On this day, 32 years ago, I lost one of the greatest mentors of my life—Toni. She was a feisty red-headed tenacious woman who believed in me when I wasn’t able to believe in myself.

Sixteen years older than me, she played the role as my best friend, my second mother, and my teacher.

Being an “old-soul”, I spent hours talking to her about every aspect of life...hers and mine. She confided in me and trusted me, and I felt honored. She invested in me in ways others never had, and her influence changed the course of my life.

When Toni was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, I felt panicked and devastated. The very thought of her not being a part of my life left me feeling hopeless and truly alone in the world.

I fought along side her—taking her to chemotherapy appointments, doctor appointments, cleaning her house, taking care of her kids, and whatever else I could do to help her get through the day.

I believed she would beat her cancer, yet despite all my faith in her and in God, along with all the work she did to help herself—she lost her battle. I lost my best friend, and the person that had become my guiding light.

Here I am 32 years later, her picture on my nightstand as it has been since she passed, rejoicing in her everlasting impression on my life. A large part of her lives in me—thru all the lessons she taught me and the love she freely gave to me.

I am ever so grateful to this most amazing woman.