AN: This is the last chapter, and it is also the saddest one. I apologise if some readers find it too upsetting.

2 weeks later, John Truman Carter III passed away peacefully in his sleep. He was in his own bed, in his home and his family were with him twenty four hours a day. He had a private health care nurse who was with him every step of the way, and was able to administer drugs to make him more comfortable.

Many of the ER staff had come to see him. Abby, Luka, Jing-mei, Dave, Kerry - they had all come and said their goodbyes. The girls had hugged and kissed him, and cried. The men had shaken his hand, and done that thing men do when they don't want people to know they are sad but actually weep buckets when they think no one is looking. Carter had said his goodbyes to them, but had told them he was not afraid of death and he believed he was going to a better place where he would see his brother, Bobby, again and his grandfather.

Last of all to say their goodbyes were Mark and Susan. Carter had given them both hugs and kissed Susan on the cheek. She had burst into tears and told Carter that she loved him, and that she would miss him so much. Mark had told Carter he would never forget him. They had embraced one final time, and Mark and Susan had left.

That night, it had happened. Carter had passed away at 2.04 am, with his mother holding his hand.

3 days later, the funeral took place. it was a simple ceremony, just as Carter had requested. It took place in a field, near the Carter family home. Carter's parents had respected his wishes, and let Mark organise the funeral. Carter's parents were to say a few words, and Mark as he been with Carter in the ER from the very beginning.

Carter's father spoke – his mother was too overcome with grief. "My wife and I have now lost v two sons. The death of one son is a tragic load to bear, but this second death is something no family should have to deal with. I take solace in the fact that John was not afraid of death. He loved life and lived every day to its fullest. He had many wonderful friends it the hospital where he worked. He was a loving, caring and loyal son. God bless you, John. We'll love you forever." He rejoined his wife, and held her close to him – rocking her gently back and forth as she sobbed.

Mark got up next. "Hello everyone. My name is Mark Greene, and I have worked with Carter for the past seven years. There's a lot you can say about Carter. He was funny, brave, kind, compassionate, loyal, caring, friendly and loving. He loved what he did, and he always put 100% commitment into his work. I knew him when he was only a medical student, and I watched him grow into an amazing doctor. Farewell John Carter: forever in our hearts".

There was a moment of silence after Mark's speech. He went to sit down next to Kerry. Her eyes were shinning bright with tears.

"Great speech, Mark. Carter would be proud"

"Thank you, Kerry" said Mark, a single tear sliding down his cheek.

The end