I say lost because the disease affects their brains. The children I have now are not the children they might have been. It's like when you "lose" someone to Alzheimer's--their body is still there, and you want to believe their mind is still in there somewhere, but it's locked up and you can't reach it.

And yet, I'd certainly rather have my ill children than watch my baby die in my arms in the hospital. There's nothing I can say to my friends, nothing at all.

My first child was taken from this world in April 1983. My last child was changed forever this July. In some ways they are both "dead" I still have the opportunity to see my son, but he is not the same person, nor will he ever be. All our lives were irreparably changed forever.

Clod, I understand what your friends are experiencing and I think to some degree, I grasp where you are with your own kids. I am so sorry for what you and they are going through. If there is ever anything....

Everyone - hug your children every day and tell them you love them. You REALLY never know.

What happened to change your child? Also, I'm very sorry for your incredible loss. I'd gladly give my own life to save my daughter so I can't imagine the kind of pain you've suffered through.

Thanks for your concern. I can't get into it here - those that know, know. But I need to be careful cuz of issues IRL.

Wow Classic. I can't begin to imagine losing one, let alone two. I'll bet if he could he'd tell you he loves you. Hopefully the peace of knowing that he does gives you a teeny bit of solace.

you have to hope...it will be better....

Wait...Your Dad plea bargained 'life-without-parole' down to 'six months home arrest'?!

If I am EVER charged with ANYTHING, I want his lawyer.

P.S. Fuck cancer, fuck coma, fuck those pussy diseases that prey on children, pick on a grown-up whydoncha? And, on a personal note, fuck arthritis (Mom's crippled with it, and I'm catching up faster & faster).