We lost our beloved Kiara shortly before 4:00 this afternoon. She went quietly and peacefully, without pain or fear, and I was able to hold her in my arms as she transitioned. Over the past two days, her hospice room has been filled with stories, laughter, tears, sorrow, joy, pain, and most of all, love. My undying thanks goes out to the staff of the Samaritan Evergreen Hospice House. They have been incredible.
In order to honor Kiara's wishes and status as an organ donor, I have contacted Lions Eye Bank of Oregon so that her corneas can restore sight for others. Consider this her final selfless act to help others in need.
I'm certain that Kiara had this blog post completely written in her head. She would bless us with some final words of wisdom and guidance, for if we distill the essence of Kiara down to a single word, that word would be "teacher".
As the gravity of her situation became more apparent over the past week, Kiara bestowed upon me some of the lessons she wanted us all to take away:
- I loved you all fiercely.
- I'm not afraid. Death is the next great adventure (A. Dumbledore).
- I tried my hardest.
- I don't want to go, but nature always bats last.
- If you're an oncologist, and someone points to a spot that hurts and says "this is how the cancer started last time" then ORDER THE FUCKING BIOPSY.
- Tell the girls Mommy loves them and will watch over them.
- Please, everyone, watch over the girls.
- Reach out to each other.
- Life is full of joy and wonder. Look for it every day.
There are far too many people to thank for all that they've done for us through this battle. All I can do is offer a heartfelt, sincere I Love You All.
-Kelly
10 comments:
Dearest Kelly and family. We will miss Kiara, one of the world's great souls, but her legacy lives on in her family and all of her many friends with whom she has shared her great heart, keen wit, and strength of character. With tears and joyful memories...Adieu...
May the Holy One bless your Spirit journey dear Kiara. May all the mourners be comforted.
I will miss Kiara. Rest in peace, my dear friend.
Kelly and girls: you are in my thoughts and prayers on this sad evening. Kiara fought hard, with your love supporting her.
Much love to you, Kelly and the girls. May Kiara's memory be for a blessing.
Kiara and Family,
You have made such a difference in the lives of many with your courage and words of wisdom. You will remain in our hearts forever. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time.
I don't have words, but Kiara will always be an important part of our work for children. We have come to love her and her family so very much and hold you dear in our hearts.
There are never enough words to say when you've lost a loved one. I wish I had visited Kiara on my trips to Tacoma. I went to high school with Kiara. From what I've been reading she's been very busy being a kind and loving woman since graduating. She's now continuing her good work from above. Another angel joined the ranks today to keep watch over the people she left behind. Thank you. Nancy Logan Denman
I have had a heavy heart since your Friday post. I've known Kiara through her blog only. As a teacher myself, I related to her ideals. I so admired her courage and determination throughout her health struggles. I have held you up, Kelly, as an example of true love in how you cared for her and helped her survive until she shopped with your daughter for a wedding dress. Wishing eventual peace to you and the girls and your wonderful extended family.
I met Kiara the first day of school in our first class in seventh grade. We became instant friends. I can still remember that moment. She was one of the brightest and most beautiful people I've ever known and it pains me that I will have to wait to see her again.
My daughter is in ballet with your daughter and I have been lifting your family up in prayer. We are so very sorry for your loss. My prayers continue...Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.
Sending my love and support to your family. I feel so lucky to have met and worked with Kiara. It hurt that I never felt I could help her much in the traditional sense of my job. But I loved my time with her. In such a relatively short time, I learned so much from her. Indeed, she was a true teacher. Her spirit reinforces to me how great it can be to be a strong, driven, funny, sassy, smart woman who goes against the grain and powers onward in honor of what is good and joyful. She will be missed at OHSU, and I will carry on what she taught me. Love, Rachel (King) Bolognone
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