Friends For Life

Sometime last year, I kidded my wife, "You better get better, your friends from high school might get tired of visiting you." They come from all over the United States to spend time with her every time they hear news of her being hospitalized. They bring her favorite food, play her favorite music, do endless picture taking, and of course all night long reminiscing about their high school days in an all girls Catholic school many years ago.

In March this year, they all faithfully came again one Saturday, the 12th, to spend time with their friend. They were all in high spirits including my wife who tried to enjoy their presence. One of her friends described the day as truly heartwarming, but also heartbreaking. Not for long, my wife had to retreat to her bedroom and very somberly said, "I am getting tired now. I'm sorry I can't entertain you anymore." Six days later, she passed away. Her friends faithfully came again a few days later to bury her.

But so you think that would be the end of it. Not so fast. On Sunday, Sept. 25th, they are again coming together to celebrate her life. They will do a "Run For Jinky" at the Half Moon Bay International Marathon in California in honor and in memory of their beloved friend.

I will also be there to run along with them. I will be carrying with me a pink rose for the entire 26.2 miles...to remember my wife and all the people whose lives she has touched, especially her friends....for life even unto death.

Jinky with her high school friends, March 12, 2011.
She passed six days later.

Run for Jinky, In honor, in memory, and in prayer.
Half Moon Bay International Marathon, CA. September 25, 2011