Dear Norma,

I hope you (as well as Frankie and the rest of your family) know deep in your hearts that it is not only possible, it is absolutely OK to rejoice that one was spared, even while you grieve that one was lost. The relief that Frankie lives is a separate emotion from grief of the tragic loss of Kaelan. Frankie did not intend to put himself in danger, nor did Kaelan. This was an awful accident, but an accident, nonetheless. None of the boys would have gone into the water initially, or to rescue one another, if they had thought there was serious risk that any of them would be injured or would die.

My heart aches for all of you. I have a 15 year old son that I realize could be Frankie or Kaelan.

May all who love all of these children know they are surrounded by light and love, and find some measure of comfort in the midst of profound sorrow.

Janie