By Megan Steinberg, a 16 yr. old from Bloomington, Illinois.
Megan's father has Huntington's Disease
He called me daddy's little girl,
At the time, I was youngest of three.
And I surely was happy and content
When he took care of me.
We used to talk about my problems
As he brushed my long, golden hair.
Slowly my troubles and frustrations
were brushed into thin air.
He would joke around and tease my friends.
He would brighten up my day.
Laughter followed him everywhere
I was sure he'd be a comedian someday.
Soon brothers and a sister came along.
I thought I would lose my name.
Somehow Daddy saw through my tears
And assured me everything would stay the same.
I was Daddy's little girl.
I loved it; I loved the thought.
But eventually we had to make a change.
Whether I liked it or not.
Because over the years my daddy got sick.
He could not take care of me.
His lifestyle soon changed drastically.
He learned humility.
But I did not learn so quickly,
I did not do my part.
I ignored him and was embarrassed.
I'm sure I broke his heart.
But I realize what I did wrong
And I know what I should do.
I now must be Daddy's "Big" Girl
I have to see him through.
Even though my life has changed
And I have to take care of my dad.
I should be happy and tolerant.
I can't be upset or mad.
It's hard when he asks me 20 questions
I'm too quick in turning my head.
It hurts when he forgets my name
And calls me my sister's instead.
He tries hard to stay a part of my life
But I don't give him the chance.
Sometimes when I'm busy
I don't even give him a glance.
But that is not how it should be
I need to love and care for him more.
If I would give him the time of day
I know his heart would soar.
Even though I do not show it
My love will always remain.
Because I loved when he called me him little girl
I love him; I love the name.
Created and maintained by Renette Davis. Send comments to Renette by clicking here.
Created: July 27, 1999
Last updated: Nov. 30, 2010
Return to: Hopes & Dreams