I had multiple broken bones in my neck, spine and hips, lacerations of the face and legs,  and a subdural hematoba (not to mention hundreds, if not thousands, of cactus needles in my back!).  I was comatose for 6 days and have no memory of the accident, although I do remember the morning of the accident.  When I was out of the coma, I was told of Alan's death, and that his body had been transported to Florida where his family had a funeral service and laid him to rest, knowing I would not be able to take care of those matters.  I was discharged from the hospital (flown to Memphis to my family's home) in a half body cast from the hips to my ears to prevent any movement of my spine to allow the fractures to heal before beginning physical therapy.  In late December, still in the body cast, I was able to go to Florida and visit Alan's gravesite. 

I speak to him often, and every time I see a bird's feather on the ground, (which is more than you would imagine!)  to me, it is a "hello" from "Alvin" as he always picked up bird feathers wherever we went. 
Although his name is Alan...my nickname for him was "Alvin", the mischievous chipmunk!!

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"Alvin", You are greatly missed

Your life ended here on earth so suddenly and I pray that you are at peace and still have that charismatic smile. I am so blessed to have had those last hours with you in Sedona at the Chapel. We did not know those would be our last hours together as we were on our journey to a new beginning, and although it was not enough time, I am thankful for what time we did have. When I awoke from the coma, and they told me you were gone, I knew that God had taken you in His arms and you had finally found the peace you so wanted. My funny "Alvin" I miss you terribly, but I know you are safe and so very loved in heaven.  I pray that you hear me when I speak your name and talk to you still, and that you now know that my love for you was one of devotion as I saw you struggling and only wanted to remain by your side and believe in you. It was you who always reminded me that God never gives us more than we can bear and that we have to accept His timing.  I  sometimes still struggle with why I lived that fatal accident, but then I remember what you said about timing,..it wasn't my time. I only hope that when it is, I will once again feel that strong hug in your arms, and see that delightful contagious smile. 

Terence Alan Laing

Time has not taken you from my heart.
Every time I think of you I smile
Remembering all the fun and silly times we shared.
Even remembering the times that were heartbreaking
Never diminish my love for you.
Clearly you were the adventure of my life
Every road we traveled led us to a new discovery 

And when I lost you, I knew how empty my life would be
Losing my friend, my partner, my laughter.
And though time has passed and reality has shown it's cruel truth
Not a day goes by that I don't remember that silly boy in you

Laughing and poking fun at me,
Always able to bring a smile
I loved you for the little boy that lived in your heart
Now I miss you and am so sad that you are gone
God had a plan and your laughter is now ringing in Heaven