For those who haven't heard Pete lost his battle yesterday. Initially when we got to the hospital on Friday he was doing well on the vent and they thought they would be able to get him weaned off. After my last post he really started struggling to breath even on the vent. They sedated him and let the vent do more work but he wasn't able to get enough carbon dioxide out. I knew things weren't looking good but the docs assured me they had it under control, it wasn't that bad.
Then around 12:45 pm he suddenly crashed, they tried for an hour to revive him but couldn't. He had a bilateral pneumothorax, in layman term both of his lungs collapsed, which caused his heart to stop. The docs tried so hard to revive him and we knew this was always a possibility with the disease he had.
Everyone did what we should have done, Pete's lungs were just done. They couldn't do it any more.
I had a very dear friend with me through the trauma, probably the best person to stand by me while my heart was ripped opened. There aren't words to describe this pain.
Pete and I said everything we needed to say to each other along time ago and we just kept saying those things over and over. He loved me more than I will ever know and will be with me as I continue to live my life as I promised I would. I told him I would go on but I would be so sad, he said that was ok.
So I challenge all of you to be sad, yes, our hearts are breaking, but he wants us to go on, be bold, enjoy life, live each breath to the fullest. Please continue to spread the word of organ donation.
I know you are all wrapping me up with a big blanket of love. We need it right now. We don't need much else right now but will be asking for everything I need.
May you continue to be surrounded by God's love!
ReplyDeleteEileen we are here and we will support you for the rest of your lives.
ReplyDeleteCuzin Carol
Eileen and family, the Mount is in mourning with you. Pete was such a fine role model -- spouse, father, faculty member, Christian. I am profoundly sorry for your loss and wish you every comfort and peace.
ReplyDeleteMary Kay Fleming
Such beautiful words Eileen. Thank you. Sending prayers for your continued strength
ReplyDeleteHi Eileen, I am so sorry to hear of Pete's passing. I only heard of his illness this morning from another student in my class (Emily Sumner).
ReplyDeleteI was lucky enough to have had Pete as a mentor his first year teaching at the Mount. He brought an unmatched enthusiasm to school daily, and the world will certainly be less without him. You and your children are in my thoughts and prayers.
Amanda Wizinsky
I'll echo Mary Kay Fleming -- the Mount is in deep mourning for your loss. Pete and I were hired at the same time, and we bonded over our mutual love of the band Over the Rhine. We'd see you at the Christmas concerts a couple of years in a row. He was a very bright light. I'm thinking of you and your family.
ReplyDeleteDrew Shannon
There are no words. Only love for you and those beautiful children. Love, prayers, and more love.
ReplyDeleteYou will be missed by all and deeply by your colleagues in Health Sciences. Thank you for your gentle leadership and advocacy for the students. Thanks for all you have given to PT, the department and of course MSJ. Ours hearts and prayers are with your family during this time of sorrow. Although saddened by your absence we rejoice knowing you are at peace in your heavenly home and no longer suffering. Blessings on behalf of us all.
ReplyDeleteSending love and prayers today and always. Words cannot express our sadness, thank you for sharing your beautiful words.
ReplyDeleteWhat exemplary love in every aspect of life... Sending you support and prayers. ~ The Bohnenkamps
ReplyDelete
ReplyDeleteEileen. You and the whole family are in our thoughts and prayers!
When I woke up this morning all of these thoughts were going through my head. I felt I had to share.
Pete Mosher-
Born for More
I’m not sure where to start when it comes to Pete Mosher. I was glad to call him a friend, even though we didn’t hang out, we never shared a few beers, or golfed, or ran together. I knew Pete through his parents, Peggy and Kevin Mosher.
Even though we weren’t “buddies” Pete did have a strong affect on me. He was active in St. Clare Parish in our College Hill community, and, whenever I saw him I somehow felt that all was right with the world. Pete was 32 when he died – in the age group of my kids. In my view Pete was the epitome of who I wanted to be when I was in my 30s; he was an active young man of Faith, a wonderful husband and father, and, even though 20+ years my junior, a person to look up to.
Because I didn’t know him really well, my description of Pete is from my own perception. That said I believe I’m pretty darned accurate.
Pete was a man of principle, a man of courage and conviction, and a man who put the concern of others before his own.
His blog site: peterdmosher.blogspot.com were his own thoughts about his journey and fight with Severe Lung Dis-function, but when I read it I didn’t see the writings of someone saying “poor me.” Pete’s entries were always UPBEAT and touching, and talked about those whom he cared about! His writing seemed to be more about how to reach others, and inspire others.
When I heard Pete died I immediately went numb. Thoughts went through my head about other people whom I have known and loved who died far too early.
But also, I was ill prepared for this news!
From the time I heard of Pete’s battle and the journey towards lung transplant, the idea of him not making it never even entered my mind. I knew his journey would be hard – on him and Eileen and the kids – but I also KNEW it was a journey that would have a positive outcome, and sometime in 2014 Pete would be back at St. Clare, reading at Sunday mass, etc.
