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Nervousness. Embarrassment. Hope.

Posted: Thursday, May 22, 2008 6:21 PM by Sam Singal

By Ann Curry, NBC News anchor

All three emotions flood through me, as I wait to see tonight's story NBC Nightly News is airing about my father's death from cancer last month, as part a series on aging parents.

A lot of the images are from my video camera, but in my grief, I have not been able to look at them, and did not participate in putting the story together, as a matter of journalistic integrity. So I am nervous.

The embarrassment comes from knowing Bob Curry has had more than his fair share of airtime on NBC News, especially since he is not a newsmaker at all.

But because losing these irreplaceable ones, our parents is a suffering we all share, there is a chance tonight's story might be useful to you watching. That's why Dad agreed to let me record these glimpses inside our family's suffering. I am not certain what sense I made speaking about this in an interview so soon after losing him, but I deeply hope you benefit, so I can make one last wish come true for him.

To you then, with love.

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Comments

Thank you for being so brave in sharing such a personal story. As a Hospice nurse I know how important it is for everyone to know this important information.  May you find peace as you grieve the loss of your beloved Dad.

Mary Foster Youngstown, Ohio (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:06 PM)

Dear Anne...having lost a father when I was 21...and a mom when I was 28...I thought the worst was behind me.  But when I turned 50 years old I lost one of the true loves of my life, my 15 year old daughter.  Annie, my beautiful first born, was multi handicapped and faced a challenging 15 years.  But her love of life and intense sense of humor reminded me so much of your dad!  Perhaps one of the greatest compliments I have ever received was this:  after Annie's funeral, an aunt told us that she had never been to a funeral before in which she left feeling better than when she had arrived.  Yes, that is their legacy - your dad's, and Annie's.  To leave the world a better place than when they arrived.  They did that, both of them, didn't they?  

Dorothy White, Yarmouth, Maine (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:08 PM)

Ann,
 I want to thank you and your family for sharing such a personal and precious story concerning your father's battle with cancer.  It was truly a story on how to live with courage and love.  My thoughts and prayers are with your family during this difficult time.

Kira McGinnis Mobile, AL (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:11 PM)

Ann, your fathers story touched my heart.  When you tall a story your face tell us everything.  Happy, sad, dispair, anger.  You can sagway from one story to another and we know your sincere by your facial expressions..  I have so much respect for you, your father must be so proud. My husband and I look forward to you and a cup of coffe in the morning.  

Joan Zucchiatti, Boyne City, Mi (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:14 PM)

Ann,
Thanks to your sharing I had my 1st really good cry since my Dad died in Nov. 07. I am slow to react, trying to be strong.There are times I want to talk with him. He, like your Dad, was ready to go and died at home as he wished. But I miss his wisdom. I have not yet listened to an interview I did of him and my Mom. Maybe soon.....Thanks so much. Judy

Judy Rice (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:15 PM)

Ann,
Thank you for sharing this tribute and reflection about your father.
We are sorry for your loss.  As always you have told us a story which speaks softly about our lives.
Peace

Tim Abler Milwaukee, Wisconsin (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:19 PM)

i was quite moved by your reporting of your fathers passing. at 60 i have both parents still very active mom at 92 is treasurer for a women's club; and dad at 93 is very active with the lions club & doing outside  gardening. i spend as much time with them as possible. sometimes they wear me out!!!!!!!!!!!

craig merker greenwich nj (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:20 PM)

Thank you Ms. Cury for sharing such a personal and sad story. My heart goes out to you and your family. After seeing the story tonight, I couldn't help but have tears in my eyes. This story made me feel like I knew you and your dad personally even tho all I've seen is what's on t.v.  You've always covered your stories with such professionalism and style that you are what true journalism is all about. Thank you again and my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Brenda Amelung, Lake Charles, Louisiana (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:20 PM)

