My mom called two hours ago to tell me that my dad died this morning.
I’m in a state of shock. I’m in a surreal mood where nothing is sinking in. This is how I felt at first when my close grandmother died, emotionless, only for all of my emotions to hit me like a brick wall once I saw my mom.
I know I can expect the same once I arrive back home in Charleston.
We’ll be leaving for Charleston as soon as my wife gets home with our daughter, hopefully within the next 30 minutes or so. I’m scared, knowing that reality is quickly going to take shape as I pull onto that long dirt road.
In the meantime, please, for God’s sake, call your dad.
{ 197 comments… read them below or add one }
Sorry to hear about your dad.
My prayers are with you and your family
My condolences to you and your family Tyler. I am so sorry for your loss.
I’m so sorry for your loss.
I am so sorry for your loss, Tyler.
My condolences for you and your family. But while you grieve, please don’t forget to keep taking care of yourself and your family.
Tyler,
I’m so sorry for you loss. I hope you can take some solice & pride in the fact that he got to watch you graduate, get married, start a family, & lose all of that weight. I have no doubt he was overflowing with pride about the man you’ve become.
Absolutely. Please have a little comfort knowing that.
Couldn’t have said it better… I am so sorry for your loss Tyler.
You’ve been an inspiration to me- I will remember you and your family in our prayers.
My sympathies go out to you and your family! God Bless!
So sorry about your loss. Please know that millions of people will be thinking of you during this time.
I’m so sorry for your loss. May God hold you and your family in HIS arms.
I am so sorry for your loss. Prayers going ^.
Sorry to hear that. Take care of yourself. Will pray for your family.
Tyler, I am so, so sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers. Take care of yourself and your family.
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. I will definitely take the time to call my dad today.
hey tyler, i too am very sorry for your loss. it’s my greatest fear to lose a loved one and i am very sorry that you are going through it now :( hope you and your family find comfort in this difficult time.
Deepest sympathies. I’ve been reading your blog for a while now but have not yet been compelled to comment. I’m lucky enough to still have my father around, and I cannot imagine the pain you are enduring. I hope that you are able to continue on with your journey towards personal weight loss, and inspiring others, like me, to do so as well.
Tyler–my sympathies for you and your family. I’m so sorry to hear this sad news. Take care.
So very sorry to hear about your loss. You and your family are in my prayers.
I am sorry to hear about your loss. I went though the same thing a little over a year ago and not a day goes by that I think about him.
Stay strong..you and your family are in my prayers.
Oh Tyler! I’m so sorry! I can’t even imagine getting that news from my mother. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family!
My condolenses to you and your family Tyler.
So sorry to hear about your loss :(
Sorry to hear about your dad. I know I would be devastated if I lost a parent. Please make sure you take time for yourself and your family through this. We will all be here waiting for you when you are ready.
My prayers are going out to you and your family. Lost my dad 22 years ago.
So sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family.
Tyler: My sincerest condolences and prayers go out to you and your family .
I am so sorry to hear about your father. I lost mine almost a year and a half ago and it is something I wouldn’t wish on anyone. Best advice? Keep talking, keep loving, keep living. You will probably experience every emotion in the book within a matter of minutes. And it is okay. I pray that you will find peace and comfort during this difficult time.
I’m so sorry.
So sorry for your loss. My deepest condolences.
Hey Tyler,
I am thinking about you today.
Frank
Tyler, I’m so very very sorry. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Stay strong. *hugs*
So sorry to hear about your father. Prayers going up for you and your whole family.
I’m so sorry for your loss. You and yours will be in our prayers.
I’m so sorry to hear about your Dad! I will definitely be keeping you and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
I lost my Mom almost three years ago – she was only 51. I haven’t gotten along well with my Dad since she passed away. Even though we aren’t close, this is a great reminder that I’m doing the right thing, by still telling him I love him amidst the struggles. Thank you for that push!
You are in my prayers – I pray you find peace during this difficult time.
