I didn't really know if I would make another blog post, but apparently I will. Today I was going through the entire blog and putting it into a word document per my mother's request. Silly me...I decided to read some of the blogs I posted. Some of them are quite funny, if I do say so myself. Others of them are quite sad and have me sitting in my corporate office with tears slowly rolling down my face. So since I've been on here pretty much all morning, I might as well post something.
My dad would have been 60 years old on April 1st of this year. My mom, Marcus, Stacey, Abbott, and I went to a lake house owned by some family friends and spent the weekend together. There was no cell service so that was interesting. We played games, cooked, went for walks, watched movies, and made scrapbooks out of all the emails, blog posts, cards, letters, and pictures we received. It was a great weekend and only a little bit sad. Well a lot sad but some of us are tougher than others.
My mom came up to Chicago for Mother's Day and I was able to make it to Atlanta for 4th of July. I ran/walked the Peachtree Road Race for the first time ever and tied (according to official results but not according to race day reality) with my mom. My uncle Lawrence and uncle Jim finished way ahead of us and my Uncle George came over to cheer us on.
School is back in session in Atlanta, so mom is back at work. Marcus and Stacey are busy lawyer-ing. And I am busy attending conference calls ALL DAY long. Not a day goes by that I don't think about or miss my dad just a little. I'm sure the same can be said for the rest of the family (that includes friends too).
Just wanted to say hi since I was here...so hi!!!
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Sunday, February 12, 2012
A Letter to My Dad - Recap of the Celebration of Life
Dear Dad,
I just realized it's been almost a month since you passed away. As you can imagine, we think about you every day and miss you all the time. Mom is doing well. She is keeping busy and has an amazing support system from your wonderful children, siblings (both yours and hers), other family, and friends (both yours and hers). I'm doing well in Chicago too. I came back to work a week after your Celebration of Life. My office welcomed me back with open arms and a blanket similar to the one I got you for Christmas. They are so thoughtful. Marcus and Stacey are also doing well. Marcus never told you, but he finally finished that big case he was always talking to you about...and you would be so proud. And Stacey, .... I think you may owe her a big thanks and a million chocolate chip cookies.
After you died, we followed your plan to a "T". The Celebration of Life Party occurred on Saturday, January 21st, and it was FANTASTIC. You might have even started a trend! I remember when I attended your retirement party in 2007 and I was just so proud of you. I never knew what you did at CDC. To me, you were just dad. The one who traveled for some kind of work with CDC. The one who went to Moe's on Fridays. The one who came to many of my after-school activities and asked why I was always doing my homework. I never knew you were some famous CDC employee. I remember writing a note to all of my friends after your retirement party and telling them how happy I was to be your daughter. And I was just overwhelmed with all of the nice things that people had to say about you.
Well...your Celebration of Life party beat the retirement party in ways you can't even imagine. First off, Stacey might have pulled off the party of the Century in about 5 days notice. The party was held at the Mary Gay house (just like you suggested) and we had an open-house style gathering from 2-6pm. The open bar was on the patio and was stocked with beer and wine that Marcus and mom picked out. The appetizers were really good. Moe's even catered some of the food (wings and potato skins). And, I promise you, there were no cucumber sandwiches (just like you requested).
If I had to guess, I would say there were about 400-500 people that showed up between the 4 hour window. You had friends, colleagues, and family members that flew and drove in at a moments notice, some from many many miles away. Others even postponed trips to make sure they could attend. There were even other Celebration of Life parties held around the world for those who couldn't attend the party in Atlanta. I was quite shocked. There were people there that I had never met, some who I hadn't seen in years, and some who remember me from when I was only "this high". Everyone had such nice things to say about you and about our family and even about the blog! There were a couple of speeches; a couple of tears; a lot of laughs, and a lot of hugs.
Other things you would be shocked to know - they named an award after you at the CDC Foundation. The Polio Eradication Heroes Fund is now the Bob Keegan Polio Eradication Heroes Fund:
(http://www.cdcfoundation.org/what/program/bob-keegan-polio-eradication-heroes-fund#.Tx3dc9yD6Q8.facebook).
