As If the Tragedy Was Not Enough

by Annie Kiefer
(Fort Drum, New York)

18 years ago from this date, cops were at at little Annie's house telling her parents that Dan, her older brother was not going to make it. Of course, this is not how the story goes. Sometimes, guiltily, she thinks that it may have been easier.

Life continued to go on as normal, with the exception that every thing had to be modded so Dan could get around in his wheelchair. Annie knew though that Dan would probably never feel "normal" again. He distanced him self as far as he could. With occasional visits, Annie saw her brother get progressively worse. Previously, Dan and Annie were best friends, despite the 13 year age difference. Now, she hurt. Her brother wanted nothing to do with her. At least that's how she felt.

The years went on she grew up and had her family of her own. She would go home to see him on holidays. this holiday though was different. He was sluggish. He looked like a ghost who could not even talk right. he accidentally dropped the blanket she saw his arms. At that moment, anyone on the room could have heard her heart break. The lines going up his arms were obvious. He knew she seen them. He pleaded with sorrow. This time, Annie felt Dan actually did die so long ago. The Dan she saw in front of him was worthless, lifeless, and vegetative. That was not the brother Annie knew and loved. This is not a happy start to a new story, but obviously a sad ending to and old story.