Zarovka (Z)

So very sad. Prayers for her family.

Zarovka was a driving force when it came to encouraging, supporting, and uplifting others. Her knowledge of this disease was incredible and was fully complemented by her determination. She researched tirelessly, shared information fully and wholeheartedly, and opened her heart to us all.

During the latter part of her hiatus I was very worried about her, as my messages to her remained unanswered. I'd like to think that she put every ounce of her remaining energy into making lasting memories with her family and close friends.

Like so many of us, I hoped that Zarovka would find a way to outsmart this disease and envisioned the day when she would share her formula for success. Yet she was successful in so many ways - in her compassion, wisdom, and unmatchable spirit.

Fly and soar, dear friend.

Ohmygosh, this is a REALLY tough one to find out about. She and I were FB friends as well, and I have been concerned about her because she hadn't posted there or anywhere in awhile. I am speechless and heartbroken...

Thanks for sharing Illimae. I'm saddened to hear this news. I was always amazed at Zarovka's knowledge and research. She is an inspiration to all of us.Prayers to her family and friends.

I read the news fourteen minutes after it was posted, and only now can I bring myself to respond. I’m so sad. Zarovka was so smart and so strong, and she generously gave of her knowledge, thoughts, and strength to us. She was an inspiration. I had a feeling, an intuition, that she retired from the boards because she saw the train heading faster toward her. I think maybe she did not want to discourage us. I know she will have devoted herself to her family with typical Z passion during the decline in her health, however it happened. We do what we can, but cancer is so evil. This just underscores how we must not blame ourselves, as we see that not even our dear Zarovka could outrun the beast when it turned on her. I’ll dedicate my next yoga class to you, my friend. Sending my sympahy and support to Katharine’s family and to my BCO sisters.

illimae, you took on a terribly difficult task in disclosing this news, and thank you for letting us know.

KatyK, the strong "Z" surrounded by the bright snow, evergreen trees, and crisp blue sky comprise a fitting tribute to a courageous spirit whose wisdom will remain with us.

Illimae, This news had to have been awful for you to share. I thank you so much for your selflessness.

Z was one of the most caring, supportive and giving people I have ever known. She also was so determined to try everything that she could think of both inside and outside of the box and terms of treatment. I will never get to tell her that her information helped make my decision to go on to Xeloda after my scans revealed that the I/L was no longer working. I will never get to tell her that her research gave me options that I had not considered before. Priceless! With her determination and research and ability to think outside the box, I was positive she would beat this.

Jaycee, I was sobbing with you, my friend. So many beautiful souls that I always looked for when I got on these boards are gone. While still more are facing their final days. It is difficult to keep positive.

However, the one thing that remains firmly in my heart is that these precious people would not want us to lose the love of life and the determination to live fully in the time we have left! This I know! So we will keep them close in our hearts and we will "keep on, keepin on"!

Hugs and prayers to all! I know you are there Z, thanks for the memories!

Claudia

I also had a feeling she was not doing well. I am sad beyond reckoning, but also so thankful that I knew her here. She had such a bright mind and a generous heart. She gave it her best shot and that's what she would want all of us to keep doing, too.

Fly, Katharine, fly. Thanks for inspiring us all.

Just waking up to this sad news. Truly shocked as I saw Z as the person to beat this. She was exceptional.

There is a beautiful woodland close to home here in Yorkshire. My place to remember her and everything she did to further knowledge and spread comfort on this board.

Liz

I don't have any snow or sand to draw in but when things like this happen, I write poems. It's all spread out because this stupid board doesn't let you single space.

Tumbleweeds for Z (still struggling)

cover me with tumbleweeds

let the strong winds blow

I'm really glad you told me

but I wish I didn't know

let the branches shatter

just leave me under here

the darkness is my solitude

unlike the unknown fear

I think about my mundane life

and that brings me some peace

but thoughts of Z return again

the pattern does not cease

back and forth, back and forth

my mind can find no rest

the tumbleweeds pile higher

heavy on my chest

Jaycee thank you for your beautiful poem. I am grieving for our loss of this magnificent being. She really gave it her all and she has always been an inspiration. I would always stare at the photo of her avatar, a strong woman running joyfully in the sun. She looked strong and tough and like she wouldn’t take no BS from nobody. I always deeply admired her through these boards and felt concerned when she stopped posting I hope she left us peacefully and without too much discomfort and pain.

🥺 beautiful Jaycee. A remarkable woman and person for sure. Still reeling right along with you all. I also lean toward poetry. So thank you.