Amy, thank you so much for sharing your heart and your and Austin's struggles with all of us. I am so sorry for you and your family's loss. We will continue to pray for you all during this time of grief and pain that God's presence will comfort and sustain you.
Peace and hope, Kim Poer & St. Peter's Care Team
Amy, as many have noted, there are no words to use in the wake of a loss like this. "I’m so sorry" or "heartbroken" is about the best we can do, but it doesn’t come close to expressing what so many people feel for you and your family. We want to offer far more than the perpetual expression of "thoughts and prayers", but our offerings can’t find a form that expresses what we truly want to offer — a very different outcome, a future with Austin, a happy ending.
I want to thank you for the important gift you have given all of us — an open and honest inside view of the painful reality of battling an aggressive and relentless form of cancer. I’ve read many Caring Bridge entries, but none have been as insightful as yours. Having been ringside in my 14-year old stepson's unsuccessful 4.5-year battle with leukemia, I could connect far too easily with so many of the twists and turns in your journey. Others need to know that, all too often, a beast like this doesn’t get subdued with thoughts and prayers, no matter how faithful they may be. It’s a trip through hell that claims faithful lives and emotionally maims and scars the survivors and their loved ones. If you were to choose to do so you would be an incredible patient's advocate. So many patients and their families have no meaningful voice in their struggle; they are left with the luck of the draw in the medical maze in which they find themselves.
May you find peace and comfort in the many memories of your time with Austin and in the love and warmth of the family and closest friends who will be forever around you. May you find some solace in knowing you’re walking a well-trodden path with a closely-bound community of cancer war veterans and survivors. The fight goes on. I add my deepest condolences for your loss and my deepest admiration for the unwavering love you so clearly bestowed on Austin.
Beautiful words Amy. Even through the toughest days of your life , you have been able to create an amazing tribute to Austin. You are so loved Amy. Love and hugs
Sorry to hear of Austin's passing. I now he fought gallantly for years. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. Sincerely, Kathy Luecke ( Jan's sister)
Peace and hope, Kim Poer & St. Peter's Care Team