7th Flying Pig Marathon

Sunday, May 1, 2005

 In memory of Tom Murray who passed away from Pulmonary Fibrosis on December 4,  2003

Donations may be sent to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation at 1332 N. Halsted St. Chicago, IL 60622

312.587.9272

Dad was never one to complain so we didn’t realize the seriousness of his health.  He went in for back surgery on November 4 expecting to come home the following day. Three weeks later, after numerous tests Dad was diagnosed with “end stage Pulmonary Fibrosis”, a disease whose cause is unknown and a disease for which there is no known cure.  The hospital presented us with two options: a nursing home or we care for him at home.   There was only one option, Dad was coming home. Before his discharge, we had a family meeting to ensure that we had round the clock care.  After Dad was home for two days, we realized that a schedule wasn’t necessary.   The family was always there, waiting to hear his next words, wanting just one more minute with him.  Meanwhile, mom was back cooking for an army. 

Dad was a kind and gentle man who was always concerned about others. He never wanted anyone to fuss over him. He was authentically interested and involved with each and every one of us.  He worried that his illness was keeping us from our work and our families.  He worried about mom and how hard it would be on her. During his last days we noticed a tenderness between our parents, that was always there, we were just too busy with our everyday lives to notice. Even when we thought Dad was most likely feeling very miserable he always managed to make us laugh. His Irish wit was unmatched. He entertained the grandchildren, nurses and visitors at the hospital. Whenever the grandchildren entered the room, his face would light up. We shared many many tears but also much laughter during his last week at home. Thanksgiving Day dad was home. We all gathered around his bed hanging on every little gesture, smile and word.  It was a struggle for Dad to talk and we could tell he had something to say. The room grew deafly silent while we waited for Dad to speak. He whispered two words, “Thank You”. Dad we just want to say.... Thank You! This is just the type of man he was, never expecting anything from anyone and always appreciative.  

This past Thanksgiving will be the most meaningful to all of the Murray’s.  Although it was very sad, we have great comfort in being a part of this family. We have been blessed to have the opportunity to care for the man who has provided everything to us.  After Dad passed, Mom gathered the family and led us in a prayer.   At the end of the prayer Mom said, “I have always told you to make the most of your hellos to help you through the good-bye’s”. Dad with this we are saying good-bye, and although we’re going to dearly miss you, I know that you are watching over us and that everything is the way God meant it to be.  

Tom Quinlan