Away but looking in

[Diane Margetts]

I haven't posted here for quite some time, In fact, I haven't picked my camera up for quite some time; but I do enjoy looking in at the beautiful pictures you guys take. Just about a year ago, my husband was diagnosed with lung cancer. In's been an incredibly long year that started out with a disease that the Oncology surgeon believed was curable. Everything that could possibly go wrong, went wrong. My husband is now in Hospice care at home. I am so very fortunate to work with wonderfully compassionate people that are letting me work from home. This is the only way my husband can remain at home and this is what he wants. Many months ago, prior to his initial chemo treatments, he asked me to take a good photo of him while he still had hair. My husband is normally terribly camera shy and, after 26 years of marriage, I still didn't have a good portrait of him. Finally, he worked with me and we got the best picture of him I had ever seen. He was really happy. I was almost happy. I turned to our own Linda Bell and asked her to work her magic and make the portrait spectacular. She took it even beyond my expectations. I did not show it to my husband because it would be too difficult to explain--he has had brain metastasis and his ability to rationalize is pretty much gone. My plan is to have a portrait framed for me of course, but also one for each of his two kids. I wanted to share his beautiful portrait with all of my Doodle Kisses friends . . .

[BG and Gavin]

Diane, I am so very sorry for the difficult time you are going through.  Your portrait is absolutely beautiful and I am sure his children will be thrilled with it.  I feel honored that you are sharing it with us.  Best thoughts.

[Lori, Daphne, Lucy & Pippa]

What an absolute wonderful portrait! I know that this picture will touch your heart and those of his children long after he is gone. He gave you a wonderful gift to treasure. Thank you for sharing! Prayers and hugs for all that you are going through.

[Linda, Charlie Brown and Beau]

What a wonderful portrait and beautiful memory gift to yourself and the children.  I am so sorry you are going through this difficult time.  Please come back to DK as often as you can - I was just checking out your photos and they are awesome.  Prayers for you and your family.

[F, Calla & Luca]

I am so sorry to hear your sad news. I hope the time remaining with your husband is peaceful. I hope you rejoin us with your wonderful images when you are ready. Linda and you made a wonderful portrait. We miss her too. We will be thinking of you.

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

Diane, what a beautiful portrait. If you want to show him, I think you should.  I was always told, they may not respond correctly, but the real mind is still  there.  Years ago, I was in a brief coma.  I could hear and understand everything said. I actually worked in the area where I was hospitalize and knew the people speaking.  They told others I could not respond.  But I could hear. I can tell you today what was said. 

So, my point is, this portrait may help. Of course, your choice. Just some words of encouragement for you, but I am sure glad you shared his portrait with us.  I'm so sorry to hear your news and we will be thinking of you.

You know our door is always welcoming when you feel you want to return.  

[Camilla and Darwin]

Diane, I am so, so sorry to hear this. The portrait is beautiful and I'm sure it will be cherished. We have missed you and your wonderful pictures and I think of you often.  I'm thinking of you and your family and I hope that you can feel the comfort and support from your photography group friends. 

[DJ & Chance]

Diane, this is such a beautiful portrait and loving tribute.  Hugs and prayers for you and your family.

[Maryann,Roo and Tigger]

Wonderful portrait - So sorry to hear you are in such a difficult, sorrow filled place.  Wishing you and your husband peace and comfort from friends  during this time. 

[Deb's Yarrow and Schatzi]

I'm fairly new here, so we've never met, but I am still touched by your story. Such a beautiful portrait.  Thank you for sharing your story. <3 <3 <3

[Lonnie &amp; Libby Lu]

Your portrait is gorgeous and surely one to cherish forever.   My prayers are with you and your family.   

[Elizabeth, Bailey & Bruin]

I am so very sorry you and your family are going through such a painful time.  Prayers to you and your family.

Your portrait of your husband is magical!!  He has the kindest eyes. 

What a beautiful gift you are giving your family

[Stephanie and Ragley]

I am so sorry to hear that you are going through this, but I feel honored that you chose to share such a beautiful and meaningful portrait with us. I went through something incredibly similar recently with my mom so I know how difficult it can be. What a blessing it is that he is able to be at home with you. My prayers are with you and your family.