Surrounded by love, Andre was covered in the blessings of everyone who could attend his party. He had his “babe parade” hugging and kissing him, cuddling and giving him all the warmth and connection he wanted.
To keep everyone light, because even at his own death, he was aware of other people’s feelings and wanted to break the tension, he wore his Waterton shirt that said “stay calm & play dead”, the dark humour is something he was known for. I think everyone appreciated how he could laugh and be easy in any situation.
When the doctor performing his final procedure asked him for the last time, if he was sure he wanted to proceed, Andre was unwavering. He was brave, calm and smiling. I asked him what he was feeling in that moment, he replied “I’m ready, I’m at peace and I feel loved”
The doctor pushed sedation and Andre made jokes until the sedation quieted the room. The three of us present with him said our goodbyes and let him know it was ok to go. We played the same song we invited everyone to listen to and held his hands and stayed with him as he slipped away.
As in life, Andre was generous in death. Two families, two people who’s kidneys were failing them were given the ultimate gift of life.
Through his carefully decided on, conscious end, he saved two people. What a gift. What a man, what a beautiful way to complete an equally wonderful life.
