Lois, Happy 84th Birthday

I haven’t written a post since Lois, my friend of over 50 years, was diagnosed the end of May with pancreatic cancer. Anything I wrote seemed insignificant compared to the heavy burden Lois carried. All through her cancer journey, she displayed courage, smiled in spite of her pain, and taught those who surrounded her how to live passionately while facing death.  

Lois died peacefully in Hospice last Sunday. Since today is her birthday, I want to honor a woman who has been my best friend, confidant, fellow traveler, inspiration, role model, support, partner in irreverent humor, and fun loving soul sister. The one trait she carried with her all through our friendship was her love of ice cream. 

Happy birthday, dear friend. I hope heaven has an unlimited variety of flavors of ice cream for you to enjoy. I miss you deeply.

In the words of Winnie-the-Pooh: How lucky I am to have (had) something that makes saying goodbye so hard. 

(Read Lois’ Blog where she wrote about her dying “adventure”).

Marianna Crane's avatar

By Marianna Crane

After a long career in nursing--I was one of the first certified gerontological nurse practitioners--I am now a writer. My writings center around patients I have had over the years that continue to haunt my memory unless I record their stories. In addition, I write about growing older, confronting ageism, creativity and food. My memoir, "Stories from the Tenth Floor Clinic: A Nurse Practitioner Remembers" is available where ever books are sold.

16 comments

  1. Marianna,

    What a lovely tribute to your dear friend, Lois. She was an amazing, multidimensional and talented woman. Sending love & hugs to you as you grieve.

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  2. Such a sweet tribute. I’m so sorry for this deeply painful loss for you, Marianna, and honored that I got to meet her a few years ago.

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  3. I’m so sorry for your loss, Marianna. Lois was a remarkable woman. When she did a podcast with us, she talked about how much she valued her friendship. Happy birthday to Lois!

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  4. Oh Marianna. Such a hard loss to share. I remember you speaking so fondly of Lois over the years when we had the opportunity to be together. My heart goes out to you. Sending caring thoughts you way💕🙏🏻

    Janet

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  5. I’m so sorry about Lois. I liked reading her blog, and I loved her book about Marv taking charge. I’m so happy she had such good family, friends, and memories.

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