I was at work on a Thursday when I got a call from a friend of mine to check with the mother of a mutual friend because they are hearing some disturbing news. So, I phoned Mrs. C and she confirmed for me that her son, my friend of about 15 years, was admitted to hospital because he passed out just outside of his home. In panic mode now, I pleaded with her to let me know where he is so that I can come to the hospital. She reminded me that I was at work and told me because of his condition, no one was permitted to go in to see him so it didn’t make sense. I got on the phone with the other mutual friends and assured them of what she said. Some of them took the news easily and others had way too many questions for me to answer. We remained in contact with his mom for the rest of the evening and even the following day.

Friday was very fast paced as I was getting calls and messages now from overseas to follow up on his condition. By this time, the doctors had given the news that because he was a very active 30 year old, he would recover pretty quickly. THAT was a relief!! They still were not letting anyone outside of his immediate family in the room with him so once again, I continued getting updates via phone. It was a rough day at work from shedding tears to trying to figure out what I can do to help and also being functional at work.

Well, Saturday came and it was more good news – I was heading to a wedding but will be able to see him the following day. They told me that it didn’t make sense going into the hospital because the doctors had to place him in a coma only to stop him from pulling out the annoying tubes down his throat.

So, it was a Saturday -10 years ago today when attending the wedding reception that I got the news which gut punched me and caused my knees to buckle right there on the bathroom floor. I was there – but I wasn’t there at all. I heard the people around me but I saw nothing and no one. What’s going on… how is this happening… why is this happening?!?! My only thoughts at that time was – GET ME THERE!!! Although it was my mummy, sister and I who drove all the way to Lyford Cay together, I was adamant that I leave and drive that 45 mins to the hospital to see an already deceased friend.

Once there, my friends and I stood in the parking lot and wept!!! I was crying because I didn’t get to see or speak with him in his time of need. I was crying because I’m a planner and I planned to see him on Sunday – after church – before heading home. I was crying because he was just a few months older than I was and I KNOW he wasn’t prepared. I was crying because even though my friend passed on messages from me while he was in the coma – I didn’t get to pass them along myself. I was crying because there were so many dreams that I know he had – days that I’m sure he was hoping would come.

10 years ago I lost a friend who I could’ve gone to for absolute truth and for plenty plenty jokes. There are times when I drive and I think of him then say a short prayer – I miss him. To all who knew and loved him – grab that drink. Sleep well Miggs 08*16*80 – 11*06*10