Our friend Jay lost his courageous battle with cancer on Christmas Eve, 2006, at home with friends. Jay faced his final challenges with the strength he developed over the years as a result of his committment to live a full and productive life. On Sunday, January 7th, 2007, Jay’s 50th birthday, his friends gathered to celebrate his life and following are messages left behind that day:
“You can finally rest with peace and love, my beautiful little brother.”
“Let this be your sanctuary where you can rest without the pain you were forced to endure in your final days.”
“Jay was a very gentle and kind spirit. He was a large inspiration to many people.”
“Love and laughter, courage and strength, out spoken and easy going, God speed my friend until we meet again.”
“Jay, I didn’t get to know you as much as I liked, but I loved how you made me feel a part of your life and how you made me laugh.”
“I loved your laugh buddy. Till we meet again. Thank you for everything you did for me, thanks for all the laughter.”
“We will miss you terribly; I will always carry you in my heart. And I will miss hearing you share your experience, strength, and hope.”
“Strong, courageous, fearless, and a true fighter.”
Jay, Brian, Richie and Geri would like to thank all of our friends that stepped up (many new friends to Jay) and the Palliative Care Team, Chilliwack Hospice, Dr. Neil Hilliard, the Home Health Nurses, and of course Home Care Workers’. You all held us up and helped us find the strength to journey with Jay and assist him to “die living”.