In Loving Memory of Cynthia Peterson
It is with broken hearts that we share the passing of our beloved mom, Cynthia Peterson. Writing this is one of the hardest things we have ever had to do.
Cynthia was a loving mother, devoted wife, caring sister, daughter, and loyal friend. If you knew her, you know she would give her last to help someone else. She stood up for what was right, spoke her mind with courage, and loved deeply. Our home was always open because of her. She was the “neighborhood mom” — if you needed a place to stay, a warm meal, advice, or simply someone to listen, she was there. She gave freely from her heart, never asking for anything in return.
Recently, Mom began experiencing severe back pain and difficulty standing or completing everyday tasks. After visiting a chiropractor and having an MRI, we were told there was a substance replacing the bone marrow in her spine and that we needed to follow up with a primary doctor immediately.
On February 2nd, during a doctor’s appointment, her blood was drawn and an EKG was performed because her resting heart rate was 145 — extremely unusual. The next day, we were told to take her straight to the hospital. After scans of her chest and liver, our world changed forever. She was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer that had spread throughout her body.
Throughout February, we attended multiple appointments searching for answers and hope. A biopsy revealed she had poorly differentiated small-cell carcinoma — a rare and very aggressive cancer. On February 23rd, the oncologist told us chemotherapy needed to begin immediately. However, after further bloodwork, we received another devastating call: her levels were too low, and her liver was too weak to handle chemo. It would have done more harm than good.
On February 24th, we brought Mom back to the hospital, where she was placed on a ventilator because she could no longer breathe on her own. From February 24th to the 27th, she fought with everything she had — battling three bloodstream infections, pneumonia, and the aggressive cancer overtaking her body. The doctors did everything they could, administering powerful medications, blood pressure support, steroids, and antibiotics. We stood by her side with faith and prayer.
On Friday, February 27th at 2:15 PM, we made the heartbreaking decision to remove life support, as her organs were shutting down despite all interventions. At 6:20 PM, surrounded by loved ones, our beautiful mom took her final breath.
Mom loved creating and giving. She made DIY crafts, personalized cups, and shirts for family and friends. She adored her fur babies, Reese and Nyla. Most of all, she loved her family — and even the friends we brought home who quickly became family to her.
We want to honor Cynthia the way she deserves — with a funeral service where everyone who knew and loved her can come together to celebrate her life, her generosity, and her incredible spirit.
We are humbly asking for help to cover funeral, cremation, and related expenses during this incredibly difficult time. Any donation, no matter the amount, means more than we can express. If you are unable to give, please consider sharing this fundraiser and keeping our family in your prayers.
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your love, support, and kindness.
God bless you all.