I come to you with a heavy heart, reflecting on life after the recent loss of my beloved son, Gordon, who passed away just a few weeks ago at the age of 27. No words can fully capture the depth of my grief, the emptiness it has left in my heart or the gaping hole in the pit of my being. Losing a child is a pain no parent should ever have to experience or endure, and now it’s a pain that cries in my own heart.

Yet, even in the midst of my sorrow and grief, I find myself contemplating the future and how I will choose to spend the years ahead. Gordon’s passing has profoundly shifted my perspective, reminding me how fragile and precious life truly is, and how important it is to make every moment count. The next chapter of my life feels more significant than ever, and I am determined to fill it with more meaning, more love, and more purpose—actions that honor the love Gordon gave me.

First and foremost, I am committed to carrying forward his light. Gordon was a bright, authentic and kind soul who touched so many lives. Whether through acts of kindness, community involvement or simply being present for others, I will ensure that his spirit continues to shine through me. In many ways, his vibrant life will help guide my path forward.

I also feel a renewed desire to deepen my relationships with those who matter most to me. Gordon’s loss has reminded me of the importance of being truly present with the people we love—showing up fully, sharing love openly and creating lasting memories. Time is not promised to any of us, and even though I am a rollercoaster of emotions, I intend to make the most of it by nurturing the connections that bring joy, comfort and meaning to my life.

Above all, I want to live a life of love. Losing someone so close has shown me that love is the most enduring legacy we leave behind. It binds us together, sustains us through our hardest moments and gives us the strength to keep moving forward—because love is what remains when everything else fades away.

Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Together, we will honor the past, cherish the present and look to the future with hope and love.

I love you with all my heart and soul Gordon Joseph, my dear, sweet, kind son!

I am so delighted to share with you Gordie’s favorite song, Ladyfingers, by Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass Band. He fell in love with this song after finding the vinyl record that was released in 1965 at his grandparents’ home … Enjoy!

Warm regards,