And, the AJC even posted an obituary about you in the Sunday paper (written by Marcus Keegan): http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/atlanta/obituary.aspx?n=robert-a-keegan&pid=155670551
People really do love you. And it was so uplifting and inspirational to see all of the love at your Celebration of Life and during the days and weeks following your passing. You have no idea the dent you left in people's hearts, souls, and minds. Especially mine. I will always love you and I'm so glad I get to be loved by you my entire life.
One more important thing, Tim Tebow did not make it to the Superbowl. The Giants and Patrios played last weekend and the Giants won the whole thing.
Love always,
Lauren Keegan, a daddy's girl for life
I just realized it's been almost a month since you passed away. As you can imagine, we think about you every day and miss you all the time. Mom is doing well. She is keeping busy and has an amazing support system from your wonderful children, siblings (both yours and hers), other family, and friends (both yours and hers). I'm doing well in Chicago too. I came back to work a week after your Celebration of Life. My office welcomed me back with open arms and a blanket similar to the one I got you for Christmas. They are so thoughtful. Marcus and Stacey are also doing well. Marcus never told you, but he finally finished that big case he was always talking to you about...and you would be so proud. And Stacey, .... I think you may owe her a big thanks and a million chocolate chip cookies.
After you died, we followed your plan to a "T". The Celebration of Life Party occurred on Saturday, January 21st, and it was FANTASTIC. You might have even started a trend! I remember when I attended your retirement party in 2007 and I was just so proud of you. I never knew what you did at CDC. To me, you were just dad. The one who traveled for some kind of work with CDC. The one who went to Moe's on Fridays. The one who came to many of my after-school activities and asked why I was always doing my homework. I never knew you were some famous CDC employee. I remember writing a note to all of my friends after your retirement party and telling them how happy I was to be your daughter. And I was just overwhelmed with all of the nice things that people had to say about you.
Well...your Celebration of Life party beat the retirement party in ways you can't even imagine. First off, Stacey might have pulled off the party of the Century in about 5 days notice. The party was held at the Mary Gay house (just like you suggested) and we had an open-house style gathering from 2-6pm. The open bar was on the patio and was stocked with beer and wine that Marcus and mom picked out. The appetizers were really good. Moe's even catered some of the food (wings and potato skins). And, I promise you, there were no cucumber sandwiches (just like you requested).
If I had to guess, I would say there were about 400-500 people that showed up between the 4 hour window. You had friends, colleagues, and family members that flew and drove in at a moments notice, some from many many miles away. Others even postponed trips to make sure they could attend. There were even other Celebration of Life parties held around the world for those who couldn't attend the party in Atlanta. I was quite shocked. There were people there that I had never met, some who I hadn't seen in years, and some who remember me from when I was only "this high". Everyone had such nice things to say about you and about our family and even about the blog! There were a couple of speeches; a couple of tears; a lot of laughs, and a lot of hugs.
Other things you would be shocked to know - they named an award after you at the CDC Foundation. The Polio Eradication Heroes Fund is now the Bob Keegan Polio Eradication Heroes Fund:
(http://www.cdcfoundation.org/what/program/bob-keegan-polio-eradication-heroes-fund#.Tx3dc9yD6Q8.facebook).
And, the AJC even posted an obituary about you in the Sunday paper (written by Marcus Keegan): http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/atlanta/obituary.aspx?n=robert-a-keegan&pid=155670551
People really do love you. And it was so uplifting and inspirational to see all of the love at your Celebration of Life and during the days and weeks following your passing. You have no idea the dent you left in people's hearts, souls, and minds. Especially mine. I will always love you and I'm so glad I get to be loved by you my entire life.
One more important thing, Tim Tebow did not make it to the Superbowl. The Giants and Patrios played last weekend and the Giants won the whole thing.
Love always,
Lauren Keegan, a daddy's girl for life
Monday, January 23, 2012
The Happiness Song - by Bob Keegan
A post about the Celebration of Life this past Saturday is forthcoming, I promise! However, I did get several requests for the lyrics to the Happiness Song. This song was written by my dad, Bob Keegan.
