An open letter to my 10 siblings: “The most valuable thing that our parents left us is each other.”

How true! And in light of recent medical setbacks among us, I am personally so proud that we are such a close, loving family. We’ve always faced family tragedy together, and we always, somehow, lighten our heavy hearts with laughter when all is said and done.

Our brother, child #1, will be 82 and child #11 will be a mere 64 years, both in Nov. of this year. The remaining nine of us fall somewhere in between this 18 year range. We are all at an age when life is becoming more precious, and we tend to reflect more on the past as we prepare for our futures.

Since February of this year, we have learned that #7 has lung cancer and we do not yet know the full prognosis, #5 has had a stroke, and thankfully has had successful surgery and expects full recovery, and, as of this writing, #4 is facing brain surgery at the end of this month for removal of a benign cyst, and we certainly will be praying for her full recovery. #3 has had a couple of heat attacks in the recent past. Serious stuff!

But I have no doubt, that in the coming weeks, months, and years, that somehow there will be laughter borne from these recent, and future, medical emergencies. That’s how we cope. That’s the bond that holds us together, ultimately. I never laugh more than when I am with you guys!

Love and laughter — from Tubby, #9

David Liscum

Formerly of Morley