My mother, Kim, was a beautiful person who lost her life much too soon at age 59. She had a welcoming and fun loving energy that made her approachable, nurturing, genuine, and fun. She was a "Mom" and counselor to many who benefited from her love, advice, and encouragement. Her open door policy was shown to many who needed to feel heard and "seen." She was a devoted Mom of three and "Mimmy" to three grandchildren at the time of her passing who were the light of her life. She was also a devoted sister, daughter, and friend. She was always ready to take on new adventures and approached situations with curiosity and joy. This made her a terrific friend and travel partner. Time with her was sure to ensure a lot of giggles, sarcasm, and inside jokes. Her creative abilities made her an excellent baker, crafter, and thrifter. According to her kids, she made the best enchiladas on earth (even if it was later revealed that it was just the printed recipe on a can of El Paso!)
With her caring nature she made a career as a Registered Nurse. For over thirty years she cared for countless patients in geriatrics, neurology, oncology, and medical/surgical. Sadly, she collapsed while preparing to clock in for her nursing shift on Thanksgiving Day of 2021. She had suffered a cerebral brain aneurysm. That terrible call was made by a hospital social worker and her family rushed to her bedside as she passed away.
Shortly after her passing we were contacted by Mid-America Transplant. While we were still in shock we knew that organ donation was a way to honor our Mom and continue her legacy of selflessly giving to others. She was able to donate skin and bone tissue to trauma victims as well as both corneas. We later learned that her corneas were able to restore sight to one man and one woman from our home state. The journey of unexpected grief is beyond words, but knowing that our mother was able to help others in this way has provided us a sense of peace and pride through a traumatic experience.
