Dads

It's pretty damned rare to find people later in life that you know you can trust like a brother. I've been fortunate enough to find a few of those people since I began this life far away from my real family. Among those kindred spirits is a guy some of you know and all of you have read about here. I call him Uncle Ted for reasons that would take too long to explain. He's neither an uncle nor a Ted, but he is like a brother to me. Since our friendship began, his family has become like family to me as well. Ted and I have been through a lot together, including my dad's near death and recovery from a brain aneurysm. During that time, Ted was one of many people I could count on to listen to me or talk me down.

Over the past few weeks, the roles have been reversed as Ted's dad Chuck (seen left) has gone through a really tough time. He's currently recovering from some serious cancer surgery. Ted's dad and mom have become like family to my family, so the weeks have weighed pretty heavy on everybody.

I've found it pretty amazing how many parallels there have been between Ted's situation and the one I went through almost four years ago. It like there is is script or at least an outline for what it's like to think your dad is going to die. I remember being in exactly the same mental place as Ted is right now and it's without a doubt the worst thing I have ever experienced.

Ted's dad is still having a rough go of it. However, I know this guy and there's very little that he can't conquer. He's my kind of dude--foul-mouthed, scotch-drinking, curmudgeonly, but as friendly and fun as you'd ever want in a guy. What's more, he loves his family in a way that every father should.

I've not written anything here up to this point about this. However, since Ted and his family have started up a blog to keep friends and family updated, I guess it's alright now. Back when my dad was in the hospital, we got tons of e-mails and comments on the blog I updated for my dad. I remember printing them all out and taking them to the hospital for him to read. Hospitals suck, but when you know there are people on the outside caring about you, it makes it a lot easier.

So, Ted, tell your mom and dad we love'em and to get back home soon.