Ugh, I'm sorry.
It's such a dilemma. I don't know WHAT I would do without my father. Luckily, every time I've ever been away, he's always home. And his house is practically Jackson's second home, and he loves their two dogs, and my brother and step-mom. So he's the most comfortable there. He still misses me, and is different more reserved when I'm not there, but he does okay and ultimately, I know he's in good hands. I don't think I could ever board him, he's not the type of dog that would do okay in that kind of environment. If I didn't have family, I think pet sitter would be my #1 choice. I would find someone to meet him first a few times with me there (it takes Jax a few times to get acclimated to someone, then he loves you forever). But good luck!!