My 100th - In memoriam by Sea_Dog
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Description
This is Janice - Mrs. Sea Dog. I lost her on July 22 of this year after 36 years of marriage. After a seven-year battle with cancer, just couldn't fight anymore. She suffered through surgery and round after round of chemotherapy and radiation with the strength and spirit you see here. Even when the cancer came back to attack her spine after a short remission she never lost her courage or determination. When a vertebra collapsed and rendered her unable to walk, she fought back - the Doctors told her she'd never walk and she simply said "Yes, I will" and SHE was right. After eight months in a care facility, weeks in a turtle-shell upper body cast and untolled hours in physical therapy she regained enough mobility to live the remaining four years of her life on her own terms - until the last few weeks she continued running her antiques and collectibles business as she always had, and we enjoy several trips to Las Vegas, Lake Tahoe and along the Pacific coast.
I wasn't going to make this post, I was afraid it would be much too personal, but last week as I noticed how close my hundredth post was I decided it would be fitting for a couple of reasons. First, although I joke about it in my RR bio, Jan actually convinced me to buy my camera and get back into photography. We had gone to a camera store to get her a new point-and-shoot to use in her business when she caught me looking longingly at the DSLR's displayed behind the counter. She convinced me to check out a couple "just for fun". When I tried to give them back to salesperson she asked "which one do you want?" She wouldn't listen to my complaints about them being too expensive and wouldn't leave the store until I picked one out. Ironically, if I hadn't picked one, I wouldn't have these photos and a few others to remember her by.
My second reason for this post is that I've become friends with a couple of ladies here that are going through much the same as Jan did. I hope by relating her story I can contribute just a little to their spirit and help in their battles. Ladies, keep fighting, keep smiling and as Jan would say "don't let the bastards get you down."
Jan was my love, my best friend and my hero. I miss her a lot - this is only a small tribute to a remarkable woman.
Comments (50)
weesel
It is a fitting tribute and my deepest condolences to you.
A_Joker_B
My condolences to yourself and those that knew Janice - You've produced a touching tribute.
Alex_Antonov
Very nice!
MagikUnicorn
OH..CANCER TERRIBLE SICKNESS! Great Idea... Well done
Xoterik
Congratulations on your 100th post my friend. You chose well a fitting tribute and portrait. I wish I would have known Mrs SeaDog, she seems to have been a wonderful lady. Now that you have shared her image, we can stare into her eyes and remember her too. Peace and blessings.
frankie96
My sincere condolences on your loss...cancer is a relentless and deadly adversary.....
Blush
Oh This makes tears well up in my eyes Thank you for the site mail about this...... She looks so full of life and love It is true we get tired of fighting the fight But refuse to give up..........I will continue the fight like always I am so sorry about your loss and I am glad you posted this I know it must of been hard but I commend you for it God love you and your in my prayers I hope you keep me in yours Hugs Susan~
AndreiR
I feel that anything I say would sound shallow and superficial... still I'm deeply moved by the story of your love. Thank you for sharing with us. It's a beautiful tribute and very appropriate 100th post dedication. God bless!
blinkings
True courage indeed. I just woke up grumbling that I was still half asleep and wished I didn't have to go to work so early. I'm not complaining now.
JaneEden
I read your intro and felt your pain, you touched my heart with the brave words you wrote. This is the most touching tribute and your Jan would be so proud of you now, she certainly was a remarkable woman. take care hugs Jane xx
wysiwig
A very moving tribute, thanks for placing your trust in us. You done her proud and I'm sure she would be proud of you. And probably add that she was right about the camera. Man, I'm having trouble seeing the screen. A manly man like me ain't supposed to cry. I am so sorry for your loss.
elfin14doaks
This is an incredible 100th post. My apologies for being late. I will remember her spirit and determination during the course of my battle.
elfin12u
?? I commented on this when you first posted, I've had several that I've commented on and had Cheri go through the galleries the next day and ask me why I hadn't. I'm not sure how or why that happens, but it does, and a lot! When I read your site mail today, I asked Cheri if she had made it to this yet, and let her read your words here, before I read the site mail. This is a great tribute to Janice, and believe wholeheartedly that she would approve of your posting this,...although I believe that I know at least somewhat how hard it was to do so. There was a memorial service last week Thursday, for those who had passed last year and were a part of the Hospice program, my dad was included in this. I couldn't let my mom go alone to that, and it brought so many feelings and emotions back, making it all feel like it had just happened, and not that almost a year now has passed...since he did. I love Mrs. Sea Dogs spirit, never give up, never quit, and especially "Never let the bastards get you down!" We ( Cheri and I ), pretty much feel the same way, I won't stop fighting, until I no longer can, and if Cheri can't stand on her own,..well then I'll just carry her with me. Thank you so much for all of your kind thoughts and words. I am so very sorry for your loss, Janice was an amazing women,...your words and actions prove to me, that she had married an equally amazing man!! Take good care, I see you in the galleries. Dave
0rest4wicked
I am moved. Reading this loving dedication brings back a torrent of emotional struggles, both triumphant and agonizing even after so many years. A fine 100th my thoughts and deepest sympathies to you and your children.
Str4wB34ry
A very fine tribute to a brave lady. She would be proud of you. Lovely photos and memories.
myrrhluz
I am very sorry for your loss. Janice's beauty, courage and grace shine from your image and deeply felt words. My best wishes to you and your family.
BessieB
So sorry that your Janice passed away SeaDog, how very sad, Her photo shows her warmth and love, her skin is so beautiful and young. Life can be so cruel, sending you hugs This is a fitting tribute for you 100th upload, congratulations
Hubba1
Awesome tribute :)
Issemissen
Life is fragile, and stronger than we think! This tribute and memoriam is deeply touching. To find your true love and beable to live your life together is a blessing, one of the greatest, I think.
jascorpio
My deepest sympathies, Sea Dog. Beautiful dedication!!