Dear Mom, my guardian angel -

You were one firece lady - in fact so strong near the end, that I wasn't prepared to lose you so quickly.

For most of our lives, it was just the two of us and we were an unstoppable pair! My heart is broken without you here. There are so many life moments we won't be able to share with one other. I'm not sure my heart will ever recover, but I find comfort knowing you'll always be watching, supporting, and keeping me safe. For that I'm incredibly grateful.

In your final days, you had quite a few visitors! You defied the odds and held on far longer than most of the medical staff expected. Your doctor announced, "This is a testament to Karen's very strong heart! Both physically and spiritually!" He was right... you had one strong heart, and those close to you experienced it first hand. I know you chose the moment to say your final goodbye... and you waited till it was just the two of us. Holding hands. Just like it's always been and will be, an unbreakable bond. Just us two.

Love you, mom. Forever and always.