First, her humor was infectious. She made everything easier to handle because she had a gift of lightening the load. Second, her courage was amazing. Up until two weeks prior to her passing, she was still staring down death, doing chemo, going to the ER and making choices. Just last week she looked at the Hospice Director and said, "get me out of here. If I'm going to die, I'm doing it at home with my husband and sons." Third, her love for her boys, me and her friends and family was unconditional. Just one week ago, she spent an hour with me and the boys and without question, let all three of us know how much she loved us, and while sitting with her, and in no uncertain terms, she told Jon and Matt that she is most proud of them when it comes to looking at her life's accomplishments. Fourth, her generosity was contagious. Her life was largely defined by her unselfishness. She was a giver and not a taker. And last was her faith - she counted on the Lord to give her strength and to take her home. Her signature verse during her battle is from the Old Testament book of Isaiah, Chapter 40, verse 31, "But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and will not faint."
Having her gone from our presence is excruciatingly difficult. We miss her every second. But knowing she is pain free and smiling down on her family and friends should bring us all some joy, and certainly an appreciation for an unbelievable woman who fought hard and gave it everything she could.
Sheryl - we love you immensely and look forward to seeing you again someday.
With deepest gratitude and a million memories - your husband, Todd.
