Today I returned to training, after 34 days without running. Those were the worst days of my life. Not because I didn't run, but for a far more tragic motive: my extraordinary brother (only 38 years old) was, June 29th, the victim of an unpredictable and brutal street accident.

He fought bravely for his life during 27 days in hospital. There were even a few signs of recovery that gave us - family & doctors - some hope of having him back with us. Unfortunately, in spite of his unsurmountable courage, he wasn't able to win this final battle of his life.

Me and my parents are proud of him. Proud of his strength during hard times, but also proud of his kind and generous spirit, always available to help his friends, always worried about them, always willing to spend the little money he had on gifts to others.

Believe me, that's really how he was.

We know he's still with us. In a different way, of course - but always looking after me and my parents.

I must thank him for being such a fantastic person - such an example to all of us.

And I thank you also, my dear brother, for, from where you are now, giving me the strength to, in spite of all the pain that I still feel, get back to my training.

Thank You, Diogo Luis, my kind and strong brother, for all the good memories you left me, for being for me a much better friend than I ever was to you. I know you and me will always be in touch. Nothing can set us apart. I feel your gentle, yet strong, presence here, right now, by my side. I know you will never abandon me, mom & dad.

For that, and for everything else, THANK YOU, MY DEAR BROTHER.

You're right, lj, it's kind of awkward to write you in english, but in this context I too feel we must do so.

Thank you for your kind words. Me and my family are grateful to you. We're trying to find that strength you mentioned, and I truly believe that my brother's spirit is still around helping us in that difficult task of moving forward, while never forgetting him.

There were days when suffering was really unbearable, but I feel that now pain is turning into a milder sense of loss. We have nice, warm (even funny) memories of my brother, and that, along with the solidarity of Friends like you, is helping us through this hard process.

Thanks again!

Obrigado. Um grande abraço.

Thank you so much, Jennifer, for your words of solidarity and encouragement.

Yes, my brother's strength, along with his kindness, are a solid base on which to re-build our lives and try to move forward the best we can. We will never forget him - he will always be with us - yet I know he'd want us to continue living our own lives. It's still very hard, but he'd never 'allow' us (me & our parents) to give up.

And for me, as you say, running is also a way to ease the pain. And it's undoubtfully helping me.

Your kind words - and those of other friends as well - are also a comfort. I can't really express how grateful me and my family are to you.

Thank You, again.

I'm am so sorry to hear about this.  Words can not express the loss of a special person in your life.....especially after fighting so hard for his life.  I am confident you and your family will find the strength to carry because you have your brother there in memories and spirit.  You said he always looked after you and your parents and I truly believe that will not stop now.  I'm sending many thoughts and prayers your way.

Gayle

Please, let's all keep in touch. People of goodwill, whatever their country of origin, religious beliefs or political ideas, always need each other. Thanks again.

 

José Pedro

 You have brought tears to my eyes.  You are right we do need each other and we have so much to learn from others.  That's what I love about RA....it brings us all together from all over the world and shows us how much we need our neighbors no matter how far away the neighbors are.  Take care

My heart cries for you today. I am so sorry this tragedy has happened.  It seems that your brother was an amazing, outstanding person.  He will now be by your side for each step you take.  

Was thinking about you and yours on one of my early morning runs and thought I would let you know.  :-)

Celebrate his life.  You are right to see it as a chance to recall fond memories and not to dwell in sadness.  I am sue your brother is proud.