I feel so fortunate to have met Bernadette, Mark, and Jordan.
We met in Orlando on a retreat for young families with a parent battling a terminal illness. I only spent three total days with her in person (but am grateful that we always kept in touch after). Of course, it didn’t take three full days for anyone to recognize the extraordinary person she was— her light shine so brightly that anyone who met her must have loved her immediately.
I was privileged to be the volunteer assigned to the Gersh family, and so that meant I schlepped water and other things around Universal Studios and did my best to make sure that they had a good time. They didn’t really need me, as Bernadette had such a wonderful spirit that she would be happy anywhere. That was readily apparent and such a lovely part of her.
What a smile! When you saw Bernadette smile, you knew that it came from a place within her that was truly content and always experienced such great love. Love really is the biggest word I think about when I think about Bernadette. She loved Mark and Jordan so much, And what a wonderful thing that she knew how much they loved her back. I hope that is something that the two of you will always carry with you and be comforted by. Right now it’s so indescribably hard because when we love well, we grieve so much more, but I want you to know that you loved her so deeply, and she loved you so deeply. And, what a beautiful and wonderful thing that she recognized how deep your bonds ran and the gift of love that the three of you gave so extravagantly. The special relationship of your family was something I noticed not only when I met you, but in phone conversations over the years when she talked about you both.
Over those few days, we shared so many stories about our lives. We talked about places we had traveled, and places we wanted to go. She told me about her career, and her work, and helping new moms who are struggling with breast-feeding. Through all of the stories, I felt like I got to know a little bit of Bernadette. And I was so in awe, not only of her wide-ranging interests, but also of the clear compassion that she showed in all of her work and truly in every moment of her life. Anyone who crossed paths with Bernadette was lucky.
I enjoyed reading others’ notes and seeing that like me, they were equally touched. Mark and Jordan, there are no words any of us can say to ease your pain, but I hope you know we all care so much.