I am trying to find a short story that was written by a Russian author. The story takes place in the mid-late 1800's. It concerns a man who falls off a ladder, suffers and injury, which is really the discovery of an existing disease. He mistreated his family which comes back to plague him. His children hold animosity towards him, he suffers a long and difficult death which results in the discovery of new meaning to life, appreciation for others, and religious perspective on death.
I read this story years ago in college literature and as a poor, broke student I sold my book back to the campus book store. The fact that I cannot read the story again has plagued me for years! Please help me if you can.
Thank you for your time and efforts.
Kasa