The Happiness Song
I'm not tryin' to get somethin' for nothin'
I don't need to travel to Paris or Rome
I don't need clothes or very much money
I just want to sing this happiness song
The happiness song
The happiness song
I just need to sing this happiness song
I'm not fighting to pay less taxes
I don't have tales of love gone wrong
I don't need much food
Just some bread and honey
I just need to sing this happiness song
The happiness song
The happiness song
I just need to sing this happiness song
I'm not tryin' to sell you religion
But if you want to follow along
In times of hurting and of sorrow
You just need to sing this happiness song
The happiness song
The happiness song
I just need to sing this happiness song
I'm not writing songs of protest
I love my country, I love my home
But if we had just a few less killings
I could feel this happiness song
The happiness song
The happiness song
I just need to feel this happiness song
The happiness song
The happiness song
I just need to sing this happiness song
The lyrics seemed to change a little each time he sang the song...but you get the idea. Thanks Uncle George for helping me write these down.
The Happiness Song
I'm not tryin' to get somethin' for nothin'
I don't need to travel to Paris or Rome
I don't need clothes or very much money
I just want to sing this happiness song
The happiness song
The happiness song
I just need to sing this happiness song
I'm not fighting to pay less taxes
I don't have tales of love gone wrong
I don't need much food
Just some bread and honey
I just need to sing this happiness song
The happiness song
The happiness song
I just need to sing this happiness song
I'm not tryin' to sell you religion
But if you want to follow along
In times of hurting and of sorrow
You just need to sing this happiness song
The happiness song
The happiness song
I just need to sing this happiness song
I'm not writing songs of protest
I love my country, I love my home
But if we had just a few less killings
I could feel this happiness song
The happiness song
The happiness song
I just need to feel this happiness song
The happiness song
The happiness song
I just need to sing this happiness song
The lyrics seemed to change a little each time he sang the song...but you get the idea. Thanks Uncle George for helping me write these down.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Attire Questions for the Celebration of Life/Donation Site Address
Can I wear jeans? - Absolutely
Do I need to wear a suit? - Have you met Bob???
What about a tuxedo? - You probably shouldn't come
See you soon!
If you need an address to send an acknowledgment for donations, please use:
2852 Talisman Court
Atlanta, GA 30345
However, you do not have to send donations to this address.
Do I need to wear a suit? - Have you met Bob???
What about a tuxedo? - You probably shouldn't come
See you soon!
If you need an address to send an acknowledgment for donations, please use:
2852 Talisman Court
Atlanta, GA 30345
However, you do not have to send donations to this address.
Hotel and Travel Information for Out of town Guests
Prepared for you all by Stacey Keegan:
*Keegan family members, check your email for more details*
*Keegan family members, check your email for more details*
Travel Information
The following information was put together for friends and family who will be traveling to the Atlanta area for Bob Keegan’s Celebration of Life party.
Hotels
The following hotels are located approximately 2 miles (5-8 minutes) from the family’s homes:
TownePlace Suites Atlanta Northlake (Recommended)
3300 Northlake Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30345
Phone: 1-770-938-0408
Rates (confirmed 1/17/11):
1 Bedroom Studio - $79 plus tax, per night
1 Bedroom Suite (includes 1 Queen bed and pullout sofa) - $89 plus tax, per night
2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom Suite (includes 2 Queen beds and pullout sofa) - $109 plus tax, per night
*All rooms include full kitchens, work spaces and complimentary wireless internet.
Courtyard at Marriott
4083 Lavista Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30084
Phone: 1-770-938-1200
Rates (as quoted online):
King Bed - $84 plus tax, per night
Two Double Beds - $94 plus tax, per night
Hampton Inn
3400 Northlake Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30345
Phone: 1-770-493-1966
Rates (as quoted online):
All rooms: $79 plus tax, per night
Doubletree by Hilton
4156 Lavista Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30084
Phone: 1-770-938-1026
Rates (as quoted online):
All rooms: $109 plus tax, per night
Holiday Inn
2185 Ranchwood Drive, Atlanta, Georgia 30345
Phone: 1-800-230-4134
Rates (as quoted online):
All rooms: $95.95 plus tax, per night
MARTA
The closest MARTA train stop to the family’s homes is the Chamblee station located on the Gold line. The station’s address is 5200 New Peachtree Road, Chamblee, GA 30341. It is approximately 4.5 miles (10 minutes) from the family’s homes.
The closest MARTA train stop to the location of the Celebration of Life party (Mary Gay House) is the Decatur station located on the Blue line. It is approximately .68 miles from the Mary Gay House.
Weekend Weather
Friday January 20
Mostly cloudy. Highs in the low 60s and lows in the low 50s.
