Today is another day where the benefits of social media are apparent. I had learned a few days ago that MM warrior Pat Killingsworth was not doing well. This news saddened me deeply, for, although we had not been in touch recently, Pat was incredibly complimentary of my columns for The Myeloma Beacon. He offered so many words of encouragement that lifted me and my family in the early days of Deana's diagnosis and our new life as a MM family.
Today, I learned that Pat's fight is over. A beautiful tribute from Cynthia Chmielewski has brought me to tears. Pat gave so much to the MM community. He will be missed beyond measure.
I have read material that suggests the terms "fighter" and related variations not be used when describing cancer patients and their lives with cancer. For me, though, fighter is such a powerful word -- and it is a word to describe Pat.
Pat fought his personal fight and he fought alongside others in their fights. He contributed so much to the MM knowledge base, blessing his fellow warriors and their caregivers with his inspiring words and can-do attitude. He was a shining example of a person who did not let this diagnosis affect his living a full and vital life -- and he generously shared his journey with others, so that they would be able to benefit and draw strength from his story.
I am grateful to have known Pat, even tangentially and I send thoughts and prayers to his family and friends at this difficult time, hoping they will take comfort in the knowledge that Pat will live on in the hearts of many whose lives he touched.
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