See you again

Wow.... heaven got a really cool guy yesterday!
Michael Brandt was diagnosed with ALS in April of 2011 and today he is spending his day disease free.  Michael spent the last 2 years enjoying life and living life to the fullest.  He spent more time with his family and pursuing what really mattered in life......his purpose.

Michaels family and friends have been a constant support through these last very difficult weeks.  I can't imagine how difficult it was to watch this terrible disease take it's toll.
But what  has stuck with me the most was Michael.  Here was a man who spent hours upon hours in a body that would not move, that slowly began to fail him and in the end completely shut down.  His mind was still sharp, his wit and humor still evident... like the radiant smile and eyebrow raise I received in the hospital when Barb shouted "Michael your girlfriend is here to visit"  And not once did I hear him say why me?  He embraced his situation with honor and dignity, he was an advocate for others battling ALS.  He was and is and will always be....... an inspiration to many many people.

Over the summer I was invited to photograph a special family reunion out at their lake home.  When I started photographing I could tell Michael was having a hard time.  His smile was forced, his face a bit strained.  Barb said he was having a hard time, really realizing this would be the last time they would all be together.  As the day went on and a few lighthearted jokes were made and Michael began to relax, and this smile started to shine. To this day this is my most favorite picture I took in 2013........ What an amazing smile Michael

Barb and Michael Brandt

My sadness is not for Michael, I know where Michael is....... standing on the streets of heaven.  My guess is he has already taken on some amazing leadership role.   My sadness is for those who are left behind.  It can feel like such an empty hole when someone so important leaves your life.  It can feel overwhelming when you want to share a big event and that person is not there to share it.  It can be painful to be alone with your thoughts.  

Loss takes a while to heal from, and does a person ever really heal from it?  I don't think a person does, I believe we experience the joy and sorrow to show us how valuable we are to each other, to put away the excess and experience what gift each person has to give to each other.  Michael gave me the gift to endure.  I will miss you sitting in my corner Michael, you always new the right time to let me know just how special we all are....... I will see you again someday!

If you would like to help find a cure for this terrible disease please help by donating to: ALS foundation