Bonnie’s Wish

You need to be brave and strong when facing adversity.

These few words are so true – my late wife, Bonnie, and I were to find out. She had a pelvic pain start one day, a simple ovarian cyst. Surgery was needed. A minor problem turned into cancer, which would claim her life. September, October, November, December…all a blur. She fought hard and then some. The new year showed promise, as it always does. Early in February 2010, the prognosis was deemed terminal. Our worst fears were realized. She would die soon.

We were married 21 years. We thought our health was good. We were very wrong. Through her treatments and surgeries she said, “I wouldn’t wish this on anyone. Not even my worst enemy.” Bonnie’s wish was born.

I am vowing to let people know, mainly the female population, that ovarian cancer is deadly. Some of you may beat it … but many will not. I plead to you, please see your gynecologist and doctors. Keep your appointments. My Bonnie wouldn’t go for check-ups. “Too embarrassing,” she said. She never had children, so she didn’t have exams as in the case with pregnancy. Didn’t see the need and had no problems. Unfortunately for her and I, “problem” took her life.

“Now you showed me how I’m suppose to live. And now you showed me how to die.”

November 23, 1960-March 1, 2010

I Love You Honey,

Rest In Peace.

Karl Bates