~ In Memorium June 25 1991 – October 7 2021 ~
We talk a lot about cancer survivors, and have many beautiful ways to celebrate them. We talk much less about the people who have the incredible task of living with a terminal diagnosis.
It’s romantic to talk about “living like each day is your last,” but there’s nothing romantic about being given a 5 year expiry date on the life you love. Knowing that you’ll still have all the mundane tasks of living, going to work to pay the bills, all the same struggles everyone else has- and that you’ll be adding a litany of medical procedures, experimental treatments, and pain that doesn’t ever go away for long.
I met Rachel when she came in for a boudoir shoot. Young and vibrant with an ascerbic wit and sassy smile, I assumed that when she said “cancer” she meant “curable.” At the time I didn’t know what Stage 4 cancer was.
I don’t know how anyone can be so full of life when they’re dying.
Kim Johnson
Posted at 21:39h, 02 AprilDear Rachael,
You are a brave, beautiful soul both inside and out. You are the best of us at life and what it means to be human. I wish you joy and peace.
Britt
Posted at 22:44h, 02 AprilSuch light in her eyes ❤️ Much love to you and yours Rachel.
Amy
Posted at 17:42h, 04 AprilRachel you are such a beautiful soul with a beautiful body and spirit. Your story just melted my heart. Shine away angel