Ann your Father will live forever in you so he'll never die. When I lost my Dad I didn't know what to do, how to act or even why I couldn't cry. Just the thought of him no available to me didn't seen real. An old friend of my Dad's told me my Dad would be with me as long as I wanted. Ya the man was old and I thought he was strange. Words like sorry, things will get better didn't mean anything. I later thought about what that old man said and realized my Dad was me and I am my Dad. Anytime I need him I close my eyes and see the pictures of our lives together. My kids and I often talk about the fun things we did with my Dad. Of course what would he say about everything. I don't have him to ask questions or talk to but he will always be by guide and watch over me as he always did. I'm getting old myself now and still remember his smile, advice and debates over everything. That's why I have a strong personality and fight for what I believe in. It was my Dad who taught me that and yes I passed it on to my kids.  God gave us pictures to help us remember, never forget and always keep those we love.  

Now it's time for me to give my kids the same memories about me. Ann I hope my experience helps you and others, if it does pass it on.

Jackie Rawlings 62 Riverside California (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:21 PM)

Dear Ann..we lost our Mom on April 17. All of her loving children were at her side when she took her last breath. It was a very special time for all of us. We were blessed with the help of Hospice.
I have had a job for 27 years and I was let go last
Oct. I went to see my Mom at the Nursing Home after I stopped working and I saw her and I knew that it was all meant to be. I was blessed with 6 months of time to spend with my Mom and care for her.That
time will always be very special to me.
I miss her very much;but, I know she is in a better place now and she is no longer in pain.
Your story did help me and I thank you for that.
You are an incrediable woman. God Bless You

Barbara Simpkins Syracuse,New York (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:26 PM)

Dear Anne,
I watched your Dad's story with tears streaming down my face.  I, too, lost my Dad to cancer, almost three years ago.  My Dad was also full of corny jokes and funny little quips that I think of now and laugh about.  
Hospice was an integral part of our experience with Dad's last days.  We were able to surround him with love and prayers as he slowly left us.  We were able to celebrate his life at his funeral in a beautiful and loving way.  My sister wrote an amazing eulogy which three of my brothers read, and my Dad was given a standing ovation in a church filled with family and friends.  His death was one of the most strangely beautiful events in my life- the saddest and most profound at the same time.
Thank you for sharing the story of your Dad's amazing life and although it may sound strange, his beautiful death.  Just remember that although the pain is fresh to you now, it will get easier to make it through a day without crying.  And keep those memories of his corny jokes- they will let you laugh again. God bless you.

Joan Voorhees, St. Louis, MO (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:28 PM)

Dear Ann, thank you so very much for you endearing thoughts of your father and your family members. I had wonderful memories of my father and my mother rush over me as I listened. I pray the sting will subside and all your father's life within your heart and mind will give you healing, comfort and joy.
                      Much love headed your way!
                        Martiee VanNatta

Maritee VanNatta, Brownsburg, IN (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:33 PM)

Thank you so much, Ann, for your lovely tribute to your father. I lost my beloved mother in June last year, and it feels like it was just yesterday -- I miss her so intensely. I was so lucky because, when my mother was diagnosed (at age 89) with pancreatic cancer, my wonderful husband immediately said, "Why don't we bring her to our house?" My last four months with my mother were such a joy, having her here to hang out with me (I'm a magazine editor who is able to work at home. My home "office" is my den, so I would work at my desk while Mom watched endless game shows, reality shows and -- to my chagrin, Fox News, about three feet away from me. My powers of concentration are greater than I thought.) I cherish those last months with my Mom, and -- like your experience with your Dad -- I feel blessed at all she taught me about living and dying with courage, dignity and humor.

Thank you so very much
Paula


Paula M. Bodah, North Kingstown, RI (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:35 PM)

Ann, Thank you so much for sharing your story of your father with all of us. Wasn't it wonderful growing up with so much laughter in your life?  He reminded me of my grandfather that I lost nearly 20 years ago. Not a day goes by that I don't think about him.  I too had a really good cry while watching your story. Just remember to keep your memories of your dad close to your heart so he'll be with you the rest of your life.

