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April 1, 1996 Dear Dan, Cindy and Reid, It is about 2:00 am Monday morning, and I find myself wide awake thinking about all of you, and "playing back" a lot of the brief but always significant moments that I was lucky enough to spend with Jessie. Thank you for giving me the chance to know and meet each of you, and for the distinct privilege of sharing in Jessie's care. I have always tried to make myself believe that every day was a good day because there was always something new to learn. A lot of days, though, I have to admit, I lie staring at the ceiling and I could just go back to sleep for a year or so! Jessie, however, really embodied the enthusiasm, optimism, integrity, and excitement about life that for some reason seems to dissolve with age. She tackled her disease with dignity and never let it interfere with what was important. I learned a lot from her. A part of the formula that made Jessie so vibrant was the fact that she had parents and a sister whose example in life she could follow, and who obviously loved her enough to let her independence surface, flourish, and grow. I have learned a lot from each of you too. As I try to figure out how to be a great father for a little 18 month old, I know I will at times wonder how you would have "handled" this or that situation! Thank you. I suppose that all any of us can really expect to leave this world are examples of our creativity. Jessie did just that. I am awfully grateful for having the chance to watch, participate in, and experience a little of it. Take good care. Love, |