Gary Turcotte

Hurricane Jane: Burial at Sea Gary Turcotte

The most powerful memories of my life were the teenage years that I spent with my brother Bruce. He was my mother's favorite son, born with multiple sclerosis (MS). I used to take him swimming almost everyday, being weightless in the water made him feel powerful and normal. He fought his disease and other than tiring easily he was no different than any other teen. Since we were both excellent swimmers and always at the pool, we were offered a chance to fill in as lifeguards at the beach. It was a great summer with a large crowd and plenty of sunshine. My brother felt strong and his disease did not hindered his life, he hid it well. He never felt sorry for himself, he was light hearted and good natured. He was older, physically I was the big brother, but mentally and emotionally he was a much bigger person. Bruce taught me how to appreciate life and except who I am. I lost him to hurricane Jane. I learned that some people are afraid to die, others are afraid to live.