Steve had a long, courageous fight with brain cancer. When we were told 5 1/2 years ago that he had 6 months left to live, we were all devastated. We have been beyond blessed with these unexpected years. My children got to know their Grandy, got to experience his amazing love and were showered with his praise and attention. Jared and I had three full years of living back in San Antonio and less than 3 miles from my parents. We absorbed our time with Steve like sponges, knowing that this dreadful disease would one day return and steal him away.
Some of you read the sweet story of Harper's last day with her Grandy on his Caring Bridge site. She quietly asked if she could sit with Grandy, climbed up in his lap and lay still as stone while Steve gently swept his fingers over her forehead, her cheeks, her chin. They soaked each other in, almost as if they each knew their time together was limited. Just a day later, Steve would suffer from another seizure that would severely limited his ability to function.
A few days later on Monday morning, Jared unexpectedly decided to stop by Mom & Steve's to say goodbye before a routine work trip. That night, my Junior League meeting ended early and knowing I had a sitter with the kids, decided to swing by at the last minute to say hello. Steve was doing pretty poorly but little did either of us know that this would be the last time we would see him. He had rallied so many times and we just knew he would rally again. But I have to say, I almost prefer that I didn't know. My last words to Steve were "I love you" and with a nod and a smile "Love you" were his last to me. What more could I ask for? Two hours later, I received the call from my mom saying he was gone.
These last couple of weeks have been hard but I am so grateful that his suffering was short and his spirit is now fully restored. I am also completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support we have received. Wow, do we have an amazing group of friends and family!
We love you Grandy but this isn't goodbye. We know we'll see you again soon, just save us a room next to your's.
Some of you read the sweet story of Harper's last day with her Grandy on his Caring Bridge site. She quietly asked if she could sit with Grandy, climbed up in his lap and lay still as stone while Steve gently swept his fingers over her forehead, her cheeks, her chin. They soaked each other in, almost as if they each knew their time together was limited. Just a day later, Steve would suffer from another seizure that would severely limited his ability to function.
A few days later on Monday morning, Jared unexpectedly decided to stop by Mom & Steve's to say goodbye before a routine work trip. That night, my Junior League meeting ended early and knowing I had a sitter with the kids, decided to swing by at the last minute to say hello. Steve was doing pretty poorly but little did either of us know that this would be the last time we would see him. He had rallied so many times and we just knew he would rally again. But I have to say, I almost prefer that I didn't know. My last words to Steve were "I love you" and with a nod and a smile "Love you" were his last to me. What more could I ask for? Two hours later, I received the call from my mom saying he was gone.
These last couple of weeks have been hard but I am so grateful that his suffering was short and his spirit is now fully restored. I am also completely overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support we have received. Wow, do we have an amazing group of friends and family!
We love you Grandy but this isn't goodbye. We know we'll see you again soon, just save us a room next to your's.
4 comments:
What wonderful words for a wonderful man. I can't imagine my life with out my step father's impact on me. I'm so glad he's with the Lord and not in pain any longer. I know your hearts still ache and pray the happy, healthy memories of this great man return quickly.
Brooke that was beautiful. I can only imagine what you are all going through. Please know that we are thinking of you all. Much love!
I am so sorry Brooke.
You know how kids always say, "tell me that story again or read that again?" Well I love to read this starting with "she quietly asked to...Along with the picture of Steve and Harper. Such a sweet and special moment for all.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
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