Who won the pennant? Today is my Dad's anniversary and Who won the pennant? were Dad's last words. Dad's final illness was unexpected and fairly brief. Diagnosed with cancer in April, he packed a lot of suffering into about 5 1/2 months and then he was gone.
My brother and I were trying to stay all night at the nursing home, so my father wouldn't be alone. Dad had been on morphine for a couple of days and was sleeping most of the time. Most of our family had gathered the night before and had an opportunity to tell Dad we loved him and say our final goodbyes. Saturday evening, September 20, Dad was sleeping and Tom, my brother, and I just stayed in the room and chatted quietly or then just sat. Suddenly, Dad woke up and looked at both of us and asked about the pennant. Since Dad had been in hospital or a nursing home for all but two weeks since April, he had missed most, if not all, of his beloved Phillies' season. We saw plenty of Atlanta games that summer and watched a lot of othe sports with him, but the Phillies games were not available.
My brother and I were so startled at his question, that at first we didn't answer. Mu brother finally stammered...they're still in it Dad. They still have a shot. Dad said okay or something and nodded off. My smartest sister told me the next day, after Dad had passed away, that we should of just lied and said The Phillies won the pennant. That way Dad could rest easy. I think I would have had a really hard time thinking my last words to my Dad were a lie.
Of course I miss my Dad. He was quiet, but wise. He understood my Mother in ways I don't think any of us ever will. He was patient and kind and loved his family and his Phillies.
September is always a month filled with memories, but The Phillies' recent years of success somehow make it easier. We are sharing The Phillies glorious season and Dad will be with me and all of us, as we root and cheer, hopefully into a long post season.
My Dad would have loved this TEAM of Phillies. He would have liked Charlie Manuel a lot as well. Even my Mother watched the entire World Series parade 3 years ago, knowing that my Dad would have really enjoyed it - right up until a player said a four letter word on mic. And I think he would be very pleased that his grandchildren - all 10 of them - have adopted or increased their passion for his Phillies. My youngest son says that somebody has to channel Poppie's spirit and love for the game and the team.
Who won the pennant? The Phillies have won the National League East for the fifth straight year and the rest of the season has yet to unfold. What I do know is this - my Dad's family is cheering on his team for him and with him.
Who won the pennant? I can't wait to answer that question.
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