Saturday January 21
Showers. Highs in the low 60s and lows in the mid 40s.
Sunday January 22
Mix of sun and clouds. Highs in the low 60s and lows in the low 50s.
Celebration of Life Party
Location: The Mary Gay House
716 W. Trinity Place
Decatur, GA 30030
Decatur, GA 30030
When: 2PM – 6PM Open House
Attire: Casual – Bob specifically asked that this not be a formal affair.
What: We will serve a mix of finger foods, sweets and PLENTY of beer and wine.
Celebration of Life Party Details
If you didn't know my dad well, then you may not know that he wasn't the most religious of people even after being raised Catholic. In his list of things for us to do, we were to plan a party. No funeral. No viewing of the body. None of that sadness. This was his request and we will honor it so. Here are the details:
Please join the Keegan family as we celebrate the life of Robert (Bob) Keegan at an open house party this Saturday, January 21, 2012 from 2-6PM.
WHERE: The Mary Gay House
716 W. Trinity Place
Decatur, GA 30030
WHAT: A casual get together of friends and family to share memories and enjoy stories about Bob. Let’s raise a glass or two (or ten) to honor Bob in a way he would have liked best – with laughter and good cheer.
PARKING: The Mary Gay House offers free parking on both sides of West Trinity Place and additional parking across the street from the Mary Gay House at St. Thomas More Church. Please observe parking signs posted by the City of Decatur.
*For out of town guests, hotel information will be posted soon*
*In lieu of flowers and food, a donation list was posted on a previous blog*
Monday, January 16, 2012
Farkle! - Monday, January 16, 2012 (This is NOT a happy story)
I have bad news. Really bad news. Bob Keegan (my dad) passed away today, Monday, January 16th around 2:30pm. Love was all around him (me, my mom, my brother, my sister-in-law, and all of your thoughts and prayers). He was a loving and devoted husband, an amazing and inspiring father, a wonderful boss, friend, co-worker and humanitarian. He was loved and admired by more people than one could imagine. He lived life to the fullest and is one of the most generous people I know. And no...I'm not biased.
My dad was awesome! He will be missed more than you can ever imagine. The family appreciates all of your love and support and we know that each of you will miss Bob too. We are currently planning a Celebration of Life party in honor of Bob that will most likely be this Saturday, January 21st.
In true Bob Keegan fashion, he has left a list of things for us to do. Informing people about places to donate, was on the list...so here they are:
In lieu of flowers, here are some places you can donate:
Details will be forthcoming about the party. It will be casual. Per his instructions "this is casual - NOT FORMAL - this is not a coat and tie affair. This is s time to enjoy stories about Bob including his foibles, missteps, silly stories, etc."
My dad was awesome! He will be missed more than you can ever imagine. The family appreciates all of your love and support and we know that each of you will miss Bob too. We are currently planning a Celebration of Life party in honor of Bob that will most likely be this Saturday, January 21st.
In true Bob Keegan fashion, he has left a list of things for us to do. Informing people about places to donate, was on the list...so here they are:
In lieu of flowers, here are some places you can donate:
- CDC Foundation - Louise Martin Endowed Scholarship
- PATH Foundation Atlanta - bike trails
- MSF (Doctors without Borders)
- East Coast Greenway Trail
- Nature Conservancy
- Our House - Decatur
Details will be forthcoming about the party. It will be casual. Per his instructions "this is casual - NOT FORMAL - this is not a coat and tie affair. This is s time to enjoy stories about Bob including his foibles, missteps, silly stories, etc."
Sunday, January 15, 2012
Update - January 15, 2012
Just FYI - if you want to see any of my previous blog posts, you can just scroll down and there is a menu on the right hand side with months and years and I think I've posted every month (or almost every month) something since April 2011.
Bob's condition is getting worse, as we expected. I have loved looking at all the pictures and reading all of the emails that you all have sent. It's amazing to know that my father has touched so many lives. Just wanted to let you know that even if we don't respond right away, we are trying our best to keep everyone informed and are very appreciative of all that you do to show your love for Bob.
My mom, brother, and I are doing as best as we can be doing during this hard time. We are frequently together and are sharing the duty of helping take care of Bob. My aunt Alicia will be here on Tuesday to help out even more. I will try to keep you updated as best I can. He sleeps all day so there isn't much to report.
