My Aunt Tracy

I know I have a ton of catching up to do, but I just really wanted to post about my Aunt Tracy (in pink). We never got to be that close, although I like to think that we would have been if distance weren't a factor. I always thought that she was very cool, so kind, and had a killer alto singing voice. She served in the military for a good portion of her life and even sang for their band. She wrote a duet for us to sing together at a family reunion once, which was an experience I'll never forget.

About fifteen years ago she was diagnosed with breast cancer, which she fought like a champ and beat. Ten years later it returned, to several parts of her body, with a vengeance. She started a blog to update her loved ones about the status her condition. It became a fun way to communicate with her and get to know her better. We also emailed one another fairly frequently, and she was such a great support when I myself was diagnosed with cancer.

Even though her blog posts were about her daily struggles with cancer, I always looked forward to reading them because they were so positive and filled with love and hope. Even on her worst days, she always looked on the bright side, and always encouraged us to do the same, sometimes asking for us to leave jokes or funny stories for her to enjoy. Her and her partner Jan, who took over the updates when Tracy was unable, constantly reminded us to smile, hug the ones we love and let go of the silly things that don't matter. She was a huge inspiration.

Three days ago my aunt passed away, peacefully, in her chair, with Jan and friends by, holding her hands. It was very sad news, but also a relief to know that her suffering had ended, with dignity and support. I wish that I had more time with my Aunt Tracy to get to know her better, but I'll be forever grateful for what she taught me, her example and the role she played in our lives and my mom's life. I hope I can always remember to take her lead and smile, enjoy the good things in life and always be grateful for the ones I love.