just read your plight; and just finished 'stage 2' of probably the best chocolate cake i've ever put in my mouth. am also serving this 'birthday cake' for thanksgiving ....if you go to Epicurious.com, type in My Kind of Chocolate Birthday Cake. It's not as labor intensive as it seems, and is worth the expense of purchasing all that quality chocolate. (i used Lindt brand). if you get started on it today,
you should be able to serve it thursday. honestly, this cake is so worth it; and a true labor of love
for your dad. life is short, try this recipe. and enjoy.