A day of highs and lows

[Scabbydoo]

As I noted in my "Happy Birthday" thread, it was a day of highs and lows. I had the opportunity to 'break bread' and celebrate my birthday with a few friends. I also attended the wake for Pepi's wife, Yolanda. The flood of confusion and mixed emotions was ongoing throughout the day.

While I was accepting well wishes and congratulations on adding another year to the ongoing count, I was also mourning the loss of a friend's wife, who was herself, a dear friend. A friend who, while I was going through my battle with the scourge that is cancer, was always there to encourage me.

Some of you know that Yolanda had herself survived a bout with cancer several years ago and since that time had made it a mission to work against the disease as well as support those she knew were battling it. I was blessed to be a beneficiary of her uplifting and energized support. Every few weeks I would get a call from Pepi inquiring how I was. I could hear Yolanda's voice in the background firing questions and comments and soon realized what prompted the call. Eventually I would hear Pepi say "Here, you talk to him." and Yolanda would be on the phone, issuing a rapid fire progression of questions and encouragement. My recollections of those calls were among the days highs.

Up-beat, hysterically funny, caring, supportive; those of you who knew Yolanda know what a force of nature she was. She will be missed.

[MrSurly]

I didn't know her, but through your gentle words I now feel as if I did. The essence of all the outpouring of feeling by others for her on facebook is displayed in your story.
A fitting tribute, Tom. Happy Birthday and I continue to wish only the best for my friend Pepi and his family as they deal with the loss of an inspiring soul.

[Fe Butte]

I sure wish we were all closer, in time, for more visits.

[fred1369]

Never met her but your words helped a lot.

[par_fore]

Having never had the pleasure of meeting Pepi and Yolanda, thanks for sharing Tom. Just confirms what I thought. Great people. My heart hurts for Pepi, his family and all that knew Yolanda.

Having dealt with far too many losses in my immediate and extended family and others I've stopped trying to find the words to explain or the rationale to explain or understand the questions that there are never answers for. I'll just say that these are the times when I lean on family, friends and faith to keep me moving forward. I try to celebrate every day that I wake up, birthday or otherwise as a gift.

Continued prayers for all affected.

[DAK47]

Very well worded, Mr Scabby..... Both of us (me and missus) have had the the Big C come for too many people. It actually makes me quite angry as I'm a solution provider in my career and this nastiness eludes everyone.

A heartfelt belated Birthday to you Tom and both of our hearts go out to Yolanda RIP and Pepi.... Peace & Love

Dirk and Autumn

[RoadWolf]

Thanks for sharing this Tom.

[Dinero]

Originally Posted by RoadWolf

Thanks for sharing this Tom.

Most of us are incapable of words. Thanks, Tom.

[Big Cheese]

Very well said Tom. I'm glad you have such good memories of Yolanda.
So sad for Pepi and his family, I wish him comfort. I hate that effin disease. I've lost several very close way too soon.