About ten years ago, my dear friend was diagnosed with breast cancer. She went through surgery, chemotherapy and radiation treatments and emerged cancer-free. For a while. During all of it, she engaged in life as best she could and never once expressed anger or worry. Her husband has steadfastly held the position throughout his life that worrying doesn't serve a useful purpose, that it depletes energy, deflects joy and diminishes quality of life.
Over the years, my friend has done well until a year and a half ago when she was diagnosed with lung cancer. Another round of surgery, chemo and radiation only to be told that her disease isn't curable but it is treatable. She lives and has lived everyday with appreciation and peace. Again, her husband has stood solidly next to her.
And then it happened.
Six months ago, out of seemingly nowhere, her husband started experiencing abdominal discomfort which was later diagnosed as pancreatic cancer. He has faded quickly and appears to have only a short while left to live.
They are both receiving treatment for uncurable cancers while simultaneously reviewing everything to make sure their lives are in order. Their vacation home has been sold, closets full of clothes and household goods have been donated to good charities and legal documents have been finalized.
They live in quiet acceptance of what is happening, appreciative of the life they have shared together and the family and friends that have formed a supportive, loving circle around them. Each day is one more day for them to hold hands and say "I love you".
Alone would be better. I spend most of the time alone anyway. But I stay for reasons already said.
, pretty sure she will show up. 
