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| Maccasgirl's son passed on; Please pray | |
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| Tweet Topic Started: Sep 2 2006, 09:23 PM (6,881 Views) | |
| Queenbee | Oct 3 2006, 10:22 PM Post #301 |
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Oh I didn't take Diane out to dinner. We (my sister Diane) and I had carry out from Cabana Charley's where Diane/maccasgirl's daughter works. But I was thinking of her. I told her the guys would be at the football game allllllllllll day Sunday, 11 A.M. till 2 A.M. when the motor home finally pulled in the driveway and if she'd like to come on over! Sorry for the mix up. |
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PEACE and love to my friends, Judy When the Power of Love over comes the Love of Power, the world will know Peace. -Sri Chinmnoy Ghose Till me meet again ~ I Love you Mike! You were one of a kind. | |
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| audrey | Oct 3 2006, 11:57 PM Post #302 |
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well since you are close to her, you can understand. sure is different living in a small close community . anyways, wanted to keep this thread to the front and give a group hug to diane, thinking of her and hoping she is making it through this hard time. been nearly a month i think and that is when the numbness goes and the pain remains. hope all is well diane, audrey |
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| maccascruff | Oct 4 2006, 12:17 AM Post #303 |
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Sing the Changes
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Judy's sister's name is also Diane. I got confused when I visited. Still thinking of you and your family, Diane. |
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| JeffLynnesBeard | Oct 4 2006, 10:08 AM Post #304 |
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Lovely post, Lisa. I think of you and your family often too, Diane, and hope it is getting just a little easier for you day by day. |
| ...and in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make. | |
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| Jacaranda | Oct 4 2006, 01:14 PM Post #305 |
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Andy that is sweet of you to say, thanks. I am just happy to belong here in a very kind group of people who I feel are a strong and supportive bunch of pretty like-minded individuals. Possums all around! Diane just a thought for today: even though you don't feel it, we can all see plentiful evidence of your strength. Be well, get rest, keep eating healthy, and stay strong. We are all thinking of you. |
![]() "If nothing else works, a total pig-headed unwillingness to look facts in the face will see us through." General Melchett, Blackadder Goes Forth | |
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| maccascruff | Oct 4 2006, 02:39 PM Post #306 |
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I hope the flyer will bring in lots of money for Tanya. |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 4 2006, 02:40 PM Post #307 |
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Born To Be Wild
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Thanks much to all of you. It is hard to believe it has been a month but still feels like it happened yesterday. When people say they don't get over someone's death, I now believe what they say. You don't and it is very hard to get through the day. Somehow I can park it in a place in my head where it doesn't completely destroy me. Distractions help. ALL OF YOU HELP ME and this thread helps a lot
We're now working on Johnny's benefit so that is something else to distract us. Tanya's friends are planning it with a dinner, dj, auction of items, raffles. It will be held over at NIU's alumni hall on Nov. 4. We have to go around and get businesses to put up the fliers and try to find items for the auction. My son didn't have his insurance yet so the bills are very high. Something else Tanya didn't need in her life right now. Of course we all will pitch in to help with them, too. (((Clare))) thank you for signing the guest book. I appreciate it and I thank anyone else who signed it from here that I might have forgotten. Love ya. |
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| maccascruff | Oct 4 2006, 02:42 PM Post #308 |
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Glad we can be of some help, but I feel so useless. Hope the benefit will raise lots of money. |
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| BeatleBarb | Oct 4 2006, 02:52 PM Post #309 |
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Same here, Diane. Do you have a picture of the flier? |
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| Queenbee | Oct 4 2006, 02:52 PM Post #310 |
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I'm sure I have something to add to the auction! And I'll ask everyone if they have something to add to the auction. You know I'm thinking of you. Life sucks sometimes and it doesn't pay to ask WHY? ((((Love you)))) Judy |
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PEACE and love to my friends, Judy When the Power of Love over comes the Love of Power, the world will know Peace. -Sri Chinmnoy Ghose Till me meet again ~ I Love you Mike! You were one of a kind. | |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 4 2006, 03:02 PM Post #311 |
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Friday September 1, 2006 seemed to be an ordinary day until I received a phone call that my husband John Meier had been stung by a hornet and had a severe reaction. Just like all of our friends and family, I thought he would pull through. Unfortunately the lack of oxygen had caused irreversible brain damage. John was the most giving and amazing person I have ever known. Even in his death, he gave six other people the ability to live through the donation of his organs. John was not yet eligible for health insurance through his union due to hourly requirements. In an effort to help with medical costs his friends and family will be hosting a benefit in John’s honor. The benefit will be held at the Barsema Alumni Center in DeKalb on November 4, 2006. Benefit Dinner for John Meier When: Saturday November 4, 2006 Dinner: 6:00 - 8:00 DJ: 8:30 - 10:30 Where: Barsema Alumni Center 231 N Annie Glidden Rd DeKalb, IL 60115 Tickets: $20.00 per person Auction 50/50 Cash Bar Raffle Tickets will be sold in advance at any of the NB&T locations, as well as at the door. Additional donations can be dropped off at any of The National Bank & Trust Company locations or can be mailed to: The National Bank and Trust Company C/O John Meier Benefit 230 W. State St. Sycamore, IL 60178 We hope to see you there! Sycamore, IL 1979 - 2006 |
