My friend, Kate, died twenty years ago today from breast cancer. I had met Kate five years prior at where we both worked. At that time, she had been in remission from her cancer. On March 17, 1997, she learned that her cancer was back. Kate gracefully accepted what her doctor told her. She went through many treatments including a stem-cell transplant. After her hospitalizations for that transplant, she stayed in an apartment on the hospital's property for two weeks. The first week, I took vacation time and stayed with her, while her sister was there the second week.
Kate was always so easy going and quietly accepted her fate. After the transplant, she slowly went downhill. There was a group of her girlfriends who all shared caring for Kate; myself included. I donated platelets and drove her to treatments. I wanted to do so much more to help, but felt limited as could not take the disease away. I have worked in the medical field my entire career and have a lot of knowledge, but it is so different when it is someone you know and love.
Kate died two months after Lady Diana. Elton John sang "Candle in the Wind" at Diana's memorial. I associate that particular song with Kate's death as well. I heard Elton John singing that song on the radio today. I know Kate was telling me that she is doing fine.
Kate taught me so much about life and death. She taught me grace and beauty. Her dying and death totally changed my life in so many amazing ways. Even twenty years later, I think of Kate so much. It was her powerful presence that taught me so well. I pray that I can continue to honor her; such a special soul.
TWENTY YEARS AGO
You were with me all day today.
I felt your presence;
I felt your comfort;
I strongly felt your love.
You were such a special gift to me
and to all those who were around.
You taught us all about life
while traveling your delicate journey.
You never complained.
You totally accepted your fate.
Taking each day as it came.
Embracing those who loved you too.
You were my greatest teacher.
A Grandmaster of them all.
Lessons I have never forgotten;
priceless gifts to be beheld.
It was twenty years ago today
that you went to the other side.
Your life changed dramatically
and so did mine.
Very touching.
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