Grandpa had another stroke, this one pretty bad. He's at the hospital, and I have no idea how well he's doing. The family organised a trip out to the hospital, and didn't tell me about it, the stroke, or anything. I wouldn't have heard about it at all unless I had caught my brother on his computer, and specifically asked asked what he was doing at my folk's house.
Going to the hospital now, and hoping for the best.
Between myself, one of my best friends, and another two friends, it seems to be a bad season for heart attacks among grandfathers. Hope you and him both get through this all right, Solifuge.
Just got back from the hospital with my Grandpa.
I don't have the complete story, but he was home alone, unconscious and covered in blood, when my uncle found him with exceptionally high blood pressure and a nosebleed. He was awake and aware when I saw him, but unable to make more than a few sounds; his speech center was apparently damaged during the stroke. He seems to be able to understand others and be aware enough of what's going on to try to respond, and has enough muscle control to nod or shake his head. His memory was as good as it has been, and he's obviously still in there... but I could see how frustrated he was at not being able to speak, or move parts of his body.
He's a brilliant, kind, and amazing man, and largely made me who I am today. The man was the rock that held me in place though a rough childhood, and has been more of a role model and father to me than anyone else in my life. He raised me when my mom was out dating and partying, and attended my events and concerts (even stayed out at 2am to catch my debut at a sleazy bar in Detroit). He taught me about computers, music, history, science, and airplanes... as well as the value of reason and compassion. He brought me to church, and though a religious man himself, he has never given me trouble for leaving it.
It was funny... while I was driving back, a big shooting star fell over the road. All I could think of was how badly I want him to get better.