Terrence E. Sullivan

Hello, I am Dr. William Bezmen, and I have asked someone to read what I have prepared on behalf of Terence and his family. I am currently out of state; however, my love and condolences are with all of you today. I had the pleasure of meeting Terence about 6 years ago. He had been diagnosed with ALS, which most people know is a terrible disease and a difficult journey. What makes it such a challenging journey is that it gradually erodes a person's independence. This is what Terence was facing when I met him. At that time, he had full use of his body, but it was already beginning to show signs of weakness. He knew that it was a matter of time before the disease would take over and he would lose a lot of control over his life. This was terribly frightening for him, and it was equally frightening for his family, who loved him. As his journey and battle unfolded, he became increasingly dependent on his family, especially his incredible wife, Margaret, and his children. This was difficult for him, as he was accustomed to being a strong, independent man. He feared he would become a burden to them, especially to Margaret. I want to take a moment to acknowledge that Margaret's love, care, and devotion were given to him with an open heart and tireless commitment to his well-being throughout this journey. His children were also a strong force and loving support for their father every step of the way. I want to share what I found in getting to know Terence. He was a beautiful soul. He loved his family, and he felt their love and support every day. What I truly admired was the incredible faith he had. He had a profound belief in God and Jesus. During our time together, we would ask for the strength to help him remain strong and determined to maintain a good quality of life, and not give up on himself. So many people with this diagnosis often give up, and they live a horrible existence. A life filled with anger and resentment. Frequently feeling sorry for themselves. This makes it very difficult for their family and close friends, and impacts the quality of their life and their relationships. But Terence was so different. He would often say, "Who has it better than me?" Especially as the family helped make changes in the house to accommodate his needs, such as modifying the bathroom so he could get in with his walker. The Electric wheelchair would help him get around, eventually leading to the van so that he could travel more easily to his appointments. Then, the electric outside door opened onto the porch, allowing him to go outside with his power wheel chair and examine his garden, which he loved so much. "Everything I want is here," he would say, "My wife, my family, I have everything at my fingertips." When Bruce, his attendant, came into his life, he and the family felt that God had sent Bruce. He made all of their lives so much easier, knowing that he took such good care of Terence. Terence would often say to me, "I am blessed, I have a great team around me. Who has it better than me?" One of the things I admired about Terrence was that, in his prayers, he prayed for anyone else he knew who was facing challenges in their lives. I was amazed that he would remember to pray for others, especially as he was losing ground. He lost his ability to swallow and eventually talk, but he mastered the computer that would speak when he programmed it with his eyes. He never gave up. Choosing faith over fear was his daily challenge. A few more things that I would like to share about Terence. He had an incredibly bright mind, which he kept sharp by doing crosswords until the very end. In addition, his quick wit and snappy responses would allow us to joke with each other and laugh together. I know that he is at peace and with Jesus and Mother Mary, whom he often would pray to. He also felt a strong connection with Archangel Michael, who he believed gave him the strength and courage to continue his journey. Terence's life was filled with love and faith. I feel that I, along with my wife and the entire staff, were blessed to have known him and to have experienced a person I would consider A Great and Courageous man.

Rest in Peace, Terence.

In honor of Terrence’s memory, contributions may be made to ALS Ride for Life at: https://alsrideforlife.networkforgood.com/projects/105157-everyday-giving