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 4 2006, 03:03 PM Post #312 |
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For some reason the pictures don't show but this is what the flier says. Wish I could show the pictures on there, too :hmm: It's on adobe. I'm not looking to raise money here, guys, so I don't want to give that impression. I just was letting Barb or anyone else see what was written. I'm embarrassed (((Judy))) Thank you much for any thing you want to put in the auction. I've never done this before so I'm not sure how it all works. |
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| maccascruff | Oct 5 2006, 01:40 AM Post #313 |
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Don't be embarrassed, Diane. We know that you aren't soliciting money. If we choose to help, we will. It just might be after November 4. |
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| audrey | Oct 5 2006, 03:13 AM Post #314 |
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Diane, glad to read what a beautiful message Tanya put on the flyer. Of course you arent asking for money, but many will send it anyways, for it will somehow make us feel that we have helped your family when in need and as a part of this forum, you are family. I am sure many will help not cuz you have posted this cuz you clearly arent asking for donations, but cuz we want to do something, anything to help with your grief. On the other hand, there are many that cant afford to send anything, but that doesnt mean they dont want to help or care any less, it is just life circumstances, and I am sure that you fully understand either way. I also want to say i am so glad to see you are surviving, one day at a time, and even though it is a struggle, you have made it through the first month, the hardest time. It wont go away, you know that now, but you also know it will get easier. Be prepared for the holidays, knowing ahead of time that they will be extra hard this year can help you to plan to avoid having it be so tough. Instead of bemoaning your loss, celebrate the things he loved during the holiday and perhaps a special way to celebrate his short life that he had for he had such a positive impact on you and your family. Perhaps by this time, the donor folks will have some sort of follow up on those wonderful lives that he saved, but even if not, realize how six people are sharing this holiday with their family due to the gift that johnny gave them, most of them would not have been here at christmas had it not been for him and hopefully remembering this can help your family through the difficult time. |
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| jayjay | Oct 5 2006, 01:05 PM Post #315 |
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I haven't been on the board much lately, but just wanted you to know that you and your family are still in my thoughts. |
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| Rose | Oct 5 2006, 01:21 PM Post #316 |
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Well, here's another clue for you all, the Walrus was Paul...
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Diane, I also wanted to let you know that you and your family are still very much in my thoughts. I am always glad to see your posts on the board...its great that you feel safe here to talk about anything that you need to. |
![]() "I'm in awe of McCartney. He's about the only one that I am in awe of. He can do it all. And he's never let up... He's just so damn effortless." ~ Bob Dylan | |
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| maccascruff | Oct 5 2006, 02:39 PM Post #317 |
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I'm still thinking about you and your family, Diane. |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 5 2006, 07:17 PM Post #318 |
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Went to my first meeting with Compassionate Friends. It is very hard listening to everyone talk about their pain and their child's death. We do have the unfortunate common bond but it is too depressing hearing so much sadness. Everyone says you don't get over this and I believe them. |
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| Sandra | Oct 5 2006, 07:24 PM Post #319 |
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Diane - I hope that will help you, even just a little bit at a time. Maybe it won't seem as if you are quite so alone in your situation if you hear of others experinces - though of course nobodys circumstances are exactly the same. Thinking of you often. |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 5 2006, 07:30 PM Post #320 |
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Thanks, Sandra. Yes, we are members now of the club nobody ever wants to join. It really stinks. But I will keep going for a while. |
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| maccascruff | Oct 5 2006, 11:49 PM Post #321 |
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Diane, my best friend's parents are elderly now. It's been 20 years since her death. Her parents never fail to mention her in their Christmas cards. We have all worked very hard on keeping her memory alive to all of us, but especially to her then two year old son. They tell me that still Novembers are terrible because that was the month she died. They are a part of the club that no parent ever wants to join. Your posts here about Johnny show just how much you love him--and just how much you are suffering and grieving. Nothing wrong with anything you've posted. |
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| bluemeanie | Oct 6 2006, 12:09 AM Post #322 |
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is now a happily married woman x
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Diane I always think of you and your family
there is never a 'set' time limit where you would ever forget you gave birth to Johnny, watched him grow up through his childhood to his independance from you and overseen him developing into adult life.the group you are attending will help you to listen & talk about what you are going through (more than any of us on here). they have been in similar situations and know what you are going through. it will be so emotional at first, if you met a new friend/s through these group/s which you can both support it may become easier on you both :hmm: what I may say now might sound harsh (to you & others), but what would your Johnny think if roles were reversed ??? would he want you to think like this or what ??? think positive and continue in his dreams if you can. celebrate his life but make others aware of what could happen
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Jayne x is loving life and is so happy xxx | |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 6 2006, 12:43 PM Post #323 |
