Letters

A daughter remembers

THE EDITOR, Madam:

In all my life there are certain things I have never encountered like the morgue, a funeral home or, even worse, seeing a dead person up close. On April 21, all that changed when I saw my dad in hospital and for the first time he looked so scared and in pain. We spoke, I held his hand and by April 22, he was gone. What a difference a day makes.

For over 35 years I had my dad and in just one day he was gone. Christmas, Father's Day will never be the same. There will always be that irreplaceable empty space. I may have a second child or husband but I will never have another dad. I have often asked why my dad? Why take the life of a true gentleman, a real educated, hard working, dedicated family man?

Criminals thrive and dead beat males survive. Why my dad had to die? I finally realised that God has been good to me. When my dad became ill I thought he wouldn't make it but he survived a few other brushes with death. With each recovery God gave me that second chance to say what I needed to say and do what I needed to do while he was alive. Many people don't get that second chance. I am even more grateful to God for giving me not a second chance but also a last chance.

April 21, was my last chance to see my dad one last time and that day was guaranteed.

I am, etc.,

PAMELA P. PITTER

ttripple-p@yahoo.com