate, loving, and loyal son. I wish you peace and comfort in the coming time.

With great care,
Kerri


37 y/o fem at Dx (23 wks preg @ dx on 3/16/11)
SCC L oral tongue (no risk factors)
L partial gloss/MND 3/28/11 @ 25 wks preg
T1-2N0M0; no rads/chemo
Tonsillectomy on 8/6/12 +SCC L tonsil T2-3N1M0 (HPV-)
Treated with 35 rads/7 carbo & taxol (Rx ended 10/31/12), but many hospitalizations d/t complications from rx.
Various scans since rx ended are NED!
Part of genetic study for rare cancers @ MGH.
44 years old now...I wasn't sure I would make it! Hoping for 40 more!