Technically the anniversary of daddy’s passing is on Friday, 4/24. But it was a year ago on a Tuesday- today- that my sister Mani had made it home to us, just in time, from South Africa. Our lifetime friend Julie arrived from San Diego to take over the hospice process. Then together we, along with other family members took turns and
sat vigil at his side, holding his hand, whispering sweet nothings and letting him go. I ache today as much as I did that day. Yes, there have been beautiful days with joy and laughter since then- but in this moment as I sit and reflect back- it just hurts.
Daddy continues to show up in the quiet of a morning coffee, the sun beams through a window, the blue bird who hangs out in my back yard, the eyes of my son who looks so much like him, the life situations that seem to just fall into place... yeah he’s there. Oh, how’s always here. But then he’s not HERE in the tangible sense. I ache to have him hug me tight and kiss my forehead and say “It’s gonna be okay kid.”
Today also marks two weeks since my father n law, Larry, passed suddenly. Taken by Bulbar ALS. The pain of loss renewed and raw again. This gentle and strong man. Another family experiencing loss again. Only this time, without the tribe around to support each other because of quarantine. It’s heartbreaking but necessary and we know that.
I often think to myself what would my daddy say about all of this? And here’s the answer- “How can we help?”
So in honor of daddy and Larry, I want to help folks in need. This week I’ll be buying bulk snacks/food for a friend of mine to deliver to her students in the Raytown School District. She’s been missing them so much and will be making personal social-distance-safe visits next week. I will make sure that at least those 30 kids will have food in their homes. What will you do to help? Or, if your family is in need of help please send me a private message at 816-304-2285 and let me know what I might help with.
With love,
Cortney
#COFFMANSTRONG!!
