If You See Me Cry....

I wouldn't even try to guess how many ball games I have been privileged to broadcast on the air.  After 16 years and a few pounds lost or gained and a few thousand miles on the road, it's pretty much been a blur. One game I will never forget occurred on March 6, 2006.  It wasn't a particularly super important type game.  But it was a great ball game.  Coach Rick Mays and his Elliott Co Lions knocked off the mighty Ashland Tomcats 61-59 in what I could only describe as a good ol' good one. Jonathan Ferguson had an awesome game en route to winning the MVP of the Tournament despite losing in the finals to Russell that year.

I called the game, ran to my car and began the drive home to see my son Titus.  I wasn't sure I would get to see him alive.  His 32 day old body was weakening from a heart disease he was born with.  As I approached Olive Hill, my son Tucker called to see when I would be home.  I told him about 20 minutes.  I heard him say, "Daddy will be here in 20 minutes Titus!"  As I walked in the house, my lovely bride was rocking our son as she had for the past 31 days.  I walked over to the chair, she handed Titus to me.  He opened up 1 eye as if to make sure Daddy was home, then he took a deep breath and died in my arms.  I said at time it was a beautiful ending to our journey with Titus.  We were all surrounding him with love and comfort as he went home to be with his Creator.

My next assignment at Ellis T Johnson Arena is Friday, March 6th.  It is very difficult for me to walk into that gym on that day.  Memories of that night come flooding back. When I get there, I really don't want to leave.  But for me, the best way to handle difficult situations has always been to work.  It takes my mind off things.  If we play Friday night, when the East Lady Raiders and Ashland Kittens tip it up, my world goes to basketball for the next hour and a half.

So, if you see me cry this weekend, whether it be in the gym on Friday, Saturday or even Sunday.  Or if you see me crying in Ralph's or Pizza Hut.  Just know the tears are selfish, but it's ok to give me a hug or a pat on the back.  It is even OK to ignore me if you wish.  Just know I  am missing my son.  I wouldn't bring him back even if I could, but I sure do wish he could be at the gym with me.  He would be 9 years old, strutting around press row loving the fact that his dad and brother were on the radio and he was sitting next to them with a headset on listening.

So if you see me crying, just know my heart is with my son this weekend.  If I seem down or distant, please don't take it personal.  For a little while I am, in my mind, visiting my son, knowing I have to leave him for a little while.  But the good news is, I will get to see him forever some day!!

God bless you all.

Tim