We'll See You in Heaven, Haripal

Today, we received sad news that Damien's brother, my brother-in-law, my children's uncle, and one of the sweetest people I have ever met- went to be with God in heaven today.  No one expected to hear this saddening news.  Damien was about to head to SF to watch the the Giants play Game 1 in the World Series when he got the call from his Mom.  We are all shocked, saddened, and just in disbelief that our dear Haripal is gone.

When I met Damien back in college, he told me a lot about his brother.  I couldn't believe all that this sweet young boy had endured in his short life.  Born in India, healthy and happy- Haripal was done an injustice when his parents (who were fearful of a few seizures he had) threw him down a dry well and left him there.  Rescued days later, by the Sisters of Charity (Mother Teresa's sisters') Haripal was taken to a local hospital and was treated for his serious injuries.  Many injuries he sustained from the fall in the well were going to be life lasting.  He lost the ability to walk, to move his arms at ease, and would be in a wheelchair for the rest of his life.  Through all of his pain, for all of the lonely days he spent in an orphanage, for all that his poor six year old body had to endure- he smiled through it all.

The Swendsen Family, who was known for adopting children with many different needs, were approached about taking Haripal in.  Mark and Marlene already had ten children but the agreed to take Haripal for the weekend.  Then they were asked to take Haripal for the week.  Then they agreed to take Haripal for life.  Helping Haripal with his daily needs was a part of everyone's life at the Swendsen household.  Together, they empowered this amazing child, gave him opportunities he couldn't have dreamed of in India, and truly became a part of the family.

We are so sad that Haripal is gone.  While we deal with our own personal sadness and loss- we are thinking about Haripal in heaven.  We are thinking of him walking, running, and moving without any limitations.  He is now free. Although we will miss him tremendously- we know that God will put his arm around Haripal and give him new life with him in Heaven.  We love you Haripal and will never forget you.