One breath. One moment. One foot in front of the other. That's how Patty Gilbride describes her method for surviving the days after losing the love of her life. In Something More Than Love, the author details the last six weeks of her life with her husband and the impending reality of life without him. Through a series of emotional journal entries, this raw and deeply personal narrative describes the heart-wrenching truths of being an advocate and caregiver for her steadfast partner of 22 years after he was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer. Despite the intense physical trauma that resulted, Dave retained his sense of hope, humor, charm, and dignity, even when it became evident that his aggressive cancer would never be cured. Uniquely weaving in vivid memories of their life together, Patty captures the essence of their relationship, sharing the ups and downs of their marriage and the enduring strength of their bond. As she struggles with her long-held fear of death, Dave's imminent demise seems unimaginable. Yet even as he neared the end of his life, he continued to be the loving husband he always was, remaining a compassionate listener and a source of comfort that perfectly complemented Patty's self-sufficient yet anxious nature. Agonizing over the pain of loss, Patty shares her grief-stricken days and the inability to foresee a life without her person. She questions what happens after death and ponders whether there is a God, an afterlife, or just finality when we die. Finding her way through questions without answers, she discovers that eternal love may be the most powerful force there is. This memoir is a testament to the author's unwavering love for her husband, her immense gratitude for the time they shared, and the lasting impact of his presence on her life. It's also an unflinching account of the pain a caregiver endures during end-of-life and beyond. Something More Than Love is a must-read for anyone struggling with losing the love of their life and for those who need to be reminded of the kind of love that exists in the world. While grief may seem endless, hope may be the path to healing.
