A Bit of Sunshine in A Lot of Sadness

Today I want to share the story of 2 amazing women. The first is my beloved aunt who is battling stage 4 ovarian cancer. For 2 years she has waged a bitter battle with this "silent killer". We actually thought she was one of the lucky ones. She emerged from her first bout of chemo/radiation with flying colors. Amazingly, within weeks her strength and energy were back to full speed. For a little while we had our sweet Aunt Peggy back. She is an amazing woman- she was like a mom to me when we moved out to California in 2007. She embraced my kids as her own- she arranged a egg hunt for my kids on Easter knowing we were home alone for the holiday, let me drag her all over Northern California looking at houses (she was my realtor), she ran over to help thread my bobbin when I received my 1st monogramming machine and she always listened without judgement when I had a problem. She was just so wonderful and welcoming when we moved out west. She was always there for me-unselfish and kind even when fighting her cancer. Now I want to be there for her. About 6 months ago, her cancer returned. Doctors have told her there is nothing left to do, the battle can no longer be fought. Today we received the bad news that her kidneys are shutting down. She has mere weeks left on this earth. We are realistic- we know the inevitable will be here soon. But her first grandbaby is due in 5 weeks. I just want her to be able to hold this sweet baby before she leaves this earth. Please pray that she can hold on just a bit longer.

Shortly after that news, thanks to a fellow mom vendor, I stumbled upon this blog. Be prepared to cry your eyes out reading about this sweet little girl. Tonight....all I can do is think about this mom and how she will continue on. We all so take our kids health for granted, never thinking that a slew of health problems could lead to a cancer diagnosis that then leads to losing your child. I cannot even imagine. This inspiring family is turning their grief into something positive. You can read more about Cora's Playground here. You can also donate via paypal on the site.
You can also shop Etsy as a big group of talented Etsy sellers are using some of the product they make and sell to benefit Cora's Playground. Immediately upon reading, I just wanted to help in any way I could. Aside from our monthly donation to St Jude Hospital, we wanted to actually help a family behind the name. It just makes it so much more personal when you actually read the story behind the cancer diagnosis. For the rest of February, we will donate all proceeds from the sales of our best selling birthday dress. We hope to make a nice donation to this wonderful cause. We appreciate your support.

"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear..."
Psalms 46:1

Blog Update, August 28, 2009
Sadly, my aunt lost her battle with ovarian cancer May 28, 2009. RIP Aunt Peggy- You are missed.