A story about grief.

[@Quackalope]

This video was filmed and healed for over a year. We had always planned to post it when West was ready. This video is a personal video from West. It talks about the grief he experienced after his father's passing and one way he found to ease some of that pain. We realize this isn't a video about a game or gaming but West wanted to share this as part of his healing process. Thank you to Full Heart Forge for creating these items. When West contacted Mike at Full Heart Forge he didn't mention being on KZbin or expect any discounts. Through the process of creating these items Mike decided the project was more than just a piece of jewelry. It was part of the healing process for a grieving man. He and his son at Full Heart Forge worked together to create the 4 unique items that West and his children will cherish forever. Mike would not accept payment for the job from West. West had always planned to present these items on the channel even before Mike chose to donate his time to make them. We hope you will visit the Full Heart Forge Shop and tell them West the Flamingo sent you.

[@adamnikles7335]

Thank you for sharing, West, and I am so sorry for your loss. It is never easy losing a loved one but to have something like that to share with your kids is very special!

[@Quackalope]

[@gowest7797]

I agree. It meant so much to me.

[@samhugo5870]

This is really an awesome Story and I wonderful experience being able to watch such honesty on you tube. Glad I stuck with Quakolope. What a an analogy, something that helped to keep your Daddy’s Bones together, now is helping to keep his Memory and Legacy in your and your children’s life together. Awesome.

[@JonTripp115]

Thanks for this, West. I know this is from a while back, but I'm glad you decided to share it. My own father died a decade or so ago, but I've been thinking of him a lot lately (maybe because my brother just had his first kid? Idunno). All the cliches you hear about how grief never fully goes away but it does get easier over time, that's all true. I hope you and your family are doing as well as you can be. These mementos are amazing. You had a great idea, and the aptly-named Full Heart executed it beautifully.

[@enjoythestruggle]

The blacksmith is an absolute champion of altruism and bravery, even if I had the skills I'd be very anxious to take on such a responsibility. This is an inspiring reminder that acts of kindness really do make a difference, so I thank you for sharing this and your feelings on the topic with us, West.

[@javuda]

Man, this was beautiful. Thanks for sharing it. Sorry for your loss

[@gowest7797]

Thank you. Thanks for helping my healing process.

[@glasscube6391]

Really enjoyed this video, and sorry to hear about your loss. These pieces are amazing and Full Heart Forge deserves to have everyone that can be a part of their business. Amazing story! I’m glad to see you back on the channel. Hope to see more of you in the future.

[@waltermak2890]

Such a beautiful story. Thank you so much for sharing this with us, West.

[@gowest7797]

Thank you for watching it.

[@alcann4234]

Great video. Lost my Dad in March and I envy the closeness you had with your Dad. While I loved my Dad a great deal an he was a great man, we never really shared a lot in common and we were not as close as we could have been. He had two artificial hips and was cremated, so maybe it is not too late for me to do something similar to what you had done. Thanks for sharing this video, I'm sure it wasn't easy to do.

[@gowest7797]

It was a very challenging thing to do but something I needed to do for me. Thank you for being part of my healing process by watching.

[@MeeplesAndMunchies]

I’m so sorry for your loss. My dad passed last year after a long struggle with cancer and MS. Some days it hits harder than others. Thank you for sharing this story of your life with us ❤

[@hanslamal5632]

Thank you for sharing with us this wonderful story ♥️

[@jacobstein5678]

Ibhave been doing a lot of grieving this last year as well. This is a great story of grieving and we need more examples. Too many people end up lost without a path to grief. So, more ideas for people is great. Mich love to you and yours.

[@gowest7797]

Sometimes we hide our emotions and forget we are all human and not robots. Our emotions make us who we are for better or worse. I'm thankful to everyone who helped me through this time. So thank you for watching this and commenting. It has helped me even now.

[@andremcmillan1504]

Sorry West. I think what you did is amazing. I love being reminded of my parents and I pray I will always get emotional because of their importance.

[@Quackalope]

[@gowest7797]

For sure. Someone told me at one point that emotional pain is love with no where to go. That helped me a lot when I would randomly hurt.

[@idrizzt1]

really sorry for your loss.

[@gowest7797]

Thank you

[@grivours]

That's beautiful !! Thanks for share with us, West !

[@gowest7797]

Thanks for being a part of my healing process.

[@ItsMeEbby]

THAT'S AWESOME!!! Sorry for your loss.

[@gowest7797]

Thank you.

[@jedalbiston9563]

Awesome man! Great video! Many of us have gone through the same thing and understand the pain and grief! Such cool mementos! You deserve it!

[@kimklisiak6421]

What a wonderful way to remember your Dad. Thank you for sharing.

[@thecuriousboardgamer]

Thank you for sharing West. Coincidentally, I just got done crying for 30 minutes due to a beautiful piece of art I just watched. My dad passed in June of 2021, and I miss him terrible. Best wishes to you.

