A Letter to Brandi

June 18, 2009

Dear Brandi,

This is a very sad day because today you left our lives, at least our earth lives. I was at the hospital when you were born and now at the hospital when you died. This is not normal. None of us imagined it could have ended this way, this quickly. Yet, I’m so glad that you are at peace. Your death was very peaceful, very loving, very beautiful. I am so grateful for that.

You have impressed me so much, Brandi, throughout your life. When you were little, you were so cute with that head full of curls. You had such a calming influence about you. You were always obedient. I was so glad to have you over to our house, around our children. You behaved-they didn’t, except they had to when you were around. I’m very sorry Jared broke your arm that time. (Just an example of how mine didn’t behave.)

You were quiet around me but once in a while you would talk and show me that beautiful smile. I loved it. When you lived with us, we always would say, “Brandi smiled.” Not that you didn’t smile, but in the crowd of kids in our house, it was hard to get a word or smile in. The last time you talked to me was at your parent’s house. You really talked to me about the chemo and some of the problems. I was very touched that you would share something so personal.

You moved out of your parent’s home and supported yourself. I was so impressed. You could have stayed with them but you grew up, somehow. You got your degree, you went to work. Apparently everyone loved you because I have never seen so many people waiting outside an intensive care unit. I recognized your family at the hospital, but so many I had never met. They said they worked with you. We have strangely become friends as we spent so much time hugging each other as we worried about you.

You have been such a great example and teacher to Jordan and Sergio. The effect you had on their lives will stay with them forever. You will forever be their idol, as you are to so many others.

I want to thank you for the time you spent in my life. I want to thank you for the love you sent my way. I love you Brandi. I will see you soon.

Love always,
Lisa (Plumb)