from:Barbara

Dear Ann and Rud,

Thank you Rud for taking time to talk this morning. You and Ann have been on my mind for days. My heart aches for you both and for the girls too. JT's death was such an unexpected tragedy yet never a way to really prepare for the loss of your child, brother and friend or your life thereafter.

Rud all day I have thought about your comment when you said JT's life mattered. It seems like that phrase needs to be on a neon sign for the world to see because it did matter. He taught the entire disability world that life could have REAL meaning and normalcy no matter what. He allowed his life to be an open book so we all could benefit from what he learned and experienced and from what he knew about himself. He also allowed you Rud and Ann to be the voice so that we were able to learn from all three of you. He was brave and you all have been tenacious, dedicated and committed to making " better" possible. Yes, JT your life mattered.

This journey, this walk forward I am sure will be a difficult one. Call on us, your friends to help you when you need help. For God's sake you have held us all up and supported us when we have needed your support. Call if you need me, even if you don't think you do.

Have a safe and wonderful trip to Spain and let's get together for food and drinks when you get home. I will come to Lawrence. I am so sorry I missed celebrating JT's life with you. I was out of town when he passed away. We can have another celebration after you get back.

I love you both and I hope you feel my arms around you.

Barb