As a little girl, Celia had been in our daughter, Amy's, circle of friends and cousins. She and I reminisced about the spend-the-night parties, the birthdays, and playgroups of long ago. And then she told me: she had cancer. She candidly explained that she might not have many years left. It was her wish to help sick children, particularly children with cancer.

The pediatric patients really liked Celia, especially the little boy who lost his hair during chemo. He thought it was so great when Celia showed him that she was wearing a wig. She said that she used to be a brunette, but this gave her a chance to be a blonde.

A gifted writer, Celia was passionate about life and treasured her friends. As she became a regular patient at Memorial, she was "adopted" by Claire Evans and Rhonda Sutlive of Volunteer Services, whom she called her "fairy godmothers." They, and so many other Memorial and Candler Hospital employees, doctors and nurses, developed true bonds with Celia. Celia also spoke constantly of her friends, her "cancer group," and her church group--particularly the Rev. Brearley.

The one person who could always make Celia's eyes sparkle was her husband, Antoine. Celia adored Antoine and for good reason. This kind, gentle man was faithful, devoted, and always there for his wife. Their love was astonishing.

To Antoine, to Maxine and Bill, who gave us this beautiful, brave child; to Melissa, the sister whom she adored; and to other family members and friends, I offer you my deepest sympathy.

I will forever carry in my heart the joy that Celia gave me, and I thank God for her.