41 years ago today, December 29, 1973, my sister Caroline, passed away... She had a smoking habit... back then, we used sponge mattresses and she fell asleep with a lit cigarette.. Just earlier that day, Caroline and I were talking about her plans for her upcoming wedding to Simon Dennis. Of course she asked me to be her maid of honor.. I was totally excited about that.. She was all hyped and was looking forward to going for treatment because she wanted to get her kids back. Catholic Charities had taken them into foster care. This was long before the Ministry was ever formed. So back then, parents and childrens rights were not recognized.. and Catholic Charities had absolute authority to do whatever they chose, with children. Anyway, Caroline and Simon went to sleep.. next thing I knew, there was smoke.. we figured something was on fire. My brother, Mort and I tried to break open the door. It was such a strong old door, nothing we did helped. In the mean time, Caroline had awakened and managed to drag Simon to the window and saved his life. She then jumped out herself, she didnt make it. She died from a cracked skull and a broken neck.. the room they had was about 1.5 stories high.. she didnt stand a chance. That day, I lost my twin. She and I had been together through a lot in our childhood.. She asked me once, if anything ever happened to her, if I could try and get her kids out of care. Of course I agreed.. she must have had a feeling she wasnt going to be around much longer.. I did try.. for months on end.. no one would talk to me, except the receptionist.. I didnt keep my promise to Caroline.. because I couldnt. For that, I apologize, Sis.. Catholic Charities was located close to the Georgia Viaduct, near the bus depot.. I walked there every week.. back then, we couldnt afford phones, so I walked.. just a hopeless situation for me.. I still miss my twin.. and I remain thankful that we were finally able to meet and get to know her beautiful children. Someday, I hope Walter, Gordon, Elizabeth and Jen will be able to come home again for one final family gathering before some of us are no longer around.. I love and miss you all so much..
Posted on: Mon, 29 Dec 2014 08:14:25 +0000
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