Journal entry by SophSoph Rath —
Words aren't nearly enough to express my intense gratitude and quiet joyfulness for everyone who showed up for us during the past few weeks. When we needed extra help, family and friends stepped up and joined Peter's night shift, offering tender love and care. Text messages and phone calls lovingly made from afar made us feel like you were right there with us. Somehow knowing we were too weary to cook, loved ones came bearing or sent over meals to nourish our tired bodies. Visitors from all over the country traveled to be with Peter, eat together, and make him laugh that huge and precious belly laugh that would shake the house down. Kaiser's hospice care and Pastor Danny helped us to manage both our bodies and spirits with tenderness. And when it came time to celebrate Peter’s life on Saturday August 3rd, the sheer number of people who joined us was awesome and a blessing to behold. We didn't get to visit with everyone who came but please know that we felt you. I may not be able to hug my baby brother again in this life, but he gifted me with countless new brothers and sisters to embrace. Please be in touch because together, we will keep Peter alive.
Peter's cancer, glioblastoma multiforme, is considered the deadliest human cancer. It is always terminal; there is no cure. Median life expectancy is 16 months from diagnosis. Peter made it to 14 months. Research for the cure and medical support for patients is desperately in need of funding. Please consider making a donation to organizations such as the American Brain Tumor Association, UCLA Brain Cancer Research, or MD Anderson Cancer Center. You could also consider giving funds, supplies, or volunteer time to a local hospice service.
https://www.rosehills.com/ob…/whittier-ca/peter-rath-8788598
Photo credit: Matt Oyakawa
A $25 donation to CaringBridge powers a site like Peter's for two weeks. Will you make a gift to help ensure that this site stays online for them and for you?
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