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....