Eighteen short months were all she had with her own children.  My best friend Tracy went to the ends of the earth to hand pick her children.  After months of tedious details, chasing for paperwork, and endless preparation, Tracy and her husband were ecstatic to discover that they would soon be parents to two children from Russia.  For those of us that knew her, joy spilled over in our hearts.  Afterall, Tracy practically raised my own daughter.  She was our childcare provider.  We were blessed to have her as my son’s godmother when he was born, and she had become my best friend.

All of us knew that she was meant to be a mother.  She adored children and they adored her.  For some, the transition after international adoptions can be quite difficult.  Tracy’s mothering instinct kicked in naturally and her children were immediately felt at home, well-disciplined and, most importantly, loved and happy.  All was as it should be.

Unfortunately after fourteen short months together, Tracy was diagnosed with stage IIIc ovarian cancer.  And after a short, courageous fight, Tracy passed away.  Those of us who knew her best strive to keep her memory alive for her two beautiful children, so that they too will remember her for all she gave them…a home, health, happiness and love.

We all miss you and love you Tracy!