. Our Trip Comes to an Early End
On New Year's Day, at about six in the evening we pulled off a main road and putt-putt-putted to a stop. We wanted to stretch our legs and drinks some water before we drove the last 15km of the day into Nellore. It was just getting to be evening light.
As soon as the we switched off the engine we heard our phone ringing. Louise was calling and asked me if we were in a safe place. Yes, I told her. Then came the sad news: My dad had died just minutes before midnight on New Year's Eve. He had been in a hospital fighting a host of problems. At one point his heart failed him. The staff was able to revive him and, in fact, were returning him to ICU to be monitored when he had another arrest. This time the team wasn't able to bring him back. He slipped away.
I wasn't good for much except walking around aimlessly for a while. Susan and I hugged. We sat down on a small curb and I said a prayer for us and for Dad and for all who were grieving at the moment.
We drove to Nellore and found an excellent hotel - the best on our travels so far. For $35 we were put up in an AC room. It was truly a gift since both of us had a lot to process and plan. Susan was a huge help, making all the arrangements needed. I'll be home today at 2:30.
More later.
Dave and Susan.
5 comments:
Hi Im michelle, Wife of capitain chaos from the calamity crew and cart. I have been reading your fantastic blog as my team are so intent on winning they havnt stopped to see the views you have or blog any pictures ect. I have watched your site on a daily basis and found it the best one. This morning i checked it out and sat crying, my son (Joshua)and I are very sorry to hear about your dad and both of you having to go home.
O Susan and Dave,
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. You will be in my thoughts.
-karen.reagan
Hi Susan, hi Dave,
I am Edgar Hauster from the Netherlands, travelling a lot around the world (2006 Russia and India). Christmas 2007, I intend to join the Rickshaw Run, so I read your excellent posts in your Blog.
I am so sorry to hear that your Dad has died and your trip came this way to an premature end. Please accept my affectionate resepects to you and yours.
Hi Guys Capt.Chaos here,
We often joked "wonder if to be sorted are out of cochin yet" but the joke was on us finally as you did remarkably well getting as far as you did in that little time especially considering the crash,well done - lots of respect, you had a very good reason to pack it in early unlike some of the other teams (team loaded went as far as goa and got on a plane home - what softies) in my opinion your dad/grandad died a proud man shame we didnt see you at the end. lots of love xxx
It's mischief from the Dosa Boys
A much better blog than ours, with loads of adventure and great pics and stories. Nice one on your attempt and perhaps see you this summer for another crack at it huh...
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