How a father learned to cope with the death of his only child.
"My Son Todd & My Guardian Angels" Chronicles the life of Tom Santos over 10 years of his life, the ups and downs of trying to live without his only child. Tom's son died in a one car accident 3/4's of a mile from his home. In a split second many lives are changed by the death of one person. Many therapists are using the book as an inspiration to their clients.
Excerpt
Following the Funeral:
During the reception at the restaurant, people were eating and talking, and it seemed like everything was okay. They laughed and joked an talked to my family and me. I thought it was great that they could all get together and be happy for a few moments in time.
But everything must come to an end, and the guests all start to leave. Once again I began feeling lonely.
Professional Reviews
Reader: Ann
I have read and read and re-read the book, Tom. It is wonderful and a huge tribute to all that you have endured. What a lovely thing it is. Todd is applauding and beaming you from above. I have shared it with several people, all of whom have lost sons. A friend who lost her son to AIDS in 1996 is visiting me from Washington this week and also loved it. Thank you so much for sharing.
P.S. This book has helped me get through the 9th anniversary of my son’s death next Tuesday
Reader: June
I picked up your book at your store, I put it down at 4 AM. Your book changed my life. I am 79 years old, and when I read your book I cried for my baby for the first time. Several years ago my ex-husband walked out on me, and left me with a small baby girl. My daughter died a few weeks later. I didn’t realize that I hated my ex-husband so much all these years, until I read your book. I hated him so much, that I didn’t cry for my baby. My other children always asked me why I seemed to be bitter, I didn’t realize that I was. I have given up hating him. Thank you
Stonington Times
The book verbalizes Santos’ raw feelings and eventual emotional resolution about his 21 year old son’s death. Although he doesn’t consider himself a professional, Santos’ writing process included capturing his emotions on paper, cutting irrelevant anecdotes, and sorting photos and bereavement cards for the manuscript.
The first-person narrative is curiously straightforward, although at times chronologically discontinuous. It reads like an unpretentious diary of someone who has been rent by loss and slowly mended together. The final chapters offer first-hand advice for anyone coping with the loss of a loved one.
I began writing My Son Todd 3 years after he died. Totally depressed I managed to write the first part of the book. It was supposed to be about Todd, what a great kid he was, etc. However, some force beyond me, had me writing a totally different book. It is inspiring and helpful for those who have lost loved ones. It actually took me 10 years to finish. Please enjoy, and God Bless.
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