May Hyper-Fixations

This MONTH WAS HELL

This is going to be a different kind of entry for this month’s Hyper-fixations post.

Your girl seems to keep going through it—this has been a very difficult first half of 2025. There have been some amazing things: my new chosen family, deep social connections with so many beautiful people. And Marlo getting into nursing school on a technicality, so our shared dreams can continue at full speed—despite the fire.

I could deal with the fire. But then my grandpa died.

He had been unwell for quite some time, in and out of the hospital since March, and never really seemed to bounce back. Chronic pain. A few rushed trips to the ER. A slew of medical theories. And then, he passed away on May 25, 2025, at 11:43 a.m.

It feels fitting, somehow, for a preacher’s son to pass on the Sabbath. But I know this isn't how he wanted to go. He didn’t want to leave my grandmother with all this stress. He wanted to rebuild the house and tinker with his new tools in his new man cave. He wanted to get back to his favorite national parks and take as many photos as he could to replace the ones he lost.

And in all of this, all I can really say is: thank you.
For everything you ever did for me.
For all you taught me.
For all the laughter and stories.

You were truly an incredible man—one who touched so many lives, whose hands healed so many.

As sad as I am, I have no regrets. I spent most Saturdays of my life with you, up until the very end—learning from you, laughing with you. I always knew our time together would have to end someday, but I silently wished my grandparents could live forever.

You’re at peace now.

You passed away in the same month as Grandpa Tommy, three years later, and you’ll be buried in the exact same place. Say hi to him for me. I miss you both so much, and I owe you both more than I can put into words.

Love you always,
Your Madi.