In 1982, my cousin Wayne, was hit by a car while riding his bicycle. His injuries were serious. He was in a coma for two weeks and he lost the use of his legs. He was only 22 years old.
For almost 30 years, he lived in nursing homes. Some people might have become bitter or felt sorry for themselves. Wayne wasn't like that. He rolled around the nursing home in his wheel chair laughing and joking with the residents. He always spoke to everyone, even if they weren't able to respond.
We grew up together. Our houses were side by side. I don't have any siblings. Wayne was more like a brother to me than a cousin.
We spoke on the phone every night at least once and sometimes twice, until May 11. He was anemic and they couldn't find matching blood for him. His medications kept him asleep most of the time.
This past Saturday, he had to go into the hospital. He was responsive at first, but his health declined quickly.
I was with him all day Sunday. When I was leaving, my Mom told him to tell me good bye. We weren't sure if he could hear us, but he told me bye. That was the last word I heard him speak.
On Monday, he rallied for a short time and then his vitals went down quickly. They put him in critical care, but it was time for him to leave us and be with God. He left us at 10:30 last night.
We were so lucky to have him with us as long as we did, with his health problems. He turned 50 last September.
Wayne was a ray of sunshine in my life and I'm going to miss him so much.
Carolyn, I am so sorry for your loss, but what a blessing to have had him for those extra 30 years. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.. And what a lovely Tribute to your cousin.
I'm so sorry for your loss, Carolyn This is a beautiful photo to go with a beautiful tribute to Wayne. I'm praying that you will feel God's perfect peace as He comforts you during this time.
Carolyn, Wayne sounds like he was a special person, and one who was used to touch the lives of those around him. How special is it to be used in such a way, and for that length of time. Remembering you in prayer.
great tribute....I'm very sorry for you loss...I know what its like to lose someone very close to you....beautiful shot! fav! I will keep your family in my prayers!
What a simple and beautiful picture for a tribute to your cousin. We think we have troubles until you meet someone like Wayne, then you realize that yours are not that bad. Lord keep him in your arms.
((((((((((((((((big hugs))))))))))))))))) so very sorry for your loss Carolyn, he sounds like a wonderful person to have had in your life. Lovely tribute.
Oh I'm so sorry to hear that your very brave cousin has passed away and my heart goes out to you all. He must have been a wonderful person and it is so nice to have such fond memories of him. This is a beautiful tribute to him and the focus is absolutely perfect - fav
I am so sorry for your loss, Carolyn. He must have been a special person full of spirit to go through all that ordeal. My heart is with you at this delicate time. May he rest in peace.
Carolyn, I am so so sorry to hear of your cousin's passing. Your story of this brave man was so touching and heartwarming. This is a beautiful tribute to him. My deepest sympathies are with you at this time and you're all in my prayers.
What a beautiful tribute Carolyn I am so sorry for your loss. He obviously was an amazing person. I trust that a little part of him will live on in all of the people who knew him
Carolyn, I am sat hear with tears in my eyes at your story of Wayne's life. You have written a very moving tribute to Wayne, which clearly tells all of your deep love for him. I am desperately sad for you, Wayne and your whole family. Take care, and be strong.
My very deepest condolences. People with handicaps, touch so many lives. I had Natalie down to Tampa Gen last Thursday for a test and took her into ICU., It was like homecoming, all the nurses gathered round to talk to her. She got a big ole smile on her face and then you could see the thought cross her mind and she looked at me. "I'm not staying her am I". You will be in my prayers, and we do have the peace that we will see our loved ones again, in a much better place, thank you Lord
Thank you for sharing this personal story with us.It reminds me that life is a gift and always make the best out of it . If you have bad times remember there a a lot of people having worse and live it with a smile andcourage.
My thoughts and prays are with you and all the ones you love
That is so sad Carolyn, my thoughts are with you. Grief is such an overwhelming emotion, I hope you can find solace. This flower is a beautiful tribute. ;/)
Oh Carolyn, I'm so sorry for your loss. My daughter lost a young friend last week. He'd had 2 bouts with cancer in his short 25 years. Like your cousin he was an inspiration because he always had the biggest grin on his face. I will always remember him that way and the positive way he led his life. I'm sure you will remember Wayne the same way.
Oh, Carolyn.....so sorry to hear of your emotional pain with this. But the good thing is, he is not in pain. So that is the best. He sounds like a wonderful and positive person!
I hope you find peace and comfort during this difficult time. You are in my prayers.
Giving thanks for a brave and beautiful person who will live on in your heart.
My thoughts and prays are with you and all the ones you love