History

Journal History

Wednesday, November 5, 2003 8:46 AM CST

Hi All.

Remember to smile today and brighten someone's day as Diane always brightened our day.

Friday, October 31, 2003 9:23 AM CST

Hi All. Happy Halloween! Diane always loved Halloween! I'm sorry the site has not been updated for a while...I still have a tough time...I know there are many of us who miss Di a lot and think of her every day. I did want to share with you that Michael, Jessica, Melissa and Shannon are doing well. They are enjoying school and making their mom proud. They love being involved with the Loyola Greyhounds - especially Michael who is a freshman at Loyola.....the team loves having him around! KJ has done a terrific job of leading the Greyhounds and they enjoyed a successful fall season. Many of you have asked that I post Kristen Hagert's eulogy and I wanted to do that for you. It is on my computer at home so I will get it on the site as soon as I can. As you check the site and think of Diane remember to SMILE.....you know she wants all of that positive energy coming from each one of us!
Love,
Janine

Sunday, July 6, 2003 11:44 PM CDT

Hi All.
As expected, we all miss Diane very much...but I can feel her watching over me and all those she loved...
The mass at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen was beautiful...Father Ridley was terrific and had such wonderful things to say about Diane...
Kristen, Betsy and Dave poured their hearts out for Diane and her family and I am trying to get copies of what they said so I can post it on the website...
As for what I had to say on Diane's behalf...here it is...I hope you all enjoy it...

"I wanted to speak last because the words I have to share with you are not my own...they are Diane’s.
I knew that Kristen, Betsy and Dave would have wonderful things to say about Diane, so I asked her to speak to you through me...I told her I would be honored to share her thoughts with you...she loved the idea and as usual, knew exactly what she wanted to say...
To my loving family...my amazing children...my dearest friends and my true soulmate...
Know that you will always have an angel by your side...watching out for you in all that you do....reminding you to believe in brighter days...finding ways for your wishes and dreams to come true...giving you hope that is as certain as the sun...this angel will give you strength, love, comfort and courage...
Know that you will always have an angel by your side...someone there to catch you if you fall...encouraging your dreams...inspiring your happiness....holding your hand and helping you through it all....
This angel will give you gifts that will never, ever end....this angel is someone wonderful to love and confide in...this angel will always keep your secrets...and will love you no matter what...
You will always have an angel by your side....to give you rainbows after every storm....to give you smiles through the tears and to hold you in her heart keeping you safe and warm....Know that you will always have an angel by your side...and that angel is me. I loved you all with everything I had in me.
To my mom and dad....I can not put into words how much you mean to me...know that every ray of sunshine that hits your face is a hug from me to you.
To my team....you gave me a season to remember...there are NO regrets...only tremendous pride...thank you for playing your hearts out for me...I love you all.
To ALL of my players....past and present...
Promise me you’ll always remember what a special person YOU are....
Promise me you’ll hold on to your hopes and constantly reach for the stars...
Promise me you’ll live with enthusiasm and happiness over the years...
Promise me that when you think of me it will always be with a smile...
Promise you’ll “remember when,” and you’ll always “look forward to....”
Promise you’ll do the things you’ve always wanted to do...
Promise me you’ll cherish your dreams and enjoy life day by day...
Above all, promise to remember me.
Remember that I have these wishes for you...
I wish you all a life of love... and joy... and dancing... and I wish for all of your dreams to come true.
To those whose lives I’ve touched in one way or another....know that I loved every day I had on this earth....know that I am happy and safe....know that I will always be a part of your life...for as long as you’ll have me in it....to all of you I ask for one thing....enjoy life to the fullest...you never know when it will be taken away from you."

"Diane...on Sunday, June 29th I know I lost a friend....but I take great comfort in knowing I gained a guardian angel...I miss you so much already...you taught me to never, ever give up...to keep fighting for what you believe in....thank you for being my friend, my mentor and my hero...I will never forget you...and I am a better person for having had you in my life. Goodbye Diane."

