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The above song was written by Doug's wife, Lynn, in 2019 as a Christmas present for Doug. It was performed by Catherine Manning, music therapist, musician and wonderful friend to so many.
To celebrate the life of Doug Murphy, memorial donations are being directed to the Toronto General & Western Hospital Foundation for the Rossy PSP Centre.
On Tuesday, April 6, Doug Murphy, our beloved husband, father, brother, son-in-law, brother-in-law, cousin and friend, left this world peacefully on his own terms, with his wife Lynn, son Sean, and daughter, Julia by his side and surrounded by the love of his family and friends. Doug lost most of speaking ability early on from Primary Progressive Aphasia (PPA) and then was later diagnosed with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) which affected his speech, walking, balance, eye movements, vision and swallowing. Throughout the 8 years he battled these brain disorders he never lost his sense of humour, the twinkle in his eye or his ability to show his love through his eyes - a very brave feat for someone going through this debilitating disease. He decided that since he had so little influence over the everyday events of his life, he could at least control his end of life experience and made the courageous decision to leave this world with the assistance of MAID.
While he was able to, Doug participated in PPA studies, support groups and brain research at Baycrest Hospital in Toronto. He’s donated his brain to the Rossy PSP Centre in the hopes that one day they’ll find a cure for PSP.
When I rise each morning and the sun touches my face
I’ll close my eyes and feel your presence, your protection and grace,
When I look up into vast, endless sunny skies
I’ll be reminded of the depth of your bottomless blue eyes.
I’ll smile to myself and hear your infectious laughter
In the chuckle of the creek and the wind in the pines forever after.
Floating in the lake I’ll search the clouds for your face
Knowing you’re at peace and dancing at your own pace.
When I see the hawk or the great blue soaring above,
I’ll know you’re revelling in your freedom; your wings embracing me with love.
As the sun sinks through the pines and paints the world with golden light
I’ll feel the warmth of your love keeping me safe for the night.
As day fades to the black velvet of night and it’s time for goodbyes
The stars will jealously mimic the twinkle in your eyes.
We know we’re not alone - you’ll always be here,
In the sky, in our hearts, we’ll forever hold you near.
Your family miss you and love you so much Doug. xoxoxo
Toronto General & Western Hospital Foundation raises funds for research, education and the enhancement of patient care at Toronto General and Toronto Western hospitals, as well as the Michener Institute of Education at UHN.