Well, here we are 15 years later after the death of a beautiful soul. Monica Nicole Joyce Fowler who was my first born child in 1979. She gave us such joy and happiness for so many years before tragedy struck all of our lives.
I can't believe 15 years has passed, but there is something very important to a mother who has lost her child....and that is for the daughter to never be forgotten. Life goes on, of course, but I have always tried to do things to keep her memory alive. Which brings me to the subject of the manuscript I and my wonderful editor, Adeline, have been working on for so many years. I thought it would be done by now, but for many reasons is not quite ready. I have every reason to believe it will be available in the next several months! A published book about our story! I can't wait!
I spent several years going around to many universities, high schools, I have spoken to nursing students and a other various groups taking my Power Point presentation of Monica's story to share and spread awareness of the dreaded anorexia nervosa disorder which destroyed her. Spending my time with the people that I spoke to was one of the most emotional, healing, cathartic experiences I have ever had in my life. I met some pretty amazing people in the process.
Today, we will go to the Chicago Botanic Gardens and visit Monica's memorial bench for the final time. We will remember Monica and reminisce how good life was so long ago when she was still with us. I can't tell you how difficult it is every day wishing that she was still here. Sometimes I just want to say, "Monica, where are you? I miss you! " 💔
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Sherri, I can’t imagine your pain. I look forward to reading your book. I hope it will help me and others understand the dreadful anorexia nervosa disorder better.
ReplyDeleteTo your question, “ Monica, where are you? I miss you!” It’s your
memories that keep her with you. I’m certain they’re not enough to mend your daily ache when you long for another conversation, kiss, hug. I do hope they bring you peace and solace to love and live a wonderful life in her name.
I have a question. Why will this be your last visit to her bench at Chicago Botanic Garden?
Thank you so much for your comment. You make a lot of sense and sound very wise...I appreciate your kind words. In answer to your question about why it will be the last time to visit Monica. In lieu of flowers during Monica's memorial, friends and family all made donations for her to have a bench with a plaque but only for 15 years. After 15 years we need to make another $5000.00 donation to keep the plaque on her bench or it gets removed. It's a way for the gardens to continue profiting. In the mean time Chelsey and I planted a beautiful rosebud tree and I bought my own bench under the tree in front of my house and have a lovely plaque in her honor. That is where we will sit and honor her in future years. Not to say we won't ever go to the gardens, it's beautiful there and we are members, thanks to my sister. I have a question for you....do I know you? The only anonymous I know is my x husband.
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