Return to the ALS series
ALS – The Brother: Fred
Fred and Veronique had a long and loving history as only a brother and sister could. One of the many stories I remember Veronique telling about her older brother Fred was how he would take her along when he went to parties or spent time with friends even though she was much younger. He was proud of his little sister and loved to show it. Veronique was also very fond of her brother. Fred was the first one who, much like Veronique now, had to fight for his life against all odds. Through his ordeals, he could always confide in his sister. And it was Veronique who, during his loneliest moments, took the trouble to write him a letter every day. Clearly the bond between these two souls was very strong.
During the last 6 months of Veronique’s life, in a household filled to overflowing with family and friends, some speaking English, others speaking French, it was hard to avoid stepping on each others toes. Fred had to balance several roles at one time: brother, brother-in-law, father, son and husband (Also worth mentioning are the roles of translator, mediator and all-round funny guy). In turn, each of these roles brought out the whole range of emotions such as joy or sadness, acceptance or frustration, anger or compassion. But towards his sister, there was always love and understanding. Their conversations were always very animated and his every action was directed towards bringing her more comfort and joy.
Fred will certainly miss his little sister. But he gave all he could for her in her last months, and for Veronique, that meant the world.
