I logged into Facebook this week and read words in the newsfeed that made my heart pound heavy in my chest. Tears sprang into my eyes.
My graduate school colleague Lanette lost her middle child Ian in a car crash. The Texas A&M student was killed as he headed home to Austin.
Everything can all change in a single moment, my friends. One moment.
Lanette, who spoke constantly with such love and loyalty about all three of her children, posted these words and this photo on her Facebook wall:
This is one of Ian’s last messages to us all. It was in his wallet. What an amazing amazing amazing person who continues to bless us with his life.
Lanette’s family is remembering their son and brother with wit and joy, asking people attending the memorial on Saturday to wear “outlandish pajama bottoms, favorite sports t-shirt and flip-flops – just how Ian would have wanted it!”
There is no wrong way to grieve. Ever.
I am one of the EMTs that arrived at the scene, and I just want to offer my condolences. When I found out how young he was it made my heart heavy. I am just glad to see that there is so much support for the survivors – I always worry about that when I see things like this. I hope all of you are in good health as you work through this difficult time.