The Editor:
In these often turbulent, unpredictable times, Alfredo Mejia’s story in The Northern Light shines as a beacon of hope and resilience. Alfredo, a devoted husband, father, and family provider, now on dialysis, faces the daunting challenge of a long wait for a transplant. His courage in sharing his story and asking for help is deeply moving.
The fact that a living donor could transform Alfredo’s life in just months, rather than years (a kidney from a deceased donor is typically a five- to seven-year wait), is a powerful reminder of the difference each of us can make. I wish Alfredo and his family strength and good health. I am grateful to publications like The Northern Light for amplifying voices like his. Your commitment to community storytelling truly matters.
Dr. Bill Lombard, a retired nephrologist in Whatcom County, envisions eliminating our county’s kidney transplant waiting list by 2030; he calls it a “moonshot.” That is a bold vision, but reading Alfredo’s story makes me believe it’s possible.
When we come together, sharing stories, spreading awareness and supporting one another, we can achieve remarkable things. Let’s rally behind Alfredo and everyone who is waiting for a second chance at life. Thank you, The Northern Light, for inspiring hope and action. Together, we can make Dr. Lombard’s “moonshot” a reality.
Delores Davies
Ferndale
The Editor:
My husband Eric Hanft died on May 17, 2025. I am suffering from the worst pain I have ever experienced in my life. I am a writer and author, now all I can do is cry and write to him. It’s the only way I know how to survive. My husband and I shared an amazing moment right before he died and this is what the poem is about.
Waves of sadness, flowing from my heart deep, shadowed well,
A silent language whispering of what was.
Tears speak volumes when words fail.
They are raw, authentic expressions of my sorrow,
A form of communication that transcends my verbal limitations.
The pain is a testament to the depth of love I have experienced.
The love we have shared surpasses physical death,
It continues to live through our memories, our hearts,
And the way I live.
Right after you said, “Bratty I love you,” you died with the
Biggest smile on your face.
I believe you saw Jesus, and I thank Him every day, that out of
Days with no response, you opened your eyes and said, “I love you.”
Oh, that I may learn to be stronger than my pain.
Extreme sadness fills my entire being, wanting to be held by you,
To see you look at me one more time, nothing happens
And I feel like I die a little more inside.
There are places in my heart that hurt too much.
Places where memories run deep, memories that weep.
Thinking of you brings joy and sorrow, they are like in the same breath.
I wonder if moving forward means leaving you behind – I can’t do that.
I know you can feel my tears, and you don’t want to see me cry,
Yet my heart is broken.
The pain that made me fall to my knees, when you died.
You have my heart and the rest I can’t figure out.
Buried in my soul is our whole life, I am desperate to
Hang onto every detail.
Almost hypnotized by the memories that fill me.
But right now, I am falling – falling – catch me now.
For today I am not okay.
I wish I held my breath when you were here,
And I would never leave you.
Julie Hanft
Blaine
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