I’m very sorry to hear about your dad Tyler… I know how you feel about being emotionless at first. My dad died suddeny about 5 years ago when I was 18 and it was definitely rough for a while. Hang in there and take things a day at a time, you’ll get through this. I’ll keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
Tyler – Words can’t express what you’re going through right now, but I am very sorry for your loss. I lost my mom at 22, and a piece of you dies with it.
However, your father lived to see your accomplishment, and although we do not know God’s plan for our lives, he surely will continue to shine on through your work.
Peace be with you, brother.
My prayers are with you and your family.
I am so, so sorry :(
Tyler, I am so sorry to hear about your Dad. You and your family are in my prayers. God Bless.
Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family…
Saying prayers for you and your family, Tyler.
you and your family have my prayers Tyler. I hate to hear this, and am praying for you. If you need anything – please let us know.
I am so so sorry to hear this. Thinking of you and your mom especially.
Thoughts and prayers are with you. I’ve had other close family members pass away, two uncles and an aunt and a grandfather, and I know that still is nothing like losing a father.
Stay strong. Keep yourself determined with your weight loss journey and take the things life throws at you one day at a time.
I’m so sorry to hear about your father. I can’t imagine dealing with that kind of loss, especially at your age. My thoughts are with you and your family. (((hugs)))
Wow, what a shock. I am so sorry to hear that.
Oh, Tyler, no! I’m so sorry. Please keep safe and be careful. Best wishes to you and your family.
I’m so sorry for you Tyler. Please get home and be with your family. Anna and I will be praying for you. I know you won’t get this until later, but know that we’re all here for you. Oh man, this is tough.
I’m sorry to hear of your loss, Tyler.
I’m very sorry. Please accept my deepest sympathies.
Tyler, I’m so sorry to hear about your dad.
You and your family are in my prayers.
I am sorry man. I wish you and your family the best.
My heart goes out to you and your family.
Prayers
I am sorry for your loss.
Tyler – my sincerest condolences on the loss of your father. My family just lost my grandmother last Sunday…we are still reeling, I think (diagnosed with cancer and lost within a 6-week time frame). My prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time.
Tyler,
I am so sorry for your loss. We are the same age which makes this post hit home even more. I called my Dad to let him know that he was in my thoughts.
Feel better.
Dude.. OMG I’m so sorry to hear that… My father passed 2 years ago. My step-mother JUST finished cleaning his stuff in their house (she has to move to a smaller house)
I am so, so sorry, T. Prayers for you and your family. I echo what someone said above: I have no doubt your father was and is still gushing over his pride in and love for you. You’ve done him proud.
Much love and prayers for you and your family.
Hugs,
Jacey
Very sorry to hear that Tyler; I know what it feels like to lose loved ones… it’s the worst feeling really.
Sorry bud. :(
I am so sorry to hear that Tyler. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. God bless you all.
God, Tyler, I’m so sorry. You’re so young to have lost a parent already. I lost mine a bit over a year ago – not an experience I can recommend. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Tyler, I am so very sorry that you lost your dad today. I will be praying for your family, and you can be sure that I will call my dad today to tell him I love him. Take care, friend.
So sorry to hear of your loss. Will be praying for you and your family.
Oh no, I’m so sorry. Be safe on the road. My thoughts are with you and your family.
I’m so sorry for your loss!
So sorry for your loss. Sending love and prayers to your family from Australia.
Tyler,
My thoughts are with you and your family. Just found out a few hours ago that a distant relative was involved in a serious car accident today, so I’ve been thinking quite a bit about several people. And yes, I’ve called my dad. He’s the only parent I’ve got left, and when one goes, you hold onto the other so much tighter than before.
I’ll be thinking of you! x
My thought are with you and your family. I am truly sorry to hear about your loss. Be safe and take care of one another.
I’m not even sure what to write.
Sorry just doesn’t seem like enough.
Take each minute the best that you can.
I’m so sorry for your loss. You and your family have my deepest sympathy. My thoughts are with you.
My heart is with your Tyler. Thinking about you, my condolences to your family.
