"My father"

Dad had a history of medical issues for his last 25 years, having fought life threatening battles with heart disease, sepsis in his spine after knee surgery, recurring years later in his hip, macular degeneration and blindness, rheumatoid arthritis - so much to endure.

In 2021, he suffered the movement of an aneurysm cutting the circulation to his leg, leading to amputation at upper thigh. Devastating and wheelchair bound from his 83 bithday, he tackled these challenges with such grace. He was a charismatic man, had loved to play sport, gave service to his community and was a fighter who didnt complain. He got on with life as it was dealt with good humour and faith. He was most grateful for his many blessings in life especially 65 years of marriage to Mum and the love he gave and received from a large close family.

In October last year, Dad's health was failing, his heart failing and everything as an 87 year old amputee was so very hard. Life was limiting and limited. He was facing more and more time in hospital but without relief or cure. He was tired, he couldnt breathe properly, had fought the good fight and he sadly had no strength, no energy and no will left.

This program, your program, gave him dignity, family time and a measure of control over his last days. He knew he was dying, to be able to be at home surrounded by those he loved, to tell stories with old friends and say goodbye his way. Our family will be forever grateful to the wonderful people in your team, your kindness, your caring, your support of Dad and us all and your help to us in understanding and taking away our fears for Dad. Thank you.