Andrei and Steph at Mt Rainier, September 2010.
It is with a sad, heavy heart that I write about Andrei’s passing. He had a rough go on Monday, 8/8/11, and his body just gave out, strong and true as it was. He was determined to the end though, and I treasure every look we shared, every minute I had with him.
Just a couple of days before his passing, I told him that I had a hair appointment and what would he do if I came home a brunette. He simply smiled and said, “It doesn’t matter what color your hair is, it’s what’s in your soul that counts.” Of course I kissed him and wrapped him in the biggest hug ever for that.
There are a million memories of Andrei that I carry with me, but it doesn’t help cure the ache I have to hold his hand. Holding hands was, in fact, the very last thing we shared.
I pray that his spirit soars now, free of fear (that he never showed) and pain. If you’d like him to pay a visit, borrow the Russian tradition and place a shot of vodka and a piece of bread on your mantle and he’ll know he’s welcome. Read a bit of Poe or play some Frank Zappa and he’ll drop in for sure. As for me, I pray he’ll come home soon, to the place he loved most.
Soar high, dear Andrei, and know you are loved far and wide. You will always be my one big love.
Steph
My heart aches for you and Julianna, Steph. Andrei was a beautiful person, it has been a privelege and honor to call him a friend. He showed amazing strength, courage and fight this past year. I will miss his smile always.
Take good care of yourself.
*Hugs*
Jenn
Stephanie, I am so sorry for your (and our) loss. Andrei will live on in spirit to anyone who had the pleasure to know him. I wish I had spent more time with both of you. I will continue the fight in Andrei’s honor, please stay in touch. Anytime you want to talk give me a ring on FB, or my blog: http://gdymerski.blogspot.com (or St. Joeseph’s.)
Dearest Stephanie,
I’ve just set out a shot of vodka and a roll of my favorite bread on the little altar dedicated to my parents. I hope that they can all visit with one another in the hereafter. I only had the pleasure of meeting Andrei once, very briefly at the Villa, but he was clearly a wonderful man to have won your heart. I know that his spirit is indeed soaring high and free. As you know, it’s a very special gift to be with a loved one when it’s time for them to go, and you’ll always cherish that memory. Sometimes there’s even a certain beauty that can be felt within the pain. My heart is with you, now and always.
Andrei knew what mattered. He taught all of us–his intelligence, his musical and artistic talent, his steadfastness as a friend, lover and father. Even knowing him a short time, he had a special power that shone through and made me a better person in his presence. None of us were ready for him to go, least of all you and Juliana. I feel your pain and am so very very sorry, I love you and am here for you all the time.
Steph – Thank you for sharing your and Andrei’s journey to the end. You blessed us and honored life with your story. Vodka and bread go on the mantle tonight.
My love and thoughts are with you and Julianna always. Andrei always brightened my day and was truly an inspiration to me. I miss him to pieces. Knowing him is something I will always keep with me.
Thinking about you!
- Jenni
I lost a brother recently and though there are no words that ease the pain, I take comfort in the beautiful person my brother is. I hope you and Julianna find comfort in knowing Andrei was someone anyone would be thankful to know. He inpires others and made great friends. I hope this brings you and Julianna comfort in the coming days. Hold each other close and let the good memories visit you often and leave joy behind. Lisa Lind
Steph,
I am so sorry for the passing of Andrei. I wish you and Julianna the best. I know you don`t know me ,but we have something in common as caregivers when it comes to this rare and horrible disease.Thank you for sharing. If you ever feel like talking from a caregiver and disease view point or as a friend let me know. You can contact me through facebook or Greg`s blog Andrei had our email address.Yvonne
Dear Steph,
Garry and I continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers. I have vodka and bread on our mantle to honor Andrei. I just tried to become “Be the Match,” but my cancer in 2003 makes me ineligible. So sorry! I will encourage Garry to go through the process. Take good care of yourself!!! Warmly, Deb & Garry