On November 22, 2013 my cousin, Adrian Bird died. She was shot in the back of her head by an ex-boyfriend who had no responsibility using let alone having a gun. He was not in a healthy state of mind. Adrian was a fun, good person who made horrible choices when it came to boyfriends.
On November 24, 2019 my cousin, Connor Lake died. He died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. Connor was a friendly, self-less, and sweet man who struggled with depression.
On December 19, 2019 my cousin, Curtis Dodge died. He was at a shooting range with his brother and father - something he had done several times, closely monitored by his dad, and enjoyed. He was autistic but high-functioning. He was full of energy and enthusiasm but recognized that he was different from other people. Shooting was something that he felt that he was good at. But that day he was shooting poorly and in a flash of frustration he turned the gun on himself. He acted too quickly for my uncle to even react. After a few days in the hospital it became apparent that the damage to his brain was extensive and my aunt and uncle decided to transfer him to hospice where he could peacefully die.
We were still living in Oregon when Adrian died and I was able to be with my family for the funeral and for the hearing and sentencing of the man who shot her.
When Connor died I was in Ohio and unable to be with my family. I really wish I could have been in Oregon and was very homesick.
I am grateful that I was able to be in Oregon for Curtis. I am grateful that I was able to visit him in the hospital, to hug my aunt and uncle, to cry with my family, and that I'll be able to attend the funeral next week. It helps, me at least, process what has happened. I will miss my cousins. I know that Curtis didn't intend to kill himself. I know that because of the plan of salvation I will be able to be with my cousins again.
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