[cynsir]

My son called me about a month ago and told me, while crying on the phone, that Pops has cancer. He also wanted me to call Pops. I have been estranged from my father for about 2 years due to him beating me up after his 50th wedding anniversary. He was drunk, so was my mother so I refused to ride home with them. Dad got angry and started punching and choking me. When the bartender heard my crys and came to the door, Dad went and got in the van and went home. Never received an apology.

So here I am, haven't talked to him for over two years my 25 year old son is on the phone crying. I called my father and his first remark is "are you sure you want to talk to me". I said no, but my son on the East Coast is very very upset and I want to know what's going on so I can help my son.

Dad has a slow-growing tumor about 4 x 6 inches on his liver. They had run all the tests at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale AZ. The cancer has not spread and the biopsy ok'ed him for surgery. All we are waiting for is the date of the surgery.

My son is in the Air Force and has really been treated by my parents as there son. But there are times like this that I feel I need to step in. I told my father that I would rather he did not tell my son what date his surgery is. If Andy knew, he would be out there in a minute. I don't want him to be there alone with my mother if something happens in surgery. My father actually agreed with me. I think that the surgery will be within the next two weeks.

I guess I'm not worried about dad but I am about Andy. Three weeks ago he actually asked when I would be coming out to the East Coast. He wasn't really thinking right. He called me every night for two weeks. Now he's a little calmer and he seems to be making more sense in his discussions.

Is there something wrong with me that I really don't care about what happens to dad? I don't know.