Wedding lesson

Cancer is a very sad reality in our world.  There are a few cancer survivors in my life and I feel so much pride in their strength and resilience from battling what must be a most challenging episode in their lives.  A dearest friend suffered from this disease for a few years until she crossed over to a better and happier place.  Wherever she is now, I know that it's an improvement from what mortals describe as our hell on earth.

The following touching story was passed on by one of my cancer survivor friends.  Thanks, Mary!

Her name is Katie Kirkpatrick, 21 yrs old.  Next to her is her fiancé, Nick, 23.  This picture was taken prior to their wedding January 11th, 2005.  Katie has terminal cancer and spends hours in chemotherapy.  Here Nick awaits while she finishes one of the sessions...

Even in pain and dealing with her organs shutting down, with the help of morphine, Katie took care of every single part of the wedding planning.  Her dress had to be adjusted several times due to Katie 's constant weight loss.

An expected guest was her oxygen tank.  Katie had to use it during the ceremony and reception.  The other couple in this picture is Nick's parents, very emotional with the wedding and to see their son marrying the girl he fell in love when he was an adolescent.

Katie, in a wheel chair listening to her husband and friends singing to her.

In the middle of the party, Katie had to rest for a bit and catch her breath.  The pain does not allow her to stand for long period of time.

Katie died 5 days after her wedding.  To see a fragile woman dress as bride with a beautiful smile makes you think...  Happiness is always there within reach, no matter how long it lasts.  Let’s enjoy life and don't live a complicated life.   Life is too short.  Work as if it was your first day.  Forgive as soon as possible.  Love without boundaries.  Laugh without control and never stop smiling.  Please pray for those suffering from cancer. 

Keep this going.

Now you're on the clock!!!!
In 9 minutes something will make you happy. ;-)
But you have to tell this story to 9 people, Go!!!!