Laurie Perz, Winthrop Harbor, IL (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:37 PM)

I was moved to tears,Ann, and you have my deepest
sympathy for the loss of your father.

I could come to terms with my parents' death only
by the belief that I will see them again in due
time..

Sincerely
Phyllis Kunz

Phyllis Kunz Louisville, Ky. (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:38 PM)

Good Evening Ann, Thank you for sharing this story about your father. My father passed away in February of 1995 and this story made me remember many things he said and did. Your father brought such joy and laughter to people around him. The video and pictures shown were so very moving and touching. I agree that having his pictures and saving what he wrote down is such treasured memories. Live your life and love the people around you. Cherish the friendships you have in your life. A truly beautiful piece Ann. You are a very special person and your father was truly a wonderful man. Thank you for sharing memories of him. Peace to you always.

Lisa McNeil,Alpharetta,Georgia (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:41 PM)

There are many many other such touching stories of 'ordinary people'
that could be told.   I find the 'Changing Places' series a bit
self-serving and self-adulation on the part of Brian Williams,
Maria Menounos and Ann Curry by profiling stories about themselves
and their ailing/dying parents.
These three 'celebrities' are affluent and need not seek recognition
or admiration for what they should so rightfully have done.
Profiling others less fortunate who struggled/sacrificed much harder
in providing for their parents,  and going thru similar tragedy would have had more meaning.

Mikal Kostic (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:41 PM)

You, your family and NBC Nightly News should be so proud of sharing Bob Curry with us during this sad time for you.  Know that he brought joy to my life even though I only knew him from seeing his profiles on the news.  Thank you for reminding me how truly precious my time with my 90 & 91 year old parents is.  I am grateful for your gift.

Andrea Wiggers, Cocoa Beach, FL (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:42 PM)

Ann, What a wonderful tribute to your dad.  My dad (80 years old in July) is always telling corny stories and jokes too and is about to enter the hospital tomorrow, so this really hit home for me.  Thanks for sharing it with us and my thoughts are with you and your family.

Diane, Novi, MI (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:43 PM)

Dear Ann,
I just finished watching your story about your father, and I just had to write. I lost my mother when I was six. I remember her taking me to a funeral home, and having me touch a dead person, not out of meanness, but for me to know that she wasn't in pain. Whenever she talked to me, she always reminded me that I could do whatever I put my mind to, that no one could get in my way except me, and that when she did pass away, to cry for my father,and not for me losing her, for my father wouldn't know how to take care of me and my brother. I can't begin to tell you just how true those words became. Just know that I smiled a lot growing up  knowing just how right she was.
 When I lost my father, he had just got to see his first grand child who he nicknamed "her nibs". So at his grave site, when she had a dirty diaper, I stopped the service to change her. I could feel his approval and just smiled at everyone looking at me.
  Thank you so much for sharing your story with us. I have always admired you for your strength, charm, humor, and passion for everyone. I have never really used anyone as an example to follow,(except for my mother), but tonight I realized that I have used you
as an example to follow.
  Thank you again so much for being so real, and sharing your life with everyone.

Mary Rhodey (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:44 PM)

Ann,

My Mother passed away from lung cancer on 15 April of this year, a few days after your Father - and as I listened to you tonight on the news, I knew everything you were speaking about - the year from my Mother's diagnosis until her death we chose to have as much face time as possible, and to face, head on, what my Mother and we as a family were going through.  I saw the images of you and your family and smiled, sadly, knowing how difficult all of it really was - but how at the same time it was an experience to be proud of and honored to be a part of.  The images you showed of your Father were wonderful - and I honestly couldn't imagine being on TV and talking about my Mother in the way that you talked about your Father, in other words:  you did great.  He would have been thrilled - and proud.  And you're right - all my Mom wanted was for my brother and I to be okay - that's generally all good parents want I think.  My sympathies to you and your family - it is a tough loss for all families.

