For Raymond

After 20 years apart, the author reconnected with her severely handicapped brother when he became gravely ill. This is the story of her struggle to obtain humane treatment for Raymond after he was admitted to the hospital, and the lessons she learned from him. (Motivation)

"How blessed is he who considers the helpless. The Lord will deliver him in his day of trouble." Psalms 41: 1 After 20 years, Pat reconnected with, Raymond, her severely handicapped brother, after he became gravely ill. Pat struggled to obtain humane treatment for Raymond after he was admitted to the hospital. Then her family was thrown into turmoil when health care professionals could do no more to help Raymond recover, yet were unable to follow through with the family's wishes to carry out ethical medical treatment. The family stayed by Raymond's side and tended to his simple wants-someone to be with him and hold his hand when he was scared and in pain. Raymond in turn taught Pat lessons that changed her life forever. This is a story of unconditional love, loyalty and faith. Everyone who reads this memoir will be forever affected by Raymond and his powerful story. Pat Lingenfelter was born in New York State, where she still resides with her husband and son. She went back to college at the age of 40 and received a bachelor of science degree in writing and literature through Empire State College. This book is her first venture into the memoir genre. She manages the website www.arayofhope.info, which is dedicated to her brother, Raymond, and is currently advocating for legislation to appoint guardians for the mentally retarded in New York State to make end-of-life medical decisions. Pat is also advocating for legislation to establish procedures for making health care decisions on behalf of all other incapacitated adults in New York State.