A little over 14 years ago we moved into our house which soon became our home. Across the street within 8 months our neighbour lost her husband to colon cancer. It was so sad to watch her go through the loss with and young daughter and son. Being an only child herself her Mother and her children became a very tight knit family. My neighbour gave provided her children with everything she possibly could. She never seemed to falter for even a moment after her husband died because her kids needed her. Last week she lost her own battle with cancer. She was first diagnosed last December with cervical cancer and after chemo and radiation last winter we thought she had it licked. In September the cancer came back in her neck and her lymph system. A little over 3 weeks ago I shaved her head while her daughter watched so bravely telling her, "it doesn't look that bad Mom." That was after her first round of chemo. She never got to her second round of chemo. I can't believe how heart breaking this has been. We shared our kids after her husband died. We rarely closed our curtains so we could keep an eye on each others house and home. It was like looking into another room of your own home and one of us was always there, usually her. We miss her so much. Our kids, the neighbours. She was so strong and so connected to her family she mentored us all with her commitment. Miss you so much my dear friend. There is a huge void where you once were. I was diagnosed the February before her with breast cancer. I am still in recovery. We shared out kids and we shared a diagnosis but we haven't shared a happy ending. I feel so helpless.
9 Comments
Mignon
Contributor
Dear Survivorsay's, What a tragic loss. my thoughts are with you.Not a lot I can say.. Mignon
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survivorsays
Occasional Contributor
Thanks Mignon, It is such a sad time right now. Tough to get into the holiday spirit especially the marketing madness. Thank you for your thoughts. Survivorsays
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Annie333
Occasional Contributor
My deepest sympathy for your loss. I have just read this post and feel yes, you do need a place to stop, breathe and rest. You and your family and your friends family have been through a rough trot and I feel a change of scenery will do your heart some good. Take care and vent on here when possible Annie
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Mignon
Contributor
Dear Survivorsay's, The year my daughter was diagnosed was also very difficult to face Christmas. Instead of the usual Christmas dinner at home we went to the zoo and brought a picnic Christmas lunch. This helped us all and gave us something to look at rather than ourselves, the little people loved it too. Maybe for you , try a different setting this Christmas?
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SILLY
Super Contributor
So sorry.
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survivorsays
Occasional Contributor
We may do this because our house was in the middle of renovations so it is an absolute nightmare and I can't do anything because I have 2 bad arms. Someone in our family will have decorations up. We'll mooch the 'spirit' off of them! Might be a good time for a wiener roast!
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survivorsays
Occasional Contributor
The days are good and bad. Fortunately at my doctor's appointment today she totally believes in my healing being a priority over work and that this loss has definite impacts on my healing. She was so good and I am so fortunate she really put my mind at ease.
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Margaret_M
New Contributor
I'm crying inside for you, there are no words. But i send you this huge ((((((((((hug)))))))))))))))))) with love and the hope it can give you a little comfort...... Margaret
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frangipani
Occasional Contributor
My thoughts are with you. I was so sorry to hear this and being a survivor myself - I feel helpless. we dont know what tomorrow brings, but you have it in front of you - literally. Be brave my sister and may God bless you and your family and the family next door. A real tragic!!
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