LES....
Val, I love Duke and it hurts me so much to know what a hard time you are going through right now.
No one wants to go through what you are going through right now.

Why do they touch our live so deeply....... then leave so soon.

How can we go on once they are gone? We can go on because we find the strength that they gave us when they were here on earth with us and knowing that they are no longer hurting and/or are in pain helps us wake up each morning. They may no longer be with us in the flesh but we know they are there with us everyday of our lives until we see them again.
I wish I could put my arms around you right now Val!!
I'd tell you that Duke loves you and thanks you for the wonderful life you've given him.
{{{{{HUGS}}}}}
Prayers for you both.