Looking Forward, Looking Back

My dad was my biggest fan.  No Doubt.  He passed away two weeks ago.  I'll never forget the events of that morning as they unfolded.  That's a story for another day, another book.  He looked at me when we were at his most recent doctor's appointment and asked me when I would have the book finished about Haylie and her journey from brain injured, struggling toddler to successful, independent college student.

"You know I'm not going to be around much longer.  I may never get to read it," he opined.

Knowing the truth of this, we both just looked at each other.  His deep, wise eyes holding both resignation and regret.  A long pause.

"Maybe you can help me write it that way,"  I offered, "I'll be listening for all your suggestions."  He smiled.
 
Though his last months were focused on managing the severe progression of his illness, and his to-do lists full of self-care (like, "brush teeth" and "call doctor so-and-so"), I was so touched to see this note as my brother, my daughter, and I sorted out his things last week.  He had called me that day to ask me where to find the interview.  He saw my teasers on Facebook.  He wanted early access.  I promised him the link as soon as it uploaded.

He did live long enough to see that video that I recorded with my mentor Dr. Phil Maffetone. Dad had met Dr. Maffetone at least once during the years that Phil was part of the treatment for Haylie's brain injury.  But he didn't get to see the article on Phil's website that came out just the other day. He'd be proud. He'd love this article that tells the story he stood by me and supported me in living every single step of the way.

My dad was Haylie's biggest fan too.  No Doubt.  Having him on my team during all those years of her rehabilitation program, no matter how hard it got or if he even completely agreed with me, meant the world to me.  He is a huge part of what became possible for my daughter, and for myself.  Gratitude doesn't even come close to what I feel for him today. 

Look what we did, Dad!
 
Read the article here: https://philmaffetone.com/maf-profile-darci-hawxhurst/