The following are emails that were sent out to our close family members to let them know what was happening with Linda while she was in the hospital. There aren't many because changes in her condition happened pretty fast.
My Linda
Friday, July 30, 2010
Hello Dear, Forever Friends:
Linda, self-effacing in the extreme, would, at times, not go so far as to say, "Hello," for fear of drawing too much attention to herself. Hence, any difficulty she might have had to bear would likely be done in silence. Yet, I can say in complete confidence that if you receive this e-mail from me, Linda considered you a friend and/or mentor.
That's just the way she is. So, the news...
Linda has been struggling with lung cancer having been diagnosed in February or thereabouts. She completed 35 days of radiation with tremendous perseverance. The treatment took a lot out of her. While resting and waiting to determine the next treatment, when, what type, etc. Linda came down with a case of pneumonia. The cancer is growing fast.
She has been in the ICU of Orlando Regional Medical Center since last Saturday night. She is slipping away from us, fast.
Though she has been pretty much gone for the past 5 days, she is still being visited by family and friends. Any kind words or remembrances you would care to make would be most appreciated by the family -- and of course, me. I am beside myself, beyond grief.
She would be embarrassed to know of all the people who have paid a visit, seeing her at her absolute worst. But I have thought it best for all concerned to allow visitors with their kinds words, prayers, and good wishes. If Linda is upset with me for that, she and I will have to settle up later. I will look forward to that.
As I said, Linda is slipping fast. Based on her vital signs, x-rays, and stats, she will be physically gone soon.
Best wishes to you each and every one,
Ted
Linda Update Sunday Morning
August 1, 2010
We, the family, had a rough day yesterday. Fortunately, when one of us was upset and confused, another of us wasn't. So we managed to pull ourselves together to do what must be done.
Linda came off life support Saturday, about 5:45 p.m. By 5:50 p.m. she had managed her departure in the presence of her family. I spoke with her all the while assuring her that she would be okay once she let go of the body, and in good hands. As she moved out she sent me a big, unmistakable, "I love you," the heart monitor flatlined, and the being that was Linda momentarily filled the room, then disappeared. Our son, Jack looked up as if to watch her go.
I think I speak for the whole family when I say, "My God, we loved her."
Here is a link to a slide show we made for Linda's 60th birthday party.
Please enjoy it as we do.
Mom's 60th Video (It runs on Quicktime, Mac or PC.)
Ted
Your comments about and experiences with Linda would be most appreciated. Please add to the blog under Our Stories of Linda
