Dear CBOE, Thank you.

Because I was taught to always send a thank you note...

To whom it may concern at the Chicago Board Options Exchange,

My name is Barrie. I'm the daughter of Stan. Apologies for the intrusive and unexpected note. You see, I just simply couldn't miss the opportunity to share my gratitude with you for setting my father free last week. 

As you know my mom almost died 11 months ago. One day she was great, the next day BOOM, she was knocking on death's door. I'll never forget what she looked like when I saw her that night - tubes everywhere, shaved head, a face so swollen she wouldn't be able to open her eyes even if she tried. I'm sure you also know that over the time of her recovery she has stayed at 4 different facilities in total, each one reflective of her needs and abilities as her health improved. She's home now and doing outpatient rehab. They think she may even be able to walk again! We never even thought she would be alive, so I'm sure you can appreciate how exciting this news is. Sadly, because of the circumstances, she most likely won't be able to continue with the rehabilitation. Such a shame. 

Anyhow, I digress, back to my gratitude. My dad has been spread so thin. Trying to make sure he gets up 3 hours early to get my mom ready and then make it to work is exhausting. And then making sure he gets home in time to have dinner with her and put her to bed while leaving some time to work at night. But that's no longer a concern. So thank you.

Also, as an only child you can imagine how hard it's been to have to share him over the last 20 years....during dinner, over weekends, during vacation....even if he wasn't emailing or calling, he was still distracted because he knew any minute he would have to be doing one or the other, or both. But not anymore. I don't have to share him with you. Thank you again. 

Lastly, you've reminded me of a very important life lesson, one that I've been reticent to accept as I'm unfortunately slapped across the face with the realities of adulthood - loyalty is a childish ideal. Loyalty is a personal choice and something you should only pursue for the sake of your own integrity. Alas, life is not a fairytale and loyalty is not a two way street. If it weren't for you, I would've forgotten. Thanks again!

I hope that you have wonderful lives and God forbid anything ever happens to yourself or anyone in your family, I truly hope that someone does you the same favor of setting you free. 

One final note. Given the lack of compassion with which you have treated my father, and therefore my mother and I, I feel compelled to make one thing clear - this note is completely satirical. I have racked my brain trying to imagine how you could possibly treat another human, especially one of such quality as my father, the way you have. There has never been a more appropriate time to use the words "despicable" and disgusting" than as this moment. 

Sincerely yours,

Barrie Wilhelmi