Love & Support for Pam Berling's Family
Three and a half years ago, I sat with Pam at a Dr's office expecting to arrange a hernia surgery, but instead she was diagnosed with Epithelioid Peritoneal Mesothelioma (Mesothelioma in the abdominal cavity). She was told then to make arrangements because she would not even see Christmas that year. Pam refused to accept that. She was determined to fight, to live, to be there for her family, and to see her children grow.
And fought she did!!! Several times over, she defied the odds she was given. Pam underwent chemo multiple times, three highly aggressive major abdominal surgeries, and clinical trials. She would fly to MD and DC as frequently as every 2-3 weeks for treatments, as no one in our area was prepared to deal with such an intense and rare cancer.
Pam always, truly believed she would be able to beat this. But her spirit has proven to be so much stronger than her body could be. On Aug 15, 2020 Pam passed away peacefully in her home with her family at her side. She leaves behind so many that love her. Please specifically pray for Pam's husband, Bobby, their 17 year old daughter, Rachael (starting her senior year), and their 16 year old son, Cole, who most know is autistic..
Many in our community know Pam worked for years at Denver Baptist Preschool, loving and teaching our littles. What many don't realize, is that she was also a very strong advocate in our community for families with special needs child(ren). With Cole being non-verbal autistic, she knew the struggles, and helped other parents learn how to engage in their community and maneuver through the school/legal system. She even founded a local support group for parents of special needs children that actively met once a month. She was always in tune with those around her and responsive to the needs they had. Silently and lovingly giving.
As one can imagine, the costs of care these past three and a half years are mind blowing. Her only treatment options involved extensive travel. The funds raised here won't begin to touch the total medical bills the family faces; however, they will greatly help with services, living costs, and the immediate medical bills.
For over 12 years, I have been able to witness the love and support the Berling family has given our community. As a close friend of the family I've seen the silent "gifts" they have given to those in need, the way they stood by those who needed support, and even advocated for others who needed an extra voice. Now is our time to support them in return.