Like so many of us, my family has seen its share of sickness, sadness and death. We have come together as a family to do home hospice twice, and sat in silence at the graves of our loved ones, speechless.
On July 2nd, as most people were preparing for a long weekend and fireworks, (myself included) some One else was busy planning something entirely different. This something would bring a family to its knees in both anger, sadness and prayer. My mother, who had been struggling with a painful Achilles heel, finally had surgery, but didn’t feel “quite right” afterwards. July 2nd held the answer.
In the office of her doctor she turned yellow with jaundice and was taken to the ER. After many tests, and even a transfer to the Lahey Clinic it was clear. She had inoperable pancreatic cancer.
As each day goes by, (it’s now Day 12) we cling to each other, pray, tell stories and ask anyone and everyone to send their positive vibes our way.
Yesterday we were informed that many of her prescriptions would not be covered by insurance, especially the ones that actually work. My anger and rage, in this instance, sparked an idea. What could we all do to help? Everyone has been thinking of her and praying and offering to help….with anything/everything.
The PURPLE Bracelet Campaign was born! Through the efforts of a wonderful soul, and for yet another tragedy, we have many purple bracelets. Purple happens to be the color for pancreatic cancer survivors. (Yes, I added the word survivors….editorial privilege I suppose)
The bracelets are blank on purpose. They serve as a reminder to stop, breathe and love. The message is not on the bracelet because it is within you. Although I ask that while you do this you ask the Folks Upstairs to leave the Brooks family (and the Kenney family) alone for now and let us heal, it is just as important for YOU to stop and breathe and respect life.
We are bombarded with the saying Life is Short. I can say it is, and you never know the plan totally, so make it all count and keep praying, and listening and sending positive energy.
The bracelet campaign is limited, once they’re gone, they’re gone. I urge everyone to please support this idea by buying one. The cost is $6 and all the money will go to my parents to help cover prescription costs. They have been moved to tears (and happy ones for a nice change) by the overwhelming support and love from friends, family and strangers.
Thank you all for keeping her close to your heart, it has helped tremendously!
Peace, Chris
Please send any donation from PayPal to chris@fourleafclover.us or email me for my address to send a check. Thank you in advance for everything!
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August 13th, 2010 at 8:27 pm
I like what you all have to say. Very straight to the point. All in all great blog
August 21st, 2010 at 2:29 pm
“Purple happens to be the color for pancreatic cancer survivors.” Didn’t know that……..thanks for sharing.
September 6th, 2010 at 10:21 pm
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