This page is dedicated to three dear friends.
Although they are no longer here,
they remain within me.


Peggy Coady Robinson

Peggy not only battled cancer but struggled with Panic Disorder for most of her life. She is the author of the poem below "The Clown", which depicts Panic Disorder and the terror and suffering that strikes within.

The Clown

My costume shimmers and glistens like a rainbow
that nestles in the gentleness of the clouds.
Surfaced, I am colorful and I smile.
Inside sets upon a different stage.
Boundless and harboring no compassion,
fear pierces my very existence.
The villain frightens me with unforgiving terror;
setting my body into turmoil.
No warning, it strikes swiftly and quickly
like lightning on a winter's day.
Impending doom, thoughts scrambled,
and uncontrollable pain
force me to retreat to the safety of my tent.
The canvas home becomes an unreal cocoon
of protection, as the villain penetrates
and strikes once more.
A tear falls and nestles in my heart,
as I know the circus is passing.
Broken inside, no cast, I watch life move by without me.
I try to still it, like a newborn sleeping,
but my efforts are in vain.
It moves on quickly, unconcerned,
my presence it is missing.
Eagles soar and God watches over all:
as the whispering winds of the day settle,
so shall it be for me.
My life is precious like the crowned prince's jewels,
and I respect my destiny.
I exit my tent, villain and all,
and stand in the circus, brave and tall.
You may pass this clown by
and never know the depth of his pain
for it doesn't show.

author

~   Casey ("Peggy") Coady Robinson  ~

Mary Elizabeth Kelleher

This poem was adopted by Mary who battled cancer for six years, She had great faith and determination, never losing her love for life, her spirit!

Myself

I have to live with myself, and so
I want to be fit for myself to know.
I want to be able, as days go by,
Always to look myself straight in the eyes.
I don't want to stand, with the setting sun,
And hate myself for the things I've done.
I want to go out with my head erect,
I want to deserve all men's respect.
For here in the struggle for fame and self,
I want to be able to like myself.
I don't want to look at myself and know
That I'm bluster and bluff and empty show.
I never can hide myself from me;
I see what others may never see.
I know what others may never know.
I never can fool myself, and so,
Whatever happens I want to be
Self-respecting and conscience free.

~ Edgar A. Guest ~
adopted by
  Mary Elizabeth Kelleher 

Fran Marino

Fran also battled cancer and struggled with panic disorder most of her life.  She was a woman of great faith with a gentle spirit and a heart full of love and laughter.  This is for Fran.

A Letter To Fran

We never got to say goodbye.
I will never forget our laughter, our tears,
Moments spent sharing.
I wish I had told you more how much I admired you,
loved you, and what treasures you gave to all who
knew you.
You were a source of strength and comfort to many.
Selfless even when you needed comfort.
Miracles happened in your life.
Now you are on a journey into an even
more miraculous existence.
I have mourned but will no more.
I will heed my own words to you
And never forget the words

...."I'm ok.  It's wonderful...."

These words I will try to remember
when I think of you and tears start to flow.
Goodbye my friend.
I miss you.
Do not forget me.
I will never forget you.

Maggie

They lived their lives to the fullest, touching all who knew them.
The world is an emptier place without these Brave Hearts!

Cancer is frightening and frightens many people away.  Don't abandon those who have it or look upon them as different or with pity.  Lend you shoulder, your laughter, your tears and encouragement.  Most of all, savor the days.

"Let us savor the delights of our most beautiful days"
~Alphonse de Lamartine~

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Background set made by Maggie.