My Brother Barry Died Monday Night

Lung cancer. Diagnosed only last April, he fought it with chemo and radiation and lots of spirit. He was only 53. He leaves behind his wife, a daughter, a son, a daughter-in-law, and a granddaughter.

I'm flying to North Carolina Friday; will be gone over a week. The family's gathering at my sister's house who lives nearby--there are five kids left plus Mother.

Mother's 83--I agonize for her having to bury a child. No parent should have to bury a child. I agonize for Barry's wife; she's my age and is now alone. I agonize for his teenage daughter, who'll graduate high school in two years without her father there to see her. I agonize for his son and daughter-in-law, and his granddaughter, who'll grow up never knowing her grandfather.

If you smoke, QUIT NOW. Please. Lung cancer's a horrible, painful way to die.

I'll be back soon.