Lessons from Dylan: Living Loud and Loving Life

Losing Dylan to leukemia was like a punch to the gut—a nightmare you never wake up from. But in the middle of all the tears and the why-me’s, I started seeing things a bit differently, all thanks to him. I ended up writing a book about our journey through leukemia and the messy, painful process of grief. I called it George's Compass: How to Navigate Grief. Funny enough, I never really knew what I was supposed to do with my life until all this happened. Now, I feel like my path is clear: helping others find their way through their own grief and rediscover joy.

Grab Life by the Horns

First thing’s first: life doesn’t wait around. Dylan taught me that. You want something? Go get it. There’s no perfect time, just right now. Always dreamed of starting your own business? Get to it. Itching to travel? Pack your bags. Life’s too short for "one day" or "maybe."

Don’t Settle for Less

Dylan never did. Even when he was sick, he was all about living his best life, pushing limits, and dreaming big. It’s too easy to stick with a comfy job or stay in a so-so relationship because it’s familiar. But that’s not really living, is it? Dylan’s fight showed me that settling is like sitting out the dance. Why would you, when the music’s playing right now?

Be Here Now

This was a big one. Being present—really being in the moment—is something I learned from those last months with Dylan. Every minute felt precious. It wasn’t about the past or the future, but that laugh, that story, that quiet evening playing cards together. Life’s happening right now; don’t miss it by being somewhere else in your head.

Live Today, Seriously

Here’s the deal: worrying about yesterday or stressing about tomorrow is a waste of your today. Dylan was a pro at living for the moment. He knew better than anyone how important it was to enjoy what you have while you have it. I try to keep that close to heart. Make today count—it’s all we’ve got.

Writing George's Compass wasn't just about sharing our story; it was about lighting a path for others stumbling in the dark. And through it all, I found something that lights me up—helping others find their way back to happiness and purpose. It’s a tribute to Dylan, to make sure his spirit keeps guiding us all to never settle, to love deeply, and to live like we mean it.

As I sit here and think about some of Dylan's nicknames - Big Daddy Gerv or Big Country. I now understand it wasn't always about his size but about his BIG PERSONALITY.

So, let’s not wait for another wake-up call. Let’s make the most of every single day. For Dylan, for ourselves, for everyone we love. Let’s live big. Let’s love bigger.

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This blog post is an invitation to reflection, to understanding, and ultimately, to healing. If it resonates with you, I encourage you to explore "George’s Compass: How to Navigate Grief," not just as a book, but as a companion through your own journey of grief and discovery.