Remembering Ryan

Eight years (2,920 Days - 70, 080 Hours - 4,204,800 Minutes?) have passed since I said goodbye to a remarkable young man, my son Ryan. In his 25 years of life, he left an indelible mark on my heart, a legacy that endures in the memories I hold so dear. The journey through grief has been long and challenging, but with each passing year, it becomes clearer that it's not just a story of sorrow; it's a story of love, remembrance, and resilience.

Ryan was a handsome young man, full of life. His smile could light up a room. His passion for life was contagious, and it touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. In his presence, you couldn't help but feel the warmth of his spirit and the depth of his kindness.

The initial years following his passing were a raw, unyielding torrent of grief. The pain was all-encompassing, making it difficult to see beyond the profound sense of loss. But as time passed, the sharp edges of that grief began to soften, and a transformation began.

I now remember Ryan not just with tears, but with smiles. I relive the joyous moments, the laughter we shared, and the lessons he taught me. He was an embodiment of living life to the fullest, of chasing dreams with relentless determination. His approach to life was a lesson in itself, teaching me the importance of embracing each day with gratitude, optimism and passion.

In these eight years, the memories of Ryan have become my lifeline. They are the lighthouse that guides me through the darkest of nights. I remember our vacations, the birthdays, the conversations, and all the inside jokes that only we shared. These memories are not just moments frozen in time; they are living tributes to a life well-lived. They help me survive the loss of my beloved son by keeping his spirit alive in my heart.

The grieving process has also revealed an unexpected strength within me. The passage of time has taught me that grief is not a hurdle to overcome; it's a lifelong companion. But in sharing my grief and the memories, I've discovered a resilience I never knew I ?possessed. ?Losing a child has taught me not to sweat the small stuff in life - there’s really nothing worse that can happen to me.

The journey of grief isn't linear, and there are still days when the pain feels fresh and deep – especially today. But, with each year, I move a step further from the depths of despair toward a place of acceptance and gratitude for the years I had with Ryan. My grief has transformed into a tribute, a tribute to a life well-lived and a love that endures.

Eight years may have passed, but Ryan's memory remains etched in my heart and his voice still rings in my ear - a source of inspiration that pushes me forward. Today I ?remember and honor the handsome young man who brought me so much joy, and I’m so grateful for the love we shared.

Ryan, you are forever in my heart. I miss you son. Dad