I remember the first time I saw her. Dressed in all-white scrubs she wore when working at the optometrist office. The sun coming through the windows at the store I worked at made her look like a surreal vision in a movie. You know, the one where an angel appears. She was my angel. For 43 years of marriage, we fought, made up, and shared the experiences of life.

The time has now come for my princess to journey to her forever home in Heaven. After valiantly fighting a hard battle against cancer for two years, cancer has won. I don't want her to go, but it is not up to me, but her Heavenly Father. All I can say is the paint must be dry in her new home.

Karen's wish is to be laid to rest in the same cemetery as her parents and grandparents in central Illinois. They won't let me take her there in the car with me or let me dig her gravesite. So, I now have to ask for your help. Her small life insurance policy is not enough to cover a full burial, let alone the added cost of transporting her from Tucson, AZ. (It is impossible to get more insurance when you are diagnosed with cancer, so, please go get yourself more insurance, NOW!)

I will find a way to get myself back there, even if I have to hitchhike. So if you see me alongside the road, I would appreciate a lift. I don't expect any large donations, anything will help. And if you know some kind-hearted souls, forward this to them, please.

As you may know, time is short and death does not wait. Neither does the funeral home. If you can give anything, do so now. This is a hard enough experience alone, without adding the stress of trying to figure out how to pay for her journey.

Thank you in advance, the Lord will see your compassion and generosity. You will be rewarded.

Phillip, a husband in grief, confusion, and prayer.