Pam Morris, Charleston, SC (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:45 PM)

Ann,
I was so moved by your Dads' story.  I lost my Dad 25 years ago and we had been estranged for many years.  But we "made up" and spent a wonderful Thanksgiving before he died in February.  I lost my Mom to Alzheimers in 2004 and I still miss her so much.  Because of the disease we weren't able to share in all the wonderful family experiences that you and your family had.  You are so fortunate to have had that quality time with your Dad.  Thanks for sharing it with us.

Susan Karpf, Ft. Lauderdale, FL (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:50 PM)

Ann,
Thank you for sharing your family's story with all of us. Your dignity, grace, and caring always comes thru no matter what you share with your audience. You make us laugh, cry, and most of all enjoy every day with renewed caring for everyone around us. I admire you and wish you and your family the best in your time of loss.  You are truly a remarkable person.

Ann Enos, Smithfield, RI (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:51 PM)

Ann,
Thank you for sharing this tribute and reflection about your father.
We are sorry for your loss.  As always you have told us a story which speaks softly about our lives.
Peace

Tim Abler Milwaukee, Wisconsin (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:52 PM)

Dear Ann, Your story on Nightly News about your father's death was very sad.  I know what it's like to lose both parents, It makes `me feel very lonely in a way - and I miss my parents very much.  Your father was very handsome when he was young and you look alot like him.  It's easy to tell he is your father.  We love you and we hope you didn't cry too much when you watched the story on Nightly News tonight, "because we did."

g.eglesias`nepa` (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:53 PM)

Ann,
Like you, I also lost my dad of cancer in April.  He was 84 and I will miss him until the day I die.  We didn't talk about death, he thought he could beat it until the very end. He died peacefully in his sleep with us at his bedside.  He didn't stab the air with a sword but he did see a beautiful image in the ceiling that made him cry.  Our Dads are at peace now, Ann.  May God bless. Love, Theresa

Theresa Lester, Elkridge, MD (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:53 PM)

we all have sad stories.  not sure why yours is on national tv.  i loved my dad and he is dead.  can my story be there?  not sure why this is news.

mary carlson, marinette, wisconsin (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:55 PM)

we all have sad stories.  not sure why yours is on national tv.  i loved my dad and he is dead.  can my story be there?  not sure why this is news.

mary carlson, marinette, wisconsin (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:56 PM)

Your DadA Parable of Immortality

"I am standing upon the seashore. A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean. She is an object of beauty and strength, and I stand and watch until at last she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky come down to mingle with each other. Then someone at my side says, 'There she goes!'

Gone where? Gone from my sight ... that is all. She is just as large in mast and hull and spar as she was when she left my side and just as able to bear her load of living freight to the place of destination. Her diminished size is in me, not in her. And just at the moment when someone at my side says, 'There she goes!' there are other eyes watching her coming and their voices ready to take up the glad shouts 'Here she comes!'"

~ by Henry Van Dyke ~
's comments remined me of an essay I've used so many times during eulogy's I hope it's touching to you as well.

Judy Millard Buffalo, NY (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 7:59 PM)

Ann,
I lost my Dad August 6, 2006.  It has been difficult for all the members of our family.  He was the one that always brought us together.  Truly the head of our family and also the heart.  He was always telling jokes.  He would stop by my office at a local dental office and I could hear the laughter all the way in the back of our office.  It is his laugh that I miss the most.  I gave his eulogy and tried to encourage all in attendance to "laugh and think of him".  Watching your story, I would guess that your Dad would want you to do the same.  Time has softened some of the pain of losing my Dad and I hope it does for you too.  Laugh at any and all corny jokes and I'm sure your Dad laughs too.  Thank you for sharing your story.  Debbie

Debbie Lenczyk, Orlando, Florida (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 8:00 PM)

Thank you so much for sharing this story about your precious, amazing father. I cried my way through the story, as my dad is 94 now, and not in the best of health, so I know our family faces time without him in the future. You were so calm, and graceful, in your interview, though it must have been so very difficult to do. I appreciate you sharing these personal, intimate moments from your family's final journey with your father. May God bless you, and your family, and hold you close now, and in the days to come.

