September 11, 2011 represented to me the anniversary of the death of my husband, Brian D. Sweeney, on United Airlines Flight 175. In some ways ten years have seemed like a lifetime, and in other ways it still feels like it just happened yesterday. I spent the morning at Ground Zero amongst thousands. I have been to Ground Zero many times, but this time was so very different. Amongst thousands, I finally felt my peace. I wasnt alone any more.
I am so thankful for the short time that I had with Brian. As a result of loving him, I now deal with the pain of losing him, and thats OK. There is no timeline for grieving. There is no right or wrong way to mourn. When your loved one is taken from you along with thousands of others, you see this firsthand. No one can truly understand your pain when it happens, and many dont understand still experiencing pain ten years later. I am so proud to be a part of ACCESS “ a group of survivors who come closest to understanding the tragedy of losing a loved one in an airline disaster, because we all have been there. I hope that Ive helped at least one person move forward a little easier as this helps me heal and move forward just the same.
Julie Sweeney Roth lost her husband Brian Sweeney, 38, on United Flight 175 on 9/11/01