I’m so sorry to hear this, Tyler. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Tyler,
Ive been staring at this empt comment box for the last 20 minutes. Im with Tara, there are no words.
All of our hearts are breaking for you.
I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Tyler, I am so sorry for your loss. Please know that you and your family are in many prayers tonight, and that your father is looking down on you from a wonderful place.
I’m so sorry. My condolences to you and your family.
Oh, Tyler, I am so sorry.
My sincerest condolences.
I am so very sorry, Tyler. I love my dad so much, I will definitely heed your advice and see him or call him soon.
Oh Tyler, I am so sorry :(
So very sorry, Tyler. You and your family are in my prayers.
Sorry to hear.
So sorry to hear … I’ll be thinking of you and your family when I see my dad, tomorrow. I’m going to hug him extra hard and hold your family in my heart.
My deepest condolences… Your family is in my thoughts.
So, so sorry Tyler. Thinking of you and praying for you.
Tyler, after having just lost my dad a couple of months ago, I feel your pain. Words cannot really help right now, but just know you aren’t alone. I am saying a prayer for you and your family now.
Oh Tyler I am so sorry to read this. I will be thinking of you and your family and sending lots of love and prayers.
Praying for you and your family!
My condolences to you and your family. Will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Oh man I’m so sorry to hear that. Same thing happened to me at 23. God bless you and please stay strong. I’ll say a prayer for you and your family.
I’m so sorry! I will keep you and your family in my prayers. I hope these numerous comments of sympathy give back some of the support that you have given to so many. We are all here to support you.
We had to move out of state for my husband’s job. My parents are going to follow us and hopefully move here this year. (Utilize the time we have left to be together). I was able to visit my parents last week and gave my dad the biggest hug ever. I can’t imagine life without them. I’m so sorry for your loss. I was very close to my grandmother and swear I feel her essence/energy/spirit around me.
Again, so sorry. (Hug)
So very sorry to read of your loss.
I’m so sorry to hear that you lost your father. I know too well what you are feeling right now, my mother passed away unexpectedly in October 2008. Take the time you need to grieve, let your friends and family support you, and know that he lives forever in your memories and in your heart. You’re in my thoughts are with you and your family.
Very sad news. Will pray for a safe trip and that God carries you and your family through this time.
sorry to hear about your loss. You and your family will be in our prayers.
Sorry to hear about your loss Tyler. You and your family will be in my prayers. May you have the peace and strength to persevere through what will surely be the most difficult time of your life.
Tyler,
My sincere condolences on the loss of your Dad. I will pray for you and your family.
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Praying for you and for your family, Tyler. For grace and strength during this difficult time.
I am very sorry for your loss. My thoughts go out to you and your family.
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. I lost my Dad two months ago and can understand all you described. Peace to you.
Thoughts are with you. I lost mine two years ago.. Be sure and take the time to mourn and take care of yourself..
So sorry Tyler. My prayers for you and your family. For peace, comfort, and strength for this difficult period.
Sad to read this news Tyler – my condolences on your loss. I’ll be thinking of you and your family during this difficult time.
So sorry to hear of your loss, Tyler. I lost my brother a year ago today, and I can relate to your description of how you currently feel. Just go be with your family and be ready to accept all of the love and support from your family and friends.
I’m so sorry for your sudden loss…I’ll be keeping you and your family in my thoughts. I’m going to call my Dad right now…
I’m so sorry for your loss. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Typing through tears here dear Tyler. God bless you.
with Shalom …(Nothing missing, nothing broken.)
With love,
Vanessa
Tyler,
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Sending prayers out to you and your family. Please focus on the fact that I’m sure your father was EXTREMELY proud of you and what you’ve accomplished.
Be strong.
S
PEACE to you and your family, Tyler!
Sorry to hear about your loss.
I’m so sorry to hear this, Tyler. We lost our father about a year ago, on Good Friday no less. It’s still weird not having him around, but we keep his memories alive, we know he’s still with us in spirit. Stay close with your family, it helps so much.
