I didn't want to post this on the other thread because I'm not competing for "worst" week, but I'm afraid I qualify. Or maybe it's just worst day, but it's taken me a few days to even think of writing about it.

Early this year I posted about a close friend who just 12 months ago walked with me in the Breast Cancer 3 Day 60 mile walk. On Monday she lost her battle with colon cancer - just 9 months after her diagnosis. My heart is so heavy. She fought so hard but it was not to be. She finally stoped treatment last week and was in our local hospice house within days. They were able to ease her pain and she was surrounded by family and friends in her final moments.

Hospice is a wonderful organization - there at the most difficult moments of our life.

Unfortunately Monday was a double whammy for me. Our dear sweet poodle Maggie, age 17 , died. It was hard to grieve for her while my dear friend hovered at death's door - I think I cried a million tears that day.

With the gift of time and reflection I can mourn and remember both these dear presence in my life. A wonderful woman who inspired me to do good things and a gentle pet who comforted me when I returned home from the challenges of each day.

While I'm sad, I'm so lucky to have these memories. As a good friend reminded me...

Don't be afraid that your life will end, be afraid that it will never begin.
~anonymous~

Oh, Margo, I'm so sorry! I've been thinking about you and wondering where you were.

Margo, I wish I could be with you to give you a hug. I am sorry for the loss of both of your friends.

Margo: It knocks you to you to knees - makes worst week look EZ?? I know we all have stories ...let's just focus on you right now - XXXXXOOOOOO Joanna

Margo, so sorry for the loss for your friend and sweet dog. I will add that hospice is wonderful and I'm so glad my mom spent her last week there.

Nancy

Margo, your words are inspirational and remind us to remember and appreciate the good in times of grief. I am so sorry for your losses - how difficult that they occurred the same day.

Dena

So sorry to hear your news, Margo. Like Pam, have been wondering about you, but assumed you were getting ready for the the walk. :hug: to you and Tom! When you are ready, hope to hear from you,

{{{{{Margo}}}}} George and I are so sorry to hear about your double dose of grief. What a difficult time for you. Our thoughts are with you.

Agree Nancy about Hospice ... Very sorry Margo... this is your thread ....focus on YOU

So sorry to hear about this, Margo. God speed

Margo. I am so sorry for your losses.
Thank you all for spreading the word about hospice. I am a hospice nurse. I used to work with adults butI currently work at the only freestanding inpatient facility for end of life care for children. Although it might sound odd, I look forward to going to work every day because my work is so meaningful.
Remember, the earlier you bring in hospice the more support you get from the whole hospice team. And it's ok to graduate from hospice and get better.
Margo, you were a wonderful friend and I know your friend appreciated that. That's all that matters in the end.... loved ones.

Julie: You are the best

Margo, I'm so sorry. Both losses are deep ones and I'm sure very hard to accept.

It is so wonderful to come here and hear all of these words of comfort. I have been away for awhile and felt odd coming back just to post my grief but I knew all of you would understand.

Each of you is so compassionate and supportive. What a wonderful place LCT is for all of us.

Thank you,

Margo we all share in the loss of your dear friend and your pet. May you find comfort in the many wonderful memories they each gave you in different ways. :hug:

Margo, I'm so so sorry to read about the loss of your dear friend & dear loving dog. It must just take your breath away. We are here for you. So good that you reached out to us. You know, I always think of YOU at this time of year....the "3 day" time of year. I know you're out there working so hard for such a tremendous cause for us all. Thank you! And, now, take care & lean on us.

Margo,
I am so very, very sorry. We have you in our thoughts and prayers. :hug:

Oh Margo - I am sor sorry to hear about your friend. I too figured you were just busy training.

Our loss of loved ones is never easy. It is very sad to have a friend pass away.

And while I certainly feel the pain of losing your friend, the pain of losing a beloved pet who was a member of your family for 17 years is difficult too. Our pets can be like our children - they live with you and you care for them daily. They have personalities of their own. It is a separate kind of loss that still causes us pain.

Glad you came back to share with us - we do understand and send love your way.

Margo,

My heart feels your pain but it also feels hope. I've lost loved ones in the recent past and LCT was a source of comfort to me. I pray we can be comfort to you.

