That is not the ending.

For us, it was just the beginning. I think Dr. Carter knew that.

There is one more item in his file: a newspaper clipping, yellow with age. Can it have been that long ago? The familiar images and the words on the brittle page are still so fresh in my mind:

The Boston Globe

September 22nd, 2008

Section B, Page 1

"DETECTIVE RECEIVES COMMENDATION"

Det. Woody Hoyt, of the Boston Police Department's Homicide Division, has been awarded "Officer of the Year" for 2008. The commendation is awarded each year by the mayor and the chief of police to the member of the Boston police force who best exemplifies qualities of valor, integrity, and service to the community.

"Det. Hoyt was an obvious choice this year," says Mayor Sandra Talbert. "Not only has he been instrumental in solving several high-profile cases over the last year, but he has always done his job with sensitivity and professionalism."

Chief of Police Tom Rooney agrees, stating, "Det. Hoyt has been a real asset to the homicide division and to the community. He's a role model not only to younger detectives but to everyone in homicide. I wish we had more like him"

A seven-year veteran of the force, Hoyt made news in 2005 when he was shot and critically injured during the arrest of convicted "Boston Sniper" Tommy Riggs. Hoyt, pictured above with his wife, Mayor Talbert and Chief Rooney, adds, "It's been a tough couple of years, but I've gotten through it with the help of some great people and the love and support of my wife. I'm a lucky man."

We were both lucky.

THE END