sure, "special" is certainly subjective right. Two years ago I lost all but one person I'd invite to a bbq, 11 funerals in that period. it was bizarre. all three parents included. I always recognized each breath as special and that cemented it for me.
some cry at a funeral, some dont even go, some never get over the death of a loved one, some kill themselves when a loved one dies. some appreciate every last breath they can take, a daily hug and kiss, or the morning face lick of a favorite pet. those are very special to me for instance, while others smack their dog when it licks them, wives too, I've seen it.
nobody should be surprised at the fact that we all have personal priorities, things we wish to feel, things we take notice of. if you were dying with a few short breaths to speak your love you can bet each breath would be very special to you then even if overlooked now for example.