Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Pop

I still can't believe the words that I'm about to write.  It just doesn't seem real...

Two weeks ago I lost my father-in-law, Ryan lost his Dad, Blythe lost her Pop, and the world lost one of the most Christ-centered, kindest and gentlest men that God ever created.

Pop was diagnosed in Houston with Cardiac Amyloidosis, a very rare cardiac disease.  After being told that his path of treatment would be a heart transplant followed by a bone marrow transplant, we were all devastated and couldn't believe what a mountain there would be to climb.  The doctors told him that without any treatment he would probably only live 6 to 9 months, but he passed away 4 days later.  It was just so, so fast.  We were just starting to begin the fight, when the Lord took him mercifully- no pain, no transplants, no more doctors.

We miss him like crazy, and I can't believe...  like really can't believe that Blythe will only know Pop through pictures and stories.  She is missing out on so much, but we can't wait to tell her all about him.

 our wedding in 2007
 meeting Blythe on August 28, 2010
spending the 4th of July at our family beach house in 2011
This picture was taken in the hospital in Houston on December 23, 2011 after Pop's appointment with the transplant team at Methodist Hospital.  Lolli pushed Pop's wheelchair up and down the halls and Blythe had the time of her life.  Every time they stopped she did the sign for "more".  She did not want to leave his lap.  I'm so happy that Ryan snapped a picture with his phone because this is the last time we saw him.  I still can't believe it.

We love and miss you, Pop.

13 comments:

Unknown said...

Praying for you all. Blythe will know and love Pop just as you all do because she will hear so many wonderful stories of his love, provision and character from each of you! We love y'all and hate that you're dealing with this incredible loss.

Katie Norwood said...

I'm so sorry friend. Your beautiful post brought tears to my eyes. I know you're leaning on the Lord, and he will bring your family through. Love you.

CASEY said...

a beautiful post for a beautiful man.

much love and prayers!

Kim said...

Tears running down my cheeks. So sorry for your loss, friend.

Jamie Lapeyrolerie said...

a perfect post. Continuing to pray for you guys!

kristin fulghum said...

That is a precious picture of Blythe with him. So glad you have it. Praying for you guys.

ang said...

thanks for sharing this with us...wonderful memories. love you all~

Liz said...

What a wonderful post. Love you all.

Emily Tenner said...

So sorry for the loss of Pop! Prayers being sent for you all!

Mom-A said...

Thank you for this, Allison. He loved you so much and knew you loved him back. What a blessing!

annalee said...

Sorry I am just now commenting, but when I read this last week I was heartbroken for you guys and have thought of y'all so many times recently. I am so sorry for your loss and praying for you all each time you come to mind.

CN said...

I'm so sorry, Allison, Ryan and Blythe. May God comfort you during your time of loss. He sounds like such a wonderful man.

Leah said...

Allison, I didn't even know you had a blog! I saw the link on Katrina's blog, and then just happened to see this sad, sad post. I am so sorry for you and Ryan and your family, and I will keep you guys in my prayers when I remember it.