My thoughts are with Louise today.

Louise's father Pat passed away today after a long struggle with Alzheimer's and cancer.

Louise and I met 8 years ago, became colleagues, then friends. Over the years we've shared books, recipes, stories, a crazy adventure or two, favourite TV shows and laughs. We've also shared the sad times over the deaths of both our mothers, joys and happy times of our kids growing, marrying and making us Nanas together. With Sandy, Louise and I, we always seem to be 'in step' on many of life's major joys and tragedies. My sister and I were at the hospital caring for my Dad in his last weeks when Louise's dad was admitted on the same floor. We visited each other's Dads and each other those couple of weeks with Louise and I running back to the office 'on shifts' to cover each other. Her Dad was, unfortunately, diagnosed with terminal lung cancer the week our Dad passed away - April 2007. Over this past year he has struggled with the dual burden of the cancer and progressive Alzheimers but Louise moved in with him and has been his primary caregiver all these months. It's been a hard and tragic time for her but the joy of her first grandson, the wedding of her youngest daughter and the pending birth of grandchild #2 has been the bright spot on many dark days.

Today is the end of that tough road for them both. Mr. Doyle, may you rest in peace and Louise - bless you for all you have done these past months. What little we could do to support you in your most challenging times never seemed to be enough. Rest now, dear friend, and know that we are with you in thought and mind as you put YOUR life back together and enjoy the wonderful family and friends that care about you and love your spirit and generous being.