Today would have been Teresa’s birthday. Would have been since she passed away from breast cancer last year. I met Teresa right after I got divorced many years ago. Our friendship started slowly but by the time I started at Harker School, we were spending every lunch break together. Teresa taught me many things about life and friendship. When I found out she had breast cancer I felt devastated. When I called her and we talked she was the one telling me everything would be okay as I wept openly on the phone. I have to admit I have struggled with the loss of my friend. It breaks my heart that she died so young.
Things I will remember and cherish about Teresa:
1. She loved her daughters so very much, I will always remember our talks about them.
2. She was a great gift giver…some of my favorite presents were gifts from Teresa. When I was riding my bike a lot she bought me a mile counter, and then before I left she bedazzled a “flask” for me…boy did she know I would be needing that!
3. She was down to earth. Even though we worked at a school with very wealthy people she treated every one the same.
4. She was a true friend. She never judged me even if she didn’t understand a decision I was making. She would listen and give advice if I asked.
I hope that I can learn to be the kind of friend Teresa was to me and to so many others. I think of her every day in some way.
So Teresa, Happy Birthday…I love you and miss you so much!
