no words
There were three employees of INOVA Fairfax Hospital that translated medical updates into language we could understand. These angels in scrubs gave us strength during those days that morn to midnight blurred into one in the Trauma ICU waiting room. No matter how long they had been on duty they would go behind the scenes to search out news of hope to share with us. Donna, Mary and Michelle - there are no words to adequately express our gratitude for your compassion and the many acts of kindness extended to us during those sometimes overwhelming, emotional roller coaster days. Thank you for being there. Thank you for caring.
Caulyne Barron commented to my last posting that paths cross for a reason and I couldn’t agree more. You are so right that Michael’s situation could have been worse, we are very fortunate that there were no other vehicles involved. It is no accident that many of our lives are forever enriched by what begins as a chance meeting. A swim team family from when the children were young, by chance crossed our path again during those trying times at Fairfax Hospital.
Today, they are suffering their own terrible tragedy. One week ago today Sunday, Mother’s Day morning around 6AM their 22 year old son (allegedly) struck a van at the intersection of Rt 29 and Somerset Drive in Gainesville. It is reported that he was driving under the influence and as a result killed an 8 year old passenger in the other vehicle. He has been charged with involuntary manslaughter and is being held without bond at Prince William County Detention Center.
To our friends who’s path we crossed again - to the mother that gave us so much comfort during our time of need - our hearts go out to you - we know that in the blink of an eye your lives were changed forever. We will keep you, your son, your family and the family suffering the loss of their son in our prayers.
How far does the pain from these careless decisions to drive while under the influence reach? There is a connection. We are all connected. There are lessons to be learned - are you listening?
One Love.
Very well said. A 20 year old man, under the influence, broadsided a 17 yr. old high school student who was dropping off his girlfriend after their prom on Saturday in my town. The man pulled away and went home to bed. The boy was airlifted and is in a coma with severe brain swelling. There are lessons to be learned, and I appreciate your honesty and candid writing on your site. I think of Mike often, and hope he is doing well!