A Mother's Love

Rosemary’s Story
On a hot day in late July, time stood still as we heard the doctor tell us that mom had an inoperable, very aggressive, malignant brain tumor (a glioblastoma multiforme) and that without treatment, she would die within weeks.  Nothing can prepare you for news like that. Mom was a sweet, beautiful woman who showed incredible courage, grace, and dignity battling her illness.  She never complained or asked why.  She faced each day with love in her heart and always with a smile. Her love and generosity in her lifetime were inspiring. She was the first to volunteer for a project, crochet an afghan, knit baby hats for preemies, bake Italian cookies, or make beautiful jewelry always for others.  She loved her crafts, her puzzles, her games, her flowers and decorations, but most of all, she loved her family and friends.
Mom’s treatment included chemotherapy and seven weeks of radiation at UC Barrett Center. The 194 days from diagnosis to death left a hole in our hearts that will never be filled, but those hours and days were also filled with wonderful memories of love and devotion. Thankfully, Mom was able to stay in her home during her entire illness; she was cared for by her loving husband, children, and family. Surrounded by the love of her family, mom peacefully passed away on an unseasonably warm, sunny day in February as the birds chirped, the curtains blew, and Josh Groban sang, “To Where you Are.”  We know where mom is…she is in the loving hands of the Lord and forever in our hearts.