I had been told that my parents and Dan’s parents were on their way. What a crappy reason to be whisked away on a paid for flight. My parents coming to comfort their daughter and the Dan’s parents coming to lay their son to rest. It was a hectic day. Immediately we were sorting things out. Getting the house ready for interviews, receiving a constant stream of beautiful bouquets, food, gifts for the boys. Neighbours, I didn’t know, knocking on my door offering to host my family should I run out of room.

Preparations were being made to pick up our parents. Once they landed, they would be whisked through airport security- all very official-and chauffeured through the city to our home. Throughout the day, the city of Edmonton had begun to place blue ribbons all around the city. This was a mark of respect, not only for Dan, but for the police force in general. To show that they were all appreciated. That there were thankful for them. That they understood not only Dan’s sacrifice, but their daily sacrifice by going to a job that people seemed to take for granted the risk that these officers put themselves in day to day.

It was decided that there would be a special route for our parents. So they could see just how the city had rallied together and showed their love, respect and support for us.

In the evening that they arrived, as sad as they were, it was a wonderful sight for them to see. Boarding that plane must have been so unbelievably hard. But for that one moment, they saw just how much this city wanted to respect Dan’s memory. I am and will always will be forever grateful.

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