He has cancer. He originally had cancer of the mouth and had major surgery and reconstructive work done. That was caused by alcohol and nicotine. (The part of his face/mouth that was affected was where he used to rest his pipe). He also drank the best part of a bottle of brandy a day which contributed. He has had all the chemo and radiotherapy he can now. This week he was rushed in with stomach pains and they've had to remove part of his bowel. He also has COPD. He continues to drink but I believe he has stopped smoking, although I'm not absolutely sure.
The family dysfunction has trebled if that is possible. Dad is in hospital. My alcoholic drug addict brother is 'looking after' my codie Mum. I just couldn't begin to explain how just thinking of it all round there sends my anxiety levels through the roof.
I'm supporting from a distance at the moment but will step it up if I need to. Plenty of prayer and meditation going on here I can tell you!x