Easter is one of the most beautiful times of the year. Spring is in the air, our hearts are filled with hope, thanks to our Lord and Savior, and everyone seems to have a lighter step. But, this Easter my heart and my steps were heavier.
After fighting one of the most aggressive forms of breast cancer for an astonishing nine years, my niece lost her battle. I’ve never seen such a fighter. When life handed her lemons, she served lemonade.
Our hearts were heavy, but as one person after the other shared their stories, our hearts filled with inspiration and hope. Her generosity, tenacity, determination, compassion, humor, and courage left us with the desire to live like Lori.
Lori refused to let her disease define her, rob her of the joy of life, or the pleasure of raising her sons. She didn’t fear death, she feared not living. Lori looked fear in the face stared it down, and kicked!
Lori Caulder Crooke
Bravo Lori. You will forever be an inspiration of strength and courage.
Courage is more exhilarating than fear and in the long run, it is easier. We do not have to become heroes overnight. Just a step at a time, meeting each thing that comes up, seeing it is not as dreadful as it appeared, discovering we have the strength to stare it down. – Eleanor Roosevelt –
I’d love to hear your comments. Talk to me. Tell me your story. I’m all ears and look for me on Facebook at SheilaMGood, Pinterest, Bloglovin, Twitter@sheilamgood, Contently, and Instagram. You can follow my reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.
COW PASTURE CHRONICLES 
I’m saddened by your loss, but stirred by your uplifiting tribute to your niece. You and I both know that death is not the end, only a new beginning in a wonderous place where mere human words cannot adequately describe it.
Loved the quote too.
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Thank you Russell and well said.
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I’m sorry for your loss, Sheila, but what a story of victory! Nine years is a phenomenal win. What an inspiration.
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Absolutely! She was a warrior! Thanks for your kind and encouraging words.
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So much pain in your family, and I know this isn’t the first of it (or the last). I suppose life is pain, but I’m proud of you for honoring Lori rather than giving in to anger. There is more than enough anger (especially online) without it tainting the memory of a loved one. I have not “liked” your post, because that doesn’t make sense to me, but if there was a “love” button…
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Thank you for your warm and thoughtful comments. She was a remarkable fighter.
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Bravo, Lori!
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Lovely post. Hard to believe it’s over.
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I know!
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