First, to Shelly, Emily, Kyle, and all those closest to Craig:  Of course, I can't say that I know just how you feel; times like this are so emotional and intimate that each of us surely must experience something uniquely personal.  But those of us who have lived through this struggle with someone we loved know how it felt -- to us -- and we can truly empathize with you.  Our hearts go out to you, more than you can ever know. 

I first met Craig as one of my kid brother's friends.  Most of them were a bit below my radar, since I moved out of the nest pretty early, but a few of them stood out:  Randy was too extroverted to be ignored, of course; and the Zmicks -- well, they were the band of brothers; and Tsuch -- well, it's obvious, isn't it?...right, he was shortish;  and then there was Craig ... Craig was simply too nice and too friendly to be forgotten; we all liked him. (I can still remember Craig standing in our kitchen, cracking really sappy jokes...we all knew that he fit right in.  Mom, Dad, big sisters, little brother....we all enjoyed Craig's company.)  When my brother Bill died in 2002 after a bitter struggle with melanoma, Craig flew to Michigan to attend his memorial service -- a gesture that meant a great deal to our family.  (Thank you, Craig...we still appreciate your thoughtfulness.)  The photo posted here a few days ago of the "boys of summer" (Bill is on the left, Craig on the right), was displayed at Bill's memorial service; Craig probably got a chuckle out of how young and virile they all looked.  I focus now on how healthy they appeared. 

Shelly, Craig, Emily, and Kyle,  I know that everyone who reads this blog -- whether they are able to write or instead find themselves unwillingly inarticulate, not knowing how to express all that they are feeling -- is standing shoulder to shoulder, heart to heart with you. I am so impressed with the strength, grace, and devotion displayed by all of you.  My thoughts are with you, along with my strongest hopes that Craig's pain can be alleviated. 

With wishes for comfort, love, and peace,
Lisa Hughes Blanchard