11/27 - from Uncle Brian

For those who don't know me, I am one of Diane's older brothers. I am closest to Diane in age as she is one year younger than me. Craig suggested that I write on Courtney's website and I am honored, to say the least, to participate.

Though the atmosphere clearly wasn't joyful today, we did have Thanksgiving dinner at the hospital as a family and we are thankful for the time we had together. Thanks to Helene for securing the private dining room at RIH, Sean for the idea, Chris for cooking an awesome turkey and Kevin for his contribution to the menu. It's my understanding that school children sing folk songs praising Kevin's cooking prowess with special regard paid to his gravies. He is LEGEND. Beth and I provided a 4-layer chocolate cake from Gregg's restaurant and Linda and Bill and Yolie also brought great desserts including fudge, an apple pie, a pumpkin pie, and these little itsy-bitsy flavorful muffin type treats which were fantastic. Everyone contributed to the effort today making it a truly family event.

Craig, Diane, Katy and Claudia have displayed great courage in the face of this horrific nightmare. They've responded to extreme adversity with grace, humility, patience and love. Frankly, I don't know how they do it. I can't imagine the magnitude and intensity of their pain as they continue to coach Courtney in her recovery while dealing with everything else. If you're looking for heroes and role models, you can find them in the Trauma Intensive Care Unit on the fifth floor at R.I. Hospital.

I'm sure I speak for all my brothers (4) and my sister, Linda, and our extended family when I say thank you for all your prayers and support. Please continue to pray for our precious Courtney, her Mom and Dad and her sisters. In these times of economic uncertainty, the ROI of praying for Courtney is very high!