Thursday, June 16, 2011

The Dancing man

"Health is NOT the absence of disease. It's the state of mind that lets one live a full, rewarding and productive life REGARDLESS of their physical condition."

Mr. B. was a perfect example.

He died earlier today at home.

He was 90 years old.

He had more than his fair share of medical conditions over the years: hypertension, COPD, prostate cancer, colon cancer, recurrent deep venous thromboses, severe peripheral vascular disease and end stage degenerative joint disease.

He lived with his daughter and son-in-law.

He LOVED to dance.

Every Friday and Saturday, until a few weeks ago, he had the same routine.

He would dress up and then take a cab to arrive at his dancing establishment by 8 PM. He would take the cab so as not to burden his family, even though they always offered to drive him. He would dance until around 1 AM with the support of his partners and walker. From there he would go for coffee at Denny's and then take the cab home at 3-4 AM.

As he became frailer his daughter had appropriate concerns.

Was it OK for him to continue to do this?

Was she doing the right thing letting her father do this?

He really seems to want to do this, doesn't he?

Yes, yes, and yes.

He was a great example of HEALTH, despite his physical condition.

I've smiled every time I've thought of him today.

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