April 2016
the active age
Page 9
Grandpa’s cantankerous, but much loved By Val R. Cheatham “Come on, Grandpa, time to go.” Everyone called him Grandpa even though he was no relation. They bundled him up and helped him to the car, each avoiding the eyes of others knowing there would be tears and guilt. Not that Grandpa could see. He had been blind for some time, also nearly deaf. Lately he had grown cantankerous and hard to manage. Still, there was not one family member who did not love him unconditionally. Grandpa had lived with the family for 12 years. Twelve years! The entire life of a child. It had been 12 years of joy, companionship, and devotion - both ways. But, now he was old,
crippled and ravaged with cancer. Too soon at the destination, everyone sat silent, unmoving. Finally Grandpa sat up. He had no idea the day’s consequences. After 12 years it was a dim memory how he came to be part of the family. For the kids, he had been there forever. They had moved into a pre-owned house in an old, stable neighborhood, and he moved in with them. Cheerful, exuberant, he earned his place in the family. The name was not because he was old, but rather because he looked after us. The house would not have been home without him. We gathered ourselves and trudged
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into the office, each trying to see who could help Grandpa the most. “Here, Grandpa, let me hold that,” and “I’ll help you, Grandpa,” and “Watch the door, Grandpa.” Inside they sat on sterile chairs, staring at antiseptic walls, and made stagnate conversation. “Do you think it will rain?” and “I can’t find my yo-yo,” and “We’re out of eggs and milk.” Finally it was time. They moved to a smaller room and waited until the doctor arrived. “Well, the whole family is here,” he said brightly, then looked at Grandpa. The smile dropped. He knew his condition. He had been checking him
for years. A few gentle pokes and prods, and the verdict was clear. “I think you had better leave him here.” All had known this was to be the solution. There was no response. Each looked sadly into unseeing eyes and said goodbye to unhearing ears. After the family left, the vet administered a shot and their beloved dog of 12 years slipped out of misery to whatever fate awaits man’s - nay, a whole family’s - best friend. You can see his photo on page 21. Contact Val Cheatham at valrteach@aol.com
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