My Great Aunt Valy

The one word that to me would best describe my Great Aunt is Selflessness. She always gave to others and in doing so, created great joy and likely what kept my Aunt mentally and generally physically well for almost 99 years.

In childhood, I was always excited to go to my Tante’s. She had a quaint home in Toronto and there was always great food coupled with generous helpings and desserts. I recall sitting around the dining table as a family with my cane and wheelchair dependent Uncle Herbert. Regardless of the tumultuous past I understand Valy had with Herbert, she always did what she could to take care of him and do all the driving, house work and many other things required. Her care didn’t stop with Herbert. She made sure others were taken care of as well.

After her husband’s death and as I grew older, she was always there to help out where she could. We would visit and talk about the news, life’s challenges, her deteriorating eyesight and on the odd occasion chuckle about things.  She was always a super gracious host. You could tell her need to care was still a key part of her life. This is where Tammy, her dog, played a critical role as a centre of enjoyment and peace as well as keeping my Aunt busy. Her Tammy became the centre of her life in many ways. Tammy was a cute little dog and her at times, her uncontrollable excitement, left a mark on the carpet upon my arrival.

When I heard of my Great Aunt’s death, I was in a bit of shock. I haven’t seen her for years and only spoke on the odd occasion as I now live in BC and have been too focused on making it through my struggles and opportunities.

I want to thank Cathy for her commitment and care of Aunt Valy. Her devotion to Valy made a huge difference in my Aunt’s life, but also in the lives of other in respect to updates on my Aunt and knowing she was in loving hands.

Three lessons to learn from my Aunt upon reflection are:

Serving others and community leaves a lasting impression on the world beyond our time on it. Despite what we endure in life and its hardships, we must learn, move on, live and make the most of what we have been given. The size of your heart is in no way a reflection of your height.

Valy, I love you and wish you all the best in the giving your spirit will provide.

 

Glen