March 2023, we knew we’d be saying “hello” to Spring, but never considered the possibility of saying “goodbye” to someone we love so dearly. Kim despite only being 49 years old has not been without her struggles, battling the day to day pain and fatigue of systemic lupus. However, after a few months of feeling unwell she sought answers at Mount St. Mary’s hospital. It was then doctors discovered a mass in the upper lobe of her lung. She was subsequently sent for a PET scan, followed by a biopsy in April. The results, no one could have anticipated. Kim was diagnosed with Stage IV small cell lung carcinoma, an aggressive and rapid metastasizing form of lung cancer. In this brief time we now know that it’s spread to her bone and kidneys, and changes have been noted with her cognition. Kim has opted to forgo curative treatment and instead pursue palliative care. She has spent the last week at Niagara hospice in and out of medication assisted sleep, as her pain is so great. Staff there is attempting to keep her comfortable. We are now faced with the daunting thought of saying our goodbyes to a kind soul who is being taken from this world far too soon. Kim has asked for a one day service, followed by a burial. As many may know, services can become incredibly taxing on families, especially when these unexpected circumstances arise. If there is anyway you can share this post, send a prayer or kind word, or even make a donation towards her services, it would be greatly appreciated. Be grateful for friends and family, and hug your loved one a little tighter, remembering to not take a moment for granted. Thank you!