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Hochman: Special invite for Cards fan Long at BBWAA dinner

Kevin Long’s dad appeared to be dying, so Kevin laid in the bed next to him, reading aloud a book by Bob Gibson.

“He was not doing well at all,” Kevin recalled Friday, at a South County coffee shop, wearing a Cardinals cap. “There was one day in particular when I thought, this must be it. …

“The fact that he is still here is a gift.”

Joe Long, age 70, has COPD. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

“It’s not something that can be cured,” said Kevin, 41.

Joe made it to Thanksgiving. Then to his wedding anniversary.