I relay for Lori Gillham
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
By: Katie Gillham

I relay because my step mom fought the bravest battle. Up until the end she was positive, radiant and strong. She gave us all strength and courage and I am truly blessed to have known her.

Five years ago my step mom was diagnosed with brain cancer. She underwent surgery to have the tumour removed, radiation and chemo. For many years after my dad took her to MRI after MRI always hearing positive results that the tumour was not growing. This past year we learned that the tumour was growing and chemo was no longer working. My step mom remained braved for her family, especially her nine year old son Andrew who worshipped her. They decided to try and experimental treatment that could prolong her life. This worked for a few months. My Dad stood up to the challenge in her last months and did what many of us would find difficult, put his life aside to take care of her so she can live as comfortably and as happy in her last days. Her family flew in from Trinidad and we all surrounded her at Christmas knowing it would be the last time our whole family would be as one. Lori kept her faith in god and positivity to the end, she was never angry that this happened to her and never questioned Gods plan. Lori passed away February 10 surrounded by her family, she chose the time and looked at peace. We have all struggled with the loss of someone so dear, someone so full of life and smiles. She commanded a room with her energy and zest for life, never focusing on negativity, always wanting to help everyone and spread her good will. However as the struggle goes on to accept Loris fate we are reminded that Lori believed in God’s plan so we all should follow her path and believe that life is ever lasting and Lori is where she is meant to be.
For Lori we do relay for life, for Lori and others who have struggled with Cancer we walk and we remember and we fight back.