Touched By Grace

Ann Showalter invites readers along on a roller coaster ride called AIDS. Showalter began her fide the Saturday afternoon her husband Ray said, “I have AIDS.” After the first shock, Ray’s revelation became a breath of fresh air for the couple. This is their story. Seven weeks after diagnosis, Ray was discharged to go home to die. People from their congregation, even though aware of the diagnosis, embraced Ray and Ann by assisting with his care around the clock until his death. Ann’s grief was pervasive and complicated by the circumstances surrounding Ray’s death. She wrote her prayers because her mind was too distracted for verbal prayer. Her journal became a trusted friend in which she vented her anger, and wrestled through inner conflicts. She facilitated a bereavement support group of gay men whose loved ones had died. Together these varied activities moved her toward her own healing.