Since we don't we need to support the foundations that do the best work. The LUSTGARTEN FOUNDATION is one of those groups. 100% of the funds they collect go to research to find a cure for pancreatic cancer - one of the deadliest cancers there is.
I have mentioned my neighbors before. Especially the family next door - with the funny guy Hope calls Pop Pop and the regal woman whose grandchildren call her Mamour and who my son thinks is one of the most beautiful older women.
One of the sons in this family is married to a pretty smart classy woman who takes amazing photos. She's also mom to the sweet maltese Jack whom I have featured on my photo blog. She is now also Mom to a beautiful baby boy with a smile that lights up the world - I wish I had asked her permission to show a photo of him.
Years ago I was in my kitchen when I heard the loveliest laugh and the most wonderful accent - an accent that reminded me a bit of my grandmother. I looked out just in time to see the flash of a big smile and a cascade of blonde hair get into a car and drive off.
That was the first time I saw Irene. I learned that she was Mom to my neighbors daughter-in-law.
Over the years I would run into Irene from time to time. She always looked so glamorous and excited. She was always laughing. Her daughter and I share photos we are proud of and Irene always jumps off the photo. She managed to subdue whatever surrounded her with her own light.
Irene fought a brave and graceful battle with Stage IV pancreatic cancer for over two years. During that time I visited her and we would talk about how wonderful our children are. She would tell me stories about Poland and I would tell her the stories my grandmother told about Russia. She beat the odds for as long as she could.
I wish she could have been here to meet her latest grandchild yet I feel she knew who he would be and has passed on to him the quick bright smile she was famous for. Her light continues on.
Irene's family will be participating in one of the many fundraising walks taking place on May 15. You can learn all about it on their page HERE
I will also leave the link on my sidebar.
I know money is tight and there are so many causes that need support. I also know that it is becoming more and more apparent that if we don't help each other then nothing will get done.
Most importantly remember to smile - big and bright and often. And send one out into the universe for Irene ...
The shortest distance between two people is a smile. ~Author Unknown
