TO CATCH YOU UP TO SPEED...

HOW OUR BLOG BEGAN, in AUGUST 2010: As many of you know, Phil has been struggling with a very complex series of neurological issues for about 5 years. This past spring, the issues became especially intense as a result of an unexpected cognitive decline and a fall on May 15th that resulted in a head injury and further decline. And then, on July 16th things catapulted to unbelievable, as Phil suffered from a severe "electrical storm" in his brain that essentially created a status of brain death for two full days. Inexplicably, the very morning that neurologists and other medical team members were planning removal of life support, Phil began breathing on his own and his brain waves returned to a stable, while still abnormal, level. Since then, each day has been a unique journey. And while he and his body continue to demonstrate a will and capacity to live, he continues to have severe deficits and it is quite uncertain as to the path he will take. As loved ones close in can attest to, it has been tricky to keep up emotionally with all of his changes, and provide the needed support. We can only imagine the hard work Phil has gone through as his brain has taken him through such roller coaster experiences. It is our goal here to keep family and close friends apprised of Phil's ongoing story, and to build connections that honor him.

AND THEN, SEPTEMBER 11, 2010....Dad's remarkable journey alongside us culminated in a gentle, generous death.

And so, my goal here now as his daughter is simply this: to record snippets...pieces of his life that my memory offers back to me, pieces of myself as I learn to live without a dad. I hope all who meander by find life, and hope, and peace.

Saturday, September 11, 2010

pending freedom

the nurse just told us that she will be surprised if dad will lives past midnight.

mom and i just spoke together that dad has been working a long time toward freedom.

sad for us, surely, but so right and glorious for him.



the only one we're missing here tonight is daniel, and the rest of cheryl's family.  my gratitude for dad passing on a night with so many of us here is just, well, beyond measure.

i feel the love of each of you with us.
thank you all.
xoxo
k.
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2 comments:

  1. UnknownSeptember 12, 2010 at 1:45 AM

    Ahhh... so wonderful to be a part of this Bruce family! Dad raised one of the most amazing families I have ever know and so lucky to be a part of! I love every one of you so much and was glad to be a part of tonight as hard as it was. God is so wonderfully good. His peace is overwhelming as He wraps us all up in His arms! Dad is kneeling at the feet of Jesus and probably singing His praises at the top of his new strong lungs! He is in the presence of perfection forever and ever!! Praise God for the most wonderful gift of heaven!

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  2. KatiSeptember 12, 2010 at 2:13 AM

    tim just reminded me that when we first started dating, tim could always tell where in the sanctuary dad was sitting when the hymns began. his voice was booming, unmistakeable. pilots and their sonic booms.

    bet his voice is clear and once again, unmistakable.

    xox and how glad i am that you and jonathan were here tonight.
    k.

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