In loving memory: Uncle “Buddy”

I attended a funeral today. A funeral of a man who was kind and gentle despite his height and stature. He was one of the sweetest men I knew - he was my Great Uncle.

What I saw lying in that cherry wood casket astounded me. His body, so frail, so small was merely the whisper of a man I once knew.

Cancer.

I hate it. I absolutely loathe this disgusting disease. It robs people of their life, their breath, their joy. Cancer has no prejudice - it attacks the young and the old, those with young kids, and those who will never have kids because of it. It doesn't care about age, race, or who you are.

I do find one comfort in his death - I know that he is in heaven, reunited with his wife of 62 years who passed away 3 years ago.

What I saw today made me angry - this is the reason I continue the fight.

I love celebrating with those who are blessed with a cure. Knowing that some aren't as fortunate makes the celebration of a cure all the more sweet.  Unfortunately today, I saw cancer at it’s worst.

My Great Uncle lived in New Orleans – downtown New Orleans.  He and his wife had a house there for 63 years – he lived in it until his death this past Friday. Hurricane Katrina hit them hard.  One day, I’ll share that story.  For now, I leave you with this….

In loving memory:

Lawson H. Francis
Born: September 4, 1922
Died: July 15, 2011

Loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, family member, and friend.  He served in the Army Air Corps during World War II. He worked 35 years for General Motors and was a Charter member of UAW Local 448.   He will live forever in our hearts and memories.  He will truly be missed.

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me….Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. Amen.”  Psalm 23