Happy Birthday, Kev
Honoring Kev: A Birthday Reflection
Kevin’s sister Molly here. Today is Kev’s birthday—the first without him. It’s been eight months since he left us, and it has been a journey, to say the least. We’re all learning to navigate our world without him, and as many of you know, the journey of grief is not linear. As our good friend turned family, Lori Larson-Heller says, grief doesn’t come with GPS or decent rest stops. But we march on, just as he wanted us to.
Family Update:
While we’re not all together today, I know he is smiling down, happy with how we’re spending his day. Tess and her mom just arrived in Amsterdam to embark on a river cruise of the European Christmas markets. Our parents are soaking in the sun in Palm Desert, CA, escaping the increasing chill of Minnesota. Back at home, his sisters’ houses are filled with playful banter that comes with a Vikings-Packers game—especially since two of his three brothers-in-law are, sadly, Packers fans. SKOL!
Honoring His Legacy:
His courageous battle against ALS inspires us to keep throwing punches. We had a successful Ales for ALS event in September, followed by ALS TDI’s annual White Coat Affair in Boston. It was an honor to see his legacy, “The Kevinator”, at the lab, where his fight to find a cure lives on every single day. We will never stop fighting for him…..
Gratitude:
A year ago, Kev wrote his final blog post, With Gratitude, in which he said, “Words cannot describe how grateful I am for all the love and support this community has provided to me and my family.” This community—Kev’s army—continues to surround us with such love, and we are incredibly thankful. And while my heart stays heavy without him, I, too, am grateful. Grateful for the time we had with him, the memories we created, and grateful for all the love he gave. Today, as we celebrate Kevin, we are reminded that life is a gift- so don’t miss today.
All donations made to GeraghtyFightsALS on his birthday will go to ALS TDI in his name. Bringing us one step closer to a world where ALS is no longer a life sentence.
Let’s keep “throwin’ punches” at ALS—together.
We share this video with you in celebration of Kevin and the beautiful life he lived. Happy Birthday Kev, we love you!
With love & gratitude,
Molly
“I am lonesome for all the conversations we never had.”