Love to all,
Janine

Wednesday, July 2, 2003 8:59 PM CDT

Hi Everyone.
I just got back from the final viewing and couldn't wait to update Diane's website....
The love, warmth and compassion that was present at the funeral home from 2-5pm and then again from 7-9pm was truly remarkable....people were coming from all over the country to pay their respects to Diane and her family...
Even the TV people who met Diane and her amazing family while they were following her story came down to offer their love and support...the crews from CSTV, ESPN, the local Baltimore stations, etc., wow!
It was so wonderful to see all the current and former Greyhounds come to say their goodbyes to Di...they were all smiling through the tears...she is so proud of her players!
Diane's family was gracious and strong and my head was spinning listening to all the great "Diane stories..." as you would expect, most of the stories made everyone laugh...just as Diane would want it.
Diane looked peaceful and content, knowing that the people she loved were all there supporting her and her family.
I was asked by a number of people to put the Children's Fund information on the website again..so here it is...

A trust fund has been set up for Diane's four children and anyone wishing to make donations to the fund (in lieu of flowers and gifts) can make checks payable to:

The Aikens Children Trust Fund

Checks should be mailed to:
Mr. John A. Geppi, Jr.
1363 Deanwood Road
Baltimore, MD 21234-6003

I will see you all at the mass tomorrow at 11am at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen...

Love to all,
Janine

Monday, June 30, 2003 9:54 AM CDT

To all of Diane's friends and loved ones:

We are going to CELEBRATE Diane's life and remember her for the wonderful mother, family member, coach, friend, and mentor she was and will forever be...

On Wednesday, July 2 there will be viewings at Ruck Funeral Home in Towson, Maryland (on the corner of York Road and the Beltway) from 2-5pm and 7-9pm.

A mass will be held at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen on Thursday, July 3 and Diane will be buried immediately following the mass at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens. The Cathedral is located on North Charles Street and the time of the mass is TBA. Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens is located off of Padonia Road.

I will keep you posted as more information becomes available.

Diane's family and I thank each and every one of you for your heartfelt condolences and love that you are expressing through this website and to us personally...

We know Diane will be smiling as all of the people she loved and touched throughout her life come together to celebrate her.

We can't wait to see you all.

Love,
Janine

Sunday, June 29, 2003 2:34 AM CDT

Hello everyone.
I just received a phone call from Diane's older sister Carolyn telling me that our beloved Diane is in Heaven...Diane died in Carolyn's arms a few moments ago...I'm sure Diane could feel that she was safe in Carolyn's arms...Carolyn said the children have all said goodbye to their mother...they are sad, yet at peace knowing their mom is no longer suffering...Carolyn and Diane's family wanted everyone to know that Diane is very much at peace...she is, and will always be, with us...watching out for us and blessing us with her captivating smile...
I miss her so much already...but I will, as I know you will, take great strength from knowing how fortunate we were to have Diane in our lives, even if it was for such a short time...I know I am crying because I am sad that Diane is no longer physically with us, but I am also trying to muster a smile through the tears (as Diane would want) to let Diane know how proud I am to have had her in my life...she knows she made me a better person and I thank her for that...I'm sure there are many of you out there who feel the same way. Please, when you read this, offer a prayer of love for Diane, send some of your strength to Diane's family, and above all smile through the tears...she can feel it.
Love to all,
Janine

Saturday, June 28, 2003 9:20 PM CDT

Hello everyone.
I had a chance to spend some time with Diane today and, as usual, she was surrounded by family and friends and there was a tremendous amount of love and warmth in the house.
Diane's breathing is very labored and I feel she spiritually is taking steps toward Heaven, but her body is so strong it isn't ready to stop fighting quite yet. That's our girl. Michael, Jessica, Melissa and Shannon and the Geppi family are so strong...they are so gracious to allow so many people to spend time with Diane during this sacred part of their family's life....they have always been such a giving family.
Diane's assistant coaches and amazing team have been stopping by around the clock and always bring such joy to the house even in this time of sorrow.
Diane looks so peaceful and would want you all to know she is ready for what lies ahead for her...she always faces new challenges with such spunk and enthusiasm...I'm sure God has a special spot in his heart and by his side for our Diane. Continue to send her smiles...I know she can feel your energy.
Love to all,
Janine

