We bid farewell to a colleague the weekend before last. After a valiant fight against cancer that spanned the better part of 2 years, the body may have given all it could, but the spirit won the battle.

Kareen was our friend. She was a mom, a wife, and a child. She had an unbelievable love of life, with a smile that met everyone she encountered. Although the vast majority of our encounters were at the workplace, what always struck me was just how strong her family and friend support network is and has always been. They were one unit, sharing every adventure and life encounter as a group. Even during the darkest hours, she always chose life; to enjoy every moment, to never give up hope and planning for the future with uncertainty around every corner.

The last time I met her was a chance encounter at a retail store a few months back. Upon catching my attention, she looked vibrant with that huge disarming smile that revealed her delight. As she recounted her ordeal over the previous winter, her matter-of-fact delivery and realistic outlook on things was remarkable; I honestly felt that she could easily been talking about someone else. She was still planning to attend graduations, and visit another warm locale in the near future.  She was sincerely appreciative of all of her relationships, but during that 20 minute chat, she made sure that I knew she appreciated mine. All of her friends would say the same: when you were in Kareen’s presence, she was genuine and wanted you there with no pretense or expectation. Every day was a gift, and by choosing life, she shared those gifts with each of us.

May you rest in peace Kareen. You are beloved and we miss you.

http://www.capebretonpost.com/obituaries/jane-kareen-walker-5761/

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