Margaret Alle, Jacksonville, FL (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 8:07 PM)

Ann: What a touching story - I'm crying! The NBC staff did a great job of putting this story together - the images, your interview - I feel your grief - you honored your father with grace & style - thank you for sharing!

OneCowgirl, Texas (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 8:08 PM)

Anne, I lost both my parents within 6 months of each other to Cancer.I loved both of them but my Mom was my best friend,I went to her with any problems I had.I even came out her first before my Dad.I was with both my parents when they died.My father though was sedated but I know he knew I was there. I was with my mother up to the day before.
She didn't want me to be around though. She had seen her 2 Sons,my sister in law and her grand-daughter. When I told her I was going to stay an extra day, she argued with me and told me I had to go back to Texas and take care of my own family. My family was my partner and his son who was living with us. Rather than to upset her any more I gave in and left. As my plane left Connecticut for Texas, I had moist eyes as I felt I might never see her again.
The next day at work about 230 p.m. I had a deep severe pain in my stomach enough to make me bend over. When I got home,I had to call my brother because the Hospice people had call me rather than him. That is when I learned Mom had passed.
My mother went the way she wanted to. She saw her family and then saw a priest.As you said in your segment,our parents are always concerned about ou future. Ironically,My partner lost his mother on Mother Day in 1986, I lost mine the Tuesday after Mother's Day in 1995. Your segment was wonderful, Keep up the good work, your father is proud!

Bob Heath, Arlington, Texas (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 8:09 PM)

Ann,
I too lost my father to the same disease 2 1/2 years ago at age 67 after his 8 year battle.  Watching your story brought back all the flood of emotions and memories.  I cried through your story but was also able to laugh relating to and remembering my father's sense of humor and jokes right up to the end.  I know this story was difficult but thank you for sharing and showing us the personal side.  Bless you and your family.  

Angela, Council Bluffs, IA (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 8:21 PM)

Thanks, Ann, fore sharing you story on tonight's Nightly News.

Nine years ago today (May 22nd) our Dad was tragically taken from us by a bad driver.  I have cared for my aging mom (now 93) ever since.  I treasure every day with her and miss my Dad as much now as the day he died but know he, too, wanted nothing but for us to remain happy and healthy on this earth.

We hope you take comfort in the many people that have experienced similar circumstances.

Norine, Sterling Heights, MI (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 8:21 PM)

Ann - thanks for sharing such a personal and difficult time in your life. As many have already said, the segment airing tonight has made me cry too, as I lost my father to cancer last September. Dad had 12 children who loved him very much, and we all had a chance to be with him before he passed on. Dad was a private person, and did not complain much, but I remember laying with him on his bed, his hand in my hand, knowing this was probably the last time I'd be able to touch and connect with this man who was my father. I was struck again by his humor and his determination to beat the devil that had him. Your last sentence tonight hit hard. To live and ultimately die with dignity - yea baby, that's what it's all about.

Casey boo boo (my dad's nick name for me) (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 8:28 PM)

Dear Ann,    Thank you for sharing your story about your father's passing.It is over two years since I lost my dear wife.Now I am more determined to try to pass on to my children the need to enjoy each day. Your courage is inspiring.

Malcolm Horne,Salt Lake City,Utah (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 8:29 PM)

Thanks for this story. I, too cried during it. I lost my Daddy 12 years ago to cancer, and I miss him so much. Grief is a very difficult thing to endure. I so appreciate and respect the love I had for my Dad, and the love and respect that he had for me and for all six of his children, and grandchildren, and for my Mom. I remember a friend of mine not really understanding the grief that I was enduring when my Dad died. I feel sad for HER, because she didn't have the wonderful Dad that I had. You sound like you had a wonderful Dad, and I am sorry for your loss. I think that we have been so very fortunate to have had parents for whom we still grieve.
Take care.

