Monday, February 1, 2010

Goodbye Tay!

After knowing that my open-letter has reached Senator Noynoy, I knew he will come and visit Tatay. He did.
When Ms. Viel and daughter, dropped by to the hospital to share some experiences they've been through when their Mom was also suffering from the same illness, she assured us that they will continue to pray for Tatay. For the second time in a day, Tatay's eyes brightens with hope and willingness. Regardless of his situation, he still wanted to serve. And we Thank the Aquino family for that. Tatay has been fighting against cancer, to fight for others. That was Saturday.

Sunday - With a heart overwhelmed with joy, Tatay convinced us that he is recovering very well. Whenever there is a free time, I make it a point to read all the comments of the people from the internet - the most sympathetic and caring people I admire so much. I showed him his pictures with the Senator, he keeps on smiling and my relatives keep on teasing him, "pogi ni tatay oh". And I would read again at least a comment or two. I wanted him to know that people had been praying for his health. I went home to take a rest. We thought he is recovering. We were wrong.

Monday - I cried after discovering that Tatay started to forget me. He even forgot the names of the people he has been with the room overnight. He didn't want to wear the hospital gown. He can barely recognize my face, our face. I can see through his eyes that he wanted to shout, but has chosen to just look away and sob. My sister explained why, the ammonia that is supposed to be released by his body has spread through his blood, causing his brain to be disoriented. Before, he always wanted to see all of us in front of his sickbed. But this day, all he wanted was for us to all get out of his sight. This is his way of telling us, " let me carry your burden. I can do it by myself. Go away! I don't want to see you cry." The moment of truth has come. The doctors informed us about the terminal condition of Tatay. But We can at least rely on one last resort - Cardiopulmonary resuscitation. An emergency procedure for people with cardiac arrest. While the nurses were preparing that procedure. We all decided to pray outside. Prayed for God's will to be done. Asked God for forgiveness. And thanked Him for the days we shared with Tatay. Going back to the room is like walking through an empty hallway. Seeing only Tatay at the end of it. I can't help but cry. Knowing that my lolo may survive this procedure, but cannot, in any other way, stand up and live his normal life. As the saying goes, between pain and nothing - I'd chosen nothing. I surrendered Tatay to God. I don't want to prolong his suffering, though my heart is not yet ready to let him go. "Laban ka tay ha! Laban ka pls..." and I can hear him responding through his oxygen mask.

One by one, we went beside Tatay. Being a very debative man, Tatay has always been our "mortal enemy", be it in politics, showbiz (yes showbiz) and even our love lives. He is always involved. And that involvement was not even appreciated before, rather misinterpreted as "pangongontra". So each of us said our apologies. Our confessions. Our promises. After my turn, we've watched the most dramatic scene in the room. Tatay went back to his senses. He called Nanay. "tingin ka sa mata ko", he said. Then Nanay started singing their favorite song. Tatay is singing along. More of a humming. His tattoo showing from his right leg - Nanay's portait. Nanay is a very strong woman. I can't imagine myself going through a lot- having my youngest son killed in the street, and now, my husband fighting against cancer. And all I can do is just sing. This was the most unforgettable moment of Tatay's struggle. Worship song playing in the background, Smiling faces with tears in their eyes, A strong man fighting with his last breath. All i can do is just close my eyes and pray........

A straight line appeared in the monitor. Tatay's eyes shut down. No one panicked. Tatay is just sleeping. After 2 hours, we had no choice but to surrender the dead man's body to the morgue staff. Kissing a dead man is the warmest thing a person can experience. The love overflowing our hearts conquered the fright. We said our last goodbyes. Tatay is in heaven now. Looking over his 6 children and 23 grandchildren.

While preparing for Tatay's wake, we were very happy for the flowers sent by the Senator. A true representation that until the very end, Senator has been there beside Tatay. Even on the days of his wake.

Tatay may be gone, but his words will always remain in us. Always believe in God. Take care of your health. Take care of Nanay. . Tatay was gone, leaving us not a single coin, property or possession, except for this very precious thing - the family tie. Tatay has been praying to God. He said he wanted to see his children together again in one place. Now, Tatay hasn't just brought us closer together, he also taught us to value each member of the family. And whatever happens, RESPECT YOUR PARENTS. This gift is the most special gift, a man can offer. This tie will never be broke again. As long as I live, I promised Tatay that I would take care of all my cousins.

I realized that crying and smiling goes along well together. Instead of crying my heart out for the lost of the head of our family, I found myself smiling. A voice repeatedly playing on my mind. "Ano bang iniiyak nyo? ang importante lumaban ako.".

Tatay's story will always be remembered as a typical cancer patient story. Some may also connect it to politics. But No! As for me, and for the Aquino family, I am certain. Tatay made a change. We will always love you and We will fight for what you believe.. Goodbye, Tay!.


Thank you to all the people who reposted the open-letter. Thank You to Atty. Lacierda who made an effort to inform Senator Noy about my whereabouts to make the surprise visit to Tatay possible. To Sir Rapa & Dr. Ayco. Thank you Mr. Reginald Imus of Makati Med.Thank you Dr. Cornejo. Thank you very much! I know u did all that you can do to save Tatay. You have proven that you profession do not equate any monetary amount, but sincere hearts that believe in your capacity. God Blees your good heart. The people who visited my Tatay. And most especially, to the Aquino family. My words may not be enough. Tatay said Noynoy will win. I know right now, he is having a "debate" with God. :) You will win. Our all out support. - Alonso family


Danilo's Residence
Blk 14 Lot14 Purok 8 Bagong Tanyag Taguig City.