Moved by obituary parents wrote for their son

We would like to commend the parents of Thomas Lincoln for the heartbreaking and heartfelt obituary for their son that appeared in the May 7 Gazette.

You were very courageous to detail your son’s struggle with, and demise from, his addiction. You did not paint a pretty picture, but your honesty about your beloved son’s struggles not only honors him, but shows so many of us that we are not alone in having a loved one that has succumbed to this dreadful disease.

Your refusal to be shamed by your son’s addiction demonstrates the type of compassion that is so needed by those that struggle with this horrible affliction. Your love for your son is obvious.

We hope that your pain at his loss will be tempered by the positive impact of the obituary you composed for him. We are very sorry for your loss, and at the same time, we applaud the honor you show your son by publishing his true story.

Alice Brady & Kate Simmons

Florence