Don't cry because it is over, smile because it happened - Amy passed away Aug 8th
 

Amy passed away on Aug 9th and below is the opening to her obituary that she had drafted herself.

Don't cry because it is over, smile because it happened." Amy Marie Hendrickson Stewart, 41, died peacefully on Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2006.

Amy had such a strong faith and always kept God close to her heart which gives meaning to her opening statement. As Amy's friend it was comforting to witness her unwavering faith during this difficult time.

Amy's life improved the quality of those lives that she touched with her beauty, which radiated from within. The manner in which she embraced her life was one of simplicity, yet timeless class and faith. She defined the word "love" by setting a genuine example of kindness and altruism. She was the love of her husband's life and her departure will forever leave a hole in his heart and the hearts of her entire family and many friends. If you knew Amy, you were blessed by the way that she embraced life, showing love and compassion to everyone, while never passing judgment against anyone. Amy has two beautiful daughters Amanda and Hana that she loved with all of her heart.

I struggled with wether or not to post Amy's passing because I know that she would not want to cause additional saddness or fear however I felt it important to let all of you know that this support group provided her much comfort and sound advice that she mentioned to me on numerous occasions. As Amy's friend I also monitored this website frequently to better educate myself in order to be more supportive. I would like to express my appreciation to all of you for the support that Amy received from your group. I know for a fact that Amy took inforamtion and advice from all of you to her Doctors which improved her treatment and it gave Amy comfort that she felt she had explored all avenues that were available to her. Without the support of this group Amy would not have had that comfort nor would she have been able to challenge her treatment when necessary. With the ability to share the information that you are all sharing this support group will play a invaluable role in the cure of breast cancer so not only are you all supporting each other but your contributions to this site will certainly result in a faster cure. Keep spreading the news, there will be a cure soon!

I wish you all could have known Amy. She was a gift in my life and I can assure you all that you have an angel looking over you - she truely held you all very close to her heart.

I am attaching a smilie face to this message in honor of Amy's wishes - "Don't cry because it is over, smile because it happened"

My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you!

Amy's friend - Renee

Renee-


You were a good friend to Amy, and I am sorry to hear this news, and will keep her loved ones in my prayers. Since I have a husband and two beautfiful daughters, her message is even more poignant, and we all strive to live with the grace others exhibit so easily.

Kind regards,
Shell

So sorry. Thanks for posting and being such a good friend. Bev

You are quite a friend and Amy was lucky to have you as one. My sympathy to all who knew Amy.

Another angel has earned her wings
 

Dear Renee,
You are an incredibly thoughtful friend letting us know about Amys' passing.
Her obituary is very touching. I hope her daughters feel the effect of her lasting gift of deep and spirit filled love that she clearly had for them.
Amy always had a comforting word for us in her posts; supporting us with prayers and asking for God's blessings on our behalf. We are all better people for having touched Amy's life.
Love Kim from CT

Dear Renee,

I'm sorry to hear of Amy's passing, but it's so kind of you to let us know she loved this site and that it helped her to come here for advice and comfort. To know that we made a difference in someone's life is a profound blessing.

<3 Lolly

Renee
I am so sorry to hear about Amy.....what a difference you as a friend made in her life.....the 2 of you were blessed to be friends.....she will be missed.

Renee, thank you for sharing. I am sorry for your loss. I depend very heavily on my friends as I fight this battle and I appreciate and love them more than I can express and convey to them. I am sure that Amy felt the same about you. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Amy's family. Heartfelt sympathies. Linda

I am sorry to hear of Amy's passing. It touches our hearts deeply to loose one of our sisters. Each one on this support is an Angel sent by God to look out for each other. May you all rest in peace with beautiful memories of Amy. God Bless each one of you. hugs, Sandy

Thank you so much for posting. Each passing of a member here is such a sad event for us but far better to know than wonder. It is wonderful to think that Amy found comfort and help on this site. God bless you, her husband, children, family and friends. Amy gives us yet another reason to push on....questioning, researching, fighting this disease.

Cathy

Dear Renee,

I am very sad to hear of Amy's passing. She was so very fortunate to have your loving friendship. Your support love and freindship was truly beautiful.
I will keep Amy and her family in my prayers. I know her husband and daughters will miss her greatly - but somehow I feel she is watching and is close by.

Warmly,
Jean

Dear Renee, You and Amy must of had a wonderfull friendship. I know it is sad when a person you love dies, but if that person knows they are going to a better place, then don't cry for them. Cry for the ones left behind. I don't want sad morbid songs played at my memorial service. Just some of my favorite songs and hymms. And at the very end an upbeat Polka for everyone to dance to. And not "In Heaven there aint no beer", either. Doesn't that sound fun? Love and Blessings, from Lu Ann.

Re: Don't cry because it is over, smile because it happened - Amy passed away Aug 8th
 

renee, their isnt a day that i dont think about my mama and what she went through. Sometimes i feel like breaking down and crying but then i think of all the good memories i had with her. she was one of the most kind hearted, most generous, sweetest ladies i knew, and hopefully i can be just like her when i grow up. even though she is gone, she is still with us, everyday, making sure were okay. love and miss you Renee!
-Hanna Jangula