[@gowest7797]

I miss mine terribly as well. Everyday I think about him. Thankfully, the memories I have of him are more happy than sad these days.

[@matthewzahnzinger]

What a beautiful story. I wasn't close to my father when he died, and hadn't been for years... and the investment you had for yours, which was clearly felt in this retelling, made me wish we had been closer. I'm so happy you were able to receive such a beautiful gift for yourself, for your children, that were emblematic of your relationship with your father. Touchstones carry so much personal weight and meaning, and aren't to be taken lightly. And what a wonderful gesture from the folks at Full Heart Forge... even knowing that craftsmen like that still exist, who take the responsibility of their art and craft seriously, makes me feel better about the state of the world we live in today. All love in the world to you and yours.

[@Musicvault2k6]

I just lost my dad in April, so this hits pretty close. Glad to see the healing this helped bring you. Full Heart Forge seems very aptly named.

[@gowest7797]

So sorry for your loss. The Full Heart folks are the best of us for sure.

[@patricksteele]

Thank you for sharing West and my condolences to you

[@gowest7797]

Thank you.

[@tobyohara7002]

That was a really cool video. My condolences to West and his family. The blacksmith did an amazing job that I don't know if a lot of people can really appreciate. I have a degree in metallurgy and titanium is one of the most difficult metals to work with especially using basic forging techniques. The final products are amazing.

[@gowest7797]

They are amazing. I was very excited and extremely happy to have them. I love them more every day.

[@matt_stowball]

As someone who lost his dad suddenly in the pandemic from COVID but who had also not been dad as I knew him since a traumatic brain injury years before, I can totally relate. I'm really sorry for your loss and I'm really glad you've found comfort in the wonderful mementos. I should probably go proudly display/use my dad's hip flasks and watches now

[@gowest7797]

It helped me so greatly. I hope my story can bring some piece to other as well.

[@michaelmitchell2123]

It’s terrible losing your dad, so sorry for all of your grief

[@Quackalope]

[@gowest7797]

Thank you

[@dannyverbraeken7729]

Thanks for sharing this West. Sometimes you meet people with their hearts in the right place.

[@gowest7797]

That's a great way to say that. I will be forever grateful for his kindness and compassion.

[@MichaelEckl]

My deepest condolences West. My thoughts are with you. This is a very beautiful way to grief.

[@jeriya909]

I had a younger cousin that used to forget his socks when he’d sleep over, we’d find them in the couches weeks after. He passed away five years ago at the age of 20. For my sister and I, a way of kind of honoring his memory we each stuffed a sock of our own in his casket to be buried with him. That was a very heartfelt story West and I appreciate you sharing it. I am sorry for your loss

[@gowest7797]

That's a very sweet story. I'm sure it was helpful in your healing process. I am sorry for your loss. Such a young age. My heart goes out to you.

[@nathancopeland334]

This is an amazing story. Thank you West. We miss you ❤

[@Quackalope]

We miss him as well

[@gowest7797]

I'm glad I could share this with the quackalope family.

[@khatarin]

All the best to West from Finland! I haven't gone through the loss of a parent, but I've lost all of my grand-parents so that part is familiar to me. My condolences and I hope you are getting through it and I hope that you are OK. All the best

[@gowest7797]

Doing well now. It wasn't easy for a while there. But things are much better now. Making this video helped and sharing it now has helped even more.

[@nathansavelli]

Thanks for sharing your story. I'm sorry to hear about your loss. You're right that you never get past it, but it does get easier. I lost my mom, grandma, three uncles, and two aunts all with dementia/Alzheimer. You've found a beautiful way commemorate your father.

[@aaronarnold6444]

West, thank you for sharing your grief with us. I know this video was from some time ago, so at this point, I hope the pain of your loss has lessened to some degree. What a wonderful way to work through your grief and to provide your kids, and yourself, such a wonderful, very cool looking, piece of your father to help remember him by. And thank you to Full Heart Forge...what a name...because what they made for you and your family is full of heart and love. Your flock is still hear for you and we are excited to see how you will continue to impact our hobby space. Thanks West, and take care of yourself and the family!

[@cryosynthe]

Oh you beautiful, gentle man, West. Grief is a journey. Tread softly, and know you're not alone. Big hugs.

[@gowest7797]

Hug recieved, thank you.

[@infamousjc09]

West, I'm so sorry for your loss. I've been struggling with my father's mental health for about 6 years now. They call it "pseudo-dementia." As best as I can define it, it is dementia without the physical side effects of the brain. It's been incredibly difficult as I'm the only one of his kids here with him. My family helps financially, but everything else is on me. It's been incredibly difficult for me, but I try to find the strength to keep pushing us through it. He has ups and downs, and we just take it day by day. Thank you so much for sharing this with us. I know that the pain will never go away, but I'm glad that you could at least get something to help you and your family remember him. Much love to you, your family, and the rest of Quackalope. ❤

[@Quackalope]

[@gowest7797]

I'm so sorry for you situation. I know that has to be tough. It probably feels like a thankless losing position. I know when Dad started slipping my step mom did her best to help but it's a challenging thing to be good at. My heart goes out to you.

