Lillian

Hello and Goodbye.
When GA shelter volunteers reached out to SEGSP for help with a GSP in an overcrowded, underfunded shelter, our volunteer Jackie (NC) answered the call and volunteered to foster her.

Though we learned Lillian was battling cancer, Jackie offered to bring her home as a hospice foster and give her some comfort, care and love for however long she had left. Three states and three transport volunteer drivers later (thank you Vanessa, Ellen and Jackie), Lillian was home in rescue on Thursday.  Tragically, we had to say goodbye to her the very next day.
Jackie said, “I knew her prognosis, but I had no idea I’d have so little time with her. When I realized how sick she was, I took her to the place that brings me solace: the beach. My community has become my family, and when I tearfully asked a photographer friend for a favor at sunrise, he agreed immediately, said a prayer, and grabbed his camera. This photo is how I want Lillian to be remembered.
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Despite her sweet spirit, her body just couldn’t do it. I didn’t get the chance to learn her favorite toys/treats, watch her chase lizards, experience ice cream or take a nap together. I won’t get to explain she isn’t a Dalmatian or pull something out of her mouth. But I did get to kiss her head, rub her chest, and whisper in her ear as she laid in my lap and took her last breath.
Why do this? Because I’ll let my heart break so hers won’t have to. I hope she knows we tried and that she was loved by many. And I’d do it again in a second.”
 
“Goodbyes are not forever; they are not the end. It simply means I’ll miss you until we meet again.” Unknown