“Hey, you hang in there, we’ll be there to see you soon, ok!?” He says as he fights back tears on a video call.

He’s speaking to someone just inches away from his face yet 600 miles away.

The man in front of him isn’t able to speak. His lips tremble, though his eyes speak.

He had more to say but was too emotional. Had he said more, he would’ve broken down and his message would’ve been unintelligible.

Fighting back tears, his voice cracks, “hang in there. I love you. I’ll be there.”

The video call ends…

He sighs deeply, reflecting on the image of the man in front of him. A man that once was hardworking, intelligent, loving, and a man of quiet strength.

It isn’t his choice to be quiet this time. He has been robbed of his voice. He has been robbed of his mind.

As uncomfortable as it was to see him struggle, there was relief when the call ended.

He told his wife “we’ll be there in a couple of weeks.”

His wife nods her head reassuringly and says, “absolutely.”

One week later the husband and wife are home listening to music. They’re reflecting on the wonderful night out at an Italian restaurant.

The husband’s phone rings…

The caller ID reads “Uncle“.

The husband and wife look into each others eyes communicating fear through their gaze.

The husband answers…

“Hello“

The silence is cold… their heartbeat shivers…

The voice on the other end cracks…

“Nephew… your dad is dead.”