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Each day is different but Johnny is never out of my mind. I do want to keep his spirit alive and it will always be alive in my heart and in my head. We just don't want others to forget him. |
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| maccascruff | Oct 6 2006, 04:52 PM Post #324 |
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I never knew Johnny, but I do think about him every day. |
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| Queenbee | Oct 7 2006, 12:51 PM Post #325 |
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(((Rose))) You weren't being harsh by saying this, what I may say now might sound harsh (to you & others), but what would your Johnny think if roles were reversed ??? would he want you to think like this or what ??? think positive and continue in his dreams if you can. celebrate his life but make others aware of what could happen. I too tell Diane this, to think what would Johnny want you to do. I told her to express in her thank you cards that please ask me about Johnny, I'd love to tell you a story or something. People tend to not know what to say to someone after a death. They don't know if they should bring that persons name up, etc. Then they tend to ignore you or the situation. Same if you see a handicap person on the street, don't be afraid to smile and say HI, make direct eye contact. They may have a handicap but they are still human. okay that's my Saturday lecture. lol |
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PEACE and love to my friends, Judy When the Power of Love over comes the Love of Power, the world will know Peace. -Sri Chinmnoy Ghose Till me meet again ~ I Love you Mike! You were one of a kind. | |
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| BeatleBarb | Oct 7 2006, 01:10 PM Post #326 |
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I think you're right, Judy. I know from some experience that it is better to say something, than to not say anything at all. One of my best friends lost her 6 year old and when she returned to work, most everybody avoided her cause they didn't know what to say or they didn't want to upset her. I never did that and she thanked me and told me I helped save her. Some days I would actually be more upset than her or would bring up something about Jason. She said no one ever made her more sad than she already was and she needed support desperately, not isolation - which is what she felt when others avoided her. Please know we're still here Diane and know it's important for you to be able to share your feelings. I hope and pray every day you get a bit of relief while still remembering and loving your son. |
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| Queenbee | Oct 7 2006, 01:40 PM Post #327 |
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It's hard to go up to others because you know their hurting but it feels good to them to know others care and they need that extra hug. Diane was at my house a week or so ago and played a cd on the computer of her son. It was pictures of him through various stages of his life played to music. It was soooooo sad. I could have brawled. I did cry, , but I was doing a a lot of biting the inside of my check not to go into the *ugly cry.* It was so touching. I'm sure I would be watching that cd with a bottle of something watching it over and over. I got her a scrap book to add all her pictures and lil mementos of Johnny. That will give her a lil fun time to put together something for all of them to enjoy. How are YOU doing (((Barb)))?? |
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PEACE and love to my friends, Judy When the Power of Love over comes the Love of Power, the world will know Peace. -Sri Chinmnoy Ghose Till me meet again ~ I Love you Mike! You were one of a kind. | |
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| maccascruff | Oct 7 2006, 03:56 PM Post #328 |
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I did a scrap book for my best friend's family of my times with my friend. I think things like this can help. Glad Diane was able to come visit you, Judy. Diane, you do what you need to do and know we're here for you. I'd love to see that CD. |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 7 2006, 04:20 PM Post #329 |
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I'm ready to do the photos and mementos now. It all has been sitting around in my dining room. I appreciate Judy getting the books for me and I will start putting all the things in them a little at the time. Thanks, Judy! You ladies are right about me needing people to talk to about my son. I find that it helps me a lot to talk. You mention how people start to avoid you because they don't know what to say. That has been happening to me quite a bit but I did expect it. One of my so-called good friends has not called at all since the funeral and this makes me very sad. I don't dislike her for it but it does hurt a lot. Then other people just avoid me when they see me. Why is that so difficult for people to deal with when they see someone who has lost a loved one? The DVD was made up by a friend and ran the whole time of the visitation. It is pictures of Johnny all years of age and plays to music. I wish I could show it to everybody. It does make me cry, of course. I watched the wedding video the other day. It is the last video I have of him and it was over a year ago. Makes me wish we had done more of that. The last family photo we took was 10 days before his death. I'm glad to have it now. |
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| maccascruff | Oct 7 2006, 04:44 PM Post #330 |
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I'm glad you did the family photo, Diane. One last remembrance of Johnny. I'm sorry people are avoiding you. I have probably been guilty of it in the past, but now I made a special effort when these things happen to talk to the person. |
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| Queenbee | Oct 9 2006, 01:06 PM Post #331 |
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(((Diane))) Sorry to hear one of your best friends hasn't contact you but it's probably the same situation we've been talking about, not knowing what to say, etc. Maybe give her a call. You need to do one of those letters I was telling you about and either mail them with the thank you notes or send them out at Christmas time. This way people will know you want to be approached and talk about Johnny. |
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PEACE and love to my friends, Judy When the Power of Love over comes the Love of Power, the world will know Peace. -Sri Chinmnoy Ghose Till me meet again ~ I Love you Mike! You were one of a kind. | |
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| theonlyfab4fan | Oct 9 2006, 01:40 PM Post #332 |
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I AM THE BIGGEST JOHN FAN!