My aunt Alicia shared some photos of my dad that I have never seen before. See below for some early Bob pictures. Real early :-)
Bob's condition is getting worse, as we expected. I have loved looking at all the pictures and reading all of the emails that you all have sent. It's amazing to know that my father has touched so many lives. Just wanted to let you know that even if we don't respond right away, we are trying our best to keep everyone informed and are very appreciative of all that you do to show your love for Bob.
My mom, brother, and I are doing as best as we can be doing during this hard time. We are frequently together and are sharing the duty of helping take care of Bob. My aunt Alicia will be here on Tuesday to help out even more. I will try to keep you updated as best I can. He sleeps all day so there isn't much to report.
My aunt Alicia shared some photos of my dad that I have never seen before. See below for some early Bob pictures. Real early :-)
Friday, January 13, 2012
Quote of the Day - Jan 13 2012
Dad gets up from his nap and looks like he's trying to get up from the chair.
Me: "Dad, where are you going?"
Dad: "For a jog."
He hasn't lost his sense of humor!
Me: "Dad, where are you going?"
Dad: "For a jog."
He hasn't lost his sense of humor!
Picture Request
All,
Please send your favorite 1-2 pictures of Bob to me. My email address is lkeegan24@gmail.com.
If you need to send more that's fine, just remember...I'm only one person :-)
Thanks in advance!
Bob's Daughter
Please send your favorite 1-2 pictures of Bob to me. My email address is lkeegan24@gmail.com.
If you need to send more that's fine, just remember...I'm only one person :-)
Thanks in advance!
Bob's Daughter
Thursday, January 12, 2012
The Happiness Song
Marcus and I may regret this later...we did this video with my dad at Thanksgiving per his request. One of his bucket list items was to be on YouTube...so now he can check that off his list. Enjoy and sorry Marcus
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrcVrN93az8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NrcVrN93az8
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
The Doctor Visit - January 11, 2012
So I flew home to Atlanta this morning at 6am because I'm a daddy's girl and he WILL NOT be sick for long periods of time without me here. He was in the hospital for a week and was released Monday night. We (the fabulous four) went to see the oncologist today. To save you from all the sad details, let's just say that this might have been the last doctor visit. Hospice is coming to the house in the morning to begin at-home care. Bob sleeps most of the day and is on various medications to help with the problems he has due to a failing liver. He has stopped reading emails as he can no longer read them or stay awake long enough to read them. He isn't really in the mood for visitors, as one could expect. But please know that we as a family receive all of your kind words and emails and they fill us with joy to know that our father (her husband) is loved by so many people. Hopefully the hospice nurses will be able to get him back to functioning a little more normally. And trust me, if that does happen...you all will be the first to know. Okay...maybe not the first, but you get my drift.
Right now, I'm sitting in the living room and he is asleep in his recliner. He has the blanket that I gave him for Christmas covering him (it has 30 photos of the family on it) and he is snoring. The rest of the Keegans in this house are about to have a drink!
Right now, I'm sitting in the living room and he is asleep in his recliner. He has the blanket that I gave him for Christmas covering him (it has 30 photos of the family on it) and he is snoring. The rest of the Keegans in this house are about to have a drink!
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Hospital Stay #2
Well, my dad is back in the hospital. His first long-stay visit to the hospital a little after Thanksgiving can no longer be considered a fluke visit. The new doctors at his new hospital think they have figured out why he has been unable to keep down food and has had several bouts with nausea and vomiting. They did an ultrasound of his liver yesterday and found a blood clot. The doctors say this clot is treatable and are keeping him in the hospital while they get "things under control." He is very tired and taking a lot of medication. And if you know Bob at all, he's having a BLAST in the hospital (sarcasm). I haven't spoken to him much, but my brother, Uncle Timmy, and my mom have been keeping me updated on his progress and his daily activities. We are hoping he will be back home in a couple of days and once that happens I will be sure to keep everyone updated.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Share Your Best Bob Story (or two)
Please comment below and share a Story about Bob...your BEST Bob story...if you have more than one...that's okay too. Happy Holidays!
