It’s been a tough couple of weeks for our family.
We’ve been trying to process Brett’s sudden passing while sorting through everything he left behind. In between that, we’ve been working to plan a celebration of life worthy of a friend we loved so deeply — all while juggling an endless string of pre-op medical appointments.
Normally, we’re the kind of people who do everything ourselves. But this has been… overwhelming. And for the first time I can remember, when people asked if they could help — we said yes.
Friends and neighbors brought us dinner. They took us out to give us a break. They handled all the drinks for the celebration of life. They showed up to clean out Brett’s apartment. They set up and broke down after the party. We couldn’t have done it all without them.
We are so blessed to have so many amazing people in our lives — people willing to jump in when we needed it most. They even organized a care calendar to make sure nothing slipped through the cracks, brought thoughtful gifts, flowers, post-op garments — and a lot of love.
It’s been a long few weeks. But now it’s time: surgery is tomorrow. And I’ve made two vows to myself:
- Embrace the help.
- Unplug.
The world feels like it’s on fire right now. We’re on the brink of war at home and abroad. In just the past two weeks, protesters have taken to the streets over immigration raids, while Israel and Iran have begun trading strikes — and pulling the U.S. closer into the fray. The pace of the news has been dizzying: we’ve been on standby for late-night coverage and have produced multiple extra hours of breaking news.
So for now — I’m turning off my alerts. I’m logging off Slack. I’ve deleted social media apps from my phone. At this point, I really don’t need to see everyone’s fun summer vacations. If I don’t respond, now you know why.
I’m hopeful this time will be a chance to rest, accept help, and heal.
If you’d like to help, please keep us in your thoughts and prayers. And here is that amazing care calendar — in case you’d like to be part of it:
https://www.carecalendar.org/logon/319315
Calendar ID: 319315
Security Code: 5655
Thank you to everyone who helped plan, set-up and pull off the lovely celebration of Brett’s life. It was a great chance for Brett’s mom and friends and the kids to share their memories of a special person in our lives.
6 replies on “Learning to Accept the Help”
Ginny June 19, 2025 at 5:34 pm
Love you friend! We’ve Got you ❤️
Deb daly June 19, 2025 at 7:00 pm
Keeping you in my prayers, especially tomorrow. Glad you are surrounded by family and friends who love you ❤️
Jill June 19, 2025 at 10:10 pm
So happy to help and be there for you and your family! XOXO
Mary Coccetti June 19, 2025 at 10:55 pm
You got this Andrea. I’m so proud of you and glad you’re accepting help because you have so many people who love you and really want to help. Love you
Elaine June 20, 2025 at 6:58 am
Sending you love and all positive thoughts your way especially today. We’re here for you all
Marc Stewart June 20, 2025 at 12:43 pm
You are strong and smart on so many fronts. A force and a friend.