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Diane I`m so sorry people have been keeping their distance. I think that a lot of people just don`t know what to say or do and are so afraid they will do the wrong thing that they do nothing at all. I have known people who have lost loved ones that would nearly go ballistic if anyone brought the subject up and others who welcomed an opportunity to talk about it at great length. Judy had some good advice, it`s a great idea to let people know what your comfort level is on the subject. I think in these modern times we live in it has perhaps robbed many of us the proper skills to deal with the death of friends and family. Death was a much more frequent occurance in generations past. People losing children at a young age to disease and lack of preventive measures, life expectancy was much shorter in times gone by and families experienced this part of life with much more frequency than they do now. |
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You say you want to save humanity but it`s people that you just can`t stand John came to me in a dream and this is what he said. "I had a vision of a man on a flaming pie, and he told me that Betsy with a B not Lisa with a L is the biggest fan of mine". John trumps 'the boss' ! I WAS ROBBED BY THAT DEVIL WOMAN | |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 9 2006, 05:26 PM Post #333 |
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People just don't know how to talk about death and it isn't a popular subject. But people who loose someone need to be able to talk and cry about it without feeling like some sort of weirdo. Some people just can't deal with that. My daughter-in-law is trying to pay the medical bills like an honest American but she needs help so the benefit is to help her. It is amazing how kind people have been with the donations for the auction. We now have 2 Bulls game tickets and a week at someone's cabin in Gatlinburg, TN which are going to be some of the raffle. The generosity of people really warms my heart. |
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| jayjay | Oct 9 2006, 06:23 PM Post #334 |
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What a shame that your family is having to deal with medical expenses at such a tragic time. I'm so sorry to hear this.
I don't think people who avoid those who are going through such a terrible loss do it to intentionally hurt. It is very hard to know what to say to someone who is going through this type of thing, and I think maybe they think it's safer to say nothing than to say the wrong thing, or even come up with something to say at all. I'm not saying I agree with that whatsoever, however, my guess is that your friend probably thinks you need some time to yourself to grieve, and wants to give you some space to do that with your family. Why don't you give her a call? Tell her how you're feeling, and tell her that you'd like to talk. I hate to see you hurting over this. Here's a cyber-hug.
Hope you're doing ok; so glad to see you posting.
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| theonlyfab4fan | Oct 11 2006, 04:52 AM Post #335 |
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I AM THE BIGGEST JOHN FAN!
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Hugs Diane , just wanted you to know that I am thinking of you , your family and Johnny. |
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You say you want to save humanity but it`s people that you just can`t stand John came to me in a dream and this is what he said. "I had a vision of a man on a flaming pie, and he told me that Betsy with a B not Lisa with a L is the biggest fan of mine". John trumps 'the boss' ! I WAS ROBBED BY THAT DEVIL WOMAN | |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 11 2006, 11:12 AM Post #336 |
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Thanks Betsy. I needed that. The Benefit is starting to affect me a bit. Seems the ones in "control" of it are not liking how things are going and they sent out some emails last night that have me really upset as well as the rest of my family. I feel like none of them take us~~by that I mean me and my husband~~into consideration. They act like his wife is the only one that has lost him. It really has me feeling very insignificant right now. I could not sleep last night because I am so upset. He was my SON, my flesh and blood!! She will move on in a few years and find someone else. We can NEVER replace him with anyone. I feel terrible for her, too, but what about us. Sorry to "vent" but I've only had about 4 hours sleep and I need to scream somewhere right now. |
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| JeffLynnesBeard | Oct 11 2006, 11:22 AM Post #337 |
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I'm sorry that the people organizing the benefit aren't taking your feelings into consideration - that is insensitive at the very best. I understand what you're saying that his wife may move on, but that isn't always the case. My Grandmother lost her husband to cancer when she was in her early 30s and never had another man - she mourned for the rest of her life. It's not a competition between who it means the most to... I think, in that respect, you're all losers. You've all lost someone who meant the world to you and you should all be pulling together & providing support to each other. You need to make your feelings clear to whoever sent out the e-mails - your feelings are understandable and you, as Johnny's parents, should be listened to every bit as much as his wife. Take care, Diane. |
| ...and in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make. | |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 11 2006, 12:01 PM Post #338 |
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Thanks, Andy. Yes, we are all the losers in this and it isn't a competition as to who he meant the most to. The problem seems to be that we aren't getting that support you mention and they don't see us as "hurting", too. It's like we don't exist. As for her moving on~~she could maybe never get married again but look at the odds. She's 26 with no kids and she desparately wants them. I would say the chances of her being with someone else maybe 5 years down the road are good and she deserves to have another chance at marriage and a family. I would hope so and would want her to. She shouldn't have to mourn forever. We, on the other hand, cannot replace our son. Ever. |
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| JeffLynnesBeard | Oct 11 2006, 12:51 PM Post #339 |
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I understand - and what you're saying makes sense. I really hope you make your feelings known to the people organising this benefit. |
| ...and in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make. | |
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| BikerLikeAnIcon | Oct 11 2006, 01:18 PM Post #340 |
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Oh Diane, I'm so sorry. I hate that you are feeling this way. I can only imagine what you are going through. Your tragedy has made me realize the fragility of life. I'm sure that eventually the sun will begin to shine for you again. Just know that EVERYONE knows that when a mama loses a baby she loses a piece of herself. Nobody is doubting that you ALL are hurting very much. |
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| maccascruff | Oct 11 2006, 02:10 PM Post #341 |
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Diane, I am so sorry. Yes, you have all lost something. Chances are Tanya will move on, but she may not. My best friend's husband dated again, but said he will never risk that kind of pain again and has never remarried. He was 34 when she died and they were planning on more children. My grandmother was not all that old when her husband died a month before I was born and she never considered having another man in her life either. I do hope they will consider your feelings in the benefit. You did lose your flesh and blood. |
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| Magical Mystery Girl | Oct 11 2006, 02:15 PM Post #342 |
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:mellow:
My my... I'm so sorry to hear about all this! Sending you lots of love and positive energy!
