Gabrielle Union feels a "bewildering" mix of relief and heartbreak after her dad's death.
The 53-year-old actress has revealed her father Sylvester 'Cully' Union Jr died aged 81 on April 3 following a long battle with dementia, and she has reflected on his lengthy struggle with the illness.
She wrote on Instagram: "It’s bewildering to feel relief that the pain has ended, but profound heartbreak at the finality of his time.
"I know I’m not the first or last Daddy’s girl to go through this, and I’m sending love and healing to anyone suffering the loss of a parent.
"I know his love is eternal and will find me in every realm."
The Being Mary Jane star revealed the sad news over the weekend, and admitted that "nothing" can prepare anyone for seeing a loved one suffer with dementia.
She said: "No matter how much you think you know about dementia, nothing prepares you for the painfully slow disappearing of your loved one.
"First it’s repeating words or forgetting little things here or there, then BOOM, he can’t swallow or walk. The them that you know gets smaller and smaller.
"You hold out hope for sustained eye contact or a smile; even a hand squeeze can make you feel like they could come back to you “normal” at any second. It’s brutal and it’s what he experienced, but it wasn’t who he was."
Gabrielle recalled the way her father was consistently "surrounded by love and support from his ever-growing village" throughout his life.
She continued: "A lifelong, die-hard Nebraska fan, he taught me the values of teamwork, a fierce work ethic, and that you are only as strong as your weakest link, so tend to them first.
"My Dad was a perfectly imperfect man and father. Over time he evolved, acknowledged his imperfections, apologized, and made amends for as long as it took for the hurts to heal.
"He made it his business to look after everyone. He loved our friends too and treated them like his sons and daughters. No one was ever left behind or unseen."
Gabrielle described her parents as "the first allies and comrades I saw in action" as she has looked to "follow in their footsteps", while she recalled her father as "the life of EVERY party".
She said: "I am grateful for all who stepped up in his final years to care, nurture, and love on him.
"My family and I are eternally grateful for the medical and memory care staff who ensured he had the best care. My sisters who stepped up are heroes, and I love you both beyond words."
