Proud of DS, but sad for him too....(teen loss mentioned)

Last Thursday, my nephew was here, he's a year older than DS. DSs phone rang, and he went upstairs to take the call. He was gone a good 15 minutes, but apologized when he came down. I asked who it was - it was his ex-girlfriend (still pals) - her best friend had passed away. She had been diagnosed with a brain tumor last year, so it was expected, but not this soon. All I asked was if DS knew her, and he burst into tears. Didn't care that his cool dude cousin was sitting there. Broke my heart to see him so upset. I stopped asking questions and just hugged him, I didn't want to push.

Today was visitation, tomorrow is the service. Without being prompted or asked to, he showered, got all dressed up, and asked me to drop him at the funeral home for visitation. He didn't know her parents at all, but he knew a good few people/kids that were there this evening. He also plans to go to the service tomorrow.

It sucks all the way around.

One thing I thought was so lovely though - instead of a book to sign, her casket was white, and they had red & black sharpies there, and wanted everybody to sign or write a memory on the casket. All those lovely memories & thoughts will go with her.

I'm so sad for DS and the loss of his friend, but proud of him for going and supporting his other friends in their sorrow together.