Mary Torres, Albuquerque, NM (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 8:34 PM)

Ann, you are such an intricate part of the fabric of the NBC NEWS family.  Unfortunately, I was on my way home from work, listening to your story, and wishing I could have been watching.  I want to also express my sincere appreciation of your earlier article about your sister and your mother.  One can easily tell that you are ultra sensitive to the feelings and plights of others. Your children are fortunate to know a woman of strength and courage as you are; as a teacher, I can tell you that your son will benefit from your example and appreciate the tenacity and honesty with which you approach even the most delicate news stories.  Your daughter could have no better role model for her own pursuits; you set the altitude for her future.  Thank you for sharing your inner self; you are a REAL person to your audience, and that connects in a very personal way to everyone. I have watched your tough line with world leaders in tenuous situations, your wit and humor in lighter moments, and your compassion and empathy with stories of the heart.  Will your segment be available to watch at some other juncture on msnbc? or on the Today Show?  I always leave so early of a morning, that I am only able to listen while on the road...just know this story, as all the others, is masterfully done. By the way, I have taped segments of you to use with my English class when we study orators and eloquence in public speaking. You can be assured that your attributes as an extraordinary newscaster are obvious and noted by the students and a model of distinction.   With care,

cynthia parker (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 8:40 PM)

Ann, Your story and mine parallel in many ways. On April 2nd I lost my darling, my dad, after 5 years of dementia. He was a gentleman and a gentle man, one of the great loves of my life, a storyteller and a lover of corny jokes. Tears fill my eyes as I write this. Thank you for sharing your story. I am sure you feel as I do: that you are blessed for having been loved by this man.

Terre Musselman, Telford, PA (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 8:41 PM)

Ann, I want to add a comment to an earlier message I sent... like so many others who have commented, I too lost my father at a very early age (nearly 5) from a tragic accident.  Although my story would not necessarily make the Nightly News, I recall a story you did not too long ago, when you said that you wanted to use your celebrity to help others in ways that most of us are unable to do.  You just happen to be that national figure who has the vehicle to speak on behalf of so many who have lost someone dear, and because you identify with others in such a natural, connective manner, it is as if each of us is speaking through your words and voice.  Thank you for identifying with so many of us on such a pesonal level.  Your level of professionalism is highly revered and appreciated.  I speak of you often to may students, who have benefited from your many documentaries and features, from world events to everyday folks.  Thanks, Ann! :)

cynthia parker (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 8:47 PM)

Ann, You handled yourself, as always with such grace, poise, and yes, even humor....your Dad would be very proud! It has been 15 years since my Dad has passed away and still to this day I miss him with every fiber of my being! His strange, and crazy sense of humor that sometime's only our family could understand, or love is what we miss the most.
My Dad died of the same type of Brain Cancer that Ted Kennedy is now batteling and totally unexependly I began weeping when I learned of Ted's tumor. We had 4 months from diagnosis until we lost my Dad but in that time we took a trip to our beloved spot in Hawaii for one last look at Paradise, we enjoyed our favorite sight's, sounds, and taste's of Chicago, but mostly we sat around and talk about how luckly we were that we had eachother, if only for a short time. Dad died at the age of 54, I was 22 and my mom, just a young....but strong and wonderfully devoted 48 years old.
The physical pain of losing a parent eventually fade's, but the emontional remain's and partly I think that is a good thing. That means, we were so blessed to have such an incredible force in our life that we will carry that love, and some crazy joke's and odd saying's with us, and even onto the next generations.
Ann, my heart and prayer's go out to you.
Love,
Michelle, Aurora, Il.
If I can leave you with one of my Dad's line's....the next time your driving and a bug hit's the window.....shout out...."Wow, that took gut's"

Michelle DeHass, Aurora, Il (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 8:48 PM)

