It is very hard to start this because it feels like once I begin it can't end...not figuratively, literally. This business of thanking all of the people that have helped and continue to help my family during Lucia's long ordeal is a "can't win" proposition. I will undoubtedly leave people out or they won't get the letter or something. So, I am left with "keeping it general." "General" is the furthest possible description of how people have helped us during my wife's long struggle with cancer along with her brutal month in the hospital and finally her peaceful and comfortable stay in the Hospice Inn facility. They helped in very specific and tangible ways. They helped often and without need or want for recognition or payback. They have sent meals (oh, so many meals), flowers, prayer cards, healing oils and candles. They have bought toys for the kids; babysat, offered and secured scholarships for summer and extracurricular programs for the kids. They helped set up the upcoming school year for the kids. They have acted as taxis both for my wife and my kids. They have been raising and donating funds and continue to do so. They have cleaned and organized our house, acted as nurses and offered helpful suggestions and advice. They have done walks, and runs and sails in her name. They helped organize and pull together everything necessary to fulfill my wife's final wish ...that she spend a day at our home in Southampton and go to the beach. They have provided non-judgmental ears and open opportunities to vent. They have sent cards, and notes and flowers and packages and photos and fruit and more food at such an overwhelming rate I couldn't acknowledge them all if that was the only thing I did each day for the next year. They have called to check in so often that our "call-waiting" is continually on back up and voice mail boxes full. If it sounds like I am complaining let me state clearly...I am not.

I realize and have been told countless times that this support is a byproduct of the generous and caring life that Lucia lived. I know this is true. All of this is still, nevertheless, completely humbling. I was more touched than you can imagine at the outpouring of kindness that took place during the week of Lucia's funeral. All I can say to that is thank you.

As we begin to put together what is now our new life, please accept my deep gratitude for the support that will undoubtedly enable us to persevere.

Dan Bagan