Hello Friends. I will be taking a couple weeks off from the blog, but I’ll be back before Christmas.
This morning (Thursday, Thanksgiving in the US), we had a visit from two police officers. They asked for me and I grew apprehensive. I knew what they were going to tell me. They’d had a call from the Montrose County (Colorado) Coroner. My brother Steve had passed away. Long story short, Steve (who had just turned 70 in September) had a stent implanted in his iliac artery last week. He had been fine and upbeat when we last talked on the weekend, and we had planned to talk today on Thanksgiving. Steve was found by his friend when Steve hadn’t answered his calls on Tuesday or Wednesday. We believe the cause was likely complications from the surgery.
I don’t know yet what my plans are. Other than Steve and me, there were 2 cousins left in our generation, and we are all close (but not geographically). I don’t know if I’ll need to go out there. His home is in a remote little town in Colorado that’s a 4.5 hour drive from me in Utah, much of it through winding mountain roads. Or I could hop a short flight to Grand Junction and then drive 2 hours to his place. But my knee replacement surgery is scheduled for next Thursday and I won’t be driving for 2-4 weeks. Everyone official is off for the 4-day weekend, so I can’t even begin to deal with arrangements (or talk to my surgeon) until Monday. Nor do I want to, frankly.
In the meantime, I’m focusing solely on being grateful for my wonderful brother’s life. If there is an afterlife, I know he’s up there, reunited with his son W who passed a couple years ago.
And I am grateful for my family and friends, including my internet friends. Thank you for the many friendships and kindnesses over the years.
Talk to you soon….
Cathy
Sending my sincere condolences on the loss of your brother, Cathy...;(((
ReplyDeleteI hope your memories of his life will help to warm your heart during this difficult time.
And best of luck with your upcoming surgery...rest and stay strong...
Hugs, Julierose
I'm so sorry Cathy - I know you need some time and we completely understand. Having your surgery coming up so soon complicates everything even further. I think Steve would want you to take care of yourself above all, so be sure you do. (((Hugs))))
ReplyDeleteSo sorry for your loss. I will be praying for you and your family.
ReplyDeleteStephanieW
Oh, Cathy, I'm so sorry about your brother's passing, especially as it seemed he was doing well. Of course, you need to go ahead with your knee surgery. Not to be crass, but Steven isn't going to mind waiting. Other than the necessary legal and financial issues, everything else can be dealt with later. Your focus right now is yourself. And don't be afraid to ask people for help. Good luck with the surgery.
ReplyDeletePat
sorry about all of this Cathy - with being such a small family I would think it is ok to hold a memorial service or something after you can drive again - if you need to go clear out his house or whatever that might be a good time. A lot of people delay a service (if they have one) for awhile. My cousin's mother in law died six weeks ago and they waited until now to have a service as most of the family would be in town for thanksgiving. Take care of that knee - it is scheduled and who knows how long you would need to wait to get it done if you need to reschedule.
ReplyDelete