Losing a parent...

My friend Erin is going through a really rough time.  Her father is being put in hospice care this week.  Back in January he was put in the hospital for MRSA.  He seemed to be improving after heart surgery, but I'm afraid it has gotten worse.  My heart is absolutely breaking for her! 

I know what it is like to lose your dad, because I lost mine on September 2, 2005 in a motorcycle accident.  He was wearing a helmet, and I was told by a nurse who witnessed the crash and attempted CPR that he died instantly.  Waking up to that phone call was by far the worst experience of my life.  In an effort to find some silver lining, I can say that going through that experience taught me just how very strong of a person I am.  Whenever life seems overwhelming and I feel weak, I remind myself that if I can survive that, I can survive anything.

I am so happy for Erin that she has a chance to say good-bye, but at the same time I cannot image what it would be like to anticipate losing a parent.  As I said, my heart is breaking for her.  She is such a wonderful person, and I wish she wasn't going through this horrible experience.  My prayers go out to Erin and her family, including her husband Kyle, who is one of my very good friends.  I know this is very hard on him as well. 

I felt the need to post something, because this has really been weighing on my mind lately.  Thank you for "listening".  I love you Erin and Kyle!

Me and My Dad.

Graduating with my BS in Forensic Science in August 2005