Away You Go: Heidi-Ho

Today is October 1st. The first day of the pink-month-marathon. Regardless of where you stand on the spectrum of breast cancer becoming a marketing strategy at the one end of the scale, to the dire need for finding a cure, at the complete opposite end..... I thought I would share with you what I became aware of yesterday. I sat in the parking lot after my singing & dancing extravaganza & went thru my new blackberry to check BCO & the unfolding story of an amazing woman. I sat in that parking lot for a very long time.

I learned that our "breast sister" young Heidi-Ho, departed this planet to join the heavenly angel chorus at the very same time I was engaged in my shannanigans with the children. She left in the midst of an outpouring of love & support, to 'standing ovations' from around the globe. Her dear brother wrote an amazing tribute with his announcement of her passing & told us about her 'rock star attitude' -- about her clapping for the very smallest of graces..... and so we sent her out in style, from Brazil to New Zealand, from the Bahamas to Ireland, from Israel to England and every state conceivable here & in Canada we created a heart-felt, clapping thunderstorm thru our tears.

She was diagnosed just barely 6 months ago. She leaves an enormous gaping hole in our hearts and in our BC community. It is beyond me to imagine the enormity of the loss to her husband, children, immediate family & circle of friends. We celebrate with her family the "sparkle" that she brought to every interaction. We applaud the family's strength in supporting her thru this swift chapter that concluded her life. We recognize anew the dramatic need for research progress and a cure. We will remember her contribution & legacy of hope.

For those who may be reading along here & have somehow gotten the media message that 'no one dies from breast cancer anymore' let me assure you, nothing could be further from the truth.

How poignant a reminder that Heidi-Ho would leave us on the eve of Pinktober. Please be an advocate for your own health and the health of those you love. Early detection does indeed save lives. Our current technology failed Heidi. She was brilliant in her optomism and care for her breast sisters. We will miss her immensely.

Strength and courage.

Strength and courage.

Strength and courage.

[The picture above is Heidi with one of her dearest friends on earth. We applaud you both for the unique bond that you have held and that you demonstrate for us here..... and J -- for holding up Heidi's family when we are unable to prop them up in person: a very big round of applause. Thank you J, a heartfelt thank you.]