Iowa Days

My Grandfather will not die. He has not had food for over two weeks. He has not received any form of nourishment in at least 3 days, to include water. Morphine is all they can give him. We have had moments were we thought it would be it, but then he presses on with a breath that sends shivers down my spine. He cannot speak, it has been over a day since he showed signs of acknowledging our presence. The moaning is the worst. It is a moan that only one who is truly struggling against death can give. To hear it is to listen to the wind of life on a cold desolate day. The nurses and Chaplain are amazed at the family he has. At any given time there are always 5 of us at the hospital. When we assemble there are nearly thirty I imagine. This is his legacy, and a wonderful one it is. I see myself throughout other members of my family. At times I could believe that I am the son of my Aunt, for we share the same humor. However I have care towards every member of the family and count myself proud to carry the name, Walker.