(no subject)

This afternoon there was a memorial service for my colleague who died last week. I was at work, so I went; our manager encouraged everyone who could get away to go to share in the farewell to Toscia. I was fine until I walked into the room, then the tears came; I wasn't alone in that. It was really a very beautiful service, and I'm glad I went. There was a quartet playing soft music on oboe, flute, harp and Celtic drum, beautiful flowers and a white bicycle, with a picture of Toscia beside it. Kelly, the Pastoral Care worker, lead the service, shared memories and stories, and gave the eulogy. It was so touching. One of my fellow ICU nurses, who has a beautiful singing voice, sang "Tears in Heaven" and by the end of the song there was hardly a dry eye in the room. It was lovely, and the whole service was very cathartic for everyone.
It ended with the reading of a message from Toscia's son, and then we all joined together singing "The Rose". When it was over, there was a lot of hugging and sharing of our feelings of sadness and loss. So many people came, the room was crowded, a true sign that she was a valued colleague and friend to many in the hospital.

I'm glad I was there, and I think it was very important for everyone to have this chance to say goodbye to a woman who was warm, and generous, and adventurous, who lived her life and loved the view from her bike.

Rest in peace, Toscia. I hope wherever you are, there are fabulous bike paths.