I wanted to just take a minute to thank everyone who befriended or helped my dad over the years. The disease he had took so much from him, but he was a true warrior and as tough as nails. I don't believe many men could have endured what my dad endured. Those who knew him knew that he was fiercely independent, rarely seeking help from others. Even so, I know he had many friends who did many things for him throughout his terrible 50-year struggle. I can't acknowledge them all (you know who you are), nor can I repay them, but I can say thank you. I appreciated every kind act. And I know dad did, too.
My dad once wrote in his Family Tree papers that his worst two days were when his infant daughter (Tracey) died and the day (in 1970) he was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. I think my worst day, just two days ago, beat both of those events combined. I talked to my dad on the phone nearly every single day (including the day he died). I just lost an enormous part of my life. I'm not capable of putting into worlds how much I already miss him, but I know his body couldn't take the pain and deterioration any longer. I am truly thankful that he is no longer suffering and his soul finally gets to rest.
In those same documents, he wrote that he felt his disease kept him from being much of a father as his kids grew. While it is true it prevented him from engaging in many physical activities early in my life, he more than made up for it in later years. He turned out to be a role model any son would be proud of, and I wouldn't have traded him for any dad in the history of the world.
If you have memories with my dad, please share them. This is a very tough time right now. Hearing from people who knew him may make it easier.
Again, I thank you all.
Gary Kimball
P.S. My dad didn't want any public memorial events (he always hated imposing on others) and my sister and I are honoring his wishes. He will be cremated and his ashes scattered at a later date in a location yet to be determined.
P.P.S. If you are able and so inclined, please leave a donation (any amount makes a difference) with the Arthritis Foundation (www.arthritis.org) in my dad's name. There's a big "DONATE" button on the top of that page. They've been working for a long time to try to ensure people don't have to endure a lifetime of pain like my dad did. I pray they end that terrible disease soon.
