Sarah Brandes
03/14/1982 — 03/01/2014
Sarah and I have been best friends since high school. We spent every major life event together, our weddings, the births of our children, holidays, birthdays, and everything in between…we did it together. So when she broke the news to me that she had been diagnosed with Stage III melanoma, obviously I was devastated. I never let her know that, though. I stayed strong for her, and she tried to stay strong for everyone else, including her two precious kids.
For nearly 3 years she fought melanoma head on, never too afraid to try new meds, clinical trials, surgery after surgery, chemo, and multiple rounds of radiation. She continued to deteriorate, and as a nurse, I knew when it was nearing time. I stayed with her loving family, at her bedside at home, and took care of her until God called her to his side on March 1, 2014.
She is the strongest woman I know, and her laughter and humor carried her gracefully till the end. I still can’t believe she is not here. I miss her terribly. I am so lucky to have known Sarah and been part of her life. She left an imprint of true friendship and love on my heart, and I know she will be waiting on the other side for me.
Until we meet again my friend, all my love
Trish Woiderski, best friend