Margo, our hearts go out to you in this difficult time. How horrible to have 2 tragic events happen on the same day. Know that we're all here for you and sending loving thoughts and hugs your way.

Margo - what my other half said. Sending a virtual big hug your way! (and I know Marika would also give her Auntie Margo a big hug as well)

Masaki

Margo, I'm sorry and I care. I'm thinking of you and sending a big :hug:

Margo, I'm so sorry to learn of the loss of your dear friend and beloved pet on the very same day. My heart goes out to you.

I'm so grateful for the hospice movement. One of my best friends died in 1992 before we had any local hospice residence but one of the local hospice agencies provided care for her in her home. I spent 3 days a week with her during her final 6 weeks and will always treasure those memories.

We also send our heartfelt condolences to you, Margo. Your strength and wonderful attitude clearly is an inspiration to all of us. :hug:

Margo, I'm so sorry for your two losses. Love & hugs are coming your way.

I want to share a special poem with you that is especially appropriate for the loss of your sweet beloved Maggie.....

You're giving me a special gift,
So sorrowfully endowed,
And through these last few cherished days,
Your courage makes me proud.


But really, love is knowing
When your best friend is in pain,
And understanding earthly acts
Will only be in vain.


So looking deep into your eyes,
Beyond, into your soul,
I see in you the magic, that will
Once more make me whole.


The strength that you possess,
Is why I look to you today,
To do this thing that must be done,
For it's the only way.


That strength is why I've followed you,
And chose you as my friend,
And why I've loved you all these years...
My partner 'til the end.


Please, understand just what this gift,
You're giving, means to me,
It gives me back the strength I've lost,
And all my dignity.


You take a stand on my behalf,
For that is what friends do.
And know that what you do is right,
For I believe it too.


So one last time, I breathe your scent,
And through your hand I feel,
The courage that's within you,
To now grant me this appeal.


Cut the leash that holds me here,
Dear friend, and let me run,
Once more a strong and steady dog,
My pain and struggle done.


And don't despair my passing,
For I won't be far away,
Forever here, within your heart,
And memory I'll stay.


I'll be there watching over you,
Your ever faithful friend,
And in your memories I'll run,
...a young dog once again.

Marcie--That is so lovely. I lost my dog four years ago and it still made me cry.

Margo, I am very sorry for your losses.
I agree so much about the wonderful people who are hospice staff.

Margo, I'm very sorry for the loss of our friend. And your dog, I know just how you feel. I am still not over my dog, who's been gone at least 4 years now. And don't feel guilty for feeling so strongly about your pet, they pull at our heartstrings in a unique way.

Margo,
I echo what everyone here has said. I'm so sorry and will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Jacki

Margo, my thoughts are with you and Tom as well as the others. Keep the faith.

Margo I have thought about you all day - hope each day lightens your sadness - Joanna

Margo
So sorry for your losses. I was kind of feeling sorry for myself tonight,but now feel selfish. My Prayers to all who are sad tonight and wish you comfort.

Margo, I'm so sorry to hear of your losses. Losing two dear friends so close together must be very hard.

Margo,

Sending huge hugs your way! :hug:

I did one of my internships at Hospice, and was in awe of the nurses, nurse's aides and social workers there. Their strength and compassion was almost beyond comprehension, and so inspirational!

Sheri

"I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish that He didn't trust me so much." Mother Teresa

Margo I too am so sorry to hear of the loss of your dear friend, and your pet. Another hug coming your way :hug:

Hospice is indeed a wonderful wonderful group. We had a hospice nurse that helped my parents thru the most difficult days many years ago with my sister. It is true what Sheri says, their strength and compassion are amazing.

Margo,
Your name was brought up last for all your support for me. I am sooo sorry for your lost of a dear friend and your doggie.
Have missed your posts. You are a sweetheart!

Hugs to you,
Jan

Margo,

Just got home from the DC get together and read this. I am so sad for you ... what a double whammy. Just know that we are are thinking of you. All of the LCT board is with you in spirit.

Margo:

Andi joins me in sending our sadness at your losses.

Doug

So sorry to hear of your losses, Margo. Sending good thoughts your way.

Margo, I'm sorry to hear that you are having some tough days. Thinking of you and sending my best to you!