Still Remember You

(Photo: Eagle Island State Park in Eagle, Idaho where the accident occurred.)

As July 28, 2023 looms closer

Now 40 years later,

I can still remember

The day we set out as a family

To share a day at the lake

Little did we know

The tragedy that would befall

It was the last time we’d spend time together

I watched you swim out to the middle of the lake

I thought you would be okay

Then came word that someone went under

Never thought it was you

Until I watched rescuers pull you from the murky water

After reviving you and transporting you to the hospital

The devastating word

That you would not likely make it

As we sat vigil around your bedside

Your breathing labored, watching you on a breathing machine

Then the news of your passing

I have carried you in my heart these 40 heartbreaking years

As life moved on without you

But always in our hearts

Fondly remembering you

Dear brother

(Photo: My brother, Jason D. McKay at 14 years of age, before his untimely death on July 28, 1983)