L  I  L  L  I  A  N

 

As many of you know, Lillian was a courageous Stage 4 Survivor of Ovarian Cancer and for the last 5 years she had been very instrumental in the development and leadership in our support group, Ovarian Awareness of Kentucky- or “OAK”.  After Lillian, or as I always called her Miss Lillian, passed away I was hoping that I or someone from OAK, would have the opportunity to share with you some of our memories that are so close to our hearts.

 

As I was trying to gather my thoughts in what I wanted to share with you on behalf of her many friends in OAK, so many memories of Lillian and her kindness came to mind.

 

I know on a personal note, I think the first time I met Lillian at a support meeting, I instantly felt a bond and the start of a sincere friendship and Lillian was like this with everyone.  She could remember what you had talked about, no matter what time had passed and followed-up on any concerns.  She could do this because she listened and truly cared about each one of us.

 

Lillian always had a delicate way of expressing her devotion and friendship to OAK and its members.  She was always involved in some way and those that were lucky enough to work with her on a project or just as her friend walked away with more than they came with.

 

Every year about this time, many of us in OAK start organizing for our Toast to Life survivor celebration.  I have been amazed at the hours and hours of many late nights that Lillian spent with Jackie and I putting together baskets for our silent auction.  And even when countless hours had been put in and Jackie and I were getting tired; It was easy to find strength when we were with Lillian.  Besides, how could we be tired?  Lillian was a survivor in treatment, with a smile on her face making sure each basket was right.

 

At this same event, every year Lillian delivered our Innvocation.  Her message was always meaningful, strong and showed she was a true woman of faith.

 

When OAK would be notified of a newly diagnosed survivor, Lillian never hesitated to reach out to them either with a phone call or a personal visit.  She would help encourage them to not feel doomed by their diagnosis and offer her sincere friendship.

 

When Lillian walked into a room whether it be for a support meeting or speaking at our Lunch ‘n Learns, she was dynamic in capturing attention with her glow and warmth.  Her voice was very soft, but her words touched and captured your heart.

 

Lillian, with her medical knowledge, was always able to offer help to other survivors and family members to understand their diagnosis, treatment and or symptoms.

 

Just this past February, Lillian was consoling a survivor at our Pamper Me Day that was just starting to lose her hair.  Lillian looking as beautiful and healthy as always, was trying to convince this survivor to go ahead and get her head shaved.  The survivor was reluctant until Lillian took her own wig off and the survivor soon understood what beauty was, and it was not about “having hair”.

 

Lillian served on the board of OAK along with I and 3 others.  In our meetings, she was the level ground.  Always keeping us on track and providing insight into a survivor’s perspective.  She was never reluctant to take on responsibilities even when we asked “Are you sure?”.  Lillian was amazing and she had grace in everything she did.

 

As you can hear, Lillian was a rock and an angel in our group--- With her   JUST DO IT attitude!  She did just that throughout her life.  Lillian not only took care of the people around her, but also took care of herself, which so many of us forget to do.  She took time to take the trips she wanted to take, to see the places she wanted to see by just doing it.  Lillian took charge of her career and raised a beautiful daughter, Michelle, who’s beauty shines from within just like her mother’s by taking the time to just do it and do it well.

 

Lastly, I would like to share a poem with you about starting the next day without someone.  I know our June support meeting and others will not be the same without Lilllian’s great attitude, beauty, grace, knowledge and most of all her friendship.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When Tomorrow Starts Without Me

-Author Unknown

 

When tomorrow starts without me

And I’m not there to see

If the sun should rise and find your eyes

All filled with tears for me.

 

I wish so much you wouldn’t cry

The way you did today

While thinking of the many things

We didn’t get to say

 

I know how much you love me,

As much as I love you,

And each time that you think of me

I know you’ll miss me too

 

But when tomorrow starts without me

Please try to understand

Than an angel came and called my name

And took me by the hand

 

And said my place was ready

In heaven far above

And that I’d have to leave behind

All those I dearly love

 

But when I walked through heaven’s gates

I felt so much at home

When God looked down and smiled at me

From His great golden throne

 

He said, “This is eternity

And all I’ve promised you

Today for life on earth is past

But here it starts anew.

 

I promise no tomorrow

For today will always last,

And since each day’s the same way

There’s no longing for the past.

 

So when tomorrow starts without me

Don’t think we’re far apart,

For every time you think of me

I’m right here in your heart.