So, it has been 6 months since Kent passed away quietly, after really never giving up his battle. He didn’t have a choice in the matter and some of his last words will stay with me forever, when he told me he didn’t want to give up. Never giving up is what we are holding on to and what I try to impress upon those around me. Keaton who is struggling with the lose of his dad and taking the next step from high school to college, sometimes doesn’t want to think about what he needs to do next, as he enters into adulthood. He really likes being a kid and doesn’t care to grow up yet. Kristina who is the ultimate example of never giving up, because her dad told her so, is almost finished with GRCC and her cosmetology program, and is ready to start Grand Valley in May. I, on the other hand, give up almost daily because lately I’m just having a tough time caring about what needs to be done next. I’ve made many strides forward, but a few steps backwards lately. But just as we mourn the 6 month mark of Kent’s passing, we received joyful news that we will soon have our first “Cudney grandchild” which means I am going to be a great-aunt, thanks to my nephew Ryan and his wife, Annie. As excited as I am to have a new niece or nephew, I think I need to think of a better name for myself, such as, “super aunt” or “best aunt”. I’ll keep thinking…
We will be heading south for spring break and will try not to do anything that resembles being on a schedule or responsiblity. That way we don’t have to worry about giving up while we are trying to relax and enjoy each other’s company. As Kent always said, “it’s okay to fail, but it’s never okay to give up.” So on this day 6 months later when we feel like we are in the middle of the ocean on a raft with no paddle, we will take the next 6 months to find our paddle and the direction God desires us to take to avoid floating amiously much longer.
Kim, I do check here once in a while hoping that you have added something…………it is a long recovery period when you lose a spouse, a dad, a brother, a son……………you will get through this. There are still many people thinking about you and your family often still and wishing you the best always. Your strength and ability to get through what you have has been an inspiration to many. What role models your children have and have had! Remember, if there is ever anything with which I can be of help, just let me know. darla
Kim,
I think of you from time to time and realize how difficult it must be without Kent. I really miss him here at Meijer. I just wanted to let you know that Kent would be extremely proud of you for the strength that you have exhibited during what had to be the worse days of your life. Your blogging and daily updates during Kent’s battle gave me the strength to engage in my personal battle with my diagnosis with breast cancer. Just knowing that Kent was going through something far worse than I could ever imagine allowed me to face each day determined I would be a survivor. Now, a year later I am allowing myself to believe that I am indeed a survivor.
Even though I have lost friends along the journey, my faith has increased knowing that God has a plan and purpose for our lives and His plan is not to harm us, but to make us more like Him.
Please know that you and your family will be continually in my prayers.
Be strong. For you are very precious in His sight and your children are depending on you!
In Christ,
Linda McCaleb
Kim,
I have been thinking about your family so much lately. I just happened to check your web page and was so pleased to see that you had posted fairly recently with an update. I miss Kent so much. You and Kent are such wonderful examples to your kids. Kent’s words about never giving up will always stay with you and Keaton and Kristina. I continue to hold your family in my prayers as you continue to journey down this path of grieving Kent and getting through all of those “firsts.” God is good and faithful and will never leave you. On those especially difficult days, He will carry you.
Blessings to all of you,
Nicky
Much love from the Brabbs family in Ann Arbor. We are actually in Little Rock, AR this week get a second perspective on my myeloma.
I can’t image what you guys are going through, but please know (as foolish as it may sound coming from a stranger) that we are here to help you guys. Seriously.
I really feel for your son, b/c every once in a while I get heartbroken at the possibility of me not being there for him. If I can be there for him at all don’t hesitate to reach out to me. I am not sure if he is a Michigan football fan, but we could definitely go to a game this fall!
Much love once again.
Phil & family
Remembering Kent today………..
Hope your family is doing well and healing…….although the missing will never end……………..
Best to you and your family always.
Darla