Tuesday, February 14, 2006

some sad news...

Rich's brother Tommy was born with hydrocephalus almost 40 years ago. He is blind, crippled and severely mentally retarded. That's what the medical records will tell you. What they might not tell you is that he loves chocolate chip cookies. And that if you play a game with him where you thump the floor then he thumps the floor, you might be playing that game for hours. He likes to yell, too. Loudly. And he cries when you play sad music. He likes to shake a maraca into his hand and he says a word that sounds like "bong bong" all day long. He also points to his mouth when he wants to eat, which is left over from when he knew more sign language. He loves it when he is surrounded by all 10 of his brothers and sisters, which usually happens only at Christmas. When he hears all of the fury of unwrappings on Christmas morning, he thinks it's the sound of someone unwrapping a candy for him. If he doesn't get that candy and soon he yells.

Yesterday our Tom-tom's heart stopped for 15 minutes. The doctors are sure that his already damaged brain is now damaged completely and irreparably. Today we find out whether this is true. If it is Rich's family will make the heartbreaking decision to let Tommy go. Please say a little prayer for Rich's mother and all of our family that they will have the strength.

Update Tommy died yesterday, February 14. He slipped away very peacefully and without any struggle.

If you would like to make a donation in Tommy's honor, please click here. Please indicate that the gift is in memory of Tommy Powers. There's a place that allows you to indicate where a card announcing your gift should be sent. Rich's mother would be so appreciative. Her address is: Loretta Powers, 6908 Foster Street, District Heights, MD 20747

18 comments:

Anonymous said...

I'm so very sad to hear this...I'll keep your family in my thoughts.

Anonymous said...

I Love you Amy and Rich.
J

Lelainia N. Lloyd said...

That is so sad. I hope that if he makes his transition in the next few days, it will be peacefully. He obviously brought something very special to his family-the gift of know unconditional love.

Keeping you all in my prayers.

Unknown said...

What a special person. I am keeping your family in my prayers.

Anonymous said...

Oh Amy, my heart breaks for you and Rich and his family. What a difficult time for everyone.

I've said a prayer for you this morning and will keep doing so throughout the day.

Michelle

Anonymous said...

Dear Lord, Continue to bless this family as you have done through Tommy over the past 40 years. Bring them peace and courage to make the right decisions to glorify you. As his son Lord, may his family look forward and be happy knowing that he will soon sit with you at your throne and that you give us nothing that we can't handle. Only you can truly know their heart and their pain. Thank-you that Amy shares with us everyday and allows us to see into her little world. In your Name I send My Prayer ...

Sharon said...

Oh Amy,
I have a nine year old friend that that also was born with this. So reading this really touched my heart. My heart goes out to you and to Rich's family.
What a blessing to have someone like Tommy for forty years in one's family's life.

Anonymous said...

Amy,
My prayers are with you and your family. Whatever happens, I pray that it is peaceful. Tom sounds like a very special person who touched many lives.

Andrea

Lelainia N. Lloyd said...

Somehow it seems fitting that he made his transition on Valentine's day-a day that reminds us of what it means to love.

My prayers now turn to healing and comfort for your family. *Hugs*

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry, please send my sympathy and love to Rich and all of Tommy's family, and here is a cyber hug for you.

Anonymous said...

oh my gosh, how heartbreaking. love to everyone.

Anonymous said...

Amy,

I'm so sorry. My heart aches for your family. Wish I could give you a big ol' hug...

Michelle

Anonymous said...

your family is in my prayers.

janna said...

(((HUGS to your family and your loss))))

Anonymous said...

I was so sorry to read about Tommy's passing, but was uplifted to read of all the joy he brought to your lives. God bless him and all of you who will miss him.

Anonymous said...

Amy, I'm so sorry to hear this. Your tribute is lovely, and is now out in the universe, floating on. Love to Rich and his family, and much love to you, sweet one. XO, alicia

Anonymous said...

My heartfelt prayers are with you and your extended family. Blessings to you all and to the memory of your sweet Tommy.

Anastasia said...

So sorry to hear Tommy has passed away - rest in peace Tommy
Thinking of you and your family
AC