A Very Sad, Sad Day

In my last post I stated "life is short."

Sadly, today I learned that a Kilmer Pond Neighborhood resident, Sean McQuillen, passed away last night.  Farewell on your journey, Sean.

If you wish to read more about his fight with colon cancer, visit the Caring Bridge website: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/seanmcquillen

I should probably stop typing right now but I'm going to add one last bit.  I never personally knew you, Sean, or your wife and family, but I knew of you because since I moved into the neighborhood, I would regularly see you walking your full-sized poodle.  What a great, energetic dog.  Just like my dog Cleo.  In fact, more than a few times we would pass by each other while walking our dogs, always waving and saying "hi" to one another.  Occasionally I would see you dog-walking well after dark, and in all weather conditions (like I do with Cleo because of my working hours), always wearing a LED headlamp, the type that only outdoor enthusiasts and fitness nuts must have to keep your hands free... probably just like the one that I have.  After I read through your Caring Bridge journal, emotional and all too brief, I learned that you were into mountain biking, rock climbing, endurance sports, and even good beer... all things that I enjoy myself.  We even share the commonality of our first name, "Sean".

Even though we did not know each other, I wish we had.  The next time I climb a tough route, or bike some nice singletrack in the woods, or feel like just giving up on my next distance run, I'll think of your steadfast determination that was so eloquently described by your wife in the Caring Bridge journal.  I am without words.

My prayers are with you and your entire family, Sean.