There’s nothing more permanent as losing a parent. I understand that feeling of being cast adrift, when I lost my dad. It marked my life like no other event — marriage, ends of careers, sickness, birth of three wonderful children. Also, there’s nothing quite as unnerving as a parent to worry about leaving this earth too early for one’s own children.

Your story is poignant and sweet. As a North Carolinian since 1988, the regional slant also gets to my heart. Loved this and look forward to reading more of you. Had to share on Twitter!