Dear Ann, The memories we keep, the momories we share--of those so near and dear to us are windows into our souls and hearts.  I have just reread a hand written letter to my father in 1984 ( I was 37 y.o.) as he celebrated his 10 year sobriety.  He carried that letter in his wallet until the day he died--August 28, 2006.  Shortly after his death his wife informed me there would be no funeral, no memorial----and in the sweep of her pen she ask that I never return to my father's home; there was nothing there for me.  The most important chapter of my life ended the day my daddy died--and then I was told to disappear. I was not given the chance to eulogize my father, to thank him for the beautiful days we shared, to forgive him for the sad days we walked through.  It was beautiful to see how your family wished your dad Bon Voyage.  I am sure it made him happy to see the joy you shared with each other in the celebration of his life.  I do not know what became of my father's ashes,nor the treasures of his life; but watching your story tonight brought me some peace.  I am sure my father knows how much I miss him and love him and, hopefully, one day I will be able to allow my grief closure....It is still a long journey ahead.  L. Rast

Lynn Rast Wake Forest, NC (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 8:50 PM)

Ann,
Thank you for sharing this touching story.  My father passed away in November of 2006 and much like your father had a wonderful sense of humor.  He struggled for 6 years after a massive stroke and continued to tune in every morning to see what Katie, Matt, Ann and Al were up to on the Today show.  Although as I watched this story tears fell down my face, it brought back wonderful memories of my father.  Thank you for sharing and my thoughts and prayers are with you and your familiy.

Maggie T, New York, NY (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 9:00 PM)

Mary Carlson,
I'm sorry your sorry bitter, and you missed the point of the news segment. Yes, we all love our father, and those of us that have lost them have stories to tell. That was not the point.
The point was to highlight, and get people talking about just how precious life is, how all of us need to remeber to stop and take picture's, spend time with our families while we have them, don't wait until they are gone to remember the good time's.
Don't take your saddness over the loss of your father, or whatever your issue's are on Ann.
Shame on You!!!!!

Michelle DeHass, Aurora, Il (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 9:03 PM)

Extremely touching piece Ann. Your parents did you proud, raising such a fine woman. You did your dad proud, sharing his last days, which your family met with such grace.

E. Richards, San Francisco, CA (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 9:03 PM)

Just watching that segment about your fathers fight with cancer inspired me so much. Thank you for being able to share this story, as I'm sure it has touched everyone who watched it. I myself am 23 years old and just by what was shown about your father has opened my eyes on how I now view life and how to live it. Not to live without fear, but to live with fierceness and Laughter. Thanks you so much...

Jerry Michael Martinez Jr, Fresno, California (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 9:10 PM)

Dear Ann,
I too lost my dad this past December. Your story was sad and beautiful because it showed your love for him. No one knows what it is like to lose a father until you go through it yourself. This week end I will celebrate Memorial Day at the Veteran's Cemetery in NJ where my dad is buried. I am able to get through this rough time in my life because of family, faith, and friends. God Bless you and your family, and knowing my dad who would talk to everyone, he is probably talking and having a good laugh with your dad.

Rosemarie Kiernan Manasquan, NJ (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 9:10 PM)

Ann,

Thank you for such a wonderful story - we thought you were telling our story -We too have had our precious Dad taken from us (4-29-08) - as we all have said way too soon, we weren't done with him yet - but he is in our hearts forever, he is that funny one-liner, he is in the faces of his grandchildren, he is in all those people who mourn with us. We have wonderful memories that no one can take away as I am sure your family does too..Thank you again...

Cathy Herrick, Hampshire, IL (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 9:11 PM)

Dear Ms Curry,I have always thought you have so much class with dignity,but watching the segment about your dad passing show's the inner strength you have.I'm not ashamed to say i cried,seeing dad-what an awesome man,that picture at the end of the segment showed the love in his eye's.It brought back memories of my dad passing, then my mom.The one thing for sure, there is no "Closure", we miss them everyday.May you and your family be blessed with his memory,and Ms Curry,God Bless You and soften your loss.

Bill Specht,Phoenix,Az (Sent Thursday, May 22, 2008 9:25 PM)



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