Today, at 6:40 am, my father Ron Miller passed away after a strong battle against brain cancer. Dad was diagnosed with a glioblastoma of the left temporal lobe in October of 2012. At the time, he was only expected to live for 8-12 months, but true to his nature, he wouldn't give up without a fight. Over the last year and a half, he won lots of battles against this very aggressive cancer, but ultimately couldn't win the war. While it is hard to find a silver lining in this situation, I feel very fortunate that Dad was able to beat his cancer for a little while and was healthy enough to participate in my wedding last July. It was such an honor and a blessing for him to walk me down the aisle. My profession has a also been a blessing. I've always loved being a nurse, but now more than ever, it truly feels like my calling. Since the minute Dad was diagnosed, I have been his side-kick and second opinion as he navigated the complicated medical system. They say that the steps we take in life lead us in a certain direction for a reason, and that certainly seems to be true now. Over the last few months, I have lived with Dad and cared for him as he reached the end stages of his illness. It was one of the hardest things I've ever done, but also the most rewarding. There is no place I would have rather been than right here by his side. Now that he has passed, it gives me great peace to know that he passed comfortably in his own room filled with his favorite music, soft beautiful light, and a whole bunch of love. Dad, I will miss you. Go scout out the best restaurants in heaven for me --it'll be a long while before I see you again, but I'm already looking forward to the days when we can resume our regular dinner dates. I love you. (I know that dad's passing is a shock to many people. He was insistent on keeping his cancer private because he wanted to be remembered a certain way. Please feel free to share his story and passing with anyone who may miss him. I will share details for his memorial service when they have been arranged. )