Tracey

After a busy day that included lunch with Dad (Russ) and Jan and a trip with a carload of kids up to Green Bay some six weeks ago, my sister wrapped up her day with a visit to her friend's home to check on that family's pets. As she stepped up to the front door with her 10-year-old son, Max, she had a heart attack, which most likely triggered a stroke. Unfortunately, she fell backwards off the steps, hitting her head.

"Family" is an amazing concept and I am proud to be a small part of ours. The way parents, step-parent, siblings, in-laws, aunts, uncles, cousins, step-siblings, nephews and nieces all came together in support during this tough time was wonderful. Tracey spent weeks at St. Luke's Hospital in the Cardiac ICU before being moved to the care facility that she's at now. During that time, a lot of decisions had to be made and a lot of action taken. So many helped, but special kudos go to Jason and Amy, who- in part simply because they live within minutes of Tracey's home- had to really step up. I feel helpless living so far away, but there is comfort in knowing how strong and responsible Jason, Amy and the rest of our large extended family has been during this family crisis.

That's what "family" is for...