What I'd Like for Christmas...among other things
Life in Chicago is busy and hectic. I work 50 hour weeks and my days consist of putting out fires, dealing with angry customers, and motivating unmotivated employees. I'm away from my family during a time when I want nothing more than to be there with them. Luckily, we all have so many frequent flyer miles that I get to travel home once a month. I will be home again December 23rd and spending Christmas at home.
So, I bet you are all wondering...how's Bob? Well...he's okay. He finished ten sessions of radiation therapy for his bone cancer and the pain in his leg. This treatment wasn't meant to be a cure, but to help the pain in his leg. He will tell you that so far it isn't working very well. Hopefully, this will change in the next week or two. He has helped pay for numerous salaries at his insurance company and at the local hospital that he spent a couple of days in recently. Apparently one too many pain medications did not agree with my dad. But not to fear, he is back at home and in good hands (with my mom and in his recliner).
For now, he is at home resting. Which is probably making him mad since he has so much to do. Renovating the house, Christmas shopping, etc. What can you do to help? Send warm thoughts, nice stories, pray if you do, ... all of that stuff helps. I asked my mom if she needed me to do anything this morning...and she said no. She thinks she's okay for now. If we ever need anything from our big extended family, we will let you know.
What do I want for Christmas? I asked for an new iPod and some other stuff. But really, all I want is to be home, with my dad, and my family and to spend as much time as I can making more memories with them.
So, I bet you are all wondering...how's Bob? Well...he's okay. He finished ten sessions of radiation therapy for his bone cancer and the pain in his leg. This treatment wasn't meant to be a cure, but to help the pain in his leg. He will tell you that so far it isn't working very well. Hopefully, this will change in the next week or two. He has helped pay for numerous salaries at his insurance company and at the local hospital that he spent a couple of days in recently. Apparently one too many pain medications did not agree with my dad. But not to fear, he is back at home and in good hands (with my mom and in his recliner).
For now, he is at home resting. Which is probably making him mad since he has so much to do. Renovating the house, Christmas shopping, etc. What can you do to help? Send warm thoughts, nice stories, pray if you do, ... all of that stuff helps. I asked my mom if she needed me to do anything this morning...and she said no. She thinks she's okay for now. If we ever need anything from our big extended family, we will let you know.
What do I want for Christmas? I asked for an new iPod and some other stuff. But really, all I want is to be home, with my dad, and my family and to spend as much time as I can making more memories with them.
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Dear Abby/News is Usually Bad
So, as many of you have heard already, my dad's cancer has spread and grown to various organs, veins, etc. in his body. He has started to have pain in his leg and is currently taking oral medication to alleviate some of the pain. Bob has an appointment with the oncologist on Monday to talk about next steps for radiation treatments. I don't think he will be getting the chemo Dr. Allen recommended, but who knows. He now has a noticeable limp in his left leg, but his hair has fully grown back. The alternative treatment in India has fizzled out, and despite all this bad news...his spirits are still high. He is painting and renovating the house with help from his neighbor, Harold, and some really good contractors.
I flew down from Chicago for Thanksgiving and we had a good family Thanksgiving eating, playing Farkle, and singing old songs that my dad used to sing to/with us on his guitar. In that spirit, I created a new verse to the song Dear Abby. I think only the Keegan family will get this, but who knows:
Dear Abby Dear Abby
My cancer has spread
It's gone to my liver
but not to my head
The doctor from India
said "no" last night
what's a man to do
when this shit ain't right
Signed, Has Cancer
Has Cancer Has Cancer
you have no complaints
you are what you are
and you ain't what you ain't
so listen up buster
and listen up good
stop wishing for bad luck
and knocking on wood
Signed, Dear Abby
-------
I know most people don't know what to do or say during this difficult time for Bob and his family. Your words of support, kind emails, etc. are always appreciated. My dad is so lucky to have a support system like this. We love each and every one of you.
I will try to post more pictures in the coming weeks.
I flew down from Chicago for Thanksgiving and we had a good family Thanksgiving eating, playing Farkle, and singing old songs that my dad used to sing to/with us on his guitar. In that spirit, I created a new verse to the song Dear Abby. I think only the Keegan family will get this, but who knows:
Dear Abby Dear Abby
My cancer has spread
It's gone to my liver
but not to my head
The doctor from India
said "no" last night
what's a man to do
when this shit ain't right
Signed, Has Cancer
Has Cancer Has Cancer
you have no complaints
you are what you are
and you ain't what you ain't
so listen up buster
and listen up good
stop wishing for bad luck
and knocking on wood
Signed, Dear Abby
-------
I know most people don't know what to do or say during this difficult time for Bob and his family. Your words of support, kind emails, etc. are always appreciated. My dad is so lucky to have a support system like this. We love each and every one of you.
