24 Comments

Hi Shell,

Thank you so much for sharing this piece with me! I ended up reading both parts. I'm so glad you were able to get extra time with your mom.

Expand full comment

Thank you I'm so glad you liked the story.

Expand full comment

This is so beautifully written Shell. What an amazing story. So glad you were able to share it. 🩷

Expand full comment

Thank you so much. Glad you enjoyed reading it.

Expand full comment

Such a beautiful story. 11 years. So special you and your family had that time with her. 😢❤️

Expand full comment

I got goosebumps reading this. Thank you for sharing.

Expand full comment

Wow, what a stunning remembrance. Your mother was a beautiful lady, inside and out.

Expand full comment

Tingles down the spine. Thank you 🥹. I'm reminded of my mom's passing.

Expand full comment

You are welcome. I’m glad it moved you. I think it’s good to share these kinds of stories with people so we don’t forget the importance, ya know?

Expand full comment

Exactly, but it also takes some time before we're ready. I feel as though I'm nearly able. Thank you, this kind of thing helps.

Expand full comment

What an amazing story. Thank you for sharing.

Expand full comment

Wow, this was so freaking beautiful it gave me goosebumps! It sounds like she really enjoyed her life and was so loved. And honestly, I don’t know who looks happier - your mom or the dolphin! haha so cute!

Expand full comment

Love that the story gave you goosebumps. I can't believe it took me so many years before I wrote about this. And haha 🐬

Expand full comment

An amazing story - the fact she lived so long after the diagnosis allowing the family to get to know her a little more. The joy in the pictures shines bright! Great writing.

Expand full comment

Thank you for your kind words. We did get some joy during those years.

Expand full comment

Moreover, I was anxiously anticipating Part II of your piece. You did not disappoint.

Expand full comment

Thank you for your very kind words and for diving into these stories with me.

Expand full comment

Whoo Hoo, Shell, you continue to allow us readers to walk next to you down both the very emotional sad and uplifting times. Thank you. You have pegged your mom in a way that forces me to anticipate the next word. And, then, in her own inimitable way,...she left.

Expand full comment

Thank God for your gift of mellifluous words whose tinkles are so delicate and the deep oboe brings the sadness. These words soar in my imagination. Your ability to articulate a scene with such precision is quite remarkable and yet I’m pulled into your humble method of describing a major sorrowful event. Your candor mixed with humor is not detached. Yet you’re a critical third party observer. This is worth the price of the ticket (reading your words).Gwen

Expand full comment

Speaking of mellifluous words. . . Right there in your comment. I so appreciate you. 🥲

Expand full comment

This makes me wish I had known her better…

Expand full comment

What an absolutely touching story, beautifully told. Doris’ personality shined through your storytelling! I didn’t realize it was a whole 11 years afterward 😳!

Expand full comment

I’m crying and smiling. So beautifully told.

Expand full comment

Thank you for the “restack” 🙂

Expand full comment