Dear Toni, I just want to say how sorry I am for your passing. We've known each other since it seemed like forever. But our friendship really blossomed within the past years shortly before Jerry died. I remembered when you asked me to intervene for Jerry when he came to the VA for assistance. I'll never forget his humility about asking for help.But as a fellow veteran I reassured him that it was the least we could to honor him for his service.. And you stood right by his side making sure that he got whatever care he needed. What a relationship you both had with each other. The love, the bond, the closeness that almost defied reality. It was fun to observe how much you meant to each other and the interplay that only you both could appreciate and understand. It was unfortunate to have lost Jerry at the pinnacle of your marriage, just at the time when after years of sacrifice and sharing you could finally enjoy your life.But you endured with inner strength and faith. And there was never a doubt that you would carry on. Your devotion to Jerry during his illness was never more manifest than during his last days. You never left his side and he knew you never would. And in the end he was at peace. And then your strength and faith was never more evident as you cared for your grandson during what had to be the most heart wrenching experience as you watched him fight an illness that might cost him his life. But you endured. How you fought for his literal life. One would have to witness as I did how you fought with every fiber of your being for his survival. And as I see your grandson today: witnessing his graduation from high school, working full-time and now driving his own car, I can only say that I was witness to a living miracle, thanks to you. But with all these travails, you maintained your sense of humor and positive attitude. Unfortunately, the pressures of dealing with all that, it's not surprising that these burdens might have taken its toll on your body..But you endured, Pity was not part of your vocabulary. You looked at these matters as just being part of life. I know you being in a nursing home was not an easy challenge especially when you had your wits while those around you had lost theirs. But you endured. You made the most of it.
You earned the respect and admiration of the staff as well as the other residents of the nursing home.I think what bothered you the most by being in a nursing home was not having control. The saddest thing about seeing how your life had been effected by your loss of control is having to give up your precious dog, Molly. She loved you as much as you loved her. I know how much you worried about what was going to happen to Molly. But in a most gracious act of love and sacrifice, you asked me to watch over her for which I'll be forever grateful. Molly is lovable, faithful and adorable.You made sure of that. When people see her, they can't help but fall in love with her and constantly compliment me. But I am quick to remind them that you are Molly's mother and deserve the credit. I just watch her until you want her back. I tried to bring her to visit with you as often as I could because I know how much you missed her, as was it with Molly. Seeing how you greeted each other was a joy to behold.So Toni, you were my friend and my confidant, I'm going to miss you. I just love your photo. It truly speaks volumes and it's how I'll remember you. To the family, please accept my heartfelt condolences and know how blessed and fortunate you are to have had your mom and your dad in your lives. Love, Pat