Subject: RE: My friend Al died last night... I wrote up a long reply and the internet went out, so I'll try again. Al was a very special person. We are lucky to meet someone who inspires and motivates us. Al did both to EVERYONE that he met. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him. We met him years ago through TNT. He was one of Bear's honored patients. He was a motivational speaker for local meetings, he never complained about his illness and always tackled it head on. He was a fellow athlete who walked, ran, swam, and rode with many of us. He helped and encouraged everyone he met. He did short races, duathlons, marathons, triathlons, and bike rides with a smile on his face even when faced with chemo, blood transfusions, and too many other hard ships to mention. His courage was awesome. When he did MCM, his doctor was doing it also. Doc said he was ready to help make sure he finished, but God was with Al and he did great. He helped raise money for Leukemia and Cancer Societies and completed many other athletic events. When he couldn't race, he'd come and cheer everyone on even when things were rough for him. The last time we talked he told me he wasn't going to make it this time. He left behind a loving family and many friends. If tears pave the way to heaven I know he got there in record time today. I went to Church and lit a candle for him this morning. My heart is and will be sad for a long time. I will copy this post for his family and put it with their sympathy card. Al, we love you and you will be missed. YOU ARE OUR HERO!Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. Heaven got a special angel today!!! |