Wilene (Willi)’s Story

Site created on January 2, 2022

Time, where has the time gone? It speeds up and slows down until suddenly all that is left is a short while. That is how we felt when hearing words that made time stand still. Growths they said, several of them- multiple locations and now time for immediate doctoring. It’s not good Dad said as tears and a shaky voice broke through the phone so with my heart standing still, we began this journey.

We, as Bridgers have always taken things in stride or seasons. We had seasons of Octobers where everything came crashing down with Joel- but now closing out 2021 and entering 2022 we begin the season of my Mamie, my mom, Dad’s wife and help mate, Nana, Wilene.

The official diagnosis of stage 4 pancreatic cancer came just days before holidays. Making our holidays even more precious- thoughts of this could be our last and wondering how to make the memories most significant. Now instead of taking it for granted we hold that hug just a little longer, listen closer to the story, or squabble over who is who’s game partner, we listen to the sound of her breathing or just admire her while she is getting ready for the day.

Jan 6, 2022 Mamie’s courage filled the room. After the words of 4-6 months without treatment and maybe an extension of 6-12 months with treatment, Mamie’s decision was made. No treatment. Beautifully explained by Popie- “Her life is a beautiful picture that has been painted, why ruin the picture now with sickness and pain- just when we could be having our sweetest moments.” No treatment. The selfishness of me wants Mamie longer, but will the time extension make the pain of her loss for Popie and I any less?  No! It was explained that usually patients of this kind go to sleep and just don’t wake up, so until that moment arrives it is the wish of Mamie to just be normal. She plans to live life, snuggle her babies, say “I love you”, have visitors and do whatever comes her way.

So, with courage we go forward for as long as God’s plan will give us. Please use this page as a place to share stories with Mamie, Popie and I. We will update with all the joys and sorrows that we are experiencing in the time that we have left together. Love from each of us and thank you for your love to our family.

 

 

Peaceful Unknowns

For Mamie, Love Paula

Mysteries below the surface, punching, grinding growing.

Hearts hurting, fluttering, melting.

Season bitter, cold and harsh-

Gives way to rainbow, bright, peace. 

Newest Update

July 22, 2022 Merry Birthday

Journal entry by Paula Bridger —

Dear Mamie,

Happy Birthday, Happy Birthday, We love you!

Happy Birthday and may all your dreams come true. 

When you blow out the candles one light stays a-glow, 

It's the love light in your eyes where 'err you go. 

This is our family birthday song. We learned it from the Pea Green Boat and sang it for most of my life. Joel loved it and it was so special to us after he died. These next few days have held such weight in my life for the last 9 years. Chris and I got our marriage license on Mom's birthday 22nd, Joel passed on the 24th and Percy Joel came on the 25th  five years later. Talk about joy and sorrow.

Today, July 22 was your day Mamie. Today rolls around another first without you.  I wanted to sing with you, so I listened to us sing together. I wanted to share how much I love you, because I can't tell you face to face, so I am writing you a letter. I wanted to say how proud I am of you and the life you gave to so many- we were so lucky to have you. I wanted to say that we miss you, but don't wish you back- your joy is beyond what we can measure. I wanted to sing to to you and celebrate you so that is what we shall do.

Percy has asked for candles. He has cried every night recently and day and meeting, just missing your sweet face. He says "she was such a kind, sweet lady"- such truth in those words. I was complimented on my food recently and I got to share how you never missed an opportunity to cook/make me or anyone something special. At convention and several other places I received the best compliment that I sure reminded people of you Mamie. I have taken pleasure in wearing your clothes and felt wrapped in a sweet hug. Wyatt asks to see your pictures everyday. He can find them on my phone and just smiles, calls out to you and cries.  He just snuggles close and says "I miss Nana."

July 22, a day that you shared with several birthday buddies and a day that several of my friends celebrate too, so today we will continue to celebrate and remember.  Although you are not here we still celebrate the life we loved and the Nana, Mamie and wife you were. Merry Birthday my Mamie I love you deep. 

Your Daughter, 

Paula 

P.S. We are having pancakes for birthday breakfast- Percy's choice for you!

Read More of the journal titled "July 22, 2022 Merry Birthday"
Patients and caregivers love hearing from you; add a comment to show your support.
Help Wilene (Willi) Stay Connected to Family and Friends

A $25 donation powers a page like Wilene (Willi)'s for two weeks.

If you donate by May 12, your gift will be doubled, up to $10,000, thanks to a gift from Living Water Foundation.

Leave a comment of support for Wilene (Willi)

Did you know? A quick comment, no matter the situation (positive or negative), can boost morale by 28.2%.

Comments Hide comments

Load more comments
Read More Journal Entries

Show Your Support

See the Ways to Help page to get even more involved.

Personal Fundraiser
Support Links
Helpful Requests
Go to Ways to Help
SVG_Icons_Back_To_Top
Top