My valiant brother-in-law, Larry, who braved the disease of Multiple Sclerosis with dignity and grace has been the subject of many a blog. On Thursday, October 8, 2015 he passed away after a long, hard struggle. I honor him today and at his funeral on Saturday with love and gratitude for allowing me to be his caregiver and for finding the humor wherever we could to make this journey one that will be remembered with laughter and love.
To the things he loved: A good glass of “Jack”, NASCAR, children of all ages, and my sister Cindy. May they be dancing in heaven now and for always!
I am so sorry for your loss, Cathy. I have been following only for a short time, but your dedication and graciousness to Larry were obvious thoughout. I’m sending my prayers.
Thanks so much, Jane. I appreciate so much all the love I’m feeling here. You have no idea how it truly helps. So I can only give my gratitude to you and all the others who took the time to share a kind comment.
My heart is aching that someone you know and loved has passed. And that the monster has taken the life, so cruelly, of yet another vibrant and wonderful person. You are a gem and a blessing and I send you virtual hugs. So sorry for your loss, Cathy.
I didn’t know you also lost a sister, so I’m truly sorry for that as well. I know they are dancing together right now and both are out of pain.
I am here for you, dear one.
Cathy, I am so touched by your response. I know you and I were meant to meet for so many reasons. I am okay and will be in touch soon.Thanks again for your kind words.
Oh Cathy, I am so sorry for your family’s loss. Judging by your blog posts, your brother-in-law was a wonderful man with a great sense of humor. And, although caregiving is never easy, you had a beautiful relationship. I’m sure you will not miss the trials and tribulations, but you will miss him immensely. Sending love, prayers and hugs your way.
Laurie Olson
Yes, Laurie, we laughed a lot. Most people would find that weird, but Larry and I and my Mom, who was with us all the way, were always finding the humor in a tough situation. Yes, I won’t miss the hard times, but sure as hell will miss him. Thanks again. Laurie!
Cathy: So sorry for your loss. Larry was lucky to have you in his life. We will keep your families in our thoughts and prayers……and…we will keep riding in MS 150’s to raise money to find a cure.
Kenn Picardi
Kenn,
I am so thankful to people like you and Patty who take the time and make the gargantuan effort to do the MS ride. You have no idea how much those things matter on a big and small scale.
Thank you for your kind words of condolence.
I am so very sorry for your loss. The blogs about him made me feel like I knew him and you. Prayers for you and your family. I’m sure he and your sister are dancing in the stars now.
Thanks Deb, I feel the same way about your family. Feel like you and I have known each other for some time! I, too, am sure Cindy and Larry are happy in each other’s arms!
I am sorry for your loss Cathy and what you write is well put and on point. A great gesture to remember all the “goody and funny stuff” relating to Larry. I am sure he and Cindy are dancing away up there in the heavens, the stars, the skies.
Prayers to all your family and you did a phenomenal job as a realistic,, caring caregiver so pat yourself on the back and have a glass of vino, or “Jack” for Larry.
Thanks Michele. he was a grand guy who deserved better. I know he’s better now!
I read your book and have since read your blog posts, so I too feel like I knew Larry. I was so surprised to read this, and I’m sorry for your family’s loss. I pray that he is at peace now and his health is restored.
times like these is really hard to say. i like the tribute photos. so nice. even thou i will never meet him. but thru your Blogs i have to admit. i sure did felt i knew him well. he was so bless with some one like you to be his caretaker and by his side. pray your husband and you are also doing well thru this time of lost. all i can say is. now he’s at peace and at rest..
Thank you, Jerome. He had an amazing sense of humor and loved the blogs about him! As much as I will miss him, I am relieved for the end of his suffering.
Cathy: you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. May Larry know peace and joy for all eternity.
Dear Cath and family,
Sad for your loss, the void will be there with that bittersweet relief as well. To see Larry’s picture at an earlier time, reminds me of how young he really was. Love to think of him with Cindy once again.
You helped him more than he could ever express and celebrate his life in a manner we celebrated Cindy’s.
Love,
Bethie
Love you Bethie, You are so right. And I also love seeing him at his happiest times! Thanks for your kind words.
Cathy. Our thoughts and sympathy and love are with you all at this time. I feel I knew Larry from all the caregiving stories on your blog.
I hope he is now released from all pain that he suffered. Our love travels across the ocean to you, MaryAnn and John at this sad time.
Love always. Marian & Ger
I really feel your love and prayers coming across the sea. All these kind words and prayers are lifting our spirits at a time, when we are not sad, but just sad for Larry’s difficult road. Love to you and Ger.
Larry certainly was “one for the ages”…before his illness he was one you could always count on to help. From baby sitting, to moving boulders he was there for all of our family. I am one who will certainly have a “Jack on the rocks” and a cheese steak hoagie with hot peppers in his honor.
I’m sure you will And forgot about the boulders! I love that everyone has their own special memory and makes the shared burden bring a smile to all our faces.
I couldn’t help but think of him dancing toward his next big adventure. Blessings to you all … and to him.
Thanks so much, Carol. I so love your blog and how you are attuned to the human condition. So it means a lot to me that you have taken the time to comment.
God Bless Larry and his courage on the journey! Cathy, you and your mom are so wonderful to care not only by your loving, but your doing. You show us how to live better.
Love you to the sky and back. Jo
I, too love you to the moon and back!!! You ‘ve been there with me through so much. A true friend you have always been! Thanks, Jo.
May he rest in peace in the arms of Our Lord and your sister! And may God bless you for the loving sacrifices you made as his equally strong and valiant caretaker. You and he are in my prayers.
Thank you , Kathleen. Your prayers are accepted gratefully and graciously. He deserves the best now, and I think he has it!
This is a beautiful tribute. The pictures are perfect. Thank you so much!
So hard to know what to do or say, isn’t it? Thank you, Tina.