Friday, June 27, 2003 3:38 PM CDT

Hi All.
As much as I have loved updating this website....it is getting harder and harder...
Diane looked so beautiful today...very peaceful. I talked to her about how much she is loved and how proud I am of all the amazing things she has accomplished in her life. I know she was smiling inside...
As usual, she is surrounded by her wonderful family and friends and has her music on (you all know how much she loves to dance).
She is not in any pain and I know she can hear everything going on around her...even though she is not responding.
She is happy and at peace because her family, closest friends and her beloved team and co-workers have all come to tell her how much they love her, and how she will always be in each of their hearts.
She continues to get strength and comfort from all of your thoughts and prayers and will take all of that happiness with her when she is ready to leave us.
I was looking at some old pictures of Di that her mom showed me and she will always live in my mind as that playful, beautiful, bright-eyed best friend who could captivate any audience with her smile and genuine goodness. Aren't we all such better people for having Diane in our lives? I thank God for giving her to us as long as he did....and you know Diane, she still expects us to be smiling through the tears....
It is amazing to see how much of Diane comes through in her children, Michael, Jessica, Melissa and Shannon...they are all doing as well as expected and I know Diane is happy to be home with them...they do a great job of showering her with kisses and love.
Please continue to pray for Diane and her family as she drifts peacefully into God's arms.
Love and thanks,
Janine

Wednesday, June 25, 2003 7:28 PM CDT

Hi everyone.
I am writing to you with tears in my eyes because I just came back from visiting with Diane...
She is getting weaker and it is hard to see her like that. I told her how much I love her, and I told her how much all of you love her and that made her smile. I could feel Diane's love and strength as I held her hand and all I could think about was how much of an impact she has made on so many people...
I know that we are all better people for having Diane in our lives and I thank God everyday that he blessed us with her presence for this long. I would like to ask each of you as you read this to put a big smile on your face so that Diane can feel that happiness...you know she would ask for the same thing.
She continues to put up a good fight and finds great joy in having her family around her each day. I promise to keep you posted...
Love to all,
Janine

Friday, June 20, 2003 11:38 PM CDT

Hi everyone. I'm sorry it took me a bit to update the website....
Diane was honored to receive the following wonderful news...

The College Sports Television Team was welcomed with open arms by the Loyola College Women's Lacrosse team, coaches and Diane's family. CSTV been so inspired by their experience, and the real-life side of college sports, that CSTV is announcing the creation and sponsorship of the Diane Geppi-Aikens Award. Starting next year and to be continued each year, CSTV will underwrite a scholarship of $5,000 to one senior women's college lacrosse player, who has excelled on and off the field, displaying extraordinary leadership, character and perseverance in the face of adversity. Through this lasting gift of education, CSTV would like to say "Thanks Coach."

Isn't that terrific? Diane was beside herself and sends lots of thanks to CSTV for their wonderful coverage of her family, team and her battle with brain cancer.

To give you an update on Diane's condition...she is still waging a tough fight, but is now using an oxygen tank at times to help her with her breathing. She gets tired a bit quicker now...but still cracks her jokes and expects everyone to laugh! She wants and needs lots of prayers as she continues her fight and reminds all of us to cherish every day we are blessed with...

As usual, Diane and her family send love to all!

Love,
Janine

Tuesday, May 27, 2003 2:25 PM CDT

Hello Everyone!
I have some exciting news to share with you!
First of all, Diane is so excited for Michael's graduation this Saturday...she is so proud of him and wouldn't miss it for the world. It is truly going to be a special day.

Another special day for Diane will be Wednesday, June 4th where she will be presented with a wonderful award...Scott Beck, who is the President of the Tewaaraton Award Foundation, announced that the Foundation wants to honor Diane for her dedication, commitment and contribution to the sport of lacrosse. It is going to be a spectacular event with the 5 male and female finalists present along with this special award for Diane.
Anyone is invited to attend and tickets can be purchased from Holly Muldoon at 301-765-7995...the event is being held at the National Geographic Society in Washington, D.C.

Also, Di is meeting with an agent to discuss a possible movie of her life! We all knew she would end up in the movies!

Way to go Di!

As usual, Di sends her love and thanks to everyone...this website is a true source of joy for her and her family.

