Madison
Madison was our family member and camping buddy for every trip we took, she was also my companion through 3 surgeries (2 on my neck and most recently my back).
The first picture here is Madison laying next to me on my bed as I go through my recovery. This was taken 3 weeks ago, and at that time I did not know she had this severe a case of cancer.
The following poem is dedicated to my two daughters because I truly felt Madison was not only ready, but she waited for me to start walking again this past week. We will miss her deeply.
Do you think the time is right?
May I say good-bye to pain-filled days
and endless lonely nights?
I've lived my life and done my best, an example tried to be.
So can I take that step beyond and set my spirit free?
I didn't want to go at first,
I fought with all my might.
But something seems to draw me now to a warm and loving light.
I want to go. I really do.
It's difficult to stay.
But I will try as best I can
to live just one more day.
To give you time to care for me and share your love and fears.
I know you're sad and afraid, because I see your tears.
I'll not be far, I promise that, and hope you'll always know
that my spirit will be close to you wherever you may go.
Thank you so for loving me. You know I love you, too.
That's why it's hard to say good-bye and end this life with you.
So hold me now just one more time
and let me hear you say,
because you care so much for me,
you'll let me go today.