The Super Bowl Connection: A Tradition of Love and Commitment
On a crisp Super Bowl Sunday, I found myself by my father’s side in a Chicago suburb, reflecting on the profound bond we shared through our love of sports. Originally thriving at the assisted living facility he had moved into at 91, my father enjoyed activities and new friendships, embodying a zest for life post-retirement. Yet, over time, his health declined, marked by weight gain and the onset of congestive heart failure, which I discovered during an extended stay intended to be just three weeks.
From Vibrant Companionship to a Solemn Reality
As his health deteriorated, I canceled my return flight to New York, choosing instead to stay and support him. This decision transformed our relationship, deepening our connection through shared activities and quiet evenings, reminiscent of our cherished pastimes. This period not only allowed us to relive the joy of watching Chicago Bears games together, as we did when I was a child, but it also brought to light his growing dependence on me, a shift from our previously independent lives.
Cherishing Every Moment: The Last Super Bowl
Determined to make the most of our time together, I aimed to recreate cherished traditions, including watching the Super Bowl, a pivotal event in our family’s history. Despite his initial reluctance, my father agreed to join the party at the assisted living facility, sparking a brief return to his more sociable self, engaging with friends and enjoying the game’s festivities. This experience underscored a poignant realization: the depth of our bond and the importance of cherishing each moment, a lesson that continues to influence my life and inspire my writing.
This journey with my father not only reaffirmed our connection but also highlighted the significance of presence and the power of shared experiences, enriching the final chapters of his life with the warmth of love and cherished traditions.