It Never Gets Easier

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I must have thought of my brother at least a dozen times before 8am today. I snapped this photo early this morning standing on a sidewalk. They say the stages of grief are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. I think I went right from denial to depression. I’m not depressed; I’d say in my case it’s disappointment & sadness but still in some denial. Shock and disbelief, struggling to accept the reality of the loss. I don’t think I’ll ever fully accept that reality.* I think seeing his youth sports photos the other day hit me the hardest. To everyone out there reading this who has experienced loss, my heart goes out to you. A friend of mine said to me today, “It doesn’t get easier; it just becomes normal.” 
*Taken from:
https://www.instagram.com/therealjohnjquinlan/

Thank You

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I’d like to personally thank Mr. Michael Interbartolo Jr. for his generous donation to The Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation on behalf of my late younger brother Brian. Today, August 17th, marks the 3-month anniversary of my brother’s passing. I mentioned the B+ Foundation in my brother’s eulogy for his sizable donation supporting me in the Face of Horror Contest (2023). Special heartfelt thanks to Andrew’s dad, Joe McDonough, for this personal letter. I have no words, Joe, to express how sorry I am about Andrew. You’re a good man; keep doing God’s work.* ❤️
Brian William Quinlan, February 12, 1977 – May 17, 2025
https://www.robinsonfuneralhome.com/obituaries/brain-quinlan
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/bostonglobe/name/brian-quinlan-obituary?id=58463824
All taken off social media @ https://www.instagram.com/therealjohnjquinlan/

It’s Been 3 Months

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Today marks 3 months since I lost my younger brother. It’s hard to see these photos of him from high school again after all these years. That was a great era. I haven’t been able to come across any of his 1995 senior year stuff yet, so if anyone has any photos, please DM me. I’m still in disbelief. I love you, little brother. I’ll always keep the special memories close to my heart.* ❤️
Brian William Quinlan, February 12, 1977 – May 17, 2025
https://www.robinsonfuneralhome.com/obituaries/brain-quinlan
https://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/bostonglobe/name/brian-quinlan-obituary?id=58463824
*All taken off social media @ https://www.instagram.com/therealjohnjquinlan/

Reminds Me of You My Brother

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This was my late brother’s Ed Hardy cologne he got when it debuted in 2008. It was still half full, buried in a drawer when he died. So, I dusted off its cobwebs, and I’ve worn it every day until today, when it ran out.*  It reminded me of him and our younger days together. ❤️
*Taken from: https://www.instagram.com/therealjohnjquinlan/

Stoneface / August (2025)

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*Taken from YouTube & Media:
It’s been almost 3 months now since the sudden death of my younger brother Brian. This tragic event has changed my thinking and views on so many things. It’s like starting over a little bit “alone” now in a way. Moving forward the best I can with clarity has helped me the most. Having a clear mind, finding peace, and connecting with God on the highest level is where I am in my life now. Thank you again for all the kind words & love I have received after losing my younger brother. Every single one has meant the world to me. PS, I put a couple notes taped in front of me to help read (you can see the reflection in my glasses) as talking about my brother is still a bit challenging to keep it together 100% – Stoneface
https://www.instagram.com/therealjohnjquinlan/