No Longer of This World

When I went to bed you were alive,
But the next day I learned that you had died.

Cells divided and conquered you.
They liked you so much, they grew and grew.

Into the heavens you passed away,
blowing a whisper to those of us destined to stay.

I feel your breath in the wind that touches my face,
I see your glow in the warmth of the sun's embrace.

You took your fate and twisted it around,
doing what you could while you were still here on the ground

You're no longer of this world.
Now you're free.
Your spirit and its journey has allowed us to see.

We live, we die.
We laugh, we cry.
And sometimes we have to say goodbye.

You're no longer of this world.
The one we knew is gone.
But your spirit and the lessons you taught will surely live on.

In Memory and Celebration of Christine Niemi

Christine Niemi was originally diagnosed with stage IV colon cancer that had spread to the liver in August 2005 at age of 28. In 2007, Christine was chosen to participate in the C3 (Colorectal Cancer Coalition) Call-On Congress in Washington D.C. to spread awareness of the disease and lobby for more cancer research funding. She embraced the opportunity to make an even more powerful impact with her presence on Capitol Hill. Throughout her journey, she maintained a blog where she wrote about her struggles with colon cancer. Christine never allowed cancer to define her, yet she did allow it to inspire her.

It is unfortunate to report that after a valiant battle of nearly 5 years, Christine passed away on July 18, 2009.

May Christine's journey in this life inspire others to move forward with her cause. A donation page has been set up on Christine Niemi's behalf on the Colorectal Cancer Coalition's website.
Please see the link listed below or click here: http://advocacy.fightcrc.org/goto/christine