September 2005 update

On September 6th 2005, we lost Peter Converse, my stepfather, to liver cancer. Peter had been diagnosed in March and soon decided to enjoy his summer at home with his family, rather than put his fate in the hands of doctors who made no gurantees of an improvement in quality of life after treatment. We all had a fantastic summer with a huge party in July which was to celebrate Peter's life. Family and friends came from all around to be with the man they loved. It was quite a weekend and Peter was a trooper. Not once during his illness did Peter complain. Ever. He lived out his time at his home, on his terms, surrounded by those who loved him. And when the summer was over, (the day after Labor Day to be exact) Peter checked out. He decided that it was time, again, on his terms.
On September 17th, we had a memorial at home, again surrounded by those who loved Peter, and there are many. Over 200 friends and family gathered at the house which Peter loved so much, to celebrate a life that most people could only dream about. A celebrated veteran, corporate succcess story, sportsman, and above all; family man.
I watched in amazement as my mother spoke in front of all those whom had gathered in the tent by the ocean. She spoke about her relationship with Peter and what it meant not only to her, but to all of us. What it meant that he was gone, and how we would all move forward.
Peter will be missed by his family, his friends, his community and even some who never knew him. Peter did so much for so many, but many never knew it. That was not his style. He carried on quietly in the background. Constantly giving of himself in many ways.
During my mothers reading, she mentioned how people recognize that no one ever said anything negative about Peter. That is in turn, because Peter never said any thing negative about anyone. Ever.
I will continue to raise money each year for cancer research through my participation in the Pan Mass Challenge. I hope that one day, we can beat this disease. A disease that I am tired of having as a part of my life.