Dear Mom,

You left too soon

No one was to know

Unexpectedly terminal

But your happiness was terminated long ago

By a horrible disease

To which I’m predisposed

Certain days I feel its somber presence

But something else also shows

Strength

Ambition

Determination

These traits will protect me

From failure and more

They will push me further

The impossible, I will own

You won't be here to celebrate

But deep down I know

You’re always with me spiritually

Everywhere I go

Sincerely,

Your youngest daughter