It was with a heavy heart and much sorrow that I read Ann’s email that Jim had passed. Certainly the 7+ years and months of Jim’s journey have been torturous for Jim, for Ann and for Jim’s family. As torturous as that time was, it is important to remember that Jim had a lot of very good years. My recollection is that Jim always saw the glass as half full, always had a positive, upbeat attitude. My wife, Pat, said that as a Math teacher, Jim was the best of the best. He was surrounded by a loving, caring family that I’m sure brought him much happiness. During the past years, Jim was an inspiration to us. Our trials and tribulations pale compared to his. But, he set the gold standard, the benchmark for determination, perseverance and dogged desire to overcome his illness. He taught us a lot about faith in God. It’s human to ask, why Jim, why Ann, why Jim’s family ? There’s no answer that can dull the pain. Jesus Christ had the same question in his final hours and Christ basically got the answer that it was God’s will. Along every step of Jim’s journey was Jim’s lifepartner, Ann. I’m sure Ann felt all the trauma Jim was experiencing but, she remain steadfast in her beliefs and faith. Thank you Ann for taking the time and making the effort to keep all of us informed of Jim. We can see the tears on your messages. Jim battled for such a long time and every day, he got back up off the canvas. As I mentioned, he truly was an inspiration. He will be remembered. There’s not a dry eye anywhere for those of us who knew Jim.
Mark Laubenstein
Philadelphia