Editor:
Could you imagine learning that something tragic has happened to a loved one from a Facebook status?
People should not be posting about these events that come up until names and details have been officially released in the news. Not only are these statuses and comments extremely insensitive and disrespectful to those involved and related, they also cause rumours and gossip. Which in some cases can be even more distressing, especially if what was said turns out to be untrue.
I would like to ask all of my Facebook friends to please take a second and think, "What am I gaining by posting this? How will this affect the people reading it?"
Do it out of respect for the family and friends of those involved in the incident.
Private message, text, or call each other but keep it off your wall. Soon enough it will all be in the news. What you do with that, after it is made public, is your business.
That being said; visit a little longer, hug tighter, and remember to say I love you. You never know what moment with someone will be your last.
Danica Philipzyk