An Ode to the Sisters

In sixth grade I met my soon to be best friend on the bus to school. She offered me some of her chocolate flavored chapstick and we became fast friends forever after. What I didn't realize at the time was that becoming friends with Pearl meant befriending her entire family. They were a unit, a flock, a web of intertwined threads and knowing one meant becoming involved with them all. In some respects, the Robinson family was the polar opposite of my own—loud and boisterous, unorganized, mostly unfettered by parental rule—and I loved every minute I spent with them. For several years I became the 6th Robinson child, practically living in their maze of a house, complete with two loft bedrooms and a basement full of ski equipment, ice skates, and firewood. This was the only time in my life I was entwined so deeply in the intricacies of someone else's family.

Meeting Craig at the time that I did has given me the opportunity to become involved in the life of his family. My level of involvement and the rapidity with which I have come to know his family, particularly his sisters, has been escalated by the situation. I was extremely nervous to meet Craig's sisters so quickly. Even after a few dates I had heard of many adventures embarked upon by the "children" of the Lawler clan, and knew that I would likely need a big fat seal of approval.

In retrospect, I can say that if there is anything positive for me about the severity of Craig's illness, it is that I have had the chance to spend so much time with his sisters. Diane's sharp wit; Jill's calm presence; and Erin's optimism and meticulousness have sustained me more often than they know. As an outsider who has been given a slice of the insider's perspective, I am amazed on a daily basis at the emotion, skill, grace, humor, and sensitivity that Diane, Jill, and Erin have all shown as they have taken their turn as Craig's caregiver. Their care allows him the comfort of home; without them he would likely spend almost all of his time hospitalized. Their patience, respect, and kindness often takes the sting out of an extremely compromising and difficult situation. Despite their emotionally debilitating and tragic situation, these girls can be counted upon to take an optimistic (although realistic) viewpoint and keep on truckin', usually with a smile in tow. And possibly most amazing, is that all three have taken the time and mental energy to welcome me into the fold, showing true compassion and understanding for my unusual position in their lives. Craig is incredibly lucky to have these women for sisters, and all three are people I would choose to have in my life, regardless of the situation.

All of this makes me anticipate getting to know Craig's parents, the people who have helped nurture and develop the Lawlers I have come to know. I wish you all a safe journey, traveling and otherwise, and want you to know I feel fortunate to be along for the ride.

Emily