SCRIPT:

Dear Dad –

It’s been 15 years.

15 year since you were first diagnosed.

And it’s only been 5 years since you sat Jake and I down and told us you were sick.

10 years you hid it from us.

10 years, just so we could have a happy childhood.

You were forced to retire.

And the divorce didn’t help, while you were struggling to live a life you didn’t know how to live.

Everything changed for you. For us.

Standing up became nearly impossible.

You were no longer the athletic tough-guy I used to know.

Dad,

This has been hard on all of us.

But after retirement I actually got to know you.

You have become my best friend. My mentor.

You talk me through every day, giving me advice, and telling me your stories.

Although your stories are hard to believe – I think that’s why you’re not depressed.

You’re my greatest inspiration.

You are an inspiration to everyone you meet.

You ground me,

You make me understand what it means to have truly lived a fulfilling life.

I could wake up 63 with Parkinson’s disease and I want to have lived a wonderful life, like you dad.

You talk those who are sick with you – off the ledge.

You are incredible.

Dad,

I just want you to know that I pray you will be there to walk me down the isle,

But I know that it’s hard.

I hate that I’m not there to take care of you,

But I know that’s not what you want me to do.

I see you struggle and it breaks my heart.

That’s why I work so hard.

So you’ll never have to worry about me.

So Dad, I just want you to know,

I will always be there for you, like you have been there for me.

And – I love you.

Love,

Chloe