by Katie Jennings
Well to put it to you bluntly, it stinks. Some days are easier than others. I am constantly thinking about what we would be doing if she were still around. Causing trouble, giving our parents more gray hairs, and planning our weekend parties; I am sure that is what we would be doing.
To be honest, she would have had this essay written, typed, double spaced, and work checked in about 20 minutes! She was a literary genius. Losing a sibling is really hard some days. Sometimes you have to be strong for everyone else but yourself. But you learn to find time for yourself.
As life turns its many curves in the road, you find that there are many events that you wish your brother or sister were there with you. This has been my most difficult challenge. Birthdays, holidays, and weddings are just not the same. But you learn to adjust.
On the other hand, there are many things that I have learned from such a big loss. I always try to keep strong during my weakness. My sister Josie battled a brain tumor, chemotherapy, and many other obstacles. She always had great strength, and she was never weak or one to give up. She always rolled with the punches and never sweated the small stuff. I have learned a great deal from her philosophy, and I use it in my everyday life. She has taught me more than she will ever know.
For me, losing Josie has changed my life in a huge way. I cannot tell you exactly how, but you do look at life in a totally different light; you definitely don’t take life for granted. There is not one day that I haven’t thought about her; she is always in my heart and soul.
On a final note: Josie, if you are reading this up in heaven with all your angel girlfriends, please forgive me for all the grammatical errors.
I love you Josie.
Written by Katie Jennings, sister to Josie.
This article was written for The Childhood Brain Tumor Foundation, Germantown, Maryland