Many of you were wondering why I haven't entered any new posts on my blog lately. Well last week was a difficult week. My little brother, Greg, passed away on Tuesday June 24th at the age of 54. He had suffered a stroke almost 3 years ago and since that time he required tube feedings and a tracheostomy tube, and was unable to walk. Communications were limited to smiles and a gleam in his eyes, and some other facial expressions and some limited hand movements. The week preceding his death Greg had contracted an infection leading to double pneumonia. Being the baby of the family and born with Down Syndrome, Greg was very special to me growing up and I always felt like I was his protector. But God was calling him home and I couldn't stand in the way. It's going to take a while for my heart to heal this loss, but I am consoled by the thoughts of his complete happiness without the limitations of his stroke or any other ailments. He is now able to do what he enjoyed most.....loving others....dancing and singing! I feel so grateful for having been able to learn first hand from the school of "Greggy". 1. That is you love EVERYONE, especially those who can get around your physical limitations to be able to reach out and hug you back! 2. You live life happy for each day. 3. You don't sweat the things you can't control 4. You try your best and claim each accomplishment as a HUGE success. and 5. You love your God for everything He gives you and you reach out to Him in all things big and small. Greg would not eat a meal before saying grace and until his memory started failing, he prayed each night before bed.
Besides my brother, Greg, I am feeling grateful today for many other things.... I am extremely thankful for my health and healing process. I feel indebted to my donor who donated the stem cells that allowed me to live and be healthy enough to write this post. I am so blessed to have a beautiful loving family and friends and support system...and for my brother Mark for allowing me to stay with him for almost two months. And most of all I am feeling blessed for God, who is teaching me that I will never be in control of my life circumstances. Instead of striving for a safe and predictable lifestyle I always need to be seeking a closer relationship with Him and his son, Jesus. Only then will my life be a glorious adventure!
Since my last post, Jerry and I moved home to our house permanently. I only go to see the doctor and get blood draws once a week. I no longer need infusions of any kind, but still take a boat load of oral medications. The medications still give me stomach and digestive problems, but only intermittently. I was given permission to make a one day trip 116 miles to Yoakum, TX in order to bury Greg.
Below are some photo memories of my sweet brother Richard Greg New.
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