Hello from a family friend

Hello - -

I just want to say that I was good friends with Chris before we moved away to California. I tried to stay in touch, and through my family found out about Nick's illness. I was so saddened when I heard the news. I wrote letters - - sent to Nick & Chris and tried to do anything I could for Chris , Mike & Nick and what they were all trying to deal with.

Then I heard that our prayers had come true - -Nick was in remission. What a blessing. - - The next thing I know was when one of my family members from the Peoria members let me know that Nick had passed away. I was so very sad. I tried to put myself in Chris & Mike's shoes - but somehow couldn't imagine the hurt they must have felt.

Now I have lost my mother (IPF - - Pulmonary Fibrosis) and am standing up for my mother's cause. Of course we donated money to St. Jude - - because I believe we all need to give to whatever we can so our sad experiences haven't been for nothing. I believe that research will be the only thing that might help other families who might have a loved one diagnosed with cancer or a lung disease. I am an advocate for fighting lung disease - - my mother never smoked. She was just a victim to a horrible disease that I watched take her away from me. It's so hard when you're the "spectator" -- - and can do nothing. For this I understand Chris & Mike's grief. I only hope that with donations - - both St. Judes & the American Lung Association can do something to stop taking loved one's from the arms for their families.

I love my good friend Chris and wish I could be there in Illinois to hug her once again to tell her how I hurt for her and Mike. Mike - - I love you too. You've always been very close to The Dickerson Clan. I hope you are healing. . . I am trying to heal too.

Take care - - and we send our love. Teri & Steve Dickerson

Read more!