Tuesday, April 22, 2008

My Dad

On April 3rd, while I was in Wisconsin, my dad suffered a major heart attack. A main artery in his heart was 100% blocked. I believe it was divine intervention that I was there visiting when this happened and have thanked God every day since.
I can't begin to explain the feeling of seeing by Dad lying there barely hanging on. For the first week and a half he was very critical. Last Tuesday he was able to come off his ventilator. Every day since, he has improved. He was moved to the cardiac floor of the hospital yesterday. The medical staff say it is a miracle he is with us today.
Seeing his blue eyes when he woke up was amazing. Hearing his voice when he began to talk was breathtaking. He is having trouble with his memory and is very confused as to what is going on. It's hard to see him so frustrated. It is a waiting game as far as what will come back to him. When I left on Saturday he didn't know me and I told him, "Just know that I love you." Although I struggle a little with the fact he doesn't know me, I am comforted just by hearing his voice. He is very jovial and has fun giving everyone a hard time. That's my dad. Sometimes he doesn't make sense, but that's ok. I couldn't help but add "our song" to my playlist. It is "Butterfly Kisses." I've always been a daddy's girl. We danced and cried to it on my wedding day. Dad, I love you. As always, you're an inspiration to me.
During this time I've been reminded of the gifts I have in my family, Brian's family and our friends. Words are not enough to even begin to describe the comfort they have given me during this difficult time. Thank you so much.
Here is my dad's CaringBridge website where updates are posted:
www.caringbridge.org/visit/johnhanson



Dad and I dancing to "Butterfly Kisses" on my wedding day.


Dad and the boys. I took this picture in the morning on April 3rd. His heart attack happened at approx 11:45 pm.

10 comments:

ODonnell Family Blog said...

I love you so much Tracy! You are such a dear friend and we are all lucky to have you!!!

Great pictures of your Daddy!
Kathryn

Carainn said...

Tracy,
I can feel your pain. Crying as I type this. I feel blessed to have you in my life and call you my friend. God was good bring you home. When your Daddy need your the most.I now that the last couple of weeks have not been easy for you. Remember we are here for you every step of the way.
Love you. Carainn & Family.

melissa said...

Tracy..you are such a kind and wonderful person..sounds like you got those traits from your father. I have been thinking of you during this time. Stay strong...I hope to see you soon. Melissa C

Amy said...

Please know that I am thinking about you and praying for your family. We've missed ya!

Amy J said...

I will keep your family and especially your dad in my thoughts.

Unknown said...

Oh Tracy, we've missed you and I've been praying so hard for your dad and your family since I found out what happened. You are in my thoughts and I hope your dad continues to improve. Take care friend.

Varna said...

Tracy- Your family and especially your Dad are in my prayers!

Amber Greenawalt said...

Oh Tracy--I'm sending you a big hug right now. I'll be thinking about you, your Dad and your family and praying for you all. I think prayers really do work! Lots of love, Amber

Unknown said...

tracy,

I am shocked and heartbroken for you. I know how very much your dad means to you. I think you are right, that god blessed you and your dad by bringing you home then. I have been thinking about you, and want you to know i love you. If there is anything at all that i can do to help and support you, you know i want to.
r

The Grant Family said...

I am thinking of you and your family. All of my heart and wishes go out to you.