We Love You, Papa!

The shift that suddenly becomes as blatant as the nose on your face, a child’s obligatory duty to "parent the parents" ~ physically, emotionally and all the in-betweens. And while grateful for my father’s miraculous scruples, (even while intubated in a sedative state) despite an onset of medical setbacks, the one constant that taunts him is addressing his financials... My father has always been the breadwinner of our household, holding a master's degree in electrical engineering, to which we were fortunate for his stable, gainful employment, seamlessly providing (above + way way way beyond!) for Mom, Dina and I. Never once did I encounter anything bearing resemblance to financial strife. BUT, life happens, like unforeseen tragedy, which can involuntarily lead to rash solutions that don't serve long-term. Fast forward to the coupling of retirement, unexpected, prolonged home, hospital and, most recently, rehabilitation care, forced to take reprieve from his home-based antique business, not only serving as an integral source of enjoyment and personal gratification, but as supplemental income to which Mom and Dad have grown dependent upon. Past and present alike, the heartfelt generosity of my parents is unparalleled and continues to overflow, never a hiccup in remembrances of a birthday or any other frivolous occasion. A lifetime of reciprocating could never repay their outpouring of countless abundances.

Once Dad is finally released from care and regains full strength, he will most likely (OK, most definitely!) berate me, but, in the interim of finding his strength and his sea legs, my hope is to lessen his burden by surprising him with some Birthday Love, (“83” celebratory years this week!) that which allows his sole focus to be on HEALING - body, mind and soul. Since so many of you servant-hearted folks have reached out asking how best to “help out” during these turbulent times, I thought it apropos to leverage this wonderful platform in lieu of my father blowing out his birthday candles in the traditional fashion we are accustomed to.

Blown away by the outpouring of good-wishes, affections, and endless sea of prayers for my father and for my family. We feel all the amazing feels and are blessed for the power of our village.

Witnessing the newlywed glances between my parents as they hold hands at Dad’s bedside has brought forth such palpable hope (for better for worse…) and I anticipate the "Tony & Joanie Zacconi" show to be back in syndication soon with all the blessings that surround.

Massive appreciation for the magnitude of your support and encouragement! XO