Ashlie:
I used to be an administrator for this board, but quit after getting married and pregnant last year. I knew Dave through this board and its predecessor for a long time before meeting him in person... in fact he and I used to fight like cats and dogs for the longest time, until we really got to know each other.
My husband and I lived in Florida, not far from your folks place, and my husband was one of Dave's best friends - we saw him often, I've even met your parents, and heard stories about you from your brother who was more proud of you than you'll probably ever know.
Dave was one of only a few friends we had in Florida, and probably my husband's closest friend there. I saw the road they were taking and it saddened me. The two of them used to go off together and do god-knows-what while I stayed home and prayed that they made it home alive.
My husband is now dead. Not from drug use, ironically, but gone nonetheless, so I know the pain you are feeling right now, and I'm praying for you and your family. While Dave and my husband did get high together, there were also a lot of times we all hung out
sober and I can tell you that your brother is an extremely intelligent, brilliant and witty man. (Of course I'm sure you already know this).
I don't post on this board anymore, and especially not in this forum, except on rare occasions, but I had just spoken to Dave the other day (I believe it was either the day before or the day of his OD) and was wondering why I hadn't heard back... so I checked this forum and was shocked by what I read. All I can do is offer my condolences, my prayers, and an ear if you ever want to talk...
I didn't just know your brother as "PhreeX, the IV drug king" - I also knew him as Dave, your brother. If you ever want to talk, please feel free to get ahold of me. And thank you for keeping everyone here apprised of his progress, I know they care more than you realize.
Melissa
[Edited to clarify some misinformation I was subject to

)
[ 13 March 2003: Message edited by: Flower ]