The first thing was that one of our cats died. He was 17 years old and ailing, so we were expecting it any day. I was at least with him when he went, and he didn't seem to be in any  pain, but it was still rough. I'd known the cat for 10 years and he was very present in our lives every day, not to mention that the other cats suddenly had a big change in their group dynamics and were definitely a bit weird for a while.

Then the big thing: we found out that my father has liver cancer. Of all the liver cancers to have, his is the most treatable and his doctors expect him to recover, barring any unforeseen complications. It's going to kick the crap out of him for the next six months or so, though. He's kind of a key person in our family, especially with regards to helping out with my grandparents, since he lives nearby and his job is flexible enough that he used to be able to take them to appointments and such. It's going to have a huge impact on all our lives just in terms of practical every day issues, and emotionally, well you can imagine.

It's the worst for my grandparents of course. My grandfather is already pretty sick and has been for a while, and my grandmother is worn out from worrying about and trying to take care of him, and this has really hit them hard. My grandmother calls me every second day or so to see if I have any news. She thinks that my parents won't tell her if there's anything really bad going on. Which is possible. But if they've been keeping secrets they've been keeping them from me, too. The difference is I'm not paranoid so I'm not going to worry about it, whereas my grandmother...

My parents and my wife and I are taking it all in stride: we're keeping optimistic, but not unreasonably so. We know there are going to be trying times ahead, but we are trying to  keep sight of the good chance of a full recovery and many healthy years after. 

 Still, it has me ... down. Muted. Subdued. I'm not exactly depressed, but I'm definitely not happy, either. At least the weather is finally getting to reasonable temperatures again and I have Winter to look forward to. With any luck we'll get snow this year.

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ceejay said:

... My dear friend -- I'm so sorry to hear about the difficulties and pain you're going through. It's so hard when a friend hits the hard times, and I wish I could do something. I know you have a great wife, and of course those other cats who ARE there for you. Your family is strong and flexible, you all have been through a lot- caring for your grandfather and all. You will come through this too. I'm glad your dad's cancer is one that encourages optimism. In the meantime I would like to keep him in my prayers. In fact, I'll include your whole family -- there is a lot of love there and I have been the lucky beneficiary of your friendship. And I believe you are a good friend because of the family you come from! Hugs, bc, and know that we all care about you very much here! Cindy

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October 22, 2007
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ceejay said:

... My dear friend -- I'm so sorry to hear about the difficulties and pain you're going through. It's so hard when a friend hits the hard times, and I wish I could do something. I know you have a great wife, and of course those other cats who ARE there for you. Your family is strong and flexible, you all have been through a lot- caring for your grandfather and all. You will come through this too. I'm glad your dad's cancer is one that encourages optimism. In the meantime I would like to keep him in my prayers. In fact, I'll include your whole family -- there is a lot of love there and I have been the lucky beneficiary of your friendship. And I believe you are a good friend because of the family you come from! Hugs, bc, and know that we all care about you very much here! Cindy

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October 22, 2007
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Bloodclot said:

	... Thanks, Cindy, it's definitely appreciated.
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October 22, 2007
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Bloodclot said:

	... Thanks, Cindy, it's definitely appreciated.
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October 22, 2007
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taterfay said:

... Wow. You really have had a horrible month. I am so sorry about your cat (I have 4 cats and 1 insane kitten) and they are like my children to me. I am also praying for your father (and your family)...I was my mom's caregiver when she had ovarian cancer. There were tons of ups and downs and ultimately she died from it but we tried to never give up hope. Good luck with everything! Big virtual hugs from Oregon! Stacey

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October 24, 2007
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taterfay said:

... Wow. You really have had a horrible month. I am so sorry about your cat (I have 4 cats and 1 insane kitten) and they are like my children to me. I am also praying for your father (and your family)...I was my mom's caregiver when she had ovarian cancer. There were tons of ups and downs and ultimately she died from it but we tried to never give up hope. Good luck with everything! Big virtual hugs from Oregon! Stacey

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October 24, 2007
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Bloodclot said:

	... Thanks, Stacey. Hugs back and pets to all of your cats
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October 26, 2007
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Bloodclot said:

	... Thanks, Stacey. Hugs back and pets to all of your cats
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October 26, 2007
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