I will try to post more pictures in the coming weeks.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Bob's Doing GREAT!
I have been horrible lately at keeping up this blog, and for that, I do apologize. My dad is doing GREAT! He stopped chemo in early August; he flew up to Chicago to visit me; he went to New York to visit family and the Baseball Hall of Fame; he went to D.C. for "work"; he visited family in Louisianna; and he even managed to remodeled the house! The cancer is still there, but he is too busy living life! The next doctor's appointment is coming up soon and hopefully we will have some positive news. I promise to post more details and pictures in the next couple of weeks.
I just recently returned from Atlanta and I spent time with my family. My dad's hair is growing back and he's very proud of this. We played football (Marcus, Dad, and I) in the front yard without managing to break a window. We are no Manning family, but we are darn close! We watched football, played Farkel (the new family favorite game), and we had a lovely meal together.
I just recently returned from Atlanta and I spent time with my family. My dad's hair is growing back and he's very proud of this. We played football (Marcus, Dad, and I) in the front yard without managing to break a window. We are no Manning family, but we are darn close! We watched football, played Farkel (the new family favorite game), and we had a lovely meal together.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Chemo Free Days
So, where did I leave off? I went home on August 11th to visit my family for two really quick days. My dad picked me up from the airport Thursday night and I was greeted at home by my mom, my Aunt Alicia, and some freshly baked chocolate chip cookies. What more could a girl ask for?
There were two things that my dad seemed really excited about: (1) the new windows in the house (I must admit they are nice) and (2) his new bird feeder with the upside down cone to prevent squirrels from climbing up it and stealing all of the bird seed. We talked about these two things in great detail.
Friday night we had dinner at Marcus and Stacey's house and then had a rousing game of Farkel. I almost won, but my mom came back and beat me at the end. My dad however was Farkeling out of this world. If you have ever played any kind of game with him, you should know he is quick to give you advice...on how best to lose.
I left Saturday evening, but not before enjoying a nice dinner with the family at a neighborhood Mexican restaurant. It was a quick visit, but it served its purpose.
So how is my dad doing??? He's doing pretty good. He loves not having to go to doctors for chemotheraphy and other unnecessary activities involving needles. He has started biking again, with my mom of course, so I'm sure he's happy about that as well. He is still pursuing alternative treatment methods, but some of the options may take longer to materialize than he had originally hoped for.
Oh, a belated shout out to our family friend, Carla, and her quilting group at St. Gabriel's Episcopal Church. They made two lovely quilts for "strength and support...with love, hope and prayers" that my mom and dad now keep on the sofa in the family room. They make great napping accessories I might add.
Also, here's a belated picture of my dad and his new BFF (best friend forever), Abbott. It was taken back in April. Enjoy!
There were two things that my dad seemed really excited about: (1) the new windows in the house (I must admit they are nice) and (2) his new bird feeder with the upside down cone to prevent squirrels from climbing up it and stealing all of the bird seed. We talked about these two things in great detail.
Friday night we had dinner at Marcus and Stacey's house and then had a rousing game of Farkel. I almost won, but my mom came back and beat me at the end. My dad however was Farkeling out of this world. If you have ever played any kind of game with him, you should know he is quick to give you advice...on how best to lose.
I left Saturday evening, but not before enjoying a nice dinner with the family at a neighborhood Mexican restaurant. It was a quick visit, but it served its purpose.
So how is my dad doing??? He's doing pretty good. He loves not having to go to doctors for chemotheraphy and other unnecessary activities involving needles. He has started biking again, with my mom of course, so I'm sure he's happy about that as well. He is still pursuing alternative treatment methods, but some of the options may take longer to materialize than he had originally hoped for.
Oh, a belated shout out to our family friend, Carla, and her quilting group at St. Gabriel's Episcopal Church. They made two lovely quilts for "strength and support...with love, hope and prayers" that my mom and dad now keep on the sofa in the family room. They make great napping accessories I might add.
