As I writer and lover of language, I believe that words are powerful, but never in my life have words seemed so inadequate. I wish that I could better convey my emotions. Maybe it’s just too raw right now.
On February 2nd, my dear brother-in-law succumbed to his battle with Cystic Fibrosis and passed peacefully at 10:15 pm. He was 25. My husband and I were able to fly home to be with Ben and our family members in his final hours. The funeral will take place tomorrow.
I’ll be using this time to be with family and don’t plan on blogging much, if at all. You’ve been so kind as I’ve shared Ben’s ups and downs, so it was important to me to tell you the news of his death.
If you feel compelled to do something in Ben’s honor, I ask that you consider making a donation to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Oh no!
I’m so sorry for your loss! You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers! Let me know if you need anything or just need to talk. You can pm me easily on Facebook if needed….lots of hugs!!!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Pearls-Diamonds-and-everything-else/484312974926061?fref=ts
Oh, Amy! I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending lots of love to you and your family!
Oh Amy, I am so sorry for your loss. Even though I only “knew” Ben through your blog, he was an inspiring young man and one that I know will be dearly missed. I am indescribably glad that you and Stephen were able to make it home in time to say goodbye. I will be praying for you, Stephen, and your family as you go through this time together.
I’m sorry for you loss, Amy. At least he is in a better place with no suffering now.
I’m so sorry. Your family is in my thoughts.
Well Amy, pretty sure there’s nothing more to say than 1) that completely SUCKS and 2) I’m here for you! Thoughts, prayers, hugs, smiles, etc.
Oh Amy, I’m so sorry for your and Stephen’s loss. Please know that I am praying for you and your family during this difficult time.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Many, many hugs.
I’m so sorry to hear this Amy. Glad you were able to be with Ben during his last moments. I will be keeping you and your family in my prayers.
I’m so sorry for your loss Amy. My thoughts are with you and your family right now.
Wow, our hearts hurt for your loss! Thank you for sharing Ben’s story with us. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you & Stephen and the entire family!
Amy, I am so, so, so sorry to hear this news. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Please take good care of yourself during this very difficult time. Big hugs!!!
So sad that Ben’s time here was cut short, but glad you and Stephen got to make it home before his passing. Even though i never met him, through visiting with you and reading your blogs, I was able to see what a wonderful young man he was. Hugs and prayers to you, Stephen, and the rest of the family. I have been thinking of you guys unceasingly for the last several days. Know that you are in our hearts at this time….
Oh Amy, I’m so sorry for your family’s loss. Prayers are with you all.
Oh Amy, I’m so sorry for you and your family. Losing someone is always hard, but when it’s someone so young, it’s almost unbearable. I’ll keep y’all in my prayers…
So sorry for your loss Amy
Keeping you and your family thoughts and prayers
*hugs*
Amy, I am so so sorry for your family’s loss. You and your family are in my thoughts.
I’m really sorry to hear that Amy. Hugs and peace to you and your family.
Amy I am so sorry for your loss. I have experienced the loss of two people very close to me in the last 4 months. I know something of how you feel. My prayers are with you and your family.
Thinking and praying for you.
I am very sorry for your loss. Glad that you were able to spent the last hours together.
Oh Amy, I just now saw this. My condolences to you, Stephen, and family. I hope you can find some peace with your family at this time.
Oh man. You guys are in my thoughts. There’s nothing anyone can say to make this better- the only thing that will help is time and all the memories.
Amy, I was so sorry to see this post and the ones on facebook. You and your family have been in my thoughts and prayers. I know there is nothing to say to make this easier, but I want you know that I’m thinking of you all and if you need anything at all please let me know.
I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you and your family
Amy, I’m sorry to hear of your loss.
I am so sorry for your loss!
Sorry to hear that Amy
Thinking of you and your fam.
Hope you guys are doing ok. My thoughts are with you. I miss your posts but understand the need for a break and to spend time with family. We are here for you when you come back!