Death With Dignity

The state of Oregon has a law that if you have a terminal illness you can chose to die before the illness takes you.  One of my college classmates wrote an essay on it in the spring and I never thought anyone I know would be using the law.  When I was in high school I became friends with a girl named Jennifer Brookhouse and I really liked her parents, especially her dad.  They didn't stay in Lovell long, but I have written Christmas cards to them over the years and since her parents divorced shortly after leaving Wyoming, I have kept in contact with her dad through emails and Christmas cards.  He always keeps me updated on all the family members.  I was sad to get a message from Jennifer saying her father's health had gotten really bad and he had decided to die with dignity the day after his 72nd birthday.   I felt so bad for Jennifer and her family and It was hard knowing he would be gone.  I sent him a few texts to thank him for his friendship and tell him good luck on the other side.  He sent me a response the morning of his death and I want to always remember it, so I'm posting it on my blog.

Thanks for your beautiful notes, Michelle and I wish you always the very best.  Enjoyed the pictures and progress reports on the family and I'd say you guys have been very successful parents.  Bye for now.  Love Mike.