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Registered
Join Date: May 2003
Posts: 3,240
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Good news on a sad day....
Today is the 14 year anniversary of my grandfather's passing. He was a fantastic man. A true gentleman with principles, values and a disposition that influence me to this day. Growing up, he was larger than life. Tall and broad shouldered yet always trim, probably from his years as a gentleman rancher in Northern Argentina, grandpa could cast an imposing presence...not that he ever needed to. All that was required to keep us grandchildren in line was a soft, yet stern call of our name and 'the look'. And he was so dapper. Frequently out in public with sportcoat, pocket square and ascot, he was the epitome of elegance even though his casual attire of choice were what he called his 'field clothes'; khaki utility pants with matching shirt, sleeves rolled half way. A sight to see in a small Central Illinois town.
After a year of steadily losing weight and loss of breath without reason, it was finally determined he was suffering from pulmonary fibrosis. Perhaps a result of smoking his pipe and working in his lumber mill (one of his serial entrepreneurial ventures). But it was too late. At 6'-3" and 85 lbs, he left us at 83. His oldest son, my favorite uncle, has been experiencing the same sort of symptoms on and off for the past 2 years. Still active and fit at 69 and not content with his current physician's prescription of living with it and trying the occasional study, decided to seek another opinion. After extensive tests for fitness/general health, etc we got the word today (of all days), that it's with almost 100% certainty that he will be eligible for a double lung transplant!!!  I couldn't think of better news to receive on this date. I know grandpa is smiling. Nasty stuff this fibrosis, I remember how much grandpa struggled with it and I'd hate to see uncle experience the same. I also hope my pop and I aren't next.... |
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12-11-2008, 12:13 PM
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Join Date: Apr 2002
Posts: 30,497
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Sarc, they just don't make 'em like that generation anymore...my grandfather (WWII vet) just passed 3 years ago at 88. Be well....
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12-11-2008, 12:31 PM
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Registered
Join Date: Oct 2003
Location: Michigan
Posts: 14,093
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Sorry for your loss but glad to hear about your uncle's chances for a transplant.
hang in there, my friend.
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1981 911SC ROW SOLD - JULY 2015 Pacific Blue Wayne |
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12-11-2008, 02:25 PM
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Join Date: May 2003
Posts: 3,240
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Thanks guys. The surgeon who will actually doing the procedure is the remaining guy to sign off on it (his only delay being he was in the OR all day/night). I just hope they find a match soon.
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12-12-2008, 04:28 AM
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Friend of Warren
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Lincoln, NE
Posts: 16,494
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Hope all goes well with your uncle!
__________________
Kurt V No more Porsches, but a revolving number of motorcycles. |
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12-12-2008, 05:18 AM
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Registered
Join Date: Jul 2003
Posts: 1,638
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Sarc:
The thoughts you shared about your Grandfather are very touching. He must have been a true gentleman and in a way the last of a breed. Thanks for sharing. Mike |
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12-12-2008, 07:06 AM
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