I'm not going to write about Father's Day because my father died years ago. Anything I write about him would smack of tooting my own horn about being a father. Not going to do that. I will write about accidental fathers though.
One of my brothers is in a group home. We took him out to lunch today and checked out the home. I was very impressed with the home and with the employee. This guy is a father by pay. What does he do? He stays in a house with three guys and helps them clean up or cleans up after them, feeds them, if necessary he helps them bathe, does laundry, and takes them places. Sounds a bit like a father to me.
My sister pulled some favors and got some tickets (enough for all of the residents, aides, and weekend residents) for Scarborough Faire. These kids loved it, one aide couldn't go and asked my sister why they were talking about two people throwing knives at each other. These two guys are a father/son knife throwing team (they are called "Stewart and Arnold", I highly recommend that you see them) and the perfect show for these kids to see. Drama and action, what else could you ask for? If the group goes to some activity the kids have to pay for their own snacks, souvenirs, and entry; therefore they try to keep it economical for all. For my brother cash is not a problem, if they need something for him, he has four siblings that will get him what he needs. Not all of the residents have that luxury though. My sister was sending $20 with him for weekend outings and they said that was too much. Some kids are using their government assistance just to get in and don't have the funds or family to pay for extras. My sister went ahead and paid for a "pay per view" event for the house, I would like to do something also but I don't know what yet.
It's difficult to see my brother, his memory and body is worsening almost daily. Every time I see him I say goodbye to him because it might be my last chance. Maybe it will get easier with time. I hope I get a lot of practice.
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