When the idea struck me to plan a fundraiser for Pete’s lung transplant (“For Pete’s Sake”) it struck me that it was kind of like a fundraiser for someone’s house that had burned down. It was a tragic thing, but with time and support everything would be back to normal.
Pete called his Blog “Born for More.” With Born for More as my inspiration I set out to write a song celebrating his journey. Because of this inspiration I wrote the song, Born for More and listed Pete as co-writer. It was only right to do this since, without his words and being who he is I would have never had the inspiration to write it!
My plan was to perform the song at the “For Pete’s Sake” event and present him with a properly produced studio version of the song.
I know that life will go on, but every day for the rest of my life there will be times that Pete’s wife, Eileen and his 2 lovely little kids will cross my mind and I will feel a sadness. But also, there will be times that the memories of seeing Pete in the community, or at church and the inspiration I felt will lift my Spirit and my Soul to do, and BE better!
Thank you, Pete! For your inspiration and the blessing you gave to our world!
Dave Hawkins
December 8, 2013
I was unaware of Pete's diagnosis and struggle until receiving an email from Brandon Middleton. You have always been two amazing people, and it is comforting to know that you are surrounded by such an amazing support system. Sending love and prayers to you and your family, Eileen.
ReplyDeleteLike Meaghan, Brandon informed me of Pete's disease. I'll always remember him fondly.. He took me on my very first run at SLU when I was a freshman, andgave me the confidence of staying with the team. I know his confidence will always be with me. So much love and comfort to you and your family, Eileen.
ReplyDeletePete was Born For More and He Lived for More - we will live life for him and we will be here to support you and your entire family, Eileen. God has you in his arms and we will show you his love here on Earth. You are blessed to have been loved by Pete and he will always be with you and our entire family. - Joy
ReplyDeleteSending many prayers and much love to you all. My heart aches for your family, but rejoices knowing Pete is welcomed into eternal glory. I hope you all find peace and comfort.
ReplyDeleteEileen,
ReplyDeleteI am so deeply saddened to hear the news of Pete's passing. My heart goes out to you, your kids, and the rest of his family. I knew Pete from MSJ. I graduated the year before he started working there so never got to work with him as a student, but I have been very blessed to work with him numerous times through volunteering at MSJ, being a clinical instructor, and working with the OPTA Student Special Interest Group. I'll never forget his kindness, smile, and generosity. He will certainly be missed! The world lost a great man, but Heaven gained a wonderful angel. HIs memory will surely live on in all the good he did! I will keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Sending much love,
Kelly Moore, PT, DPT
Eileen, I have been touched by your courage, strength and grace. I was so relieved to hear that you had a special person with you as your heart was ripped wide opened......a very appropriate description. As you and all the Mosher's enter more deeply into these days of letting go and farewell, may you be gentle with yourself. Grief and mourning have their own rhythm. It is your journey. We will walk with you and be there for you and the children . Peter lived his one precious life to the fullest. I can picture him jogging around the Kingdom and having great conversations. We are all invited to follow his example...to live out his mantra...born for more....
ReplyDeleteKnow that I am holding you and family in prayer.....a warm hug, Sr. June
So, so sorry for your loss, Eileen. I thoroughly enjoyed the couple years and numerous trips I got to spend in Pete's company. He was someone I admired and looked up to. You and your family are in our thoughts.
ReplyDeleteTom Ferrell
Eileen--there are no words to describe how Amy and I feel. Pete was such an amazing person. His strength, perseverance, and faith were qualities widely admired by all who knew him, including me. Amy and I will keep you and your family in our hearts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteJeff & Amy Taylor-Haas
Eileen - All of us here at SLU are grieving with you. Pete had such a touch on all who knew him - his spirit is truly alive in all of us who learned from his courage, compassion, and love. You and your family remain in our prayers.
ReplyDeleteAt a loss for words, Eileen, but just know that we will be here for you whenever you need us.
ReplyDelete-Dan and Sonya
Eileen - I learned of Pete's passing early this morning, and this devastating news has admittedly thrown me for a loop. I first met Pete at a national APTA meeting in 2009; I was quickly impressed by his insightful intellect and passion for physical therapy education. Ever since I've held greatly respected him and hold him in the highest regard. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteEileen, there are so many of us sending you, Adah, and Eamon so much love and so many prayers. I have no words to describe my sadness right now but just now that I, and so many others, are here for you and your family. Pete was not just a friend but someone who I really admired - he will be missed so much. Love, Lubna
ReplyDeleteEileen, I pray for you, Adah, and Eamon and mourn for your heartache.
ReplyDeleteLifting you and yours up in prayer. Pete had a gift of making everyone feel special-- and I was one among many. Love, Kate Linden
My sympathy and prayers with you all. My heart breaks for the loss of Peter. You have all been such an inspiration with the love and support you all gave him and him you. What a legacy this young, dynamic man leaves. Gwen Ewing
ReplyDeleteYou have my sincere condolences. I had only a few brief encounters with Pete at the Mount when I arrived here last year. He was always gracious and generous of his time and talents. I will pray for you and your family during this time.
