To the editor:
I am writing this letter in honor of my late mother, Betty Cheaney. Aug. 29 marked the 15th anniversary of her death from acute myeloid leukemia.
She survived for two years after her diagnosis by receiving blood and platelet transfusions and prayers. She accepted death gracefully even when she was miffed about leaving this world early at age 57.
She was employed for 18 years as a doctor’s office nurse for the late Dr. Charles Link, Dr. Joseph Young and Dr. Charles Richert.
In total, she worked for medical facilities for 35 years before having to retire on June 18, 1999. (The day she was diagnosed with leukemia.)
She was married to my father for 34 years and together they raised four children. She was all things to many people.
She imparted many words of wisdom to my family. Here are 15 things she loved to impart.
1. Smoking does no one any good. You damage your body and the body of others around you. Smoking is not an effective way to manage stress.
2. Exercise after a day of work, especially if you have a sit-down job. Your mind is tired but not your body. Exercise, exercise, exercise at least 20 minutes of day three to six days a week.
3. Overeating may make you feel good at the moment, but you pay for it later.
4. Have a designated driver if you drink. You are just asking for trouble.
5. Seek counseling for issues. So many wonderful counselors are available.
6. Seek a hobby. Everyone needs a hobby to manage stress. (She so loved that her former employers Drs. Link and Young were gardeners instead of golfers.)
7. Visit your elders and not just at the holidays. They gave so much — it’s your turn to give back to them. You will be in their shoes and wouldn’t you want others to visit you?
8. Being kind and respectful costs nothing but is worth so much.
9. You have to move on after losing someone to death. You can still remember that person but you need to honor their memory. Tears are OK, but not constantly.
10. Thank others for being in your life and sticking with you through the tough times. You will find out who your true friends are in times of need.
11. Make new friends but keep the old. One is silver and the other is gold.
12. Children and the elderly are precious. Report abuse immediately.
13. Seek help to manage your emotions more effectively before your emotions manage you.
14. Be an organ donor and be a blood donor if you are medically able.
15. Life is too short to carry grudges.
Thank you for allowing me to share my memories.
Maria Cheaney Mabe
Carmel
