I lay on the floor, know I have only a few more minutes left. Hovering over me is my stepson, tears on his cheeks. "David, how do I . . . I don't know how to help."

I want to cry too. This is actually the end. There aren't any doctors coming to fix up my bleeding chest. But I have to be strong for him. I love this boy like he's my own son. "You-you can't. But it's okay. I'll be okay."

He just sobs louder. "You're bleeding, David! How will you be okay?!"

I cough, my body aching and head spinning. "Kid, sometimes there's people you can't save, and I'm one of them, unfortunately. But if you promise to always do your best, and live the happiest life you possibly can, I can assure you, I will be okay." I already feel like I'm going unconscious, but I hang on. "You hear, buddy? Don't cry. Even when I stop talking, don't cry. I still love you."

A couple seconds later, my vision goes black. The last thing I feel is his arms wrapping around me in a hug.