As many of you know, my brother Ken, sister Hallie and I bought a bench at Horseshoe Lake Park in Shaker Heights. We did it for a few reasons. Jacob’s legacy was in how he lived not about his death. We needed a spot to remember and reflect that wasn’t his grave site. Horseshoe Lake always gave Jacob peace. During his recovery, Jacob walked the paths. Sometimes he would even run a bit. Jacob’s first cross country meets were held at Horseshow Lake. He won the first 4 races of his 8th grade season until Mark Shannon (Solon/Alabama runner, former hockey teammate) smoked him. We always had fun laughing about how Mark was not only a great goalie but a kickass runner to boot.
This past Saturday, we dedicated his bench. I didn’t send out any elaborate invites. This wasn’t a fund raiser for the foundation. It was just an opportunity to gather, laugh, cry and fellowship. We were overwhelmed by the people who showed up. My best guess was over 100 people. A mate from high school, Matt Fader came. He has been in Sweden for a lifetime and was visiting family. He said he just felt he needed to be there. There’s so much power in be present. My friends Molly and Bill Brennan came up from Columbus. Bill and I coached our kids in hockey together for years. I cherish those times.
We had family from Shaker, Bratenahl, Twinsburg and all over with us or watching online. We even were able to take a photo as a group with the help of my nephew who scaled a tree in seconds. Thanks Mac! The pictures are classic and should someday go on a t-shirt! Our dear, sweet Terri Wimms brought us bracelets, all personalized with messages of hope. We had flowers from Bootros, along with lovely words. Jacob’s friend Dobo, my sister Hallie, my mother, aforementioned Bootros, and I spoke. Well, I pretty much sobbed.
We had a special visit from Jacob’s first ICU nurse, Melissa. He was in ICU at least twice. The first time he had pancreatitis and a blood clot that rendered him in agony with high heart rate for days. This was pre-Covid but ICU still has visitation rules. Her calming demeanor gave us all solace that he would be ok. I remember that first sip of Gatorade he drank after nearly two weeks without food or drink. His color came back almost immediately. The nurses, PCA’s and other staff at CCF will always be special to us. We love y’all!
This isn’t a typical blog from me. There isn’t some grandiose message or existential search for the meaning of life. We feel your love. We feel his presence. From our hearts to yours, thanks!
Naomi, Ana and Brandt (and Phoebe)
