Last week, my grandma passed away peacefully in her bed. She was 87, and one of the most amazing women I've had the pleasure to know in my life. Although her health hasn't been ideal in the last year or so, her death was still very unexpected and has shocked my family, especially my dad, who's now lost both parents. Her death came just after the first anniversary of my grandpa's death, her husband (he died July 31, 2010). To me, it just goes to show how powerful the bond can be between two people after decades of a loving marriage and close companionship. In my opinion, after he passed, I don't think she was ever the same without him around and, thus, a "broken heart" played into her passing. I think this is the case with a lot of couples who've lived long, happy lives together.
As you can imagine, it's not been easy to mourn the death of a loved one with so much going on. The thought of Ironman seemed frivolous at first, let alone having my family trek up to Canada to watch me race when we're all still in a state of grieving. It sounded even selfish to some extent. But after some long talks with my parents and loved ones, we've all agreed that my grandma would want nothing more than for me to head to Canada and race my best... with my family by my side. So that's just what we're doing. And you better believe I'll be racing in the name of my Grandma Frances. She was such as strong-willed and driven woman, yet was still so warm and loving with a heart of gold. I want to carry on that spirit in the things I do.
Thankfully, we're having services for my grandma before we leave, so we'll all get a little closure before race week. Still, it kills me to know that I won't be able to call her after the race to tell her about it.
Btw, as you can imagine, this article by Charisa was beautiful, but it made me cry, pretty hard.
~~~
In the journey that lays ahead, I'll be thinking about these two each and every mile (picture with my grandparents from Mother's Day 2009)....
Hey Tawnee,
ReplyDeleteSorry to hear about your loss. My grandmother passed away a few weeks as well.
Embrace the next few days and weeks as being closer with your friends and family, and to celebrate life. It's sad to say, that sometimes these sad things, can help us recognize all the good in our lives.
Be well,
-Ryan
Tawnee, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss too. My parents were married for 56 years when my mom passed in '07. We're both so lucky that we were able to see that kind of lasting love! Ha, my grandma's name was Frances too. I know you'll race your heart out at IMCA to honor both of your grandparents. Until then, take good care of yourself and your parents. Love, Amelia
ReplyDeletesorry for your loss. god bless.
ReplyDeleteI'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your grandma. It's so hard to lose a loved one. My thoughts are with you!
ReplyDeleteso sorry to hear about your loss. I have been there. Celebrate her life with good memories.
ReplyDelete<3
Hi Tawnee, sorry for your loss. I'm glad I'll get to race with you in Canada. Rest up.
ReplyDeleteI'm rly sorry about your gma Tawnee, but your ab right, race in the memory of her, as she will fvr be with you always...
ReplyDeleteur gonna do amazing!
-DLM
Tawnee - so sorry for yours and your families loss! Your grandma is back with the man of her dreams! It sounds like she lived with a ton of love around her. This ones for her!
ReplyDeleteI'll be cheering for you out there next Sunday - OMG only 9 more days - woohoo!
Hi,
ReplyDeleteSo sorry to come over and read this. I'm sorry for your loss, Tawnee.
Please say hi at IMC, it would be great to mee you.
RR
Very sorry to hear this. I hope you and your family are doing well.
ReplyDeleteI raced IMC in 2008 and scattered some of my dads ashes in the lake before the swim. He was with me through to the finish.
Your grandma will be there with you too.