to my peeps

If you are reading this I’d say you are quite probably a remarkable individual, at least to me. Since Calvin was born I have encountered, or re-encountered, some incredible people. You know who you are; you are doctors, nurses, therapists, authors, teachers, dietitians, counselors, baristas, mothers and fathers, grandparents, nieces, nephews, cousins, third cousins and their kin, grocers, chefs, professors, EMTs, children, artists, musicians, students and former students, producers, new friends and old friends, shop owners, case managers, radio hosts, in-laws, phlebotomists, epilepsy advocates and founders, servers, deans, presidents, flight attendants, cooks, contractors, athletes, restauranteurs, siblings, caseworkers, ed-techs, contractors, recruiters, realtors, designers, managers, interns, security, dog owners, war heroes, department coordinators, pharmacists, technicians, alumni, entrepreneurs, directors, former teachers, actors, behaviorists, farmers, bartenders, coaches, caretakers, retirees, fishermen, clergy, swimmers, writers, gardeners, motorcyclists, lawyers, neighbors and former neighbors, salespeople, curators, quilters, kin, husband, movers and shakers.

You are all an integral part of my experience raising Calvin. Some of you I may never have met or sought out if it were not for him. Like Calvin, you have enriched my life beyond imagination. You have all helped shape me into the person I am.

It is because of your love and support that I continue to survive my grief. It is due to your friendship that I haven't been beaten down. Your good humor, sharp minds, warm hearts and encouragement have kept me going even in the face of fear and darkness. But most significantly, the fact that you listen and are genuinely concerned is what energizes and inspires me to tell my story on behalf of Calvin.

So with this, I say thanks to my peeps. Keep on keepin' on.