It Could have Been the Last Time

See that voicemail from my dad? I just saw that it was there. I didn’t know until a few minutes ago.

I find as my kids get older, and use my phone to watch videos, I lose track of people trying to contact me. The messages and voicemails build up without me knowing and when I finally look I feel terrible.

Except that wasn’t the case this time.

My dad called me last Tuesday afternoon. I sent him to voicemail because I was busy at the time. I was on deadline for something and I couldn’t spare a few minutes to talk to my dad.

I told myself I’d call him later that night. Only we had hockey and I forgot.

I also didn’t know that the next day he would have a stroke. Or at least the doctors think it was on Wednesday. No one knows for sure. But I wouldn’t know until Friday. He didn’t call me because he didn’t want to bother me. Or any of us kids.

I was scared to listen to the message. I sat in my car for a few minutes and stared at the notification. What did he have to tell me?

And then I realized this could have been the last time I heard from my dad. And I didn’t answer the dang phone because I was busy with my job. Only, in hindsight, I could have answered. I could have spared a few minutes.

I learned a lesson with this one. When my parents call, and other important people in my life, I’m going to answer the phone.

As for the message, he just wanted to say hi and that he loves me. He hopes I’m doing well.

Answer the phone friends. Just in case it’s the last time.

Finding Cooper’s Voice is a safe, humorous, caring and honest place where you can celebrate the unique challenges of parenting a special needs child. Because you’re never alone in the struggles you face. And once you find your people, your allies, your village….all the challenges and struggles will seem just a little bit easier. Welcome to our journey. You can also follow us on Facebook, subscribe for exclusive videos, and subscribe to our newsletter.