Tyler:
I wish I could call my father today. He died in September of 2008 from complications of a stroke. We loved each other deeply, but I didn’t get the chance to say “goodbye”. Your e-mail flooded me with tears: for you, for your father, for me and for mine. My heart hurts for you and your family today. May somehow the pain generated by this part of life’s journey be lightened by knowing that others care. God bless you and your family during this difficult transition.
I admire you and the journey you share with us all,
Emilie
Tyler – so very sorry for your loss. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
My thoughts are with you and your family during this loss!
Sincere condolences, Tyler. My experience has been there is no right time to lose a loved one. Through life, we walk hand in hand with those we hold dearly .. celebrate & cherish the good times .. comfort each other while sharing the bad times .. and embrace the love & memory of those dearest when they reach the sunset. Faith & Peace to you and your family …
Tyler,
Be strong – you have been an inspiration to me, and without exaggeration, I can say that you have helped me to turn my life around. I feel your pain, and my thoughts are with you and your family
SV in India
Tyler, things happen for a reason. You will pull through this and become stronger. Thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Tyler, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family ♥ He is not gone, he will live in your heart forever ♥ Don’t let this interfere with your health journey. ♥ You know your dad would want you to succeed and be the healthies you can ♥
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family ♥ Remember, he will always be with you in your heart ♥ Don’t lose your health quest ♥
I’m very sorry to hear this sad news. You and your family are in my prayers.
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers, Tyler. I am so sorry to hear about your loss :(
Dear Tyler and family,
I am sadden to hear of your loss. I am sure that your father post have been proud of you and all that you have accomplished. I cannot help but think what a difference two weeks make- try to remember and cherish April 10 at your sister’s wedding and all of the other joyous occasions large and small that you have had with your father. Remember that while the funeral us that start of the grieving process, life goes on and yor father will always be with you in your heart. I wish you and your entire family strength, peace and love during these difficult days ahead.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord.
And let perpetual light shine upon him.
May he rest in peace.
Amen.
Tyler, just think – your father got to know this new man that you’ve become. He died knowing that his son was the kind of man who could do one of the most difficult things possible, and do it with grace and style. He knew that you were an amazing husband, father, and son. He knew that he’d been successful raising you to be the best kind of man.
I am so sorry for your loss.
I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family. May you find his strength in you to continue. God Bless. Adalgiza
Thoughts and prayers from Jerusalem. May his memory be for a blessing.
Please accept my condolences.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Never easy when someone we love passes/
My thoughts are with you and your family.
This is so hard. I am so sorry.
I’m sorry for your loss.
Oh my goodness… I am SO sorry to hear this news. I have lost both my parents, and I know that there is no feeling like it in the world. Please hang in there. You WILL make it through this. Yes, it will take time… take all the time you need.
One thing that helped me so much… even though it was so little… was a short poem I read… “To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.” Your dad is in your heart… and he always will be.
Thoughts and prayers,
C.C.
What sad news. I’m so sorry you lost your father. In our thoughts and prayers here, too. Nina
I am so sorry for your and your family’s loss, Tyler. You are in our thoughts and prayers, too.
While your loss is monumental to say the least and the accompanying deep grief is unavoidable and natural, it is a blessing that not only was your father able to witness the vital, vibrant, committed, soulful, and loving father and man you are and are becoming, but it is also a blessing that you now have the physical strength and well-being to help bolster you and your family through this time of grief and change.
Again, I am so sorry for your loss. Peace and blessings to you and your family.
I’m so, so sorry to hear about your Dad, Tyler. I lost my Dad almost 4 years ago and I think about him every day.
Remember all the love and good times to help get you through these first days. Some day you WILL be able to think about him and smile instead of cry <3
Sending you lots of love and prayers.
I got the email (your blog) this morning – the sound of your email actually woke me up. When I saw the subject and started to read, it made me crawl deeper between the bed sheets. I am so sorry for you and your family’s loss. You guys will be in my thoughts and prayers.
