Please know that funeral expenses are covered and this is simply “in lieu of flowers.”

When my mom was diagnosed with cancer, she suddenly belonged to a new community. She belonged to a community of people with different stories and different backgrounds, but one big thing in common: cancer.

It started with a work acquaintance with a similar experience who quickly became a loved friend. She found comfort and relief in talking to someone who had been in her shoes.

Next, she took her search to Facebook. She joined groups of people who had the same cancer and the same treatment plan. I remember her reading for hours, trying to prepare for what was ahead.

She learned so much from those groups and found so much comfort from those who had been and still were in her shoes. She also learned that not everyone had a support system at home. She would read us stories of people who were suffering alone and always said she was so blessed to have so much support.

My mom and I always joked that we have no spirit gifts, but she did. I believe her spiritual gift was her generosity. My mom loved to give. She truly did give with a joyful heart.

As part of this new community of cancer fighters, survivors, and even some who lost the battle, my mom wanted to find a way to give.

This started her tradition of taking “treatment bags” to the Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center at WVU Cancer Institute/Ruby Memorial. She would spend the year collecting items that may brighten a patient's day or aid in treatment relief. At the end of the year she would put together as many bags as she could and drop them off at the infusion center shortly before Christmas. I would call her anytime I found something “bag worthy” and it was a small way that I could be involved.

As my family begins a journey of grief and healing, we want to honor her memory by keeping the tradition of “treatment bags” this Christmas.

We do not expect anyone to give, but if you planned on sending flowers or gifts, we ask that you donate to this cause instead. We want to spread joy, love, kindness, and a sense of community to those that are still battling.

All donations will be used to purchase items for “treatment bags” that will be donated to the WVU Cancer Center before Christmas.

We thank anyone who does decide to donate, and we are so excited to honor my mom in the best way that we know how.