Gaylene Frances Clough was my mother's name. Our Lord sent His angels to take her home on July 19th, 2001 at approximately 9:10 p.m. CST, at the young age of 64. She died of lung cancer and liver metastases.

I was my mother's primary caregiver during most of her illness. I have been keeping journals for several years. I find it to be therapeutic. I wrote in my journals almost every day of my mother's illness. I thought that it would be beneficial to me and for Mom. I didn't realize, at the time, that I would be using those journals as a basis for a book. So, I apologize if some of my entries seem unprofessional. THE WORDS HEREIN ARE MY WORDS. HONEST. MEAN. SAD.LONELY.FEARFUL.GRATEFUL.

My goal, in writing this book, is to hopefully help others who are facing similar situations. During the nine months that I was taking care of my mother, I faced numerous frustrations, anxieties and heartaches. As I attempted to research possible avenues of support (financial and emotional), I began to realize that there were a large number of dead ends and runarounds. My mother had no job, no medical insurance and no money at the time that she was diagnosed. Our family faced quite a few challenges and disappointments, eventually there was some satisfaction and... gratitude.

If you are reading this book, you probably have a loved one that has/had cancer or some other deadly disease. My heart goes out to you as you try and find a way to get through this. If my writing helps just one of you - then my work is a success. It is my wish that after you read these words you will pass them on to your loved ones, friends, family... so that they will hopefully realize how much you need them... especially now. You cannot do this alone. You need your family. You need your friends. Most importantly, you need inspiration from a higher power. I know that I could not have gotten through this without our merciful Father. He gave me strength and courage when I needed it most. When I felt alone, He held me. When I felt sad, He dried my tears. When I was hurting, He comforted me. He is an awesome God and I give thanks for His mercy.

Writing this book and, basically, re-living the last months that I had with Mom, was very difficult. I was emotional, testy and tired. So, if any of my words offend or hurt, I sincerely apologize.

It is my prayer that you gain something from these pages, if it's only a glimpse of hope. Hope can brighten your day.