I am so sorry about your dad. My prayers and thoughts are with you
This is one of my favorite blogs and I have never left a comment until today. I feel compelled to offer my condolences and prayers for you and your family; for, without even knowing me, you have given me so much inspiration. I lost my dad many years ago and he is always in my heart. Trust in God to give you strength through this difficult time. He will comfort you.
So sorry Tyler. My thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time.
Sorry for your loss Tyler. Your family is in my prayers.
I am so sorry for your loss. I’m grateful that I had the chance to hug my dad and tell him I love him today.
You’re in my thoughts and prayers too, Tyler. I hope you can take some solace just from the shear number of people who’ve left comments here today. YOU have obviously touched a lot of people’s lives – and I’m sure your father was very proud of your accomplishments.
My father passed away three years ago…but I called my Mom this evening. Thank you.
Im so sorry to hear about your loss, I will be keeping you and your family in my prayers!
Tyler, thanks for being there for everybody by sharing your story. I’m heartened to see how many are now there for you, as I am.
My condolences and prayers to you and yours. Thanks for the reminder to call my Dad.
There’s nothing to say that hasn’t already been said. I can only hope that the love of 100+ strangers can buoy you up when you feel like drowning. Just remember to breathe.
Tyler,
So sorry for your loss. Be thinking of you and your family.
Tyler. I am praying for you and your family. I’m sorry for your loss.
Tyler, I am so sorry for your loss. Remember the happy times.
Many, many hearts and thoughts are with you in this sad time.
First thing, I am sorry to hear about your families loss. I have read every blog you post for the last couple months, since I came along your site. I have never replied knowing you get tons of replies and how busy you must be with them, plus getting the time for your family and the many other daily tasks you have. I guess I felt the need to reply to this, though not knowing the feeling of the death of a parent. However, I can relate to the loss. My father has never been around- I’ll call and talk to him but he does not return the favor. So I go years not hearing from him. (not the reason I responded.) In my years of experience (damn near 30) I have learned that no matter the person, relationship, or demeanor; they did the best they could with what they know. In you I see a man who is willing and able to do better than what you know, and for many reasons we all can thank your mother and father. Death is one of the hardest obstacles we have to face in our journies; and greif is one of the toughest emotions to deal with. But with love and support it is easier to leap through this obstacle. I am sure I speak for all the persons on your site you have inspired when I say that our love and support are always here for you and your family. Though remember, you NEED your family now, “WE” will wait. Have your time, be with those you know and can greive with… we all empathize, take your time!! Take time to take a break and be with whom you love! Good Luck and blessing to ALL those with you
I am so sorry for your loss Tyler. My thoughts are with you and your family.
My deepest sympathy to you and your loved ones during this time of loss. You are all in my prayers.
I sincerely wish you didn’t have to go through this. And as many others have said, I’m sure your father was very proud of you. You and yours are in my thoughts.
I am so sorry for your loss, my prayers are with you and your family
I am sorry for you loss. May God bless you in your time of need.
Tyler, I cant even imagine what you are going through right now. I will be praying for you and your family.
I’m so sorry. May your memories soon ease the pain of your loss.
So sorry to hear that – may your memories of him live strong in your heart.
Oh Tyler, I’m so sorry. I’m 26 and losing a parent would throw my world upside-down. I can’t even imagine what you’re going through. I know it’s small in the scheme of things, but my heart and thoughts are with you.
Your father got to see you and your sister get married, meet his granddaughter, and watch you turn your life around. Try to remember the time you had with him in the difficult days ahead.
I’m so sorry Tyler. I hope you and your family are doing okay.
Tyler, sorry to hear of your loss.
I will keep you and your family in my prayers.
Tyler, I am profoundly sorry for your loss. I can not imagine the pain and grief you must be experiencing now. I hope that you can take solace in the fact that your father must have been extremely proud to have raised a wonderful son like you. You and your family, are in my thoughts and prayers.
my heart and prayers are with you. i am calling my father now. thank you for thinking of others even at a time like this. God bless you, Tyler.
