Elizabeth Edwards stops cancer treatment, releases statement

[sabra]

Source: CNN

(CNN) - Elizabeth Edwards is surrounded by family and friends in her North Carolina home after being informed by her doctors that further cancer treatment would be unproductive.

"Elizabeth has been advised by her doctors that further treatment of her cancer would be unproductive," the Edwards family said Monday in a statement. "She is resting at home with family and friends and has posted this message to friends on her Facebook page."

Edwards' message reads:

"You all know that I have been sustained throughout my life by three saving graces – my family, my friends, and a faith in the power of resilience and hope. These graces have carried me through difficult times and they have brought more joy to the good times than I ever could have imagined. The days of our lives, for all of us, are numbered. We know that. And, yes, there are certainly times when we aren't able to muster as much strength and patience as we would like. It's called being human.

"But I have found that in the simple act of living with hope, and in the daily effort to have a positive impact in the world, the days I do have are made all the more meaningful and precious. And for that I am grateful. It isn't possible to put into words the love and gratitude I feel to everyone who has and continues to support and inspire me every day. To you I simply say: you know."

Read more: http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2010/12/06/elizabeth-edwards-stops-cancer-treatment-releases-statement/

[rox63]

1. .

:(

[NikRik]

182. sure puts my problems in perspective ....

I feel like a real jerk when I see what this wonderful person is going thru. I feel down about my problems however I have my health the most important blessing of all. All the $ in the world cant replace the sprit of a this womans outlook towards life and death.I will pray for her, however I believe she is doing just fine on her own. God Bless her and her family .

[Kadie]

2. .

:(

[Kerrytravelers]

3. How sad. What a terrible thing to experience, especially at this time of year when others celebrate.

My heart goes out to her family.

[GentryDixon]

20. Very sad indeed.

I buried my sister on Christmas Eve 12 years ago, and have not enjoyed this time of year since.

Peace be to Elizabeth and her family.

[awoke_in_2003]

101. My mother died...

on thanksgiving day 28 years ago- I know what you mean.

[Catshrink]

106. My mom died New Years Day

7 years ago. It's a very hard day for me. I miss her so much!

[calimary]

159. My sympathies. My dad was dying on New Year's - in 2000. He lasted til January 4th.

He was BARELY alive - by then he was reduced to a piece of meat with tubes coming out of him in various places. A horrible way to go and he lingered like that. It was so hard on my mom - she didn't know how to feel about it. All through Christmas and New Year's Eve day and New Year's Day and three days after that we spent shuttling back and forth from the hospital. Every day came to appear as though it might be his last. Being That's how those holidays went that year. Every holiday season since - I can't help but remember it. I remember spending many many hours debating with myself - not knowing what to pray for. A miracle? Or safe passage? A very grim time. My dad's birthday was January first. And when he "survived" to that day there was no joy. He was nearly comatose by then. And then you're left with - "well, at least he's not suffering anymore..."

My sympathies. This time of year should be joyous for everyone! ESPECIALLY those who wound up in mourning.

:hug: :grouphug: :hug: :grouphug: :hug:

[xxqqqzme]

167. My dad collapsed on

December 22, two years ago. He seemed to rally against an infection and there was hope through Christmas but he just deteriorated after that. Tests on December 30, showed little brain activity.
My mom had him taken off life support on her birthday, December 31. He died that afternoon. His memorial service was 6 days later on my birthday. 2008 was not a happy holiday year for my family.

I am very sorry to hear this news about Elizabeth Edwards. I felt so lucky to meet her at a small democratic gathering about 3 years ago. She was so gracious and easy to talk to. That now becomes a special treasure to me.

[calimary]

169. Ow! Your pain is still pretty new.

That whole time was so grim. And our kids were still young so we had to keep up appearances for their sake over the holidays. I didn't feel like doing much of anything. Being on death watch is just shitty. New Year's Day would have been his birthday. And all the celebrations were going on and I remember thinking that he had no awareness of any of it. Dad finally made the jump to lightspeed the next morning after we'd decided collectively to remove the respirator - which his nurses did, that same evening.

Grim. It was one of those times when you appreciate goofy-kid things like farting (and announcing it with public pride) and jumping on the bed. Which we did because New Year's Eve in 1999 was full of Millennium stuff, on TV and elsewhere. Actually, I didn't fart out loud like my son did - with great gusto, I might add. But I did claim the first burp of the new millennