Thank You from Richard's Mom
I don't know where to begin....to thank all of of you for your most kind words, heartfelt thoughts and prayers and the most gorgeous wreath of flowers I've ever seen during the most difficult time in my family's life. I've recieved cards from mothers with whom I've never even spoken to here on N4M, and am just astounded at the outpouring of love and support from you all.
Words are not enough and inadequate for the appreciation and gratitude I have for all of you and most of all to Christina. C from T was right there from the beginning, did not hesitate for a moment to come and be by my side, to help or do whatever our family needed. She has been a Godsend and I hope you know how much I love you for all that you are and all you did. I know we were all in a fog of disbelief and just doing what people told us we must do. After the funeral and all the planning was over, I felt a small bit of relief in that maybe the healing can begin, but my heart still hurts, I can't stop thinking about my beautiful Richard and although going back to work this week was difficult and coworkers were kind, there were still tearful moments and just couldn't wait to go home. I'm sure I've bored some with pictures and talking about him about this whole incident, but I hope people understand, that at times I can't talk about it and other times I probably don't shut up. Richard's wife Marjorie, bless her heart, has her moments of course, we've been there when she opened up the boxes of his "personal effects", and it's like reliving it all over again. We all went thru his uniforms, civilian clothes, even towels and held them close, just to try and get a sense of Richard again. Marjorie gave me one of his dog tags and I wear it every day with pride and sadness, kiss it when I'm especially down.
One thing I should say tho, is how well the Navy took care of our family in arranging everything. It was difficult at best to deal with a blended family and a new wife, but Chief Petty Officer Mandy Bouchard deserves accolades in her own right. She was patient, kind and bent over backwards with arrangements, answering questions and getting answers for the ones she didn't know. I hope and pray none of you ever have to experience this, but be assured that the Navy will take care of you, they believe in family.
Again, I want to thank all of you for everything, words cannot express enough the gratitude and love for you and the love and support I have recieved. May God Bless each of you.
Andrea
Words are not enough and inadequate for the appreciation and gratitude I have for all of you and most of all to Christina. C from T was right there from the beginning, did not hesitate for a moment to come and be by my side, to help or do whatever our family needed. She has been a Godsend and I hope you know how much I love you for all that you are and all you did. I know we were all in a fog of disbelief and just doing what people told us we must do. After the funeral and all the planning was over, I felt a small bit of relief in that maybe the healing can begin, but my heart still hurts, I can't stop thinking about my beautiful Richard and although going back to work this week was difficult and coworkers were kind, there were still tearful moments and just couldn't wait to go home. I'm sure I've bored some with pictures and talking about him about this whole incident, but I hope people understand, that at times I can't talk about it and other times I probably don't shut up. Richard's wife Marjorie, bless her heart, has her moments of course, we've been there when she opened up the boxes of his "personal effects", and it's like reliving it all over again. We all went thru his uniforms, civilian clothes, even towels and held them close, just to try and get a sense of Richard again. Marjorie gave me one of his dog tags and I wear it every day with pride and sadness, kiss it when I'm especially down.
One thing I should say tho, is how well the Navy took care of our family in arranging everything. It was difficult at best to deal with a blended family and a new wife, but Chief Petty Officer Mandy Bouchard deserves accolades in her own right. She was patient, kind and bent over backwards with arrangements, answering questions and getting answers for the ones she didn't know. I hope and pray none of you ever have to experience this, but be assured that the Navy will take care of you, they believe in family.
Again, I want to thank all of you for everything, words cannot express enough the gratitude and love for you and the love and support I have recieved. May God Bless each of you.
Andrea
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by carols_kitchen on -
I love you because God loves you. Own your tears and never feel you have to apologize for them. When you need to tell "your story" know that we will listen any time and every time. Richard and you will never be far from our thoughts and constant prayers.
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Permalink Reply by Carolina on -
Andrea, I saw the video that C and T posted the other day. I went to your page several times to leave a comment, but I just couldn't find the words. Never feel bad about talking about your son. It really helps to talk it out and I am sure others understand...I wish you strength and comfort at this very difficult time... We continue to pray for you and your family. Take care of yourself!
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Permalink Reply by Pat P on -
I will continue to keep you and your family in prayer.. C from T is an awesome lady.. and we are all blessed that she is a woman who is a wonderful and caring friend to so many.
Hugs
Pat
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Permalink Reply by Mary, Proud Mom of Nick on -
Andrea,
Our hearts go out to your family and Marjorie, it is a suffering that no family wants to experience. So much of you to be proud of with Richard and I hope that God continues to provide you with comfort in the days ahead.
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Permalink Reply by SueS on -
Andrea, you are a true testament of courage. I cannot imagine what you and your family have gone through. I only hope that we have been a source of encouragement in some small way. I think of you every day. Please know we are all here for you. If there is anything we can do, please ask.
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Permalink Reply by Jan, (A Southern Belle!) on -
How unselfish of you to think about others during your time of sorrow I don't think there would be ONE person who would be "bored" by your pictures and talk about your son! It is an honor to hear about him. What a wonderful testament you are to your son's life. God bless you, dear friend. I am at a loss of words but know I lift you and your daughter-in-law up to God now and in the days to come.Please stay connected to us. We need YOU more than you need US........Jan xxoo
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Permalink Reply by Tammy T on -
Andrea,
Wanted to stop by and let you know that you are still in my prayers and thoughts. May God comfort you in his loving arms! Luv and hugs!
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