Some people come into your life and change it slowly over time. Others come in and change it with a dramatic event. Some how, my Aunt Jeanne managed to do both.

My Aunt Jeanne was the most selfless person I have ever know. She was like another mother to me when I was growing up, not only to me but to my other 8 other cousins.

Earier this year, Jeanne found out that her cancer treatments were not working, and the Dr's gave her between 1-6 months. When she got this information, she took it with grace. The normal emotions that people would experience came and went. While everyone else in the family was heart broken and lost, Jeanne was the one who told us that it was ok.

She was the one to comfort us, in her time of need. She was the one who held our hands and wiped away the tears. She advised us that she lived a good life, with no regrets. She was surrounded by family and friends.

Jeanne was the lady who would be there for anyone no matter what was asked. She passed away while surrounded by her sisters, and in the minds of everyone that she has come in contact with. Jeanne has made me the young lady I am today, and gives me something to strive for in the future.

I can only hope that I will some day be the aunt that she was to me, the sister that she was to her siblings, the friend she was to many, and the mother she seemed like to me. I will miss her every day, but i take comfort in the fact knowing that she is watching over me for the rest of my life and will guide me on my journey.