Thank You

Words can't properly convey how thankful we are to all who have walked beside Mom these last eleven months. She never walked alone; she never felt like a burden; she knew she was loved. Your posts, phone calls, sit-alongs, and commitment to Mom gave her that comfort. You've comforted us as well, during extremely difficult times and, for that, we are grateful.

To those who have followed our stories and shared their own, thank you for letting Mom know just how much and how many people cared about her. She followed your comments, and often choked up when we'd relay a post. It's not often one has the opportunity to see and feel the love around them. Mom left being embraced by not only her family, but all those she's touched throughout the years.

To our friends on the 11^th floor - the nursing staff, oncology and neuro-oncology teams, Dr. Damek, Dr. Borges, Dr. Kono, the palliative care duo, Dr. Knowels and Dr. Rosenberg, and, of course, Darcey - thank you, from the bottom of our hearts. Thank you for helping Mom die with dignity, for treating her as a person, and for staying true to her wishes. And thank you for being there for us. You prepared us; you gave us space when we needed it; you comforted us when it was required; and showed patience as we asked the same questions many times in many different ways. Thank you. Our only regret is that you didn't have the opportunity to know her before. Her life is/was more than cancer.

Friends and family, we'll continue to need your love and support as we care for Craig. Craig needs you, the family needs you, and we'll all need each other as we journey forward. Thanks for reading.

-- The Lawler Family