Publisher's Synopsis
This is the story of the love between a mother and a daughter and the journey they took together, along with family and friends. It is a story of giving and asking nothing in return.Linda, the author, tells the story of her nineteen-year old daughter Caitlin, from the time Caitlin is first diagnosed with cancer. The story covers the period of about eight months, from onset of the diagnosis to several months after Caitlin's death. During her illness Caitlin thinks mainly of others despite having to cope with the knowledge she may not live a long life. She never gives up hope, seeking alternative healing avenues, as she loves life, wants to live and feels she still has much to contribute to society. While working hard to go into remission Caitlin applies to join Patch Adams in Russia. He excitedly accepts her application and urges her to prepare for the next journey four months later. We learn of Caitlin's fundraising for cancer research, her time spent at the Ian Gawler Institute, visits to doctors and the many interactions with people in need. As death advances slowly, Caitlin remains indomitable and irrepressible. It is her innocence, courage, love of people and zest to still live life to the full, giving generously of herself to others during her illness, which makes this book so inspiring. The writing is a totally honest and soul-searching account and is heavily peppered throughout with excerpts from Caitlin's diary (commenced when she found out she had cancer), letters she wrote and scribbles of her thoughts found posthumously in an old exercise book in her room, letters from friends and excerpts from condolence cards sent to the family after Caitlin's death. This book will inspire many and assist others in similar situations.
