We Will Miss Him~

Austin was 19 when he found out he had bone cancer. 19 is so young. A 19 year old still isn't sure what he wants to do with his life. Austin had to decide which types of chemo treatments to try - whether to work or apply for disability and worry about the high costs of his treatment. He had to fight nausea that was brought on by the "red devil" that was pumped into his veins. It was almost "funny" watching him take a hand full of HUGE pills at the hospital because when he was younger he had me crush any pill before he would swallow them. He had to use a walker and then later a cane as he had no strength in his legs. He lost his hair - twice - each time it came back in darker. He and his girlfriend spent much of their time together in hospitals with their dog. Austin had to give up riding his motorcycle and his skateboard - things he truly loved to do. It seems so harsh and unfair for him to have had to deal with these things.

Austin fought hard - he wanted to ride again. But one day he was told there were no more treatments left to try so he decided to stop and live a lifetime in a few months. He went on a cruise, he went camping and yes, even riding a little. Austin passed away at the young age of 21 on January 1, 2010. Rick and I were able to say goodbye just a couple days earlier. I know he knew we were there. I've cried a lot this week for him but we - my family and I - have good memories to share. There was a reason he was a part of our lives. We will remember him forever. Love you Aust!