Forever grateful for Joe's many friends.

The details of death are grinding, sometimes unbearable, and so very sad. October 23, 2015, started the same as most days: My husband Joe Middona left for work.

I got the boys ready for school, went to the gym and then helped at Blackberry Creek Elementary School. There was a terrible accident and my favorite plumber, the father of our three young boys, went to heaven.

In the middle of my life, everything changed. I'm sadder than tears can ever tell yet wiser than I ever wanted to be.

My boys and I stand together, present and connected, resilient and brave, and attempt to remake our lives from the inside out. We are digging from the ground up and learning this new reality. Death does not end our story. It transforms our story. That very transformation involves so many people who continue to show us unending love and support. With every breath I take, I'm thankful for these people.

They include: My mother-in-law and father-in-law, Linda and Len Middona, who raised an incredible son and taught him compassion, hard work and love. My parents, Roger and Donna Ronzheimer, whose silent love and support is more than I can see at times yet always there.

Also, Brooks and Gary Ronzheimer, Lauren Czaja, Jessica Humay and Crystal Adams; Marla and Eric Olson. Mandi Brooks. Fuse, the gym; the community of Elburn, Blackberry Creek Elementary and Plumbers Local 130 U.A.

Friends and family who text, call, and always remind me that they are here for me.

My boys Gianni, Gabriele and Vincenzo, who teach me more about life everyday through their kind hearts, their resilience and their heroism.

And lastly, to Joe. Thank you for choosing me. The tears are never-ending because I had the best of the best. For that, I am forever grateful.

Miranda Middona

Elburn