Sunday, March 7, 2010

The loss of Brian

Brian lost his long battle with illness on February 23. 2010. We are all deeply saddened by his passing. He was such a bright light for so many people... family members and so many friends.
His funeral on February 27th was an amazing experience! So many mourners came with stories of so many things that he done for large groups of people and for individuals as well. He made a difference in so many lives. Although his life was short it was well-lived and there are many who can tell you that.
Since retuirning from VA last Monday I needed a period of reflection by myself. Perhaps it will sound strange, but I flew into good old fashioned spring cleaning! It's a very therapeutic activity.
Today I played for the church service at Christ Lutheran in Starview and was amazed to discover that one of the hymns chosen weeks ago was "Great is Thy Faithfulness." This was Brian's favorite hymn and was sung at his funeral service. This is not a coincidence, I'm certain.
Tomorrow I begin a busy week in which I will see many friends and re-start my life. I'm certain that God will give me the strength I need to do this. I wish all my family well during these difficult time. I love you all..... Jacquie, Mom, Grandma

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Update on Brian

Dear Family, Most of you know that Brian has been very ill for many weeks. He had his gall bladder removed in mid December and what should have been a simple operation turned into a nightmare of health problems which are still going on, but are getting better. He was on a breathing tube for many weeks. That has recently been replaced with a trach which allows him to breathe on his own at last. It will be removed at some point. He has lost at least 100 pounds of weight which is a good thing but has created a problem for his kidneys so he is on dialysis, again on a temporary basis . Vicki has stayed in Washington the entire time and Abby and Robin have
run the business working many extra hours weekly but with good success! We are all very proud of them. We are hopeful that Brian will be able to go to a rehab nearer home but that has not yet been decided.
I have been down twice to see the Virginia clan and plan to go down on December 12 for the weekend. In the meantime, I am serving as choral director and accompanist for the spring musical at Northeastern H.S. which is "Footloose." It's a very difficult show, very energetic and full of tricky rhythms but lots of fun!!!
I had a nasty spell with vertigo a few weeks back, but I have medicatio which seems to have brought it under control. When I lie down at night, I sometimes have a bit of dizziness but basically it seems to be under control.
I am having my annual "Souper Bowl" party on Sunday unless this monstrous storm hits us.
We serve soup, salad, sandwiches and dessert and play cards for the sfternoon. It's always fun for the the twelve of us who are here.. all widows!!!!
I've been pondering the fact that I am now pushing on toward 82 and that my doctor is saying slow down. I'm certain it's good advice but it's very hard to do because I enjoy the activities in my life. However, I do intend to pull back a bit from the non-music duties in various organizations to which I belong and be a "helper" rather than "chairperson. Of course, I plan to spend lots of time in VA with Brian where I can be helpful and free Vicki up a bit. It will be so good to be with him!!!
So I hope 2010 is off to a good start for the rest of you and our main thrust now is to get our Brian back in good shape once again. V icki says we are going to have Christmas in July and celebrate with a big party! ..... Love, Jacquie