I met Jim when he married my friend, Margie. She had gone on and on about how wonderful he was before we were introduced. I didn’t think he could possibly have been as extraordinary as she said. But every time I was around him, I realized she wasn’t exaggerating. So handsome and charming. But what stood out most to me was what a good person he was. So devoted to his religion, the importance of family, and his integrity. He was amazing. He provided such guidance as a role model, especially for his son, Jamie. Margie and I have been friends for 40 years. During the last half of that time, I was caregiver for my beloved Mother and brother. It was a labor of love. She was there for me as I went through losing both of them in 2008. Then her situation changed, and she became the caregiver for the love of her life, Jim. I watched as the insidious disease moved farther and farther into their lives, and my heart ached for the entire family. The love and respect she felt for Jim was undeniable and it showed in her loyalty. I watched as she went through every phase of the disease — at first, hoping for a cure to be developed. As time went on and it was apparent he was not going to be able to defeat Alzheimer’s, I saw the hurt in her going deeper and deeper. She fought for hope, but saw him slipping farther away with time. We talked and cried together often. Her frustration grew from not being able to see improvement. She clung to the few times he did appear more cognizant. On the end, she could not understand why Jim, who was such a good person, had to go through being trapped in his weakening body. I am certain many families losing someone to this disease feel this way. When God relieved all the pain and anguish by taking Jim into his arms, I saw Margie facing the loneliness of not seeing him every day, but the relief that came over her, knowing that Jim was once again whole. Rather than watching him hurting, being confused and unable to know how much he was loved, she said she feels now she can look up and talk to him, and he will know. I believe he will too.
God bless Margie, Jamie and his entire family, and all who feel a loss in Jim’s departure. He is now enjoying the Heavenly existence and all it holds for him. And he will be there to welcome all those he loves.
