Gone but not forgotten

Sometimes, life isn't fair. This afternoon, I lost a dear friend and former teaching colleague to brain cancer. 

Kris battled with the disease -- and multiple tumors -- for almost four years, beating all the odds in the process. She was a role model for me in the classroom, the kind of teacher who could get through and build positive relationships with ANY child. Kris had a true gift and inspired anyone lucky enough to know her. 

What's even more tragic is that Kris leaves behind three children, twin girls in their senior year of high school and a boy barely in middle school. I have no doubt that they -- and all of us who had the privilege to know her -- will keep her fire, spirit, zest for life, and warrior mentality alive. 

I would like to share with you words from another friend of mine about Kris, as she is far more eloquent than I am currently capable of being:

"I'd like to take a moment to recognize my friend Kristine Neher. After an almost 4 year battle with brain cancer, today the world lost a truly wonderful person. A selfless, hardworking, intelligent, generous, witty, and kind woman. She was a mother, wife, teacher and friend. Those of us lucky enough, have memories that will last us through these dark days. I will always look back on Chong calling us, 'old bastards' on the Tom Sawyer field trip and climbing the jungle gym with the kids. Or Kris' trademark sunglasses (even in the basement), or when she stood with me as Alyssa took Sophie on rides at the OC boardwalk, or when she worried just a little too much about Brandon's cough or the girls allergies. She did it all because she loved her family more than anyone will ever know. I was astonished when she said she made cinnamon buns before school every. single. day. But I was not surprised by the quick way she could build relationships with each and every student. When the brain cancer began to rob her of the little things like her trademark ponytail and playing basketball, she still had enough of herself to hate on DUKE and love on her TERPS. It's time for you to rest Kris. Ms. Neher, you will live on in the hearts of the thousands of children whose minds you molded and lives you changed. Please look down on us fondly and known we're doing our best. Remember, we're not all good with numbers...some of us had to become English teachers. 😊"

I love you, Kris. Thank you for being you and teaching all of us so much about the importance of living every day to the fullest. You were a true Warrior Women, and we are better having known you.