In December 2011, I met an incredible person.  At the time, I didn't know they were particularly phenomenal, and I had no idea that they would touch my life and have such a profound impact on me.

This person was Sam Gordon.  Sam was a Physician Assistant at my clinic.  Right away he was amazing with the patients and staff...he ALWAYS had a smile on his face, kinds words and easy going demeanor.  He even followed a patient home to make sure they arrived safely when they had to take the clinic's oxygen tank because they ran out.  He didn't even think twice.  He just did it.  He was so...( I just can't find words!)...he was just so compassionate and kind and caring. It was as if he had always been a part of our clinic...He was someone you just felt you had known forever.

On May 28th, 2012, Sam died at home in his sleep.  I have dealt with some really devastating losses in the last five years, but Sam?  It devastated our clinic.  He touched each person's life in the short eight weeks that he was there.  Like I said, it was as if he had always been a part of our clinic family.

The memorial for Sam was so beautiful. His family loved him so much, and it was so apparent that he loved them with a love that was bigger life.   It was one of the most touching, meaningful yet heartbreaking that I have ever attended.  Though I only knew him for a very short time, he touch my life and those around him in a way that I don't think we will ever be the same.

Tell the people around you that you love them.  Don't sweat the small stuff.  Live with abandon, yet gently.
R.I.P. Samuel Lyman Gordon.  My life is richer for having known you.