The death of Alan Thicke hit me with a thud I didn’t expect. The multi-talented Canadian had a fatal heart attack at the age of sixty-nine while playing hockey with his son Carter. It’s not that Thicke was particularly iconic or important in my life, in fact I think it’s the fact he flew below the radar that affected me so much. He was just a guy from Kirkland Lake who loved hockey and all things Canadian, who left home as most Boomers did after high school to seek their fortunes where there were jobs and opportunities. And now he’s gone. Just like that.

Baby Boomers have always felt invincible. We’re the healthiest generation ever. We’re still rockin’ and rollin’, playing tennis and hockey and except for a few creaks and groans, we think we have many years still ahead of us. Alan Thicke’s death was a smack upside the head, reminding us that life is fragile and can be taken suddenly and unexpectedly in an instant. Alan Thicke was the same age I am now, and healthy.

It’s a reminder to treasure each day as a gift. As I look around me at my husband, my friends, my family, I’m more conscious of the fragility and preciousness of each one of them and the life we live. I plan to work harder at appreciating these gifts and valuing every day I’m given, at least until this Boomer also earns her wings.

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