ReplyDeleteEileen,
ReplyDeleteI am so saddened by the news of Pete's passing. I am a colleague of Pete's through the OH-KY Consortium of clinical educators. And I cannot begin to tell you how blessed I and this group were to have Pete among us. His passing leaves a void in our Consortium that will never be filled. I will continue to be inspired by his grace, wisdom and strength for the rest of my earthly days. Sending my thoughts, prayers and sympathy to you and your family,
Janice Howman, PT (DCE for Ohio University PT program)
Eileen,
ReplyDeleteI am truly heart-broken for you and the kids at Pete's passing much, much too soon. As his predecesor at MSJ, it was an honor to pass the torch to Pete, knowing he would bring the clinical education program to even a better place than he found it. I wish I had half the gift of words as Pete but suffice it to say, you are all in my prayers and we are all better from knowing Pete. His legacy will continue for years to come at MSJ, our OH-KY Consortium and the PT clinical education world, as well as all of us individually. May God surround you all with his love and comfort.
Tonya Apke, PT
Eileen,
ReplyDeleteI can't begin to share how many lives your and Pete's courage and love have touched. Today, we had a moment of silence in honor of Pete's memory. In that moment I knew that God would be with you, your family and all of us as we grieve the passing of an amazing man and that Pete will continue on in our hearts, always. Peace be with you, Chalee
Eileen,
ReplyDeleteI am writing this with tears running down my face. I am so sorry for your devastating loss. Pete was such an inspiration to me, he gave me hope where there is so little with this lung disease. I so enjoyed our conversations via phone and email. I will continue to promote organ donation/awareness. God bless you and your family.
Pete & I ran cross country together at St X. He was definitely THE leader on the team. He'd run blazing fast (one of the fastest on a team that won state) then need to use an inhaler like it was no big deal. Definitely a guy who knew what he was about and was good to the core.
ReplyDeleteI only just now learned what you & your family have been going through, after reading a post made by Dave Hawkins. I'm so saddened at the loss of Peter to his family, his community, and to all that knew him.
ReplyDeleteCarolyn Royalty
Hugs and prayers Moshers...Joey
ReplyDeleteEileen,
ReplyDeletePlease know that you, Adah and Eamon have been in my thoughts and prayers since I heard of Pete’s passing this weekend. Although I had only spoken with Pete a handful of times he left a lasting impression on me. The world has lost a bright shining soul who I know will be greatly missed by many but never forgotten.
May you embrace your pain at this time. Cry whenever you need to. Never fight it for what you fight will only get stronger. Smile when you can. Ask for what you need. Spend time with those who love you most. And know, as I am sure you do, Pete is standing by you through it all.
I will continue to pray for your comfort and peace at this time of great sadness. I feel blessed to have known Pete. Your story, which Pete shared though his blog, will inspire me forever. Sending you and all the Mosher family much love.
Krishna Joshi
Eileen,
ReplyDeleteYou don't know me but once upon a time, Pete, myself and a few other SLU students made a trip to Denver to do some mission work. It was a great trip with life-long memories. I was informed by a friend and someone who also went on the trip with us, Elizabeth Lucier-Sebjiek about the sad news. Pete was, as everyone has affirmed also, a great guy. I will be offering a mass for Pete, and for your whole family.
Grateful for my opportunity to have known him during college, sadden at his loss.
Fr. Joe Post
I think I have written/re-written this well over twenty times trying to come up with the best way to describe the polarizing feelings of sadness that my friend is no longer with us and the elation that I had the privilege of knowing Pete for well over half my life.
ReplyDeleteWe grew up together. From our days riding bikes, and playing basketball for St. Clare, to summer Knothole baseball. All the way to our time spent at St. Xavier High.
I was thinking about a word that adequately describes who Pete is and I instantly came back to the Jesuits. The place that solidified my faith, the place that welcomed me and let me grow as a man has also left me with a single word....magis. A Latin word that means "better." It is taken from 'Ad majorem Dei gloriam' a Latin phrase meaning "for the greater glory of God." Magis refers to the philosophy of doing more, for Christ, and therefore for others. Pete is and always will be a 'man for others'.
Your star still burns bright in the hearts and minds of all those touched by your spirit. Sending love and blessings to your whole family.
Jonathan Dicks
It saddened me to hear about Pete's passing. I first met him at a summer cross country practice. He was an amazing role model, leading by example and his fun, welcoming nature helped me adjust to both running and high school. After getting to know him better, I realized he wasn't going out of his way to help freshman, it was just who he was. He was warm and confident, and that rubbed off on those around him. I feel blessed to have known him and am deeply sorry for your loss.
ReplyDeleteNever a finer student did I teach than Peter. His sensitivity, curiosity, sense of humor, and academic excellence far surpassed many I taught over my 30 years in the classroom. Also, I had the pleasure of being neighbors of Peter, his parents, and family in College Hill. My prayers are surrounding all of you during this difficult time.
ReplyDeleteJacki (Meyers) Selby
Thoughts are with your families at this time - no one of us can imagine, unless we have known, the depth and conflict of emotion that you all are going through. Keeping you in our prayers.
ReplyDelete~Sarah Schuck