Superman - Super Dad

Brett told me many years ago that he always thought of his Dad as Superman.  I have always agreed with him.  Doug may not be out saving the world, but he is the rock that the Heinisch family was built upon and has been there for all of us whenever and wherever we have needed him.  He doesn't just provide for our family, but is a important member of our everyday life.  From coaching to helping around the house to spending time with us Doug is always there.

Yesterday was a typical Sunday for our "Superman."  He was up early to make sure Cam and Meg were ready to serve at mass.  He filled in as lecter when Cal wasn't feeling well and ushered in his normal spot as well.  He came home, mowed the yard, stained the glider and fixed the screen door all in time to go with me to take Meg and Aaron to a movie in Goshen, so we could spend a quiet dinner together.

I appreciate Doug's strength and his work ethic and am very glad that he has passed it one to his children.  Today, however, was one for the books.  Doug called after lunch to say he was driving to Dr. Mulry's.  He had had strong pains in his side and just wasn't feeling right.  His body ached and he thought he should have it checked out.  I was shocked when he called as Doug only visits the doctor once a year for a check up, so I knew it must be something pretty painful to send him there.  Doug said that the pain had lessened as he was driving, but at first he wasn't even sure he could make it to Syracuse from Bristol.

He made it to the doctor, however, and once he described his symptoms they decided to take a urine sample.  Doug and I were both worried that it was appendicitis, but instead we were both shocked to learn that Doug passed a kidney stone on the drive home.  They were able to confirm it, scheduled an appointment for him in two weeks and sent him on his way.  Of course since it wasn't 2 o'clock yet, Doug decided to head on back to work.  He had a couple of items to finish and taking it easy the rest of the day never occurred to him.

For those of us who have passed a kidney stone this is incredible.  For those who haven't, be thankful you never have.  I realize that Doug isn't really Superman, but he definitely is Super Dad to the Heinisch family.