Department Meeting

When they asked if anybody wanted to recognize anybody at the department meeting.  I raised my hand, waited my turn, and took some deep breaths.

I’m not very good at getting Thank You cards sent out (frankly, I suck at it… 3 months later I still don’t have all of the funeral Thank You’s sent), but I genuinely appreciate everybody who has been helpful during and after John’s illness.  I’ve been disappointed in a lot of people… people who I’ve thought would be there– weren’t.  And some people who I wouldn’t have anticipated have been tremendous support.

When my turn came, I acknowledged my co-workers:  Beth, Kari, Steve, Charlie, & Taneka for everything that they’ve done.  I didn’t have things written down, so I talked off the top of my head and hoped I made some semblance of sense.  I managed to talk without crying.

I wanted them to know that it really meant a lot to me.  I know I’m forgetting some things t.  hat they did… but here are ones off the top of my head– They all came and visited John- at home or in the hospital or both.  That meant so much to him.  They all listened.  They all supported.  A lot of them babysat Nathaniel when the need arose.  Beth was there when John took his final breath.  Steve ran 5Ks on Team Smitty at both the LiveStrong Challenge and Miles for Melanoma of DE.  Steve’s daily phone calls remind me that I’m never alone and always have a friend to talk to when I need to.  Charlie helped me make it through the viewing and funeral, invited me to his church to help me heal, and probably most importantly showed me the rainbow.

Rainbow at John's viewing

Thank You!