This morning I recieved a text that I knew would be coming, but still makes me very sad. Our friend and old classmate Jonel Spear Condra lost her husband Kevin this morning.
Kevin had been gallantly and bravely fighting ALS for several years. Jonel has been his primary 24/7 caretaker and provider for quite sometime and I cannot even begin to imagine the stress, and work she has endured these past years since Kevin’s abilities declined.
Today is Jonel’s birthday so while that is very unfortunate, I view it as that he gave her the best gift he was able, by giving her the peace of mind that his suffering is over and that she can now hopefully relax and get some much deserved rest.
I know that we both will never get over our losses, but we both will get through it. We had different ends of the same rope. I had the relatively quick and painful good bye. Jonel had the long and painful goodbye. It’s not great either way.
However, as I have said before, there are so many things worse than dying, Kevin and all ALS patients certainly had/have a disease that you cannot put enough adjectives on to describe how cruel it is. I pray they find a cure for all of these horrible diseases.
Jennifer, Jonel and I have been friends since 7th grade at South Central Junior High. With Jonel and I having “S” names our lockers were next/close to each other from 7th grade through High School.
I will tell you that Kevin was blessed to have Jonel as a caregiver. She could not possibly have done a better job. I am also relieved for Jonel’s mom Esther. She was out for my Mom’s luncheon and you could tell Jonel’s situation was stressing her, she is also dealing with the loss of her husband.
Well not the way you want the day to start, Jonel, her boys and all her family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
what a wonderful tribute to them both Joe. I too said his leaving was a gift to her....Jonel sure earned her halo for her incredible care.
Renee
I was very emotional as well when I heard the news. Jonel has been an amazing caregiver & loved Kevin till his last breath. I think you are right that Kevin’s passing was his last gift to her. It has been a long battle & she endured it right alongside him with great compassion & love. Both your losses are similar and you will never forget your true loves, but you & Jonel are still here & will be besties forever.
Mary P