Appreciate Those You Love Before They Are Gone!
As our lives get busier and busier, sometimes we forget the important things in life. We get older and so do our loved ones. I recently lost an uncle whom I loved dearly. He was a creative, funny, daring, fun-filled individual who always had a good joke! He was my mother’s brother, Vito.
My Uncle Vito had been through so much in his life and always had a great sense of humor and a joy for life. He would pick up and travel whenever he could. He loved going to Florida. He would drive down there all in one shot from New York (a 21-hour trip easily), without stopping for the night. He loved it! He was fortunate that his wife would pick up and go with him on a whim. They both retired and decided to move to Florida. I had opportunities to go down and visit them when I could. I live in Virginia and had a full-time job. I tried to see him at least once or twice a year. I, unfortunately, didn’t get to see him as much as I did when I was a kid growing up in New York.
This past year I got to spend a week in Florida with him and my mother’s other siblings. It was such a wonderful experience for me to hang out with my family. Little did I know that my Uncle Vito would get cancer and be gone within the year. I hadn’t seen him since that time and I only talked to him once or twice. I am so grateful that I did have that time with him in Florida when he was doing OK. We spent time together and enjoyed the moments. My only regret was I didn’t call him more often. I know he knew that I loved him and we had a bond. Sometimes you just think that they will be here forever, then they are gone! The lesson I learned is to keep in contact with your loved ones and let them know how you feel. You never know if that will be the last time!
Rest in peace Uncle V! I love you!
By Marie Giammarco
Marie Giammarco is a mid generation Boomer who came of age in suburban New York, 50 miles north of the city. A child whose mom and grandparents were Italian immigrants, her close knit family defined her growing up years. The product of an environment that revolved around food, health, and physical activity, she saw many elderly people age before their time because they lacked these things. She has a passion to help Boomers and Seniors to be active and live a longer, more healthy life.