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| "What the caterpillar calls the end, the rest of the world calls a butterfly." - Lao Tzu | |
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| LITTLE LAURA | Oct 13 2006, 08:21 AM Post #343 |
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Awwwwww...
I think it probably is a matter of perspective. Sounds like the planners are mostly Tanya's age-group. Which means they see things from her point of view--she is their natural focus. Unfortunately, that means there's a tendency to forget the others. What you need to do is find a way to "remind" them of your pain. But I can relate, in a way, to feeling left out, and/or ignored. When my [very] best friend died, her biological family, who had had nothing to do with her for 20 years, suddenly crawled outta the woodwork; and suddenly everyone involved in the funeral deferred to them. I was quite emphatically, [& rudely], shoved aside. Even tho it was I to whom she'd intrusted her wishes to, it didn't matter. Adding to my pain of losing the best friend I'd ever had, was the feeling of being totally invisable--a non-entity. Grief & shock left me unable to stand up to them. It was, quite simply, AWFUL. I hope you have better success than I did. Hang in there.
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| Jacaranda | Oct 17 2006, 12:44 AM Post #344 |
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Hugs to you Diane and to your husband too. I hope that the situation surrounding the benefit has resolved to be less hurtful to you...I am very sorry that your daughter-in-law's friends don't seem to be acknowledging you or your loss. I respect your need to vent...vent away here, we're all here to listen.
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![]() "If nothing else works, a total pig-headed unwillingness to look facts in the face will see us through." General Melchett, Blackadder Goes Forth | |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 17 2006, 05:56 PM Post #345 |
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I have been searching for a memorial to my son that will last. I could plant a tree somewhere or a park bench in his name but these things don't do much for me. I really feel the need to do something all by myself to make me feel more in control and to honor him. I think I have finally found what I want to do and I will be checking more into it this week. If anyone has any suggestions of things for a memorial, then feel free to let me know what you think. I'm open for ideas still. |
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| LITTLE LAURA | Oct 17 2006, 06:14 PM Post #346 |
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How about a Scholership for University at the High School he graduated from? A Hiking Trail in a nearby Park named after him? Donating some much needed Carpentry tool in his name at the High School Woodworking Shop/Class? Or....a small stained-glass window, in his memory, at the Church? Did he love animals? How about a donation in his name to the local SPCA? I hope these suggestions help you some. I'm thinkin' of ya
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 17 2006, 07:06 PM Post #347 |
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Born To Be Wild
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Hey Laura, the scholarship is what I've been trying to start at the high school. I feel really, really good about it and it's also giving something back to someone. This is something we can keep going for years and years with the right planning. You have some great ideas there, too. Thank you! His church is building a new one and that is a wonderful idea about the window. I'm just not sure it fits into what they're doing so far but it's worth looking into. |
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| LITTLE LAURA | Oct 17 2006, 09:00 PM Post #348 |
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Glad I could help.
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| Jacaranda | Oct 18 2006, 12:06 AM Post #349 |
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Like Laura suggested, a donation to any charitable cause in his name is great, especially if it's one that was in line with his particular interests. Regarding the church, my sis-in-law had part of their church garden dedicated to her father-in-law in his memory. I don't know if anything like this is going on near you, but frequently new buildings and places have bricks in the walls or sidewalks that you can pay to label with someone's name -- maybe if not near you, there's something that would be related to Johnny's interests or pursuits somewhere not too far away that you could pay to engrave a brick or a plaque or something of the sort... |
![]() "If nothing else works, a total pig-headed unwillingness to look facts in the face will see us through." General Melchett, Blackadder Goes Forth | |
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| Queenbee | Oct 20 2006, 12:44 AM Post #350 |
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Moderator
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I have chair that needs to be emptied ~~ Can someone come out and play? Always thinking of you! |
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PEACE and love to my friends, Judy When the Power of Love over comes the Love of Power, the world will know Peace. -Sri Chinmnoy Ghose Till me meet again ~ I Love you Mike! You were one of a kind. | |
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| maccascruff | Oct 20 2006, 12:49 AM Post #351 |
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Sing the Changes
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Diane, a scholarship would be wonderful. My best friend's family donated money for part of a stained glass window at her church. |
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| Dorfliedot | Oct 20 2006, 01:01 AM Post #352 |
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Beatlelicious
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 20 2006, 02:25 AM Post #353 |
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Born To Be Wild
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Thanks (((Judy))) (((Linda))) and (((Dorothy))) Judy, I called the other day but you had the birthday party going. I am ready to play soon! Linda, I checked on the scholarship today and I'm going to do it. Just have to get to the bank and set up for the funds. I feel good about doing that as my memorial to John! I might do something else, too, just not sure. Dorothy, you are so creative and I wish I knew how to do graphics. Yours are so cute. Thanks for saving this thread!!! I am still determined to do those pictures. At least the scanner is back now so I just need to get the girl here long enough to help. (((Judy))) How was the cake? I had some today. YUM!
