2016 was the best and worst year of my life! A true emotional roller coaster. New Years Day 2016 I got engaged to my long-time boyfriend (Mike). We were finally taking our relationship to the next level and I was ecstatic! At the end of February, my fiancé and I went to Brazil and had an amazing time. I truly felt like I was on top of the world. I was happy.
On March 7th, my mom picked us up from the airport. I’ll never forget the moment she uttered the words, “Your dad has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.” She said more after that — breaking the news to me the best way she could — but that sentence and that moment will stick with me forever. My. Heart. Dropped! Mike and I drove to Tampa that day to be with my Daddy. I thank God for allowing me to be with him for the remaining two weeks of his life. My final words to him were, “You’re the best daddy ever.” And he responded, “You’re the best daughter ever.” Then he told Mike to make sure he took care of his baby. The next day Daddy passed away and my life would never be the same!
The rest of 2016 was good. I had my bridal shower, went to Vegas for my bachelorette party, and then married my best friend. Even received a promotion at work along the way. Ended the year graduating from the University of Florida (Go Gators!) with an MBA. However, I couldn’t fully enjoy these accomplishments because Daddy wasn’t physically there.
While experiencing these milestones, I always worried about losing someone else or something bad happening. It was like experiencing the big drop on a roller coaster and with every twist and turn afterward thinking, “Lord please not another drop, my heart just can’t take another one.” Yet, you find the strength to continue because you have no choice, you’re strapped in and can’t get off until it ends.
Experiencing the death of a parent is by far the hardest thing I have ever had to endure. One thing I have learned from it is to live life to the fullest and do as much as you can while you are here. I don’t want to look back and have regrets…so I am just trying to live my best life! Will this blog succeed? I have no clue, but it’s what I want to do right now so I am doing it!
Life throws us a few heartbreaks from time to time. Always keep God first and He will guide you through. Remember to be still and listen to God’s plan for you.
Thank you for the encouraging words!
Very well done. Your dad would be proud, as am I! Much success to you and continue to live your best life, this is not a rehearsal…have no regrets!
Thanks Mommy 🙂
Erika, I totally understand this. I actually wrote post entitled “Journey on the Emotional Highway” after losing my Mom. Thinking of you!
http://Www.eclectickurves.com
Oh wow, how ironic! Great minds 🙂
So sorry to hear about your father . Cancer had taken a lot of loved ones out of my life so I understand what you’re going through. I’m glad that you were still able to accomplish great things & I wish you and your blog the best of luck ?
Thank you so much for the kind words! Hopefully one day there will be a cure for all cancers.
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Thanks for checking out my blog April!
I applaud your strength and courage to tell your story.. Very heartfelt.. stay strong and encourage????
Thank you so much!
❤️
Love this Erika!!! This is a testimony!
Yes, indeed!! Thanks girl!
Great read.
Thanks Lawanda!!
Sorry for your loss. I love your positive spirit. Congratulations on gratuating and getting engaged! Life for sure has good things in store for you. Just keep faith. ❤️
Thank you!!
Sorry for your loss. I know how those special moments sting when the most important people to us aren’t there to help celebrate them. Wishing you peace, especially over this holiday season.
Thank you! Holidays are always the hardest!
This post was so touching it gave me goosebumps. I can’t imagine how difficult it must have been to achieve so much and not be able to share those experiences with your father. Hopefully you are finding some comfort in knowing he is resting peacefully.
It was very difficult and could not fully enjoy the moments.
I loved this post. My heart goes out to you and I am very sorry for your loss. I admire your strength and having the courage to carry on in the face of such adversity! Thank you for sharing with us. I’m sure your dad would be super proud of you!
Thank you! ?