March to most people represent a time of spring, when everything is new and beautiful. For me though, March reminds me of a time of great sorrow and the greatest joy. Death and Life.
On March 12, 1983 was a time of great sorrow. I was going to college in Portland, OR when I learned that my brother in law had died of a rare radiation disease while he was in the process of a bone marrow transplant. Unlike today, there were only 4 hospitals that was doing bone marrow transplants and the success rate was only 50% at the time.
As tears went down my face, I run in the Portland rain screaming why him! Russell Smetters was the kindest man and was like a brother/uncle to me, but most importantly my best friend. When he passed, I couldn't see what the future may hold.
Several years later, in his place, I was honored to walk my niece down the aisle when she got married in 2004. Today, his has two grandchildren in their teens now. His grandson was born on a March 12th.
That's why March will always be a time of sorrow and a time of joy. Life continues. His and my sister's legacy lives on!
Below is a group picture of the family, now lives in Yonkers, NY.
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