Hello Again…
Sometimes when life gets hard, I cocoon myself. I close up. I try to brave the storm internally. The reason I fell silent online after my last post was because the following Tuesday things took a turn. As some may know, my family and I had the chance to drive down to Florida to visit a special part of our family, and to spend time making memories.
After arriving to the final destination Monday, I barely left the condo after Tuesday. My intestinal failure kicked into a flare. The days blurred with sleeping if possible to avoid the relentless nausea and pain. A lucky day I managed to make it down to the beach once, making contact with the water two precious times. My vision of family time, memory making, and most importantly my academic homework, quickly was blurred by survival mode. My goal of spending time doing homework and adventures was taken over by just trying to function through the day. Looking back on break most would assume I look on it with disappointment over the outcome. However, I don’t.
This is because our first stop in Florida was the most important. It was the day we got to spend with our beloved Grandmother, Grandma Carol. That day made all the agony that came afterwords nothing, because all that matters is the visit we had. Recently, my Grandma has been fighting grave health challenges herself. The biggest blessing is the timing of break, as it gave us the gift of everlasting memories. Before I fell sick, my family and I visited her in the hospital. I was able to hug her and love on her. I kissed her cheeks as I cradled her head. We got to hear her voice, which is a sound I treasure immensely. It was the most important stop. The following day my memory became foggy as my health became poor. I am grateful I have clear moments of our visit with her.
This week, our Grandma Carol flew to heaven. She is now free from pain. Free from being sick. Free from all the discomfort and agony. Free to be reunited with GrandBob, her forever love. She never stopped supporting me constantly through this journey… sharing my story with her beloved friends, sending me uplifting texts and prayers. She was always cheering me on, and lifting my spirits. She helped us find peace within this fight.
Times have been incredibly tough, but we are striving to remain positive. We have a guardian angel who is smiling down upon us and protecting us. We got to see our grandma and our great aunt right before I became sick. I have life. And she will always be a beautiful part of our lives. Life is so precious. I dream of cures, and I dream of seeing our Grandma again. Until then I use the support she gave us to raise awareness and the love she nurtured me with to enjoy life… after all, that’s what life is for.
We love you Grandma Carol. I love you to the moon and back. Forever and always. I hope it’s beautiful up there. Like one of the last things you said, I’ll see you again soon.
Love,
Isabelle
I love you Isabelle. If there is one true statement in life it would be, your grandma Carol loved you very much and was very proud of the tough fighter, beautiful woman you are. The second true statement is, she will see you again when your journey is through. Continue fighting for yourself and for your family. We love and support you and pray for you to have peace and comfort. Love, Aunt Sheila
These words brought tears to my eyes and filled my heart! Thank you incredibly much Aunt Sheila. I am forever grateful to know we will have her watching over us always, and one day be together again. It brings such peace during these tough times. Sending you all of my love, hugs, and gratitude. Love to you, Isabelle
So sorry for your loss. Take comfort in those wonderful memories you will forever carry in your heart.
Isabelle, I am so sorry to hear about your grandmother. My sympathy to you & all of your family. I hope you are feeling better. You are always in my prayers. God Bless You. Happy Easter.
Isabelle our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. You have inspired so many people on your journey. Your strength is amazing and uplifting. I was so happy to be able to give you a hug and spend a little time with your family and see the joy you all brought to Grandma Carol. She lived you all so much. Her children and grandchildren were annimmense joy and dhe shared it with those around her. May your journey continue and take comfort in all the love and support sent out to you. ❤️ Aunt Nancy
What a beautifully written tribute to your grandmother. You inspire me.