Widowish: A Memoir(61)

Gayle Abrams—my wonderful friend, you helped make sense of the craziness in the hospital (and Hollywood long before that!) with both your kind heart and detective skills.

Craig Rosen, Joel’s friend since Hebrew school and my Jewish brother, you have been my memory when my own has failed. Our shared experiences with and about Joel help keep him alive, and that is everything.

Thanks to Melissa Hufjay McAlevey, Carolyn Prousky, and David Wild, who all encouraged me to continue sharing my story from the very beginning.

There is no better Widow Ambassador in the world than Susan Berin. Thank you for everything, Suzy. (When we met, Frank and Joel did, too, and that makes my heart smile . . .) In addition to being the best first reader of every single word I’ve ever written, Ellie Miller is also the best friend, travel companion, cheerleader, and partner a girl could ask for (Joel approves).

I share everything in my life (even soda cans) with Stephanie Levine. She is the Gayle to my Oprah (and sometimes the other way around). Even after we’ve talked for hours, we always have more to say to each other . . . and I appreciate Susan Levison for understanding this.

To my much older and beautiful sissy—no one makes me laugh like you do, even when I’m crying. You’re terrible . . .

Thank you to all of my parents for a lifetime of love and support: Mom, you have always encouraged me and been my biggest fan. Dad, your love of reading and inquisitive nature probably turned me into a writer (and thanks for making me feel like your favorite daughter even though my sister really is!). Schatzi, I don’t know how any of us would manage without you—you keep us all sane!

To Joel’s family . . . thank you all for your unconditional love and acceptance, and for raising the man I will love forever. I am so grateful for all of you.

To my blues-playing, do-gooder, Luis Oliart . . . you are and have been the man for the job. Love, baby.

Sophie, you are my world! Joel’s goodness lives in you and that is the Best Thing Ever. I will always be as besotted with you as the day you were born. Everything is for you, Smoosh.

To the many widows and widowers I have met over the years, your stories and memories matter. Thank you for sharing them with me. It is a privilege to bear witness. I wish you all continued healing, and love, which lives forever.