Charles Trimmer

My son, Charlie Trimmer, passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening, 3/2/16 at the age of 51.

I had visited the evening before and he was content and happy. Wednesday, he’d had a great day….chilling, laughing, baking cookies. At 5:30 he took his last breath and simply let his spirit soar. Miraculously, I was only 5 minutes away when I got the call and I was able to be with him and his caregivers for that final resolution. So bittersweet. I’m so thankful for the simplicity of it.

Adopting Charlie was the beginning of a crazy, uncharted, challenging, satisfying, and very worthwhile journey that I certainly never even vaguely imagined when I was so naively making that choice so long ago. We were part of a revolution that sought to incorporate individuals with disabilities into our society in a meaningful, humane way. Charlie was a great ambassador for that change. He was very charismatic and his zest for life and laughter were contagious. We were blessed with so many amazing friends who never hesitated to lend a hand to help him participate. The quality of his services has been exemplary.

So many learned so much from him….. respect and appreciation for other living things…. tenacity… the desire to take care of one’s own needs whenever possible…. to take pleasure in simple things…. that we should not take for granted the amazing gifts we have been given in both ability and opportunity…… to not be afraid to look outside the box, that there is no ‘right’ way to reach our goals…. that giving it your all and achieving your personal best is the true definition of success…. that the body is just a vessel and the quality of the spirit is what determines the quality of the life.

We are currently navigating a ‘green burial’, the beginning, hopefully, of another revolution. I will add details as I can.

We will be celebrating Charlie’s life on Saturday, March 19th at Bloudel-Donovan Park in Bellingham from 4-8. Bring stories, music, VWs, good smelling food, children, lights, smiles and tears… as we recreate a life well lived.

Fly freely now, Charlie, you are so loved.