I just got the call that Brian passed this morning at 7:30am.
:( :( :( :( :( :( :( :(
Thank God Rhonda was here for hugs. Thank God for all of you who sent so much love during his transition.
Thank God I got that call yesterday.
This is the view from Brian's room at Lisaard House. I took this picture yesterday during our visit. Such a beautiful place.
His sister, her hubby and I had plans to take Brian outdoors today. Unfortunately, we will not have that opportunity.
I can't even see the screen right now because of the tears, but I need to say that Brian was a dear friend by heart. He cared for my mom for many years, in countless ways, and especially during her time with cancer. He was a selfless, loving, pure-hearted man. He referred to my mom as his "BFF" when she passed. He loved her more than any person has ever loved my mom. She would have been lost without Brian, although she'd never admit it.
He is the reason I reconnected with mom during her last few months of life because she and I had such a strained relationship that we barely talked. He gave me a good talking to one day and acknowledged how difficult she was, but that she really needed me to be there for her, even if she couldn't express that.
So I was. And it was hard. But all my loves rallied by my side and by my mom's during her transition and I was lucky enough to spend the entire last week of her life in the hospital with her, sleeping on the floor by night and healing our relationship by day. When she left us, I was completely at peace because I had a whole week to ease into the reality of what was going on. We bonded, as much as we were able. And there were apologies...and there was forgiveness. And acceptance. And love.
Being able to say goodbye is a gift many are denied. I am so very grateful I got to say goodbye to her, and to Brian.
And now they are together once more, with Copper, too.
Tears...
Brian, you will be truly missed. You were such a blessing to my family and to the world. Rest in peace, my sweet, sweet friend.
I love you.
xo
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