Ask Amy: Friend is worried about pal’s abusive marriage
My mother died when I was a teenager. Dad met a great woman almost 20 years ago and moved a couple of states away to be with her.
My brother and sister have both lost contact with him, but Dad and I talk every week on the phone, and I visit once or twice a year.
He has been battling cancer for years, but now the cancer has spread, and he is no longer receiving any medical treatment. He is very weak and not able to talk on the phone for more than a minute or two.
My husband and I made plans to drive several hours to see him.
Initially this plan seemed fine, but a few days later I got an email from his lady friend. She said that he didn't want to see me. He knew it would be the last time, and he couldn't handle saying goodbye.
He wanted me to remember him the way he was the last time I saw him.
She just doesn't want to put him through the emotional upheaval.
Deep down I understand my father, and know that I would probably feel the same way.
Everyone is telling me that I will regret it if I don't go.
What should I do?
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