Rescue Me

Michelle had posted to FB that if I needed a break while I was at the Memorial Service trip home I should call her, that she was really close and would come up. Ha. I laughed. She lives near Chicago. I'll be near Milwaukee. No need to disturb her routine. I was wrong.

Surrounded by grief drama, families can get crazy and mean. I don't think they mean too. I don't want to believe they want to. Then again...

The call was placed. Fast, short, needy. Like an angel she appeared within the hour. A little snack. A little drink. A little vent. A whole lot of love. No drama. no expectations. Just time and the proof, though not needed, of true friendship no matter the circumstances.

I will be forever grateful. Forever.

And then there were five.

My brother younger David died this morning at the age of 53. He was sick and had suffered long enough with ALS (Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) also know as Lou Gehrig's disease. That doesn't make it easier. It was diagnosed last November but began several years ago in slow subtle ways. Once it really takes hold it becomes a fast moving and wicked disease. He endured it with the loving care of his wife Tricia and their five children and families.

You don't expect to lose a younger sibling first; even one who is sick and suffering. It doesn't make any sense. But it is what it is. And that is final. And extremely saddening. My remaining siblings and our mother join them in their grief. Rest in peace dear brother.