Erik's Band of Brothers (in-Law)

I need help in this life!  

However, my nature is to be self-sufficient. Since taking over more of Erik's care, I've had to remind myself a lot that IT'S OK to need and ask for help.  Thank the Lord, help is graciously provided.

Big Mike & Erik bowling.  He's telling Erik to go easy on 'im.

I can't write about Erik without mentioning two men in our family. First, my husband—"Big Mike"— as Erik calls him. When we were dating in college, Mike wasn't scared away by a special need family member; it made him more interested in me. Mike has a huge, compassionate heart, and lots of love to give. NOTE TO SELF: Don't let that kind of guy get away!


Mike has cared for Erik these past 26 years in so many ways; I could never list them all. He's listened to him; taken him bowling, to movies, out to eat, to visit friends.  He's driven him back and forth from Brownwood to Dallas; kidded around with him and been there for whatever he needed. One of the games they play every time they're together is paper football. Erik often beats Mike, which makes Erik quite happy. (top secret: Mike lets him win) I'll post a video soon of one of those games.


Second, Erik is blessed to have another brother-in-law who also fits this description — my sister's husband, Tad.   He cares for Erik with genuine love and sacrificially considers his needs. Tad and my sister often have Erik visit their family ranch, where Erik loves riding the go-carts with Tad.

Fearless.  Erik's probably wishing he could drive.

I like this picture of Erik and Tad, especially Erik's huge excited smile.  And don't they look "cool"? (One of Erik's favorite words.)


My words aren't doing justice to the gratefulness I feel towards Mike and Tad. Probably the thing that means the most to me is that they truly share with us in our duties and concerns for Erik. With him growing older and more frail, this is a huge help to my sister and me.   
Erik would definitely award them the GOLD medal for 

Brother Awesome-ness.