[@Gtomer]

Oh, wow. What an amazing video. Thank you West for sharing this with us and thank you Full Heart Forge for being so awesome.

[@gowest7797]

They are great people.

[@craigandrews7544]

West the only dude on this page I can watch. Sorry to hear of your loss.

[@gowest7797]

Thank you.

[@Darkjin7]

Condolences for your loss. Wish you all the best.

[@edwardkirick5690]

Thanks for sharing. it is a beautiful story about a sad event. Those are some amazing mementos to have. I know my wife's grandmother passed away and her father had someone make rings out of some spoons that she collected. Her and my daughters treasure those.

[@Quackalope]

[@gowest7797]

I'm glad they found a way to remember her that fit them. It helped me so much.

[@HeeeeySteve]

Love it. Thanks for bringing it out of the vault.

[@Quackalope]

Glad I was able to.

[@gowest7797]

Thanks for watching.

[@benmangold887]

West, my heart goes out to you and your family. Much love and respect.

[@Quackalope]

[@gowest7797]

Thank you.

[@Prettykitty7890]

Amazing story. ❤

[@gowest7797]

Thank you.

[@BoardGameRundown]

Amazing story. Very brave to share your story, but incredibly important. Grief is different for everyone, but we can all learn from shared experiences. ~Tim

[@gowest7797]

Thanks Tim. Love ya buddy.

[@edwardsierpowski3839]

My heart and tears are with you.

[@gowest7797]

Thank you.

[@Souls1024]

Thank you for sharing this.

[@510newguy]

Sorry to hear about your dad West !

[@Quackalope]

[@gowest7797]

Thank you

[@TheRealThrillaGorilla]

Sorry for you loss, West.

[@gowest7797]

Thank you.

[@GeekHappiness]

Sorry for your loss West. I’ve lost my grandparents and aunts and uncles. I thought I knew what grief was. Then my mom passed in 2020. I still struggle at times. Being an only child complicates it too. There are days I feel so lonely, even though I’m married with children. A therapist I saw had a great view: “great love leads to great grief”. My mom loved me greatly and that lead to strong feelings of grief. But I cling to that love. It’s still there.

[@DanSteinerDavion]

Reminds me of my dad who passed a few years ago. Thanks for sharing West.

[@gowest7797]

I'm sorry for your loss as well.

[@NasUvsNaxiS]

Hey West, my condolences. The video you did is a pretty strong one. What a wonderful way to get reminders of our loved ones. It's very cool you are full time part of Quack now. I enjoy your calm charisma. It takes away from the speedy way the rest of the world has just become. All the best to you my Guy! Happy to see you more in the future!

[@Quackalope]

Hey! This is an older video. We had it on hold until West was ready to post it. Around a year ago the channel was subject to a cancellation campaign that cost everyone on the team their jobs. West is still and will always be a close friend. I’m still running quackalope the best I can while balancing a full time job outside of the industry. He is welcome back on camera anytime and if we ever have the budget again - I would hire him without a second thought.

[@NasUvsNaxiS]

@@Quackalope Oh, yeh now as you mention it i remember there was something. Didn't know it had this much of an impact. Wow. Since im just enjoy some videos here and there i dont rly know what'S going on behind the scene. But know u know how some people feel about him or get it confirmed once more. I do hope so, that the channel can grow to the means where all folks can come back on board and have a good fun time. Now i also understand more your reflective videos and such. Keep going. Never give up ;) Until next time o/

[@TheHexyBeast]

oh man west i find this story a lot more relatable than you know i lost my mother in dec 2021 due to complications in a heart surgery and my father a few years earlier to sudden heart attack.. i would go as far to say the reason i had my long break on the channel is because i didnt really take the time to grieve properly and it basically caused me to break down after ukge 2023... its good that you have some things to keep... my mother used to make soft toys so now my kids kinda play with a little part of her.... watching the process of them making the stuff kinda made me well up man.... this is my digital hug for ya was good to see you briefly at ukge 24 Stay Hexy!

[@Quackalope]

[@gowest7797]

The process of healing is such a strange thing. I've talked to so many people who have shared their stories with me. All of them are different and special in their own ways. I'm glad I got a chance to be in his life and be his son. I'm forever thankful for that.

[@Nortic111]

My Mother and I care for my Granny for the last few years of her life. She suffered from dementia, mercifully not anywhere near as severe as it could be but it had it's challenges. One day her health just went downhill fast and she was gone within 24 hours. Like yourself and many others I know the pain of loss, but she's with her Saviour and I'll see her again some day. Will be praying for you and your family, sir.