Love to all,

Janine

Saturday, May 17, 2003 3:45 PM CDT

Hello Everyone.
Congratulations to the Loyola Greyhounds for giving Diane an outstanding lacrosse season.
The team put up a great fight against a tough Princeton team in Syracuse, but lost 5-3.
Diane is so proud of her players and all they have accomplished this season....she sends lots of love to all her friends and family.
Love to all.
Janine

Sunday, May 11, 2003 8:26 PM CDT

Hi All!
Happy Mother's Day!
The Greyhounds gave Diane a terrific Mother's Day present....a big win over Yale today 13-7 to advance to the NCAA Semi-Finals this coming weekend in Syracuse, NY.
The team looked great...and Diane was right there on the sidelines directing her girls.
We are so excited to see the Today Show this Friday....of course Diane's story will steal the show!
Diane is so excited for the Final Four as well as Michael's graduation from Calvert Hall...lots of great things happening in her life and she is enjoying every minute!
Again, she sends her love and thanks to all of you for your strength and compassion you send to her....she is cherishing every day and encourages each of us to do the same...
Lots of love to all...
Janine

Monday, May 5, 2003 9:02 AM CDT

Hi Everyone!
I have lots of updates for you!
First of all, CONGRATULATIONS to the Loyola Greyhounds for capturing the top spot in the NCAA Tournament! Diane is so proud and knew her team was prepared to accomplish great things this year!
Loyola will be playing UMBC on Thursday May 8th between 3-4pm at Loyola College.
Our superstar Diane will be featured on the Today Show on May 16th...the producers are at Loyola this week putting her incredible story together.
An award was named for Diane at Loyola's athletic banquet....Loyola College has announced the "Diane Geppi Aikens Inspiration Award" which will be given each year to a male and female student-athlete at Loyola.
Diane's legacy at Loyola will live on and she gets a huge smile on her face when she talks about these things!
The most exciting news I have to share with you is that a producer from Universal Studios in Hollywood, California called Diane to talk about doing a movie of her life!
How appropriate for people all over the country/world to have a chance to hear her story through a movie!
Things are in the early stages, so keep your fingers crossed!
That's it for now...as usual, send Di lots of love and prayers...she loves you all!
Love,
Janine

Monday, April 21, 2003 3:10 PM CDT

Hi All!
Di wanted me to tell everyone that she is hanging in there. She is so proud of her team and the Greyhounds are having an outstanding season for her.
As usual, Di is out and about (with the help of her dad) coaching her team, enjoying her children and living life to the fullest.
One of the recent roadblocks was that Di contracted diabetes and really has to watch what she eats...well, in the usual Diane fashion, she had a funny story that she wanted me to share with everyone....
You all know how much Diane loves sweets (especially chocolate)...well, she paid her kids $20 to sneak her a chocolate dunkin munchkin the other day! She said it was worth every penny! Don't worry....she behaves most of the time with her diet.
Di was at Hopkins today watching the Lacrosse Showdown that was played in her honor....I beleive all of the proceeds will go to the Aikens Children Fund. Thanks to Craig Amos for putting the showdown together!
Diane sends her love to everyone and can feel the thoughts and prayers you send her way....keep them coming!
Love,
Janine

Thursday, April 3, 2003 10:35 AM CST

Hi All!
As I had mentioned in the last journal entry...Diane had a big doctor's appointment on April 1st and I wanted to update everyone. At this point, she is still waiting for some MRI results (they should be in by Friday) but was told by her doctors that things had not really changed...nothing has gotten worse, but nothing has gotten better. Di was a little disappointed, as she had hoped that the radiation had shrunk some of the tumors, but still remains optimistic about the additional MRI results that still need to be shared with her. I'll let you know as soon as I can.
Di continues to coach her Greyhounds and the team is still undefeated....Di has been waiting to see her team play on TV and she will get her wish this Saturday....when Loyola takes on Penn State at 12pm. The game can be seen live on Channel 2.
As usual, Di sends her love to everyone and always wants me to convey how happy this website makes her....
Love to all,
Janine

Saturday, March 22, 2003 10:09 PM CST

Hello All.
Diane wanted me to make you aware of some new developments...unfortunately, her doctors have discovered that Diane has Diabetes and must drastically alter her diet...that's quite a bummer for her because you know how much she LOVES chocolate chip cookies...she took the news in typical Diane fashion...she understands that her diet needs to be monitored and she is enthusiastically taking medication in the mornings and watching what she eats...

She did receive some good news from her doctors...they are reducing the amount of steroids she has to take, which will allow the swelling in her face and body to go down...Di is definitely excited about that! Also, Di has a big doctors appointment on April 1st where they are taking some MRI's and letting her know whether or not the radiation is working, so...everyone must say some prayers on April 1st that we get a good report from Di's doctors!

Every time I talk to Diane she raves about how much she enjoys reading the comments on her website...her dad prints them off and reads them to her on a regular basis...

