The past few days have been filled with emotion, tears and reality. There was a tremendous turn-out at Ryan's gathering, and his funeral was even larger. I had to wonder if they let school out for Ryan's funeral, as there were dozens and dozens of his classmates there. Ryan's family is not alone in the grieving process, as many of his friends and schoolmates are hurting too. We met Rock - the author of one of the special comments on this blog. It was great to see all of the wonderful friends that Ryan had. He touched so many lives for good!
Two of Ryan's angels in scrubs came to his funeral. This is Andrea and Liz - two of his nurses from Primary Children's Medical Center. It was special to see these new friends.
The cultural hall at the Stake House was decorated with hundreds of these dots. One of Ryan's friends came up with this idea. They sold dots at the school for $1.00 apiece, and then wrote a sentiment to Ryan on them. It was nice to read these messages from his friends.
The walls on each end of the cultural hall were covered with these dots. One person told me that this was the nicest gathering they had ever attended. They said there was a special, bright feeling there. I would have to agree. Many people helped put together tables with memories of Ryan. And yes, there was a special, sacred feeling at his gathering and funeral.
Ryan's funeral was beautiful. The people closest to him, who knew him best, spoke. Many memories and special experiences were shared. Even though funerals are not much fun to attend, this one was special - as special as the young man we were there to honor and remember.
Love,
Grandma Jeri
