A Fight Well Fought, A Life Well Lived . . .

You may remember that back in February I asked for prayers for my mom’s sister Nancy, who was beginning her second bout with cancer.  That battle concluded on Sunday evening.  I have heard many times about people who “lost” their battle with cancer, but I prefer to remember that her perseverance allowed her to attend three of the four events that were important to her this year – her granddaughter Sage’s high school graduation, my son Ryan’s wedding, and her grandson Josh’s wedding.  She was too weak to attend my nephew Conner’s wedding at the end of July, but even that went right down to the last minute.

The hospice folks think that Nancy had a stroke last Wednesday night and started “transitioning” – by the time we got there on Thursday, she wasn’t able to speak and was taking constant medication to keep comfortable.  But she occasionally responded with a motion or a hand squeeze – especially for her grandchildren, who meant everything to her.

Nancy was far too young to be my aunt – it seemed much more appropriate to refer to her as my “older sister”.  And so I did.

I will remember Nancy’s smile – she got it from my grandpa – and how much she loved her family.  She was overwhelmed by your support, and I know she would want me to thank you once more.