Thank you, Wes

It seems impossible to collect my thoughts, but I want to post on here how much we love and admire Wes and Lori. I want Spencer and Lucy to know, not only from the stories they will hear from their sweet mother, grandparents, and other family members, but also from the countless friends and acquaintances Wes influenced for the better, what an incredible man their dad is.

How eternally grateful, humbled, and privileged we are to have associated with Wes and Lori. We met them as fellow Hall Advisors in DT. We have always been awed by their faith, strength, and optimism. I don't know that I have ever heard Cory (my husband) speak of anyone so highly as he does of Wes. He is an inspiration to him. There are a couple of specific memories that I would like to share.

I kept the above picture posted on our fridge through different houses and different states because it reminds me of true Christ-like friends. This is part of our "DT family", those wonderful people we were blessed to work with, including the Trumans. I had just left my hall advisor job and we'd moved to a little house in southeast Provo. One evening, shortly after we'd moved, our friends from DT showed up at our house with dinner and a housewarming gift: a swing set! At the time we had 2 young boys, ages 3 and 1, who would love to have a swing set to use in their new yard. The men in the group got to work putting it together for us. I had to take a picture of them with their little helper (our son Lucas) because the whole gesture really touched me. I have always treasured this picture and want to share it with Lori, Spencer and Lucy. I have always and will continue to hold this seemingly simple memory close to my heart.

Our 2nd son, Gabriel, was sick a lot for his first couple years of life. There was one day in particular when he wasn't doing well and I wanted him to receive a priesthood blessing. Unfortunately, Cory was working in Salt Lake and I knew I wanted Gabriel to have a blessing now. Fortunately, I knew exactly who I could call on: Wes and Eric Carter. In the middle of the day they came right over in their white shirts and ties to administer to my little one. Gabriel had many blessings, particularly in those first two years, and this one has and will always stand out to me. I remember almost not wanting to ask Wes because he was in the midst of his own physical difficulties (this was only a few months after his diagnosis, surgery, radiation, and beginnings of chemo). It almost seemed petty. But, of course Wes wouldn't see it that way. He pronounced some beautiful blessings on Gabriel and us, his parents (which are written down in Gabriel's journal). I was so thankful for his and Eric's worthiness and willingness.

Both these instances happened within the first 6 months of Wes's life-altering news and treatments. And both exemplify his dedication, service, love, and selflessness. How we love and stand in awe of the Trumans. Wes, you truly are a giant among men.

Till we meet again,

Cory and Janna Martin