Mary Lynn Dorow

I have been hesitating a great deal on whether or not I should include a letter. I look at all the Facebook feeds and see how much Michelle was loved by so many and touched so many lives. I only had the opportunity to meet her once but I will say it was a lasting impression that I will never forget.

Meeting Michelle at DCI 2016 on the upper level suite balcony was truly a match sent to me by God. Sharing our ovarian cancer stories together was such a blessing. We immediately had a connection because we both had been through the journey of ovarian cancer. I felt so comfortable talking with Michelle and sharing our trials and

tribulations. I only wish our paths crossed sooner. I know what it is like not to be sure what type of future is ahead of you when you hear you have cancer. So many struggles throughout the process, whether it be the white blood cell counts, the cat scans, the chemo, the after effects etc. I truly know that Michelle had the positive attitude and

persevered to the best of her ability. I was honored to share with her several of the items that I kept near and dear to my heart throughout my journey, especially the bracelet that says WATCH OVER ME. I know God is still watching over her..

I also want to applaud you Jeff because you gave her all the love and support throughout the most difficult of times. I have heard from so many people how amazing you were and how you put her FIRST all the time. She will forever know the love and commitment you shared with her. Smiles for Michelle was an amazing site to reach out to her.

I know I would not have made it through without the love and support of my husband, family and friends.

I know it is hard to accept, but now you have to take care of you. I hope you do something special for yourself when you feel ready. After all my treatments, I took a few remission trips that revitalized me. I am only three months clear and have a big road ahead of me. However, I also have to stay positive and react to whatever my body is telling me.

This has been so difficult to put into words where my heart is. I really believe that Michelle was a fighter and God had other plans. Perhaps the road was only going to get worse. God gives his toughest battles to his toughest soldiers and even though Michelle is not with us she was one tough soldier. Thanks for allowing me to be just a small part of your life. Cancer sucks!!! Praying for strength and support for you.

Until you go through something like this, nobody knows the difficulty or the battle. I am blessed to have known you Michelle Owens, you still are an inspiration to me!

Keep everyone smiling in heaven.