Saying Goodbye

I don't have an official count, but I know there were a lot of people that came to pay their respects last night; the family appreciates all the kind words and the hugs that came with them.

We listed three groups on the memoral suggestions, but if you have another charity or group you would like to give to in Conan's name, please do so.

The University of Iowa Palliative Care Team worked hard to get the nausea under control, but they also spent a lot of time talking about what Conan wanted out of life - however long or short that might be. The Care Team also spoke to Gretta about Henry, and what he did and didn't understand, and how to help him. I remember from one discussion we were to encourage him to ask questions and talk about Conan. He had a lot of questions this week, but he seemed to understand more than we expected.

The Clarissa C. Cook House and the staff do extraordinary work. While they were focused on Conan's medical needs, they were very concerned about the emotional needs of the family. They also gave suggestions and information for helping Henry. I don't know what Gretta would have done without them.

The Conan Dalton Memorial fund will be used for the children's future educational needs. One of the first things Conan said to me after they found out Emily was coming, was about a second college fund. As I have 2 children who have finished college, I chuckled and said no matter what you save it won't be enough. But I should have told him the encouragement you give them to work hard in school and appreciate the chance to do so will be more valuable than the money. And in many ways that's what this account does - it says education is important.

And finally Kicks for Conan. This event will be held on December 27 & 28. The funds raised will be used for medical expenses. The event organizers are also planning to make this an annual event to honor Conan and the contribution he has made to the soccer communty. In the future, the plan is for funds to go to brain cancer research and other areas of relevant need.

Yesterday I had Henry in the car with me for the ride from day care to the funeral home. He talked about who was going to be there, and then he said there will be a lot of red eyes. I wondered what he was talking about, and then he said because people will be crying. I said yes, people will be sad, but they are happy too because daddy is in heaven. Henry told me not yet, not until tomorrow. So I'm not sure where Conan is right now, but Henry thinks today is the big day for him. 

So like so many have said, rest in peace.