We found out just before New Year's that Jane's cancer was metastatic, which was then complicated by pneumonia and a stroke last Friday. We had hoped to have more time with her, of course, but we were able to have good conversations with her in the last week. Yesterday, her brother and cousins came together with us to sit at her side. We listened to music that she loved, and watched the broadcast of MLK's "I Have a Dream" speech, which Jane attended in person in 1963. Her grandson Torben had visited her during the weekend, and they blew each other kisses. The hospital chaplain and her own pastor both came to offer prayers. Her wonderful nurse Amalee made sure that she was not in pain, and the room was filled with photos, and a wonderful view of the city from the 11th floor at St. Vincent's. There was talk of Barack, baseball, and barbecue, all around her, all day.
We kissed her goodnight and headed home to Torben. The nurse called us to let us know Jane passed away soon after we left. (Knowing Jane, she was more ready than we were, and was probably just waiting for us to get the heck out.)
We are planning a service and celebration for Jane in early February and will let you know the details as soon as we have them. Please see the links on this page for a list of organizations with which Jane was involved, and consider supporting one of them in her memory.
Jane would always say "I only tell good stories", so we would love it if you would share yours here.
Peace, Love, & Carpe Diem,
Jason & Maya
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