In case you are wondering about the kids....Michael, Jessica, Melissa and Shannon are doing great..they are incredibly strong children (no surprise there!) who are doing well in school and giving Diane lots of love and joy...

As for Di's Greyhounds...I've seen them play a number of times this season and they are thrilling to watch...as usual, they are working very hard for Di, KJ and Porch...

The JHU Blue Jays, along with a number of lacrosse teams across the country, have put green tape on their sticks in honor of Diane...we get a lot of Diane's strength and energy just by looking at that tape...

Thanks again to everyone who uses this website...Diane loves you!

Love to all,

Janine

Tuesday, March 18, 2003 3:12 PM CST

Hello everyone!
Diane's Greyhounds are rolling through the 2003 season so far...capturing the top spot in the polls and not looking back!
Diane is enthusiastically coaching her team at every turn, as expected. She is still tired, but wants everyone to know she is not in any pain. Her strength and spirit continue to inspire friends and family across the country.
She sends lots of love to everyone for their comments on this website....reading it gives her strength to face each new day.
She promises to be in touch soon!
Much love,
Janine

Sunday, March 9, 2003 8:40 PM CST

Loyola Greyhounds 9
Princeton Tigers 8
in sudden death overtime!
Way to go Diane and company!

Saturday, March 8, 2003 4:34 PM CST

Well, Diane's Greyhounds made a statement on Friday beating the UNC Tarheels 10-4. The team looked fast, confident and on a mission...way to go Greyhounds! Most importantly, Diane was pleased with her team's effort and was thrilled to be on the sidelines in the freezing cold!
Right before the game, Loyola College held an Employee Appreciation reception in Diane's honor, and speaker after speaker praised Diane's strength, courage and ability to inspire her team and all those she comes in contact with. It is obvious what an impact Diane has had on the Loyola College community and she was happy to be honored by her co-workers. The Johns Hopkins Women's Lacrosse team was there for the reception and the game to show Diane that we are always thinking of her and her team...
The Blue Jays hold a special spot for Diane in their hearts too!
A BIG Thank You to the Loyola College Women's Lacrosse team for coming to watch Hopkins play William and Mary today...you guys are terrific! Coach Dabrowski especially loved seeing you all!
Diane's team is back in action on Sunday against the Princeton Tigers...and of course, she will be there on the sidelines....
Love to all,
Janine

Thursday, March 6, 2003 6:32 PM CST

Hi All!
As usual, our superstar is busy having all of the people she has touched over the years telling her how much they love her!
Loyola College is having an Employee Appreciation Day on Friday, March 7th at 3pm (in the fourth floor Programming Room in the Athletic Center) before the Greyhounds take on North Carolina at 4pm. Scott Garceau from Channel 2 sports will be speaking, along with John Palmucci the Vice President of Administration and Finance, and Joe Boylan Loyola's Athletic Director. I'm also going to have a chance to say a few words about Diane...it should be a wonderful event celebrating all that Diane has done, and continues to do, for the Loyola College community.
I'll be sure to let you know how it goes....
Love to all,
Janine

Wednesday, March 5, 2003 8:26 AM CST

Hello everyone! Well, the Greyhounds have their first win for Diane in 2003. They beat a fiesty UMBC team yesterday 16-4. It was a terrific team effort and the coaching staff was pleased with what they saw. As usual, the Greyhounds gave their heart and soul in their effort on the field for Diane, KJ and Porch. Nice job ladies!
Diane has been enjoying the past few days with her sisters, Carolyn and Patti, and was out and about on the town with them. She has loved spending time with her family and friends while keeping up her fight...
Diane said she was going to post some messages on the website for everyone...she has been meaning to get on the site and write some of her thoughts down, so keep checking!
Every time I talk to her, I can see her smile through the phone when she talks about how much she loves reading the comments on her website.
Please keep Diane, her family and her team in your thoughts....I know she can feel the love and prayers you send her!
Love and thanks to all!
Janine

Thursday, February 27, 2003 7:47 PM CST

Hi all! Wanted to let you know that Diane had a terrific time at the beach a few days ago with Andrea and some friends...it was very relaxing for her (even with all of the snow). She came back ready to start the spring season and spent last Sunday with her team at their pre-season tournament (in the freezing rain)! As usual, she was coaching away! There's no stopping her. She was especially touched after the tournament when one of her players, Sarah Schoaf, sang a favorite song of Diane's...way to go Sarah!
I wanted to let you know that there are some great events coming up that will benefit The Aikens Children Trust Fund:
Lax Showdown at Johns Hopkins University on April 21....admission $5 for the day.
Boys:
Dulaney vs Calvert Hall 10am
Centennial vs Mt. St. Joe 12pm
Girls:
Broadneck vs Roland Park 2pm
Hereford vs NDP 4pm

