Life has a way of shaking us to the core at times. It is the unexpected, tragic events that can push us to the brink of wanting to question God, while at the same time cling to Him with everything in us. The Margo family has just walked through this type of trial.
Late afternoon on March 1st, Eddie received one of those life-stopping phone calls. The news was not good. His dad was being airlifted to Stanford hospital to have emergency brain surgery. I was at a retirement dinner for my dad, commemorating the longevity of his career. At 84, he had finally decided to stop working full-time. It was a very honoring event, with everyone speaking so highly of him. In the midst of this atmosphere, Eddie called me to break the news about his dad. What a rush of emotions as I tried to make it through the dinner… full of joy for my dad, while wondering if I would soon be mourning the loss of Ed’s dad.
The surgery revealed a blood clot, two inches in diameter on the front of my father-in-law’s brain. The doctors successfully removed it, and the prognosis was expected to be good. His speech would possibly be affected due to the location, and the rehabilitation a long one, but recovery was definitely anticipated.
We all breathed that initial sigh of relief. In fact, by the next day, Ed’s dad was able to speak. We cautiously celebrated this miracle.
Ed went up to see his father during the week as often as possible. These visits would hold a variety of things; at times- clear recognition. At other times- moaning and confusion. One interaction held precious words of encouragement. His dad was able to tell Ed how much he loved him, what a good son he had been, and what a great man he is. He ended this moment of blessing by saying, “In the name of Jesus, amen.” It meant the world to Eddie.
After a week, Neno (as many affectionately called Ed’s dad whose name is Anthony) was moved back to our local hospital. This was amazing! The plan for rehabilitation was being discussed. He was going to make it.
I brought Cory and Olivia to the hospital two days later. Neno fully recognized them, stating, “Somebody’s missing.” He was right. Jessica was not with us. It all seemed so hopeful. Later that same day, he was walking – doing very well.
Everything changed the next day. He was unable to get up, with his right side appearing paralyzed. He was disoriented, confused by his surroundings. Another one of those devastating phone calls… Ed was on the ether end explaining the upsetting turn of events. A new clot, bigger and located in a more treacherous spot had been found on the latest CT scan.
I hung up the phone, weeping. This was so sad. It’s that moment of realizing hope has just been instantly taken away. Unless God miraculously chooses to intervene, this was it. And, of course, there is the incredible, greater hope of eternity with Christ, but adjusting to the idea of life without Eddie’s dad seemed incomprehensible.
Ed, along with his mom and seven brothers and sisters, spent countless hours at their dad’s bedside. One or more of them was always with him, even taking turns staying the night. Neno was now in a coma-like state. Ed would kiss on him, whispering words in his ears- promising to look after his mom. Many tears were shed as we began to imagine life without the rock of the family. He was only 73… too young to leave us.
Eight days after the second clot had been found, Neno passed away. Eddie was there as his dad took his final breath. As Neno began his dance of celebration in heaven, we struggled to find a new rhythm to carry on without him.
Philippians 3:20-21 “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.”
It is hard to describe how much he will be missed.
what a precious post, what a sweet expression of Neno’s Passing. He is missed and dearly loved. Praying for all the Margo’s and very thankful for the hope of a precious reunion in heaven one glorious day!
Thanks so much for reading my post, Dianna, and for your sweet comments. It will be a great reunion in heaven. I hope Neno has found my mom up there and told her all about my kids. What a thought!
Lori this is heart wrenching. I’ve lost both parents and believe me sometimes I wonder why? And with my own life issues it’s difficult that they are not here for advice or just to talk too. I feel for your family. Eddie is a great man. It would be great to see him… Since I haven’t seen him in 30 or so years.
As everyone says time heals all wounds. It’s just these wounds will always be there..
God Bless you have a beautiful family!!!
So sorry to hear that you have lost both of your parents. It is not an easy thing. Thanks for your kind words about Eddie. I made sure he read your comment. Everyone’s responses have been such a blessing for him to read.
Lori! This is so well written and very, very honoring and meaningful! The picture is so precious! You need to blow that one up and put it in Olivias room!!! Soooooo Sweet!!! I love you dear friend!
Thanks for your kind words, Wendy. You know I love you and wouldn’t make it through life without your positive outlook and upbeat ways. Nina took the picture and we all just love it!
beautifully written on such a heartbreaking, tender subject. my heart goes out to all of you. i’ve lost two earthly fathers and it will always hurt but we know we are loved by our heavenly father who won’t leave us. you are soo blessed knowing you will hug Neno, again. hugs and love to you all.
kathee
Thanks, Kathee!! And, yes… we are SO loved by our Heavenly Father.
I am sorry for your loss. The hours Eddie spent with his dad and his family will grown more and more precious . . . treasured memories of Dad and strength drawn from each other. The scripture is a great encouragement to those of us who have loved ones who’ve gone before. It will be a glorious reunion day, one we can scarcely begin to imagine.
With love and blessings to you, Eddie and your family.
Thanks, Carol!! It will be a glorious reunion!
Lori, Although I did pray for you constantly when it was happening, your writing made me feel like I was walking through that one with you literally. Wow, what a wonderful way to remember and honor such an amazing father. Love ya.
I appreciate your prayers!!
You write so beautifully! Thank you for sharing this journey in writing. It is precious to read these words and I will continue to keep the Margo family in prayer!!
Thanks so much, Kelly!!!