Six years ago tonight, Robbie left us and his absence remains keenly felt.The other night, Deb and I were walking the dogs and she said, “Six years” and I replied, “I always find myself dwelling on the bad times, not the good ones.” I wish I knew why that was but all week long I reimagine that long, final day.Once Robbie was intubated early that morning, he went to sleep and never woke up, unaware how the hospital staff rallied to keep him alive for Kate and the family to gather around to make their farewells. The room was filled with supportive nurses, sitting with us, then Deb’s priests, and finally, one by one, siblings and his grandmother.Since then, the bonds forged throughout the ordeal have changed. Some of the nurses stay in touch with sporadic Facebook posts. We have obviously forged ahead, but continue to ask ourselves, “What if?” Would we have relocated to Maryland had he still been here? Would he have come to love this movie or TV show the way we have?He’s certainly not been forgotten. Two weeks ago over a dozen people participated in Shore Leave’s memorial Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament and we await a final tally for how much was donated to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. We’re told there were three luminary candles in his memory at Fairfield’s Relay for Life.While we’ve filled our days and carried on, he’s never far from my thoughts, especially this week. His presence is felt and his infectious nature and high energy is truly missed. We’re really going to feel it in September at Kate’s wedding where he would have won his tux and top hat, dancing with abandon.You are so missed, kid.
Your family is in my thoughts.
He will never be forgotten by me. I miss him and even the idea of him. I think of him often and know I’m a better person today for having been a small part of his life. Love, Enthusiasm, Loyalty and Friendship…you don’t need much more than that. A toast to Robbie…and your wonderful family.
It’s hard to believe that six years have passed.Thank you for sharing this, Robbie was a fantastic young man.
Hey Bob,Just sending you some good wishes on what has to be a crappy day.
Hi Bob!Thinking of you, Deb, and Kate so much today. Robbie was in our thoughts as soon as we got up this morning. I too sometimes dwell on that last day………Marianne was too upset to see Robbie but sent me with a message to him which I delivered. The time certainly goes by but the pain does not lessen. I am happy that you are close to Kate and that Maryland has worked out for you. Please stay in touch and know that Robbie will forever be in our hearts.XO Denise
I have his rubber duck on my kitchen window sill. He is always in my thoughts.
Bob,Though I did not know Robbie well, I will never forget the outpouring of love from his friends, including the heartbroken Kelley Vosburgh, who was living with us at the time of his passing. The other thing I will never forget was the awe I felt at your (& Deb’s) strength and dignity during and after his funeral. My heart was breaking for you at the following RTM meeting that you moderated with such composure. I don’t know that many others could have done the same in a similar circumstance. Bless you and your family and warmest thoughts.