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| JeffLynnesBeard | Oct 20 2006, 02:31 AM Post #354 |
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It's wonderful that you're going to set up a scholarship in John's name, Diane - you'd be making a positive difference in some many people's lives year after year and John will always be remembered there and his name will be synonymous with an opportunity a person will not have otherwise received.
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| ...and in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make. | |
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| Dorfliedot | Oct 20 2006, 02:31 AM Post #355 |
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Beatlelicious
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Thank You! just as Long you like it I am happy. You deserve lots of hugs!
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| LITTLE LAURA | Oct 21 2006, 06:00 AM Post #356 |
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Sending you yet more hugs, ((((((Diane.))))))
Dorothy, you're light years ahead of me, girl! I'm soooooo jealous!
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| Sandra | Oct 21 2006, 06:30 AM Post #357 |
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Diane - The scholarship is a great idea, it is a really positive way to remember Johnny. You said you might do consider something else too - I wonder if you might think of doing something with the organ donor programme in Johnny's memory. It needn't involve a financial commitment but could perhaps benefit many many people.
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| <a href='http://eapr-1/@0@Sandra@1@Edinburgh%2C%20Scotland@' target='_blank'></a> | |
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| maccascruff | Oct 21 2006, 05:32 PM Post #358 |
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Sing the Changes
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Yes, Johnny is living on in the people who received his organs. I'm glad you are doing the scholarship, Diane. Dorothy, how do you do those animations. I can hardly do smileys.
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 21 2006, 10:54 PM Post #359 |
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Born To Be Wild
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I got a letter today from the organ donor program and it was telling me that the recipients are all doing well!! Such good news, for once. Sandra, I'd like to do a memorial through them but not sure what. The website says they will take a quilt block made for him and I think that is all they have. I need to check into it more, I guess. Thanks for making me feel good about the scholarship everybody
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| maccascruff | Oct 21 2006, 11:45 PM Post #360 |
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Sing the Changes
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I hope between the scholarship and the letter about the organ donor recipients, you have a smile on your face today. |
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| theonlyfab4fan | Oct 22 2006, 01:25 AM Post #361 |
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I AM THE BIGGEST JOHN FAN!
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Diane I`m pretty handy with a needle and thread, is there anything I can do? |
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You say you want to save humanity but it`s people that you just can`t stand John came to me in a dream and this is what he said. "I had a vision of a man on a flaming pie, and he told me that Betsy with a B not Lisa with a L is the biggest fan of mine". John trumps 'the boss' ! I WAS ROBBED BY THAT DEVIL WOMAN | |
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| billyshears | Oct 22 2006, 01:38 AM Post #362 |
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I dedicate my 900th post to you, Diane. |
| I am James, and this is my signature. | |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 23 2006, 10:04 PM Post #363 |
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Born To Be Wild
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Thank you, Jim. And it's nice to have another fellow "neighbor" here
OK, I finally got my pictures scanned so I'm going to work on that a bit and bore you all! |
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| maccascruff | Oct 23 2006, 10:05 PM Post #364 |
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Sing the Changes
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You will not be boring us, Diane, with the pictures. I look forward to seeing them. |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 23 2006, 10:36 PM Post #365 |
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Born To Be Wild
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Some of Johnny's baby pictures. He weighed a whopping 10lbs 15 oz. when born and was 24 inches long! Newborn ![]() 9 months ![]() 1 year old ![]() I wish I could go back to the days when these pictures were taken. Cherish those babies everyone. OK, I'll do some others later. |
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| LITTLE LAURA | Oct 23 2006, 11:50 PM Post #366 |
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Ooooh how ADORABLE ! The middle one just makes me wanna scoop him right up! I hope they give you some comfort. |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 24 2006, 07:25 PM Post #367 |
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Born To Be Wild
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Those are some of my favorite baby pictures of him. Yes, they bring some wonderful memories. Hard to believe so much time has passed. |
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| jayjay | Oct 24 2006, 08:19 PM Post #368 |
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Still thinking of you Diane.... Gorgeous pictures; and I agree with Laura... That middle one is so adorable.
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| vlivantje | Oct 24 2006, 08:35 PM Post #369 |
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MaccasGirl...I think I've conveyed my condoleances already on this thread....but reading again how sudden your son's death was, I just want to say now I completely understand what you feel...
