Margaret E. Smythe

Born August 17th, 1948
Died January 23rd, 2005

My mother was diagnosed with Small Cell Cancer with metastasis to the brain on January 22nd, 2004. She died 366 days later after a grueling and courageous fight. She under went months of chemotherapy even though she was told that treatment was hopeless.

My mother put her faith in Jesus and approached death like she lived her life, with dignity, faith, respect, courage, and compassion.

She was always there for me ever since I was diagnosed with MPGN Type I Kidney disease at the age of 10.

Together we faced every medical challenge but because of her diagnosis she never got the chance to stand at the finish line in Lake Placid New York on July 25th, 2004 and watch as her disabled son made history and accomplished what many in the medical field said could not be done.

Every year, to honor her memory, I will wear her name proudly on the front of my race jersey. Together we will face every challenge that presents itself. Cancer tried to take my mother from me but she will always be with me because a thought is never far away.

I miss you mom.