I was lucky enough to meet Melinda in 1984 or 1985…I was so young that I really don’t remember the exact year. My mother worked with her at Delnor Hospital and they were really good friends. I still vividly remember the day I met Melinda. She greeted me with the warmest and most friendly smile I had ever seen! I was a very shy child, but I remember feeling comfortable around her. Melinda handed me the cutest Snuggle bear. I remember thinking, “why does this lady have a present for ME?” She didn’t even know me! Anyone reading this knows why she did it though. That’s just the kind of person Melinda was. Melinda was so kind and loving that it left an impression on me that will remain with me for the rest of my life. In fact, I think I still have that Snuggle bear at my parent’s house.
In 2003, my mother passed away and Melinda would once again show her kindness. She contacted me on Facebook to offer her condolences. She also told me some stories about the fun times she had with my mom. The comfort she gave to me will never be forgotten. I would later find out that not only was Melinda kind and loving, but she was also strong and courageous! I was amazed at how relentless she fought cancer. Her will to live was admirable, and I was truly inspired by her journey. When I saw the news that she had passed, I immediately thought of a passage from the last letter written by the Apostle Paul. For anyone that is not familiar with the New Testament, the Apostle Paul was a great warrior. Since Melinda was also a warrior, I felt this was probably what she was feeling as well. “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7.
Rest in heavenly peace, Melinda.