Last week, I lost my 18 year old niece (and good friend) to a very stupid accident with her bike. She fell and hit her head and had a brain trauma. She was brain dead immediately, and never woke up again. She died three days after the accident. Her funeral was last weekend.... I'm not sure I'll ever get over it. I loved her a lot.
I understand the pain and helplessness you're going through....let me just say again how sorry I am for your son. |
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| Sandra | Oct 24 2006, 09:29 PM Post #370 |
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vlivantje - I am so very sorry for the loss of your niece. My condolences at this sad time
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 24 2006, 09:30 PM Post #371 |
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Oh, I am so sorry to hear that about your niece, Eve. So young and so senseless, both of their deaths. Life can be so unfair and things like this make us realize how we are not in control of our life. It's in the hands of a much higher power. You may never get over her death but you learn to make it through the days. I always think about Johnny, but I don't always cry. It is a very difficult thing to deal with but talking about it does help and I recommend that to you. Talk to people about her. Take care, and again, I am very sorry
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| Sandra | Oct 24 2006, 09:35 PM Post #372 |
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Diane - The pictures of Johnny as a baby are just adorable a lovely smile, the middle one especially just makes you want to reach out to him.
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| Rose | Oct 24 2006, 09:58 PM Post #373 |
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Well, here's another clue for you all, the Walrus was Paul...
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Diane- I loved seeing pictures of your Johnny...such a precious boy! I'm glad it helps you to share his adorable pictures with us. Vlivantje- I'm am SO sorry for the loss of your wonderful neice. Life isn't fair...just know that you will be in my thoughts and prayers. |
![]() "I'm in awe of McCartney. He's about the only one that I am in awe of. He can do it all. And he's never let up... He's just so damn effortless." ~ Bob Dylan | |
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| billyshears | Oct 25 2006, 01:01 AM Post #374 |
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Evelien, I'm so sad! |
| I am James, and this is my signature. | |
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| Jacaranda | Oct 25 2006, 02:30 AM Post #375 |
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Diane, Thanks so much for sharing those cute photos of Johnny with us. I especially love the one with the little bow tie, I just want to pinch those little cheeks! It is sweet that you want to share the memories with us. I hope you are getting some regular sleep and food nowadays.... vlivantje, I am very sorry for your loss. It is terrible, so sudden, senseless and tragic. I have four nieces so I understand how precious they are. |
![]() "If nothing else works, a total pig-headed unwillingness to look facts in the face will see us through." General Melchett, Blackadder Goes Forth | |
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| bluemeanie | Oct 25 2006, 02:36 AM Post #376 |
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is now a happily married woman x
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Diane - them pictures of Johnny are adoreable
such a lovely baby - can't wait to see the others you have got to show.vlivantje - so sorry to hear about your neice so so young
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Jayne x is loving life and is so happy xxx | |
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| LITTLE LAURA | Oct 26 2006, 04:36 AM Post #377 |
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I am soooo sorry, vlivantje. What awful news. How are her parents holding up?Diane, you are SO strong. I don't know how you do it. Like I said before, when my Nephew fell off a 40ft. cliff at age 16, I was a BASKETCASE---even when it was clear he was gonna make it. [My older Bro. has always said I feel things too intensely for my own good.]. |
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| Emilee | Oct 26 2006, 04:59 AM Post #378 |
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Diane, your amazing. |
| I wished I could save her in some sort of time machine. | |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 26 2006, 04:22 PM Post #379 |
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Born To Be Wild
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Don't think I'm amazing. I've been like garbage lately
Some more pictures now~~~ Johnny, Katie, Jennifer in 1982. ![]() He loved Nana's soup with okra! ![]() Carrying Andrew on his back which he did most of his life. Johnny was an awesome big brother to Andrew. ![]() Thanks for letting me show them. Only kid missing in the pictures is Alyssa. I'll have to see about her pictures.
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| vlivantje | Oct 26 2006, 04:44 PM Post #380 |
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Thanks for your wishes....no need to say, little Laura, that her parents were devastated by the news, as was the whole family.
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| Sandra | Oct 26 2006, 05:28 PM Post #381 |
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Lovely photos of your children when they were little Diane.
It is very wild and windy here today so the middle picture with Johnny has just got me wishing for a bowl of soup, the problem is I don't have any made. Och well, it'll have to wait until tomorrow now. It's nice to see the photos look forward to seeing some more when they are ready. Take care Diane.
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| Queenbee | Oct 26 2006, 10:22 PM Post #382 |
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Moderator
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((((Diane))) Such cute pictures. Too bad there wasn't some way you could download the DVD you had made, so precious. Hope your feeling better. |
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PEACE and love to my friends, Judy When the Power of Love over comes the Love of Power, the world will know Peace. -Sri Chinmnoy Ghose Till me meet again ~ I Love you Mike! You were one of a kind. | |
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| Big Beatle Fan | Oct 26 2006, 11:04 PM Post #383 |
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Great photos. Almost makes it hard not to tear up.
