What makes me most sad about Chris loosing his battle is that his children will grow up and he'll not be there to be a part of their lives. And this was something that kept him going, kept him fighting.
Chris often talked with me about things that he didn't share with others. Things that only another cancer survivor would understand. It's a particularly hellish disease; cancer. It not only robs you of your health and the treatments rob you of your energy and strength, but it creates a fear that is unlike any other. And that fear works on you.
Chris would call me for the fight I'd work to instill in him. The fight I felt myself when faced with statistics that were less than encouraging.
I'd tell him that I beat the odds, and so would he. I'd always remind him that statistics are just numbers. I'm living proof.
I know he was tired. Around Thanksgiving he told me he was so tired and didn't know if he'd make it through Christmas. And we talked... I never forced my encouragement. It was there if he wanted it. Sometimes you just want someone who understands what chemo does to you to say that they understand. And to make you laugh. I did always try to make him laugh.
One thing he was always adamant about was wanting to beat it for his kids and wife. He wanted to see his kids grow up and start families of their own. And he was robbed of that. And they were robbed of having a kind, generous, loving father and husband.
I'd be more than happy to use Chris's basses on the Spector site. I need good photos of them, which who knows, perhaps that will work out. But today isn't a day to worry with that.
I'm going to leave the Chris Loe benefit page on SpectorCentral... permanently. That's a start.
Chris's sister is on her way to Vegas. And his family is heartbroken losing Chris so soon after losing his dad. They've been hit unimaginably hard.
I know his family will appreciate all the kind sentiments here today. When Chantale lands and gets settled we'll talk again. And I'll be sure to let her know that everyone here has been sharing their sadness over her family's loss.
As I said earlier on FaceBook,
"Rest in peace my friend. Rest in peace.
