URL: http://www.abqjournal.com/opinion/guest_columns/062145361912opinionguestcolumns07-06-09.htm

Monday, July 06, 2009
Family Grateful for Compassion After State Police Sgt.'s Death


   
   
    Family Grateful for Compassion After State Police Sgt.'s Death
   
    THANK YOU TO ALL of you that were involved in the search for my husband (State Police Sgt. Andy Tingwall) and to those of you who have whispered prayers on our behalf. Your compassion is overwhelming, and we are so grateful that words seem to fall short.
   
    Thinking back to the night of the crash and the days following, the hardest thing I've ever had to do was to tell our daughters that their daddy would not be coming home but that he would always be with us in spirit.
   
    Even in the midst of this tragedy, I have been amazed at the honor shown toward Andy. It is wonderful to see that he was cherished by others as much as my daughters and I. Lexy, Jenna and I are getting through this one day at a time through prayer and the kindness of others.
   
    Andy would want us to cherish what we have and renew our belief in humanity by helping one another and taking the time to hug someone in need. After all, we never know if it will be the last hug we ever receive.
   
    LEIGHANN TINGWALL
   
    Santa Fe