I am so very sorry for the loss of your daughter. As a mom who just lost her son, Chad, six months ago, I echo everything you have said. My handsome boy, on the inside and the outside, my son, my friend, my hero, and so much more. Loving brother to my other three precious children: Holly, Travis and Hannah who are lost without him. Chad was 18 years old and he loved life as well. At the time my four lights of my life were 19, 18, 17 and 13. I would always say girl boy boy girl. My husband and I are close but so devastated. People don't understand. They make me angry when the say "I know". I always correct them gently because I feel to do differently is a disservice to my son. I also will say "fine" or "okay" when asked how I am doing. I love my four kids with all my heart and soul. Chad's and my relationship was so very special; maybe it went one step further one step deeper, but I would die for any of them. I lost Chad in an unexplained car accident as well. One minute here one minute gone.

I work on my faith. I have seen signs, but nothing matters anymore until I get to be with my son again. He got so cheated in this life. I know he wanted to marry someday and be a day.

Now everyday is the same. Waiting to go to bed to do it all over again. No happiness or joy. I feel any future joy will always be tained and bittersweet. I will spend the rest of my life trying to do my best to "live" as Chad would want us all to do. His smile was brilliant and he smiled often. His athletic ability was special but it did not define him. His heart did that.

I am sure it is the same with your oh so special Brandi. I understand and I wish I could do more than say I know the heartache is relentless. And I am scared because when I see people like yourself three years down the road, I don't want to walk that road. But I have no choice. My son was so worth any pain I have to endure. He was so worth it. I love him today and always, and I carry him with me wherever I go. I just want him back and my old family back. I know that's not possible, but that's where I am at six months from the last time I was graced with my son smiling, sharing his day, asking for advice, and just being a kid with the whole world ahead of him.

Thanks for listening.
Lisa (Chad's Mom)