2 Shows = 4 Funerals + 1 Death

[mrdreamjeans]

Last May when I was still living in Seattle, I blogged about my Uncle Dale, my mother’s younger brother. My parents had flown to Erie, Pennsylvania when they were told Dale was in a coma and would not make it through that night. Twenty-four hours after their arrival, he was out of the coma, off the respirator, sitting up in bed talking with them. It seemed to be a bit of a miracle. Since then ... and off and on for the past three years, Dale’s been in and out of the hospital; the stays have been especially tough on my Aunt Bonnie who has been her husband’s faithful caretaker.

Dale is finally at peace. This morning at 6:20am, he passed away, all of his organs finally failing. Mom called to tell me the news. I then spoke with my sister Colleen and brother Jeff. I am lucky. Our family always pulls together in a crisis; it is at times like this, that I am reminded how much I love them and how much they love me.

Mom won’t be attending the funeral next week. Dad and she are 74 and 73 respectively and are fragile; there are currently blizzard conditions in Erie, Pennsylvania. I think Uncle Dale would understand.They said their goodbyes in May. Dale was blessed to have been able to view the depth of his sister’s love for him when he survived the initial coma. My parents’ long journey last Spring was a symbol of their commitment to Dale, his wife Bonnie and our family. Going now would put my parents at risk and I see no good in that.

It’s hard to live through any family tragedy, but especially at a distance. Words of comfort don’t come easily and so much more can be said by hugging or holding someone when the right words escape you It is times like this that I hate the phone, hate being away, feel that my work as an entertainer is superficial, less important. I feel helpless... Dale was only 16 years older than me. It also feels like my shadow is being stepped on.

“Evita” is an odd show to be doing when you have a death in your family or in your circle of friends. It begins and ends with a funeral. I did two shows today which equals four funerals, but my mind, heart, tears and prayers were for the death of one man, my Uncle Dale Fritts. Goodbye, Dale. You'll be missed....

Comments

[gotmoof.livejournal.com]

Hugs, bubba.

[mrdreamjeans.livejournal.com]

Thanks Tim! Thanks for always being there for me in the past seven plus years. It means a lot.

[ciddyguy.livejournal.com]

Even more hugs Neil.

{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}

[bigredpaul.livejournal.com]

I'm terribly sorry for your loss. If there is anything I can do, please let me know.

[abearius.livejournal.com]

“Evita” is an odd show to be doing when you have a death in your family or in your circle of friends. It begins and ends with a funeral.

But just look at what happens between the funerals!

I know it's sad and frustrating not to be with loved ones when they are going through difficult times, so you have my sympathies. *hugs*

[excessor.livejournal.com]

I'm so sorry to hear. Big hugs!

[clintswan.livejournal.com]

*sigh*

my condolences

[enhydrasf.livejournal.com]

I offer you my condolences, buddy.

[mrdreamjeans.livejournal.com]

Your eloquence humbles me. Thanks for your kind words.