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| Every night I just wanna go out. Get out of my head. Every day I don't wanna get up. Get out of my bed.<a href='http://eapr-1/@0@Bradley@1@Georgia@' target='_blank'></a> | |
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| Hound Dog | Oct 26 2006, 11:50 PM Post #384 |
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Unregistered
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Im so sorry
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| Merry | Oct 27 2006, 12:07 AM Post #385 |
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Your children were beatiful, (((Diane))), and John was an adorable little boy. Thank you for sharing these pictures with us, it does make me sad too, but your son was a wonderful person, and it's good that you remember him as the good person he was. Merry |
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| BeatleBarb | Oct 27 2006, 03:36 AM Post #386 |
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Such sweet pictures, Diane. Thanks for sharing. Take care, dear. |
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| maccascruff | Oct 27 2006, 01:46 PM Post #387 |
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Sing the Changes
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I am enjoying the pictures of Johnny and your children, Diane. You're stronger than I was when my friend died. I couldn't look at pictures this soon. vlivantje, I am sorry for the loss of your niece. |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 27 2006, 02:01 PM Post #388 |
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Born To Be Wild
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Thanks everybody. I'm a proud Mom and that is all I really wanted in my life. They are my pride and joy. My pictures make me long for the old days but they give me peace. Sometimes I can't look at the pictures, Linda, it's just too much. I really start to cry when I watch the DVD of pictures and music REALLY gets me going. I haven't been able to turn on music at all. I have a picture of the 3 guys framed and my husband keeps it by his bedside on the table so he can look at it when he goes to sleep and wakes up. It breaks my heart. This morning he said "hi Johnny" when he looked at it.
It is really hard to find any meaning in life anymore since Johnny died. We all feel like we're just going through the motions but try to think of what he would want us to do and that is to go on. It is just unbelievable how much we all need him in our lives and we took for granted that he would always be here. We are all so lost now. |
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| audrey | Oct 27 2006, 05:33 PM Post #389 |
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Ah Diane, what beautiful pictures and what a huge baby 10 pounds and 24 inches, my lord that is a big boy. just wanted to say that i still think about you and johnny daily and am glad to see some of the lovely photos that you have and can share with us. dont think we are not enjoying each and every one of them i also love the okra soup one, great composure and excellent shot audrey |
| a pretty nurse is selling poppies from a tray | |
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| BikerLikeAnIcon | Oct 27 2006, 06:19 PM Post #390 |
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Oh Diane....I love the photos. You are in my thoughts always |
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| Rose | Oct 27 2006, 06:26 PM Post #391 |
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Well, here's another clue for you all, the Walrus was Paul...
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Diane, I still think about you everyday...and everyday I hope you find some peace. God bless you! |
![]() "I'm in awe of McCartney. He's about the only one that I am in awe of. He can do it all. And he's never let up... He's just so damn effortless." ~ Bob Dylan | |
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| maccascruff | Oct 28 2006, 12:30 AM Post #392 |
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Sing the Changes
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We're still thinking about you, Diane, and sending lots of group hugs your way. |
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| jayjay | Oct 28 2006, 12:49 AM Post #393 |
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she's absolutely right...
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| Jacaranda | Oct 28 2006, 01:16 AM Post #394 |
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Diane: Thanks for sharing the photos of your kids when they were little. They were lovely.
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![]() "If nothing else works, a total pig-headed unwillingness to look facts in the face will see us through." General Melchett, Blackadder Goes Forth | |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 29 2006, 09:35 PM Post #395 |
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Born To Be Wild
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Here's the article from the newspaper about Johnny. Makes me cry cause I'm proud of him.
http://www.daily-chronicle.com/articles/20...th/health01.txt |
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| pood for paul | Oct 30 2006, 12:49 AM Post #396 |
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You should be proud of him.... What a touching article. |
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"Hey Jude, don't make it bad... Take a sad song, and make it better..." | |
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| MarthamyDear | Oct 30 2006, 01:00 AM Post #397 |
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What an amazing article! You should be immensely proud of him.........he also sounded like an old soul ...............
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| And it really doesn't matter if I'm wrong, I'm right.......Where I belong I'm right..........Where I belong. | |
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| MaccasGirl | Oct 31 2006, 01:08 PM Post #398 |
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Born To Be Wild
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Thanks, ladies. I am very proud in a sad sort of way. |
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And in the end...The love you take..Is equal to the love you make. | |
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| JeffLynnesBeard | Oct 31 2006, 10:23 PM Post #399 |
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Administrator & Moderator
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That was a very touching article indeed, Diane - it must be comforting to know that Johnny lives on by saving so many people's lives as an organ donor. |
| ...and in the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make. | |
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| maccascruff | Nov 1 2006, 01:47 AM Post #400 |
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Sing the Changes
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The article made me cry. Diane, you have to remember what a wonderful thing it was for all of you to donate Johnny's organs and save the lives of other people. At least those families are not in your pain. |
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I always think of you and your family
you gave birth to Johnny, watched him grow up through his childhood to his independance from you and overseen him developing into adult life.




You deserve lots of hugs!







8:35 AM Jul 11