When my son Matt proposed to the love of his life, Katie, it was a huge deal. We were all overjoyed. They were so happy and so in love.

As a mom I wanted to believe that this would be the “happily ever after” life they deserved. Matt needed a new heart, but he’d been doing pretty well. I thought they would get married, deal until he received his new heart, and then live a long full wonderful life together. The ring was beautiful. The plans were made. The dress gorgeous. The countdown until May began.

There were no plans for Matt to code during a routine procedure, nor to be in critical condition for the following six weeks fighting with all he had. On Feb. 2 when Matt’s fight was over, we knew this wasn’t the way it was supposed to be.

Now Katie needs our help. She has lost so much, been so strong. On her way to a friend’s wedding last Saturday, she somehow lost her engagement ring, possibly in the 7-11 parking lot on Military Road in Federal Way. We are praying that if someone found it or knows about it they might realize that it is not just about a lost ring, but so much more. Please find it in your heart to let us know.

Laurie Bauer,

Federal Way