When Mary was small, she loved to go out into the snow. She would build enclosed forts in the backyard on David St in Elora. The video of her sticking her head out of a snow fort was there.
Like for many Canadians, winter has a different impact on adults as it does for children. It takes an even bigger change when raising children in the winter climate.
Mary loved taking Clara out into the snow whenever she could. There is a park across the street from her Queen St apartment. Clara and I spent time there in both Winter and Spring. Mary would always do her best to give Clara the best experiences for them to enjoy together. Playdates with her friends and their kids. A photography session on a Fall day. Hours with Clara and I at the Kitchener park. Clara always wanted me to chase her through the maze and catch her when she slid down the sliding board, giggling and screaming.
I am thinking about Mary’s infectious laugh today. Although it saddens me to remind myself of that sound in my head, it reminds me of the suffering Mary endured throughout her life with CF. Through it all, she smiled and refused to let it take away her joy of being alive.
I love you, Mary.