Have you ever asked yourself what you would do if you were given a year to live? You've probably thought things like go on trips, spend all of your money, etc... I've thought the same things, but I've been shown the way you are supposed to do it now.
My Aunt Ruth (AKA Mimi) died yesterday after battling a brain tumor for much longer than the doctors ever thought she could. She went in her sleep surrounded by loved ones. She went peacefully because I think she truly was at peace.
The reason I think that is because she spent the entire last year living with her heart. She had a light about her and a genuine and obvious appreciation to be able to see another day. True gratitude for flowers, sunsets, and a hundred other things I brush off every day. I take it for granted that I will wake up every day as healthy as can be.
She made sure all of her loved ones knew that she loved them every time she saw them. And she didn't need a reason for it, just seeing you was enough. She would look you in the eyes and tell you she loved you. I just assume my family knows.
She did not hold back anything she felt, so no one in her family has to guess where they stood with her. How is it the person who is dying is the strongest one in the family? I never saw her feeling sorry for herself, blaming others, or being anything but a warrior. She had courage and toughness beyond anything I can imagine.
I formed the Mimi Kelley Foundation awhile back to help with some of the costs associated with her fight with cancer. Now that she has passed on, I would like to use her foundation as a way to honor her memory.
She had a love and passion for kids. Her grandkids were an absolute treasure to her and she loved every second she spent with them. The Mimi Kelley Foundation will be a charity to help brighten the days of children who have brain cancer.
It may sound like something small, but that is what my Aunt Ruth did for others and I want that to live on. To be able to light up a room like she did and make everyone in it smile. I think that would make my aunt smile as well.
If you would like to donate, please do so below. Also, if you know of any children we can help please let me know.