In memory of Stuart

It has taken me some time, but I am finally able to let you all know that we lost our Stuart (formerly known as Scooter) this past May. We adopted Stuart from FBRN in 2006. He had a spinal cord injury and was unable to use his back legs functionally. As a special education teacher, I knew the first time I saw him on the Available page that he was meant to be a part of our family. He was a joy from the minute he came running toward me in the driveway of his foster home! He was ALWAYS happy to see anyone and everyone who entered our house, or who we ran into when we were out. He would get every single toy he had out and bring it over to our guests- he was such a great host! He would give his Frenchie Brother Oliver a hard time when it came to food and toys, but when it came to love he was all heart.

Stuart never knew he had a disability. He was on the move from sun up to sun down! He was the only one of our three boys who would leave the yard when we were outside! He loved to explore the world around him. We live on about 6 1/2 acres, and when we were out Stuart would take the first opportunity he got to "run" full speed ahead down our front hill or into the woods beside our house! He was always looking behind him to see how far he'd get before we caught up with him! He was a hoot!

He had lots of belly bands that he wore around the house, but he had special "dress pants" he would wear if we were going to visit someone! He knew as soon as I got his dress pants out that we were going somewhere and he would get so excited! Hopping around and smiling ear to ear! Every day was a delight with Stuart in it.

It has been a difficult year for us, as I lost my Dad to cancer in February and then lost my Stuart to respiratory distress in May. Friends have comforted me by saying, "Dad needed him more than you." I hope they are enjoying each others company, but I miss them both terribly.

Thank you to all my fellow adoptive parents. I know your life is being touched in a very special way because you took the time to love someone who loves you unconditionally.