Offer condolances to Rebecca G, who lost her grandfather this morning.

Hearing about this made me remember the events leading up to my grandfather’s death. A few years ago, he had a series of mild strokes, giving him symptoms similar to Alzheimer’s. Kell should find it amusingly ironic that he was diagnosed with “Sundowner Syndrome”, in which the patient is fine during the day, then exhibits Alzheimer symptoms in the evening, when the sun goes down. I’m thankful that my family had so much time to get used to the fact that my grandfather was dying. Sure, we’ll miss him, but I’m grateful that he let go when he did. It was tragic to think of how such an energetic, gifted, strong-spirited man could be reduced to a mere shade of what he was before, incapable of feeding or clothing himself or even walking without assistance. I’m not sure if he even recognized me or my sister at the end.

Know that your grandfather is in a better place, Rebecca. No matter where you go, he’ll always be with you, in your thoughts and in your heart. Think about all the good times you shared. I remember talking with my mom a few days after my grandfather died, recounting anecdotes from when I was a baby to my early teens. Laughing and crying, it was a very healing experience. I suggest you do the same. Know that your family and friends will always be by your side to support you in these times. If you need to talk, I’ll give you my phone number and we can pour our hearts out. You’ll get through it, Rebecca. Life goes on.