During the summer, I had the pleasure of spending time with a cousin whom I had not seen in decades, and many other family members. I watched my cousin go through what I call “evil”…..yes…Cancer. Although, my cousin never complained or felt sorry for herself, she always seem to find the strength to be part of everything we were involved in. Traveling from California to Hilton Head must have been hard but, going to the beach every day, playing games, dining out and even visiting a light house had to take every bit of energy she had. During the visit it was obvious to everyone she was in pain and uncomfortable but once again never complained. I also watched her Mom (my Aunt) let her be and helped when she needed it without being overbearing. I can’t imagine what my Aunt was feeling, watching one of her adult children dying little by little in front of her, but she was handling it with her own strength and dignity. Again, my Aunt not showing a bit of pity for herself or her daughter.
I am also reminded of Father’s 18 month fight with cancer. First stop was Las Vegas to pull that handle again in hopes of wining the jackpot and most important was to spend some time with his brother in law, in case he may never see him again. No complaining of all the testing, surgeries, radiation or chemotherapy. Never once mentioning he was in pain and everyday making sure his family was all going to be alright after he passed. Watching a man have such grace when he could not eat, his hair falling out in bunches and the determination to try anything just to stay with us all another day was something you admire and never forget. The every day notes from him to me of something that he felt was important and needed to be taken care of so he could rest. The kindness given to all of us, not to mention the life lessons as well, some easy, some hard, nonetheless, he taught and we learned. The love and support given to me and my family will not be forgotten.
To my cousin Lori who died on October 30, 2017 and my father Thomas Michael who died on February 20, 2009 :
Thank you for the love and support you have shown to your immediate family, extended family, friends, business associates and many many others. The strength and grace you have shown during these illnesses has been an example to all. The people you have touched during your life, will continue to remember you and share the stories for many years. Heaven has gained two of the finest people and one day I will be able to see you again.
MIDGES CREATIVE VIEW 