My Father's Blood
I was never very close to my father. His inability to form a meaningful relationship, distance, and neglect towards my family subsequently led to my growing resentment towards him.
Several years ago my father's health took a decline when his kidneys failed and he came near death as a result. Time in and out of the hospital removed him from his job, placed more pressure on family relationships and drove him farther into his own head.
Last year he began home dialysis treatment. He created his hospital-like bedroom next to mine. Through the wall, I could hear the dialysis machine doing the work of his kidneys, in the morning I could hear him crying over his devotionals, and at night I heard his frustration during sleeplessness.
I wanted to forgive my father. I have no right to hold a grudge against anyone in life, especially my own family. And I wanted to see what was happening on the other side of that wall. Photographing my father became a way for me to gain more empathy and understand him a little more. It was a time for me see his plight and to help me forgive and connect with him.
Especially now, since his passing in April 2019, I am grateful for that short time.