Memories of Pat - by Brenda
How I loved – and still do – Pat’s gentle ways, her kindness and the sincere and honest way in which she lived.  Her courage was particularly immense in the last couple of years.  How she strove to live – for our families, our friends and, most of all, for me. 
 
She faced every obstacle with fortitude, determination and hope.  The last two years distilled and concentrated the very essence of her spirit and the person she was.  Pat never gave up.  Yet, in the last month she was able, with incredible humility, to come to terms with dying.  How I admired and loved her, as she began those difficult conversations with me.  She said she wasn’t scared of dying.  Her only struggle was knowing I would be alone.  She blew me away with her quiet acceptance about coming to the end of her life. Me… I just sobbed my way through those same weeks, barely able to comprehend what was happening.
 
She thanked me for doing everything I could… caring for her, fighting her corner, supporting her and helping her in whatever way she needed.  It was my honour and privilege to be with her and to give her my very best efforts.  I loved doing things for her and making life a little easier whenever I could. She was going through the fight of her life – so I wanted to free her up to give as much to that fight as possible. 
 
I can’t actually believe she is gone.  We have been a team for so long and I don’t quite know how I will move forward without my soulmate, partner and best friend.  Pat promised she would show me the way and would help me. This may just make it possible for me to find a purpose and to live in the way she would want.  I’m happy to spend the rest of my life being more Pat.  We should all be more Pat!