My good friend Karen battled cancer and won a few years ago. This past spring/early summer during a cancer check, they discovered it back in a big way and told her she had maybe a couple weeks. She battled, and even the doctors thought she was winning it. However, this past week, things took a turn for the worse and cancer won the battle. Karen died on my birthday evening. Now, my birthday will always be a day for me to celebrate both my birthday and the life and memories of such a good friend.
Karen had a big heart and would do anything for family or friends. She also had a daughter that was in trouble and not doing so well - and because of that Karen was raising one of her grandchildren. Please keep all of her family in your thoughts and prayers - as losing this woman is going to make it very difficult for all of them.
Karen, I love you - and I'll miss you - and I thank you for all the help and inspiration you've been to me.