[@gowest7797]

Thank you. I do know the sure hope of heaven and I look forward to seeing all my family someday.

[@subtlebrick]

Wow. Been following the team for a several yrs now and this fills in a few holes. Wish the whole team well, especially west. He was my favourite KZbin game critic even if I didn’t agree with him 100% of the time! Stay safe big guy.

[@Quackalope]

[@subtlebrick]

Yeah. West is brilliant. I even loved his choice in shirts!

[@gowest7797]

Thank you. That means a lot.

[@BoardGameOfficer]

This is amazing! And we all miss West being in the channel!!

[@gowest7797]

Thanks buddy.

[@nickfout3757]

Good video mingo helped me see how others can deal with grief. Ill stop driving so fast now.

[@gowest7797]

We all process in ways that work for us. This was mine. I hope maybe it can help some others.

[@BoardGameHype]

This is a wonderful story ❤

[@Quackalope]

From a wonderful man.

[@jasons.9389]

I'm so sorry for your loss!

[@Quackalope]

[@gowest7797]

Thank you

[@EarthenGames]

West, I had the pleasure of meeting you at the last LevelUp retreat, and you are a truly genuine and humble human being man. If you read this, I’m so sorry for your loss. I dread that day in my own life, and don’t want to imagine how it feels. You spoke really eloquently about this topic and I appreciate Quackalope uploading it to this channel since it’s such a real thing to talk about. I love that this hobby can bring people together, even in dark times, to share moments of joy and comfort with each other. Thanks for sharing your story with us

[@Quackalope]

[@gowest7797]

Thank you. I really appreciate that. I'm glad the video is out there in the world for others to see. I hope it helps at least one person who is grieving to find a little hope.

[@shinlichi7860]

So sorry to hear that. I’m glad you made lemonade with the lemons life doll out. It’s not easy that’s for sure.

[@Quackalope]

He is a remarkable guy.

[@gowest7797]

There is a rule in my house. When we ask you about your day you have to lead with something positive no matter how bad your day may have been. It's so easy to focus on the bad stuff. This life is too short to hold onto the bad things.

[@MonkeyButlerLabs]

It's not the 'things' they created for you; it's the love and caring of human compassion they expressed that helps heal the hole that was left. What a world it could be if we were all just a bit better to each other.

[@gowest7797]

This is so true. Thank you for the comment. I never thought of it this way and you are 100% correct.

[@MrVicvicious]

Thank you for sharing West.

[@slayer6316]

Thank you for sharing your story

[@gowest7797]

Thanks for watching.

[@dexlin119]

I'm so sorry for you loss.

[@gowest7797]

Thank you

[@Quackalope]

[@shannimarmen8201]

Please pass along a big hug to West.

[@gowest7797]

Thank you. Hug recieved.

[@monstercookie96]

West I'm glad you found some joy

[@ktotheramer]

Sorry for your loss. I lost both paternal grandparents to Alzheimer’s and my father passed away 5 years ago. 💙

[@Quackalope]

[@gowest7797]

I'm sorry for your loss as well. Alzheimer's is such a devious disease. It steals people slowly and there is nothing you can do to save them.

[@MarkLeDonne-p7k]

West love your energy my condolences

[@wagbranthenrik]

Love to West from Sweden, Europe! ❤ 🇸🇪

[@Quackalope]

[@gowest7797]

Thank you.

[@ncc1701jv]

Beautiful

[@elqord.1118]

Wes you are amazing and man would I love to have a friend like you

[@gowest7797]

Thank you. I had a great Dad to follow.

[@Quackalope]

I’m so grateful to have West in my life.

[@MinistryProductions]

A beautiful video ♥️🤟🏻

[@gowest7797]

Thank you.

[@nobled1050]

I miss West

[@gowest7797]

Much love to you.

[@dodong_daniel]

Thanks for the trigger warning. This is not the moment for me to watch this. Sorry for your loss and I wish you much strength. (That probably doesn't translate very well in English. Ehh, many well wishes)

[@Quackalope]

[@gowest7797]

Sorry for your loss and thanks for commenting. I hope one day you can watch it and it helps you on your grief journey.

[@sethwinslow]

When I first saw the video I thought it was filmed this past week, while you were visiting J&S, but it seems it’s old.

[@Quackalope]

Yea, this one is over a year old. We had saved it until West was ready to post it. He gave me permission about a month ago to make it public.

[@domenicdilegge2766]

So incredibly sorry for your loss West! What am amazing story and love the pieces they made. Thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

[@calebthemechanic7831]

my dad died when he became a hardcore Jehovah's witness. went from being my best friend to a religious fruit cake. :/

[@Alloniya]

Sorry for you loss

[@gowest7797]

Thank you