Question

Write a story about someone you like (as a friend, or more)
100-150 words

Answer 1

The death of any child, regardless of the cause or age, can be overwhelming. I wish no parent would ever have to face the end of their child's life.

Recently I was faced with the pain of losing my 39-year-old son, Justin. The short story of his fight was he had a heart disease that I could not fix.

I have written and read many stories about parents losing their children, but you are never prepared for the reality. When your child dies, part of you dies with that child.

A mother-child bond is lifelong. The grief isn't less when the child is an adult.  

I have been told I was a strong woman. Not true. The loss of my son is the one hardest moments in my life. Despite the sadness that fills my heart, I have to accept what I cannot change.

During my time of struggle, so many of my friends and family were by my side. I will never have the words to express the gratitude I feel towards so many people. I cannot repay them for the kindness they have shown during this time.

Though my friends and family knew there was nothing they could do or say to console me, they have let me grieve in my way. And for that, I will forever be grateful.

In my sadness,  I appreciate being surrounded and supported by genuine love and concern. I have used my family and friends as a support pillar to overcome my pain.

I would like to mention all the people who  made sure I was okay, but in doing so, I am sure to forget someone important.

There are a few people I feel a need to mention, because without their help, I may not  have survived the last few weeks.

Rob Rea and his crew are always there when they are needed. Rob has stayed by me during this very difficult time. Rob, an old friend who has a favorite past time of arguing with me, has shown what a true friendship really means. You may not always agree or get along, but when life throws you a curve ball, people like Rob and his wife Susie will be near. Rob and I may never again agree on anything, but at the end of the day, when it was important, he had my back. I owe Rob more than words could ever express.

I would be amiss if I didn't give a shout out to my good friend Reverend Eston Williams. This is the second time in three years Eston had to be there for me. In the words of Jackie Nailling, “I wouldn't take a fresh load of watermelon for you Eston.” You have been a great source of strength and friendship during the ups and downs of my life.  

I could never forget my girlfriends. Thank you Sharon Sumrow, who came to the hospital to get me, and spoke at Justin's Celebration of Life.

Knowing so many people would be in and out of my house,  a group of girls went  and cleaned my home. Thank you Susan Bates, Sherry Whatley, Sharon Sumrow, Susie Rea and Maggie Aclin. I love my girlfriends.

Justin's best friend, Jimmy Stokely, who spoke from the heart at the memorial, and who checks on me regularly,  will always hold a special place in my heart.  

Where would I have been without my Athens Review family. What a great group of men and women. I am so thankful I work with a group of people who really care for their fellow co-workers. I have to include Jayson Larson from TVCC as part of my Review family. Jayson, a former employee of the Review,  has been part of my life for many years.

I will always carry Justin with me, but I will  somehow move forward. The loss of my son has, in so many ways, changed me forever.

In my quiet moments,  I will remember Justin and the good times we shared, while reflecting on what is really important in life and what isn't.

Kathi Nailling is a Staff Writer for the Athens Daily Review.