The story of Brenda Schmitz unfolds with gripping intensity, shedding light on her journey as a cancer-stricken mother. As she faced the reality of her diagnosis, Brenda’s devotion to her family never wavered. Her commitment was beautifully illustrated through her interactions and planning for her children’s futures. Brenda wanted to ensure that her love would endure beyond her life.
In her final months, she made a remarkable decision, one that would echo through the lives of her loved ones. This powerful narrative is not solely about struggle; it encapsulates the depths of a mother’s love, a theme that resonates with many during the Christmas season. Each page evokes emotion, urging readers to reflect on their connections and legacies.
The Diagnosis That Changed Everything
In the face of seemingly mundane abdominal pain, Brenda and her husband David received life-altering news. A diagnosis of stage-4 ovarian cancer abruptly transformed their lives. It explained the pain she experienced but marked the beginning of a harrowing battle against an unforgiving disease. Brenda approached her illness with a fighter’s spirit, determined to hold onto hope despite the overwhelming challenges ahead.
This devastating turn didn’t just affect Brenda; it rippled through her entire family. They faced uncertainty that most cannot comprehend. Brenda navigated through various treatments, enduring the side effects in hopes of regaining her health. The will to protect her family emerged as her driving force.
Brenda’s Unwavering Spirit in the Face of Adversity
Brenda embodied resilience. Despite the toll cancer took on her body, she maintained a fierce determination that inspired those around her. From chemotherapy treatments to surgeries, each step was both painful and revealing of her strength. Her story invites readers to witness the journey of a woman who, even as she battled cancer, continued to infuse her family with love, laughter, and unforgettable life lessons.
She reveled in the simple joys, waiting eagerly for cherished family milestones. As her health fluctuated, she resolved to impart wisdom to her sons. Brenda’s spirit lingered in everything she did, serving as a touchstone of hope. She recognized that loving her family meant preparing them for a future without her.
Letters from the Heart
In a deeply touching act, Brenda penned heartfelt letters for each of her four sons and one for David. These written treasures served as both goodbye and guidance. They reflected her wisdom, humor, and boundless love. Crafted during her hardest moments, these letters resonate with authenticity. Brenda wanted her children to know they would never be alone, even after she was gone.
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About the Author
Author Jackie Haley is a nationally recognized, award-winning author, speaker and entrepreneur. She’s appeared on CBS, NBC, among many other major media outlets and traveled the country representing her books. Her first novel, Crystal Beach received many powerful endorsements following its release in 2012, including one from the Des Moines Register, but Jackie didn’t stop there. In 2017, Jackie published her sequel, Truce Island and continued to speak and hold book signing events across the country.
Shortly after, was approached by David Schmitz to write his family’s truly inspiring story about his late wife that left a gift for him which he received two years after she passed from ovarian cancer. Brenda’s Wish was released in 2020 with several excellent endorsements including two national foundations and many incredible reviews. Jackie has a passion for writing, for making a difference and for helping others with similar passions. Jackie launched a new entity Dream to Author to help aspiring writers become published, providing assistance through online training and coaching services. Besides speaking engagements and her writing career, she has over 15 years of experience in nonprofit management and began her own consulting business in 2012 doing strategic planning projects and more for nonprofit organizations.
Published by Stephanie M.
