Joanne Ades Jackson

Dear Dave, Steve, and families,

I am not sure if your mother mentioned or you remember my name, but I hired her back in 1985 or so to work as a mediator on my new research project. She and I started the mediation program in the juvenile court here in Charlottesville, which was one of the first in Virginia. We did a lot of work, including doing many mediations together, and also had a lot of fun both here in Charlottesville and on trips to meetings around the country. All of this seemed like a mission to your mom (as it was for me), and both the service and the research has had a big impact.

Your mom called me a few months ago to let me know of her terminal illness and to relive old times. She seemed very happy and at peace. I really enjoyed reminiscing.

I am going to try to get to Alexandria tomorrow morning, but family logistics are making that difficult. If I don't make it, I certainly wanted you to know how much your mom meant to me, and that I will be thinking of all of you tomorrow.

Also, I'd really like if you could email me each of your mailing addresses to [email protected]
Later this fall, a second edition of my book Renegotiating Family Relationships will be published. The book is based largely on the work that began with your mother's help. There is a tribute to her in the acknowledgements, and I would like to send you a copy so you can see that.

My sympathies to you and your families -- your mom raved about you all in her Christmas cards.

Bob Emery