Also...Ohio State is hosting the Big 10/ACC Challenge March 28-30 and will donate the proceeds to the fund as well! More information to follow....
You gotta love the lacrosse community!
Diane sends her best to everyone....and can't wait to see you soon.
Love,
Janine

Thursday, February 20, 2003 8:47 PM CST

Hello everyone! Our superstar Diane is getting her last radiation treatment on Friday, February 21...the doctors will give her a couple of weeks break to determine if the radiation is working (which we all know it is!).
I am proud to tell you that Diane is being featured on Channel 45 at 10:00pm this Friday, February 21...as usual she does a great job on TV...please tune in to watch the feature story on her.
Diane made an appearance at a Channel 2 news conference the other day promoting her team's game against Penn State that will be featured on TV this spring...
Finally, Di has been to a couple of practices and the Greyhounds are looking good! She is so proud of her team...
Di is putting up a good fight (as we all expect) and wants to thank everyone for their love and support...
She can't wait to see everyone at her games this spring!
Love to all,
Janine

Wednesday, February 12, 2003 4:42 PM CST

Hi all! Great news! Diane was able to move her left hand yesterday and squeeze with her left hand. Her left side has been paralyzed for weeks and she has been going through tough physical therapy...well, it looks like it paid off! She is thrilled...this is definitely a big deal...so we feel the radiation is working.
She has lost her hair (and looks as cute as ever) and has been through 11 radiation treatments so far with about 7-8 more to go.
The hospice people (sorry, I don't know names yet) have been coming in each week to bathe Diane and help her with the physical therapy...they are really great. Di was in such high spirits and couldn't wait for me to tell everyone about the movement of her left hand...
She says she'll be using a crab mallot with her left hand by the summer...and you know Di...she probably will!
Thanks to all of you for the wonderful messages you leave Diane...they make her smile and remind her of how many people love her...keep them coming!
Love,
Janine

Monday, February 3, 2003 8:04 PM CST

Hello everyone. Well, Diane feels very optimistic about the radiation treatments...she feels like something is working because her hair is starting to fall out...she'll be sporting some pretty cute hats for a while..I'll try to get some pictures for you!
Diane had her team over on Sunday for a fabulous team dinner...the girls brought lots of love and strength to Diane...she loves her team!
Di is very excited as she will be going to Loyola on Tuesday the 4th to watch practice and to give TV interviews to Channel 45 and Channel 9. She had an interview today with Lacrosse Magazine and did a great job...you all know how Di tells great stories!
Please continue to send love and prayers...Di enjoys reading the website entries...they make her smile.
Love,
Janine

Tuesday, January 28, 2003 at 02:21 PM (CST)

Hi all! Diane met with her doctor yesterday after her 8th radiation treatment and he said things seem o.k. for right now. He wants her to take the next two weeks off from radiation and then come back for at least 9 more treatments. He will assess her again after that. The radiation saps her energy, but she is putting up a great fight. Di went to work for a little while the other day to see her team practice, and the girls were thrilled to see her. She is having the team over for a team dinner on Sunday and her players can't wait to spend some time with her. As usual, Diane wants me to remind everyone that she is being strong, and to keep sending her love and prayers!
There are a number of events we have planned on Diane's behalf and we'll give you more information soon...
We have some more photos coming!
Love to all,
Janine

Monday, January 27, 2003 at 09:24 AM (CST)

UPDATE - January 27, 2003
Diane has had eight radiation treatments so far and should get some feedback from her doctors this afternoon regarding the success of the treatments. She was very happy to have her daughter Jessica accompany her to her treatment this past Friday...Jessica was Diane's DJ and picked some fun music for Diane to listen to as the radiation was administered. It was very special for Diane to have Jessica there with her. Di wanted everyone to know that she is not in pain, just very tired. She loves reading the comments on the website and draws lots of strength and love from each of you. Thanks so much for your thoughts and prayers, and I'll let you know the update from the doctors as soon as I talk to Di.
We are also getting some photos to put on the website soon!
Love, Janine

Sunday, January 19, 2003 at 12:32 PM (CST)

This website has been created by Diane's family. We encourage you to visit this site for updates on Diane's condition and to leave her messages...we are trying to minimize the amount of phone calls coming into the house. Please share this address with all of Diane's friends.

