Transition Day

Sometimes, I’m just stunned by what seems to me to be such an imbalance in this life.  Today, a special soul transitioned to the other side.  He was my daughter’s brother-in-law, my grandson’s godfather.  Beloved by a host of friends and just finding a very comfortable niche in commercial real estate.

He was married in 2015 and became a father just over a year ago.  He was diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer a few weeks later.  He was 34 years old.

He and his wife were positive from Day 1, writing posts on LifeLine to update us on his treatments and spirit,  On his 35th birthday, dozens of friends sent pictures dressed in specially made purple tee shirts emblazoned with “F*** Cancer, Stay Positive.”

How was this possible?  No family history.  He was athletic, strong, took good care of himself.  If anybody could beat this, we thought it would be Geoff.  He had youth on his side.  He fought every step of the way…even the last week when he could barely breathe and was in abject pain, he wanted to live for his beautiful wife and that adorable little boy, barely a year old.

I’m reminded of my own husband, who passed at age 39.  Who withstood treatments that were toxic to his body, eventually, leading to nightly dialysis because his kidneys were compromised by drugs.  But, he did it.  And, he gladly did it because it meant another day with his family.

And, now, begins the transition for Geoff and for his family here on Earth.  I don’t begin to understand how some people lead charmed lives and others have to deal with immeasurable sadness.

But, I do know this.  Tragedy often leads us to the absolute gift of living in the moment.  My mom used to say, “Every day is a gift.”  I didn’t get it when I was a young, not-so-wise thing.  I get it now, though.  Love your friends, love your family, love yourself.  Live in gratitude.  Find joy.  It’s everywhere.

Geoff, you are loved and always will be.  You will be missed but I’m pretty sure you’ll be near.