Let's Be Honest!

Most people will not remember, but 3 years ago today

Kathy left us (and the pain she was feeling) 
behind and went to a peaceful place 
called Heaven. I'm not one to remember exact dates.  

I can tell you much about an event in the past, 

but recalling the date usually draws a blank.

But January 19th will always be etched into the hearts
 of Erin, Brian, Mary, Bob, my Mom and mine.

As the date was approaching this week 
I started to reminisce.

I moved away from Wisconsin 30 years ago.  For many of the summers during that time span I would pack up my 3 children and head back to the motherland for a week or two of what I called visitation (as opposed to vacation).  Trying to visit every possible relative. The time would go by fast.  My grandmother would always ask, "Will I see you again, Debbie, before you leave?"
 "I'll try grandma, I'll try."

What saddens me the most about Kathy is I was not there to assist her through those years she battled cancer.  I talked with her on the phone but I couldn't drive her to Milwaukee for a treatment, I couldn't bring her a meal, I couldn't rub her feet or sit with her to make the time go faster.  I needed to rely on others to do that and they did. She was blessed with a wonderful support group.  Her dear friends and family were at her side every step of the way. She always had someone in her car for the long drive to Milwaukee.  When the day came to shave her head her girlfriends were there to throw her a party, and then there was MaryAnn who shaved her head right alongside Kathy.  Her co-workers took up a collection to help her with her yearly deductibles.  The list of kind deeds could go on and on.

What I have learned from Kathy is to do what you can where you are today.  I can make a kathy's bag.  I can make soup and cookies for a family whose two-year old boy is undergoing treatment for cancer today.  I can be there to help watch children so the parents can tend to their sick child.  I can drop off a meal to an unknown neighbor who is battling beast cancer, and I do! 

I Believe that the little things in life I do can make a difference in their lives and mine.

I would encourage you to reach out and DO today, whatever it is you can DO,  for those in need around you.

Most will forget the date, but won't forget the wonderful person Kathy was.