My Marshall Story
by Tammy

Although Marshall was diagnosed with such an awful disease, and we knew what the final outcome would be, he always managed to make me so happy when I was around him. I do not know if it was because all of those outside stresses in my life seemed so insignificant when I was with him. As sick as he was, he always smiled. Now I really believe how infectious smiles can be. Marshall's smile made his entire face glow. And I see his smile everyday while I am at work. I have the picture of him wrapped in the American flag on the side of my computer and he still continues to make me happy. I really loved him.

I remember one of my visits with Marshall when he fell asleep while laying across my lap. Laurie kept saying, "if he gets too heavy, let me know, I will take him." He slept for at least a half hour. I hardly moved during those minutes because I did not want to disturb him or wake him. I enjoyed each and every one of those minutes. I felt really close to him that day.

People say that out of every bad thing comes a positive. In this case, I have realized that the positive for me has been the relationship that I have developed with Laurie. If you know our family, then you know it is huge. I always knew that I loved everyone in my family, but you do not always really 'know' them. I think I am really getting to know who Laurie is and I love the cousin that I just 'met'.
I know Marshall will always look out for those of us who loved him and I know that he will continue to make me smile everyday.

I love you Marshall!
Cousin Tammy