Erin Denk

One year without you— I don’t know how that is possible. It feels like it was yesterday, and a lifetime ago. There are so many things I want to say, but the most important is how much I miss you. I had no idea that this amount of pain was possible. The big moments are hard, but it is all of the little ones in between— our morning tea, our nightly walks, our evening shows, our stupid jokes, that look across the room when the kids do or say something funny.

The kids are amazing as always. I know how proud of their resilience you are. I am strengthened by it each day. B rocked his soccer season and GBN got 3rd in state. He’s also going to be a peer group leader next year. Sarah ran a half marathon and is knocking nursing school out of the park. And Lily is graduating in a few weeks and coming home— not that there was any doubt 😉. She just got a teaching job yesterday! They continue to be strong, smart, funny, and kind. My heart breaks daily for all that you are missing, but I know you are smiling down on us. Keep sending us the cardinals, foxes, and everything in between.

To our friends and family who have been in the trenches with the kids and I, thank you. I will be forever grateful. And to my brother Brian and sister-in-law Kim, there are no words sufficient enough. G loved you immensely, and you have carried us when I didn’t think I could keep going. We are beyond lucky to have you.

G, I know what we had was so special and I know not everyone gets that. You are, and will always be my person. Thank you for loving me in ways I didn’t even realize. One year without you, but one year closer to you. ❤️💔🪽