I saw the joy that cards and letters gave her. I learned about patience in the face of frustration. I learned about the importance of small, temporary victories, wrested from the great jaws of defeat. I made notes to myself that I ll pull out and read when my time comes. During this process things happen in families that have never happened before.
Family history is revealed.
Secrets are told. Unmentionables are mentioned, even discussed. Mother talks about her miscarriage or about Uncle Arthur s suicide. Dad hugs his sons. Parents who were nicknamed the Bickersons are suddenly gentle with each other.