I've debated, drafted and reconsidered this post dozens of times in the past few weeks, but in an effort to keep things real, I'm finally taking the plunge. It's one of the hardest things I've ever had to write, but I don't feel like I can properly move on in life and with business as usual here on the blog without sharing.
You've probably noticed that outfit posts and posts in general over the last month and a half have been sporadic. And I mentioned here, sometimes life throws some unexpected challenges your way. And boy, did it ever.
On Sunday, August 25, my father suffered sudden cardiac arrest. As in, his heart just stopped. We don't know what caused it, and in many cases you never do. While he was fortunate that my mom was home at the time, he was without oxygen for about ten minutes from the time he collapsed to the time emergency personnel arrived. This time without oxygen did serious damage to his brain, and even though his body physically survived, his brain did not.
For the next four weeks, we consulted with dozens of doctors (who were amazing, by the way) and hoped his condition would improve and that he'd wake up, but unfortunately too much damage had been done. He passed away on September 24.
The past six weeks have been a blur of emotions, and sometimes I feel like I'm on the outside looking in at my own life. I never in a million years would've thought something like this could happen and don't feel like it'll truly ever sink in. But I love this blog and my dad loved it as well. He was so supportive and was always amazed by the opportunities it would bring my way. I am, too, and none of that would be possible without your continued readership and support. And because of that, I felt like I owed you an explanation about what real life has been like lately. It's also a good reminder that you just never know what someone is going through, and I've been making an effort to be kinder, more patient, and more understanding in my daily interactions with friends, family and strangers.
As I work on getting things back to normal (whatever that looks like), I know there will be good and bad days. I ask that you bear with me, but know that writing Chain Strap Purse is something I love, and life is too short to do things that make you unhappy.
Thank you for your continued kindness and support. It has always meant the world to me and is even more appreciated now.
XO,
Alison
Oh honey I am so so sorry - I cannot imagine what you have been going through these last couple of months! I will be praying for you & your family and hope that you are comforted somehow. Sending hugs from NY...
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing. Thinking of you and your family.
ReplyDeleteI am so so sorry for your loss and prayers are being sent your way.
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ReplyDeletei'm so sorry for your loss. prayers are with you and your family.
ReplyDeleteAlly, I'm so sorry that you and your family are going through such a difficult time. I had a too similar experience over the winter, so if you ever want to talk, let me know. Sending lots of love your way.
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry for your loss and all that you've been through the past few weeks. Losing a father is heart breaking. I can't even imagine the emotions you are dealing with right now, but know this...we are all here for you. Sending prayers and hugs to you and your family!
ReplyDeletebeijos,
Tiffany
Oh, Ally...I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. My dad had a heart attack when I was 9, and I remember that night like it was yesterday. I'm grateful every day that he recovered, and my heart goes out to you and your family. Take whatever time you need. We will all still be there.
ReplyDeleteSending so many hugs your way!
I am so sorry to hear this :/ The only thing I can say is that it does get better and I know from personal experience, literally my birthday is Thursday and my dad's anniversary (it will be 8 years now) is Friday 10/11. My life has changed tremendously since DeSales and my dad passing. I still have my melt downs, but make sure to continue your passions and this blog is very inspiring. I seriously look forward to it all the time. Chin up!
ReplyDeleteI am so sorry to hear about you & your family's loss! Lots of love & prayers to get you through what lies ahead!
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry for the loss of your dad. I hope the wonderful experiences and special moments you had together bring you comfort during this difficult time. You are in my prayers.
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ReplyDeleteI'm sorry to hear that, send in your way prayers.
ReplyDeleteWe will be here.
Your reader.
My sincere condolences.
ReplyDeleteSending you love, light, and prayers.
ReplyDeleteI had tears in my eyes as I read this... I never had much of a relationship with my own dad and it is always so special to me to see and hear of father/daughter relationships that are so close. I cant imagine how hard it is hard to sit down and write these kinds of words, but when you do, I hope it brought you one step closer towards closure. You are so lucky to have such a special bond with your dad, and he will be with you always. I pray that you are able to heal, and that the days start getting a little easier. Remember to take one day at a time, and it is okay to grieve however you need to. Lots of love & prayers your way!
ReplyDeleteBest,
Danielle
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I am thinking about you and your family! Thanks for sharing your story...it takes courage but know that we are all here to support you.
ReplyDelete- Kaitlyn
my prayers go out to you and your family. one of the hardest things ever is to loose a parent especially when it happens so suddenly. i can relate, believe me it will get better with time (the pain of him not being here) but you will never stop missing him. take it one day at a time and remember all of the great times. xo
ReplyDeleteYou and your family are in my prayers.
ReplyDeleteThere is something you must always remember: You are BRAVER than you believe, STRONGER than you seem, and smarter than you think but the most important thing is, even if we're apart... I'll always be with you.
I am so sorry to hear this, Alison! I can't imagine how hard it is go back to regular life after something so shattering so I totally respect your honesty and realness here. I pray for you and your sweet family during this time and hope you all can find peace in your fathers passing. And always know that your readers will love you no matter what! xoxoxoxo!
ReplyDeleteKatie
I'm so very sorry for your loss Alison. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
ReplyDelete-Paige
Alison, I am so sorry to hear this. My heart and prayers are going out to you and your mom. Love you, lady! Keeping you in my prayers!
ReplyDeleteAlison, reading your post just brought tears to my eyes. I cannot even begin to imagine what you and your family are going through, but I am happy you have this blog, something we all know you love, and your many followers to turn to during this rough time. Remember, time will heal the pain... And memories will never fade. Your father will always be with you.
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Bianca
I am a new reader of your blog and am so sorry to hear about your loss. I lost my brother tragically this past February so I truly understand your hurt and pain. I wish you strength during these next few, difficult months as you begin to heal.
ReplyDeleteHey Alison!
ReplyDeleteJust found your blog and just read this post. My father passed away suddenly of a heart attack over eight years ago...doing one of things he loved to do the most... jogging. Eight years later, it still is unreal. While, yes, time has provided some comfort in moving on (whatever that means), there are still days when i look at my niece and nephews and think of how they will never know their grandpa and when i look at my ma, when i see her still fighting back tears or when she stares off, i know she is thinking about my dad and how much she misses him.
Just know that, you do not know what your future looks like, but u sure as heck know what ur past looked like and what it was filled with...and that is love from a great man, your father. You will have it with you always; it is the gift that keeps on giving.
Nikki
Thanks for sharing your story. I always admire bloggers who really get personal with their followers. It allows us to really relate to you.
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