For My Friend, Kevin

Let me begin this blog by saying this is not about religious beliefs. I have mine, my friends know mine, and that's the end of that. The purpose of this blog is to let a dear friend of mine know that I hate to see him hurt.

Kevin, my friend and co-worker, has lost the love of his life, Mark. Mark gave up the battle to cancer early Friday morning at home with the ones he loved, including Kevin, Kevin's mother, and Mark's parents. He left this world as he slept. Mark was to be taken to his family's hometown in Ohio and cremated.

Kevin went above and beyond by caring for Mark during his illness from diagnosis until his passing. When Mark was in the hospital, Kevin only left his side to come to work. I can only hope that I can be as faithful a partner to my husband, or he to me if needed, as Kevin was to Mark.

Kevin, I hate to see you hurt, but I know it can't be helped. We both work in the healthcare business and know this happens, but it never prepares us to give up someone we love dearly. I never met Mark, but I know he must have loved you as much as you loved him. Remember the good times, even though I know the last days will never leave your thoughts. We can all be taken from this life at any time, sometimes it seems too early.

As the flowers appear to be dead in the winter, they come back in the spring. They only sleep in the winter. So remember that Mark is only sleeping and this is his winter. You will see him again in the "spring". I know I can never bring him back, which is what you desire, but if there is anything at all I can do to help ease your pain, please let me know.

I love you and I would do anything I could for you. You are a dear friend and I'm not ashamed to tell anyone that. Just know that my thoughts and love are with you always.

I love you...Vicki