A narrative of compassion, understanding and love - an account of the faith of parents who never admit to failure. Our story details the efforts of parents who, in spite of the hurt, disappointment, and frustration, prevailed in their self-imposed commitment to make certain that their son, who had been infected with the AIDS, would not be alone in his final hour. This narrative follows approximately 20 years of losing, searching for and finding their son - all in New York City, a city of approximately 9 to 10 million people. Twenty years - a period of hope and fear, but primarily filled with love.

The author was born in a small coal mining town in Pennsylvania and when approximately 9 years old, the family moved to New York City where he met and married Yolanda, his bride of 63 years. Two months after their marriage, Peter received an appointment with the United States Treasury Department. After serving 38 months in the European Theatre of Operations during World War II he returned to his employment with the government. Peter remained in the Armed Forces Reserve and retired as a Major in the US Air Force. Upon returning to his position with the government Peter attended Southeastern University, attending evening classes with a major in Accounting, and working days at his government position.

After graduating from Southeastern University Peter was transferred by the Treasury Department to New Haven, Connecticut. Upon completing 30 years of service Peter retired. During the last five years with the government, Peter, a Certified Public Accountant, received an appointment as Assistant Professor (Adjunct) in the School of Business, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, Connecticut, evening sections. After retiring from government service, he continued his teaching, but on a more expanded schedule during the day sessions at the university.

Peter would, on occasion, assist a friend who operated a private investigating firm - Peter was involved as a financial consultant. Here again, after 30 years of teaching, he retired - but not completely because he continued his teaching activity in the capacity of a tutor to freshman students, which activity he only recently discontinued.

Yolanda and Peter had only one child, Ronald, the subject of this narrative.