Goodbye

How does one begin to say goodbye to a friend? My friend and coworker, Patty Stone, died this morning from colon cancer. She leaves behind her husband, Gene, and three children, Meredith, Nick & Hillary, as well as numerous young adults with disabilities that she and Gene provided a home for over the years.

Patty had a kind and generous heart. She was smart, funny and a talented cook. She loved to sing (we sat together in church choir) and was a talented pianist. She loved her children and was so proud of them - as well she should have been. I spoke briefly with Patty yesterday afternoon. She sounded so weak. She told me that it was the last time we would speak. I told her I hoped not, but if it was so, I would see her in heaven and that I loved her. I hung up the phone and cried. I will always be grateful for this chance to speak to Patty one last time.

This morning I went to school to be with my coworkers and to help break the news to our students. It was a rough morning, but I was comforted being with those who also had wonderful memories of this great woman. One of my students had stepped into another classroom to have a little time to process. I went in to speak with him, and another student was also sitting with him. I knew they were both Christians and took their faith seriously. I sat down with them and said, "I couldn't say this in front of the whole class, but we know where Mrs. Stone is right now - in heaven. And she isn't in pain anymore." The student said, "Last night I prayed that Mrs. Stone could be out of pain." I told him that his prayers had been answered - that we didn't want Mrs. Stone to go, but we also didn't want her to be in pain. He seemed so grown up and mature right then. I was so proud of him.

When I got to school it was announced that Peg Seversen had also died this morning - from endometrial cancer. If you have followed this blog you will remember she came to my house for a visit shortly after I got home from the hospital. She and I had shared a wig and hats with our first treatments. Peg taught art at Millard South. She was an amazing teacher and had such a heart for all the students. Patty had worked in Peg's room assisting our students when they took her art class. Patty and Peg had a real respect for each other. I envisioned them holding hands as they walked through heavens gates.

This afternoon I am tired -emotionally & physically. Grieving is hard work.