This was the first of two videos created for dad. It portrays dad throughout the years, beginning with his first photo ever taken (when he was 16 days old) and ending with how we most recently remember him. It was as difficult to create as it is to watch.
The opening song, “The River” by Garth Brooks, was chosen (we believe) my dad himself. After spending 30 hours straight with dad in the hospital, it was my turn to take a break. I left the hospital to grab dinner and to bring back food for the family still at his bedside. Afterwards, as I was driving back, five minutes from the hospital “The River” came on the radio. I turned up the volume and told my mother that it reminded me of dad. She replied and said the same. It was if dad was telling me/us that it was time for him to go… [sung] “I will sail my vessel, ’til the river runs dry”. Shortly after the song started to play, my brother called. He asked my ETA and stated firmly that I needed to be back as quick as I could. Needless to say, I rushed back to the hospital, left the truck at the front door and sprinted down the hallways. After gowning-up, I entered my dad’s room. My brother, Ann and two nurses surrounded his bed. I grabbed dad’s hand and bowed, resting my head on his arm… And at that moment, dad passed on.
Dad lived a full life, as you can see here, and we are proud of him for everything that he did.