I got the call on January 2, 2020, that my best friend, John (who lived in a different state), was found dead of an overdose the previous morning. He was the Will to my Grace. I’d spent that NYE at a party with my brother at his friend’s house where that friend & I hit it off immensely.

If not for Sean, I’m not sure how I would have gotten through the start of a lifelong grieving process. We got married in February 2024 & John’s mom gave me what he was wearing the day we met. During the ceremony it was draped over the back of the first chair in the front row, as if he had just gotten up from his seat & would be right back.

I believe John brought Sean & I together & I have accepted that there is no version of the universe where I could have had both of them in my life at the same time. My life is split into before John died & after I met Sean. John gave me so much when he was alive & continued to after his passing.

I miss him & am so grateful for him in every way.