Dear Kari and Jordan,
I'm writing to let you know all of your nurses continue to think of and pray for you both, and for Drew and Peyton. We all still speak of Drew and the privilege we had to be part of his journey and what an affect he had on all who he came in contact with.
I continue to be in awe at the many strengths that both you and your extended families showed during our times with you. Your clear demonstration of what true unconditional love is, what it looks like in action and not only in words. Kari and Jordan - the ability and courage you showed to continually be so selfless through all the many difficult decisions you had to make for Drew. I know you'd probably say - that's what parents do, but I hope you really appreciate in yourselves the inner strength that must have taken to do. The way your parents supported both of you, Drew, and Peyton was truly amazing to watch. Drew always knew he was loved, every minute of every day. What a gift that is for a child! You both have an extraordinary gift to be so open, to articulate your feelings, worries and fears, even in the most difficult situation.
Of course your deep faith was palpable whenever in the presence of Drew and your family. Even being a young couple - you are both wise beyond your years. This faith along with Drew's ability to continually forgive us and smile after each poke, medical intervention or seizure, has had a profound affect on me in a personal way.
Without going into too much detail - as a result of my time with both of you and Drew, I am starting the process of trying to bring some healing to a significant relationship in my life. Your actions truly showed unconditional love, and Drew showed me forgiveness. I have been inspired to try and find some inner courage to develop a new relationship with my estranged brother. For various reasons - all of which I saw as unforgivable, irreparable - he has barely been an acquaintance to me and my family. This was something I saw as unchangeable, immovable. But after seeing how you both- and your families - demonstrated love in your life - I have been inspired to try and create change. Now I see a possibility of having some healing and peace in my family. Of course there is no guarantee of a positive outcome - but I never would have tried before.
I hope this was okay I shared this with you both, but I had to express my gratitude to you Kari and Jordan and of course Drew. Thank You.
Praying for you both - continued faith, strength and love.
Sincerely,
Melanie
2 comments:
Reading this is and Grandad's post is inspiring beyond words! How beautiful was AND IS Drew's reach!
I have one to add. A man that we go to church with and is in our small group called me the day after Drew went to God's arms. And he was really acting nervous on the phone and then suddenly became extremely emotional. He told me that his dad didn't tell him until right before he died that he had a baby sister, and that she died in his arms. He had never dealt with the pain and never told anyone but his wife about it. When he found out that Drew left this life in your arms he was just overwhelmed with emotions and decided it was time to be transparent about how he was feeling and be there for his mother.
Thank you Laura. It means so much to know Drew lives on in some way. Thank you for sharing that - I hope those stories keep coming - they make such a difference.
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