A trust fund has been set up for Diane's four children and anyone wishing to make donations to the fund (in lieu of flowers and gifts) can make checks payable to:
The Aikens Children Trust Fund

Checks should be mailed to:
Mr. John A. Geppi, Jr.
1363 Deanwood Road
Baltimore, MD 21234-6003

UPDATE - JANUARY 19, 2003
Diane has undergone 3 radiation treatments so far and will have between 8-10 more over the next few days. She said the treatments don't hurt and that after the last one, the doctors will give her an MRI to see if the radiation is working. We'll keep you posted.
Diane is at home caring for her children the best she can and preparing for Michael's graduation from Calvert Hall this spring. She has lots of help from her family, friends and team. Her women's lacrosse players bring her much joy!
Her eyes are as bright as ever and she is excited about the spring lacrosse season. She continues her fight and draws strength from the love and support people are sending her through this website. Thanks so much for all the prayers!
Love,
Janine

Wednesday, January 15, 2003 at 12:20 PM (EST)

This website has been created by Diane's family. We encourage you to visit this site for updates on Diane's condition and to leave her messages...we are trying to minimize the amount of phone calls coming into the house. Please share this address with all of Diane's friends.

A trust fund has been set up for Diane's four children and anyone wishing to make donations to the fund (in lieu of flowers and gifts) can make checks payable to:
The Aikens Children Trust Fund

Checks should be mailed to:
Mr. John A. Geppi, Jr.
1363 Deanwood Road
Baltimore, MD 21234-6003

JANUARY 13, 2003
Diane returned from a wonderful trip to California. She was honored by the NCAA and received their Inspiration Award for her courage and strength in battling brain cancer while coaching her Loyola Greyhounds to incredibly successful seasons.

JANUARY 15, 2003
This morning, Diane will receive the first of eight radiation treatments geared toward slowing the progress of the brain cancer. Please send thoughts and prayers for a successful radiation treatment.

JANUARY 15, 2003 UPDATE
Diane wanted everyone to know that the first of her 8-10 radiation treatments went well this morning...she had a wonderful friend from high school working at the hospital who administered the treatment. It was comforting for Diane to have a friend from her past in the medical field working with her.
She wanted everyone to remember that, "When you think you've got it bad...there's always someone else who has it worse..." She is keeping her spirits up and is continuing to fight (as usual!). Love to all...

Monday, January 15, 2003 at 08:10 AM (CST)

This website has been created by Diane's family. We encourage you to visit this site for updates on Diane's condition and to leave her messages...we are trying to minimize the amount of phone calls coming into the house. Please share this address with all of Diane's friends.

Diane was honored on Friday, January 10 at the IWLCA (college coaches association) luncheon where the IWLCA re-named their lifetime achievement award in her name. It was presented personally to Sue Stahl, the first recipient, by Diane. Di was thrilled to see all of her coaching buddies, and was overwhelmed by everyone's love and support.

A trust fund has been set up for Diane's four children and anyone wishing to make donations to the fund (in lieu of flowers and gifts) can make checks payable to:
The Aikens Children Trust Fund

Checks should be mailed to:
Mr. John A. Geppi, Jr.
1363 Deanwood Road
Baltimore, MD 21234-6003

JANUARY 13, 2003
Diane returned from a wonderful trip to California. She was honored by the NCAA and received their Inspiration Award for her courage and strength in battling brain cancer while coaching her Loyola Greyhounds to incredibly successful seasons.

JANUARY 15, 2003
This morning, Diane will receive the first of eight radiation treatments geared toward slowing the progress of the brain cancer. Please send thoughts and prayers for a successful radiation treatment.

Thank you for your continued prayers, love and support.

Wednesday, January 08, 2003 at 03:23 PM (CST)

This web site has been created by the family of Diane Geppi-Aikens to keep friends in touch with Diane. Please feel free to leave a special message for Diane or anything you would like to tell her. This site is available for everyone to view, so please share the address. Thank you for your prayers.

Wednesday, January 08, 2003 at 03:12 PM (CST)

This page has just been created. Please check back for additional updates.

Click here to go back to the main page.

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