Also, here's a belated picture of my dad and his new BFF (best friend forever), Abbott. It was taken back in April. Enjoy!
Friday, August 5, 2011
Happy Birthday Marcus!..and the quick and dirty update on Bob.
Today is Marcus' (my brother's) birthday!!!! Happy Birthday to one of my very best friends and the best brother a girl could ever ask for. He feeds me when I'm hungry, tells me my parents are crazy when they don't do as I wish, and always checks to make sure I'm okay.
So, I know I have been MIA as far as the blog is concerned, but as Marcus' stated in the last post, I just started a new job where I am managing people and I have no clue what they actually do every day. It's a great challenge and I am loving every minute of being super busy and bossing people around. I talked to my dad a couple of days ago via email and I talk to my parents every Sunday (it's a tradition). He had chemo treatment on Tuesday, so I'm sure he's not feeling too well right now. I talked to Marcus this morning (to wish him Happy Birthday of course) and he said my dad was doing pretty good all things considered. My dad doesn't have any plans (as of now) for any more chemo treatments since he likes chemo treatments as much as he likes the current healthcare system in America. WARNING: Please don't engage him in conversations about hospital bills and/or how much chemo treatments costs unless you have plenty of spare time on your hands. He is now very passionate about these things. And that's what makes him my dad :-)
I'm pretty sure my mom and dad have been entertaining visitors, remodeling the house, and going through their normal daily routine. Not much has changed. My dad is still looking into alternative treatment methods and I'm pretty sure that this research is consuming most of his time and energy. I know he can't wait to prove those doctors wrong! Every last one of them (except of course the good doctors that work at CDC). I would tell you all of the nicknames he has for his various doctors, but I would like to keep this blog PG.
I miss my family like crazy and think about them every day. Chicago is an interesting city and I'm slowly but surely learning my way around. Luckily, my dad has plenty of frequent flyer miles that he so generously shares with his baby girl. So...I will be in Atlanta next weekend to visit!!!! Lucky for me, my Aunt Alicia will be in town as well. I will make sure to take some more pictures of the family during my visit. Until then...
So, I know I have been MIA as far as the blog is concerned, but as Marcus' stated in the last post, I just started a new job where I am managing people and I have no clue what they actually do every day. It's a great challenge and I am loving every minute of being super busy and bossing people around. I talked to my dad a couple of days ago via email and I talk to my parents every Sunday (it's a tradition). He had chemo treatment on Tuesday, so I'm sure he's not feeling too well right now. I talked to Marcus this morning (to wish him Happy Birthday of course) and he said my dad was doing pretty good all things considered. My dad doesn't have any plans (as of now) for any more chemo treatments since he likes chemo treatments as much as he likes the current healthcare system in America. WARNING: Please don't engage him in conversations about hospital bills and/or how much chemo treatments costs unless you have plenty of spare time on your hands. He is now very passionate about these things. And that's what makes him my dad :-)
I'm pretty sure my mom and dad have been entertaining visitors, remodeling the house, and going through their normal daily routine. Not much has changed. My dad is still looking into alternative treatment methods and I'm pretty sure that this research is consuming most of his time and energy. I know he can't wait to prove those doctors wrong! Every last one of them (except of course the good doctors that work at CDC). I would tell you all of the nicknames he has for his various doctors, but I would like to keep this blog PG.
I miss my family like crazy and think about them every day. Chicago is an interesting city and I'm slowly but surely learning my way around. Luckily, my dad has plenty of frequent flyer miles that he so generously shares with his baby girl. So...I will be in Atlanta next weekend to visit!!!! Lucky for me, my Aunt Alicia will be in town as well. I will make sure to take some more pictures of the family during my visit. Until then...
A Throwback - Picture's from Father's Day
Sorry these are so late going up, but here are some pictures of my family celebrating Father's Day this year.
Above picture: My dad taking pictures of the family he kept leaving behind on the Silver Comet trail.
Above picture: Bob and his kids. Can't you tell how excited they are to be biking 16 miles????
Above picture: The Keegan Family - halfway done with the wonderific bike ride!
Above picture: Me taking a picture of my dad and I while he is singing the "Happiness Song". I'm not very good at getting myself in the picture though. Look for the song coming soon on YouTube ;-)
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