Sometimes a message comes through that changes the fabric of a family. Last week I received such a text. My beloved older cousin Bob- Bobby to his family- suffered a heart attack and suddenly died. I really don't have the words to process this loss.
Bobby was among my first heroes. He was raised by my grandparents so we saw him frequently when we were growing up. We were the loud and excited little kids who infringed on a teenagers space, toys and newly released video games. We thought he was the coolest person ever.
I had a chance to travel with Bobby as an adult. It was fun to redefine our relationship as adult cousins. I went to visit Bobby in Phoenix exactly one month before my foot was crushed. He was my last bi-ped adventure, and I will always cherish those memories.
My heart is broken. My mom's heart is shattered. Bobby held a special place in my heart, but he was her first nephew. Her first experience with the unconditional love that only an adult can feel for a child. There is so much more I could write, but for now the words lay too heavy.
