I want to add another story here.
I had a very good friend of mine die last month. It was a huge shock. Richard was in his late 60's. My husband and I met him 5 years ago when I group of us decided to do a weekly volley ball game. Richard was our oldest player. He was not the best but gave it his all and improved over time too. He became one of my biggest life supporters. Always telling me to not worry,enjoy every adventure, to give love. He always had a big kiss for me and a kind word. When i had to take high bp meds I was so mad. Being in my early 40's I was upset. He said to me "would you rather have us wipe drool from your chin"? He worked with the special ed kids at our elementary school for no money as well as was the bus driver for years for the school district. He was very much loved by all that knew him.
Turned out he had leuemia and didn't tell anyone but his wife. He was just about to start a treatment when his bp dropped suddenly one night. They rushed him to the hospital. He had sever anemia and passed away that night. He was surrounded by his whole family though which I am so glad.
I cried for 2 weeks and still feel a loss when I go some place I used to see him and he is not there with his kiss for me. But he taught me so many lessons even his passing taught me a lesson too.
What a amazing person to be able to keep such a big thing to yourself.He just didn't want anyone to treat him differently. Or feel sorry for him.
His daughter called me the morning after he passed and said "my dad loved you two so much, we wanted you to know that" (now crying writing this).
He lived every day like it was his last. He enjoyed everything it had to offer and did not sweat the small stuff. He is my hero!