While PD (Parkinson's Disease) has begun to take its toll on grandpa Jerry, he still has his sense of humor and an attitude full of spit and vinegar. One minute his voice is barely audible, and then the next minute he's barkin' at the kids to "keep it down"! With time, PD reality is that confusion may set in at one point, followed by moments of lucidity which bring relief. A successful brain implant surgery has lessened the trembling, but balance issues continue. It's both serious and silly to watch him as he moves through life one day at a time, dealing with the effects of PD. And it's eye-opening to watch a loved one suffer through this disease. I've watched Jerry's kids become painfully aware of what PD can do to their pop, but I've seen them willingly rally to his side to help take care of him. As Aunt Jodie put it, the biggest trophy goes to Grandma Ann, who unconditionally and sacrificially cares for him 24/7. This is the stuff that makes you REALLY think about the meaning of marriage vows like "in good times and bad; in sickness and in health". Thanks, Ann, for your love and commitment to Jerry.
Jeff and his dad are definitely alike. But they are also very different. Time has shaped them both, for better or for worse, and we are grateful for them. Each has filled the role as "father" in his own unique way. As the 'mother' part of the parental equation, I have come to appreciate the differences in they way mom does it verses the way dad does it, and I can be thankful for both.
We might think that we have all the time in the world to spend with family, but truthfully time is short. Enjoy your fathers, mothers, sisters, brothers, cousins, etc. while the time is ripe.
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