Kim: The script tattoo is the first few lines of an e.e. cummings poem “i carry your heart with me (i carry it in my heart).” A dear friend read the entire poem at David’s memorial service for me.
The tattoo on my right arm has a few little things in it that make it significant. The Roman numeral dates–the one up top, above the dandelions, is our wedding date (11/17/1993)–David had this tattoo, as well. The one on the bottom is the day David died (10/23/2016).
The dandelions represent the “weeds” that are typically hard to get rid of in your garden, but are quick to blow away the little blooms in a hard wind… so the dandelion reminds you to make the most of every day and moment you have with your loved one.
This tattoo was designed by my nephew. If you look closely, there is a little dandelion bud with a red heart (which is my heart floating away with the other buds), and there are a few birds, especially a red bird. Birds played a big part in David’s passing (cardinals appearing the day before, and a bird flew into a window the day of his passing).
I also have a tattoo on my ring finger that says, “Tu Me Manques,” which is French for “I am without you” or “I miss you.” I have several tattoos, but these three really express my love and honor for David.
The Giving Kitchen grant took the stress off David (sick people need to avoid stress at all costs) and me [when he was sick] so we could concentrate on his treatment, care and comfort. When David was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a very aggressive and fatal brain tumor, and was told that he could no longer drive or work, we realized we couldn’t make our monthly bills on only one salary. With the very generous grant from GK, we were able to pay our mortgage, electricity, water, etc. I honestly do not know what we would have done or how we would have survived without that grant.
I truly believe it made a huge difference in our lives. Since I have met and worked with the amazing staff and volunteers of GK, I have found so much comfort and hope in this dark period of my life. I am proud to be a member of GK family and will always, always have a place in my heart for GK.