So sorry to hear that. We are all thinking about you and your family.
Sorry Bud.
My condolences to you and your family.
Tyler, I’m so sorry to hear about your father. I bet he was very proud of the man/husband/father that you have become.
Sorry to hear about your loss :( I hope you are holding up okay.
my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family
Dear Tyler,
I pray that the Lord will be the peace of your family. Please be safe as you drive. Thank you for ALL you’ve done for all of us.
Sincerely,
Brian Bywaters
Oh my goodness. I’m so sorry Tyler! My prayers are with you and your family.
Julie
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Tyler. Remember his legacy so that you can pass the good and learn from the not so good.
Tyler,
12 years ago I got the same phone call. My heart breaks for your hard days ahead. If you take it one day at a time (sometimes a minute at a time), you will come out the other side having survived one of the worst things a person can go through. As everyone else has said, we will be praying for your comfort and peace.
Dear Tyler
I just read your article on CNN and clicked to see your blog. I would like to pass on my condolences to you and your family. Truly sorry for your loss and hope that you find the strength to keep your father’s memory alive. Celebrate him and any chance you can share those memories with your children. My Dad always talks to me about his Dad and Mom, they passed away at different times, and just learning about them makes their legacy live on forever.
Sincerely yours
Claudine, London UK.
I’m so sorry for your loss Tyler. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
I was just introduced to your site– I’m so sorry to read this. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Sorry to hear about your dad! (I received a call like that four years ago. )
Hey there,
I am so very sorry for you. I have been following you for quite some time here and have never commented before. I just go to you for inspiration every day. I am so very sorry for you and your family.
I’ve very sorry for your loss. It’s the hardest thing anyone has to go through.
As they were saying in the comments there are not words to ease the pain of what you are going through. I lost my mom 2 1/2 years ago and although my friends were all there it’s something you have to go through in your own way and time. I have been reading your blog since January and you are an inspiration. Try to keep your head up and just take it one day at a time. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
I’m so sorry to hear about your Dad. I hope you find comfort with your loved ones.
I was so shocked to read this the other day. I wanted to comment and let you know that my thoughts and prayers have been with you and your family.
I’m so sorry for your loss. :(
I’m sorry for your loss. May God be with you and your family during this transition. Your father is sure to be in a better place. His body may be gone, but his soul is still alive.
I’m so sorry.
I just found your blog. I am deeply sorry for your loss. I will pray that God give you and your family strength to cope. God Bless.
I’m so sorry. You and your family are in my prayers.
So sorry for the loss of your father. My father passed away 2 years ago but I did go over my mom’s house. Take care and again sorry for your loss.
My condolences on your loss.
I am deeply sorry for your loss. Found your blog today via Baby Weight …. sending you virtual hugs and real prayers.
My father died when I was 12. I barely knew him, yet it was still shocking. I can’t even imagine your pain.
God Bless you and your family. Safe journey home.
Tyler,
My mother contacted me on Jan 23 to tell me se got me a heavy duty talking scale to help me track my weight. 2 days later on my birthday I got the call that she had passed. Totally unexpected. A few days later I found your site. My journey has been different. Last week we used part of her insurance money and I had the Lap-Band placed in my abdomen. Her final concern was my health. I never realized until my dad told me after her death. Now, my father has been forcibly placed in a live in fAcility for depression. He has not been well since her death and only wants to pass himself to be with her.
I am down 23 lbs since her death and eAch pound is a tribute to my parents who provided such a loving home for me. I am 26 years old and refuse to die before the age of 40 because I did not care about myself and my family enough to manage my problems.
I am sorry for your loss but hope you will see each pound and day with your family the way I see mine now. My mom is still with me celebrating every pound and every day.
I’m so sorry for your loss. The shock can be debilitating. I hope your mom is okay. :(
I’m also sorry for your loss. My father died yesterday by a cerebral haemorrhage yesterday, he had epilepsi also so might have something to do with that. I’m only 14 but trying to deal with it.