The sister who followed me in the female birth order in our family died a week ago today. She was seventy-three; her birthday is next month. I was hoping to celebrate it with her in Georgia but knew that might not happen as her health was spiraling downward day by day. A life-long sickle cell disease patient who had stared death down on countless occasions during the years, we had hoped she’d continue her track record of defying the medical prognoses. These last several weeks however, we began to suspect that might not be case this time. Too many issues kept cropping up; and the doctors seemed to be running out of successful solutions. When her liver failed, we knew the time was upon us. With her daughter at her side in the hospital or at her new residence in a long-term care facility, I received daily updates. Sometimes we were able to talk briefly, but she wasn’t the strong, independent, fighter I’d come to know and expect. This was different. She was different. My prayers shifted from asking God to heal and restore her to asking that He not allow her to suffer. And suffering she was. When the phone rang at 1:00 o’clock in the morning a few weeks back, I knew. An ER transport to the hospital began the final leg of her journey. This time, there would be no miraculous “come back” for my warrior sister. As my niece described her appearance, the numerous tubes, and lines connected to her body, the move into ICU and finally the “conversation” the medical staff began to have, I felt my prayers would soon be answered. Her suffering would end; and she would pass from this earthly adventure to the eternal one that awaits those of us who believe in God and our Savior Jesus, His only Son. The closing of this chapter in her life is a reason for praise, joy and peace. Without a doubt, I know the Lord welcomed her with the words we all long to hear from Him, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.” Through it all, she kept the faith. May that be the story for us all. I love you Christa Royce and miss you even more. Always, your big sister Bev.
Love. Joy. Peace.
Thanks for writing. I have no words.