Thread by @RThienprayoon

Each time my husband deployed, I had a plan for what I would do if he died.
I assumed someone in military dress would find me. At work? At home? Could be anywhere.
I would know when I saw them why they were there.
1/

In Texas, I had a plan of who I would tell them to call to be with me. These people were different at work versus home.

When I moved to Ohio, I didn't know anyone. So that person became our #hapc #fellowship coordinator.
2/

Once they got the news out, and I had calmed down, I would have to call his mom.
She mostly lived in Thailand. Her home number was best back then. I was afraid someone would answer in Thai and I wouldn't know what to do.
3/

I would call my brother, and he would call our parents and sister.
I would call my husband's friend who had served with him in the Air Force. He would know what to do more broadly.
4/

I never lived on or near the base. It was several hours away. I was in residency, then fellowship, then another fellowship. So those resources would have been available to me, but I really didn't know any of the other families. They wouldn't be my support if this happened.
5/

That's as far as I got.
I worried about it constantly. Every time he flew. What if they show up today. What if I lose myself in front of my coworkers.
6/

I share this on #MemorialDay because this scenario plays out in America all the time.
Partners, parents, children, siblings are notified that their loved ones died serving our country.
We mostly don't notice.
We don't pay attention.
But it's always happening.
7/

So think of them today, please. Send them your love.
If you know anyone personally who has lost someone in the military, let them know they are in your thoughts.
Suicide is real. Accidents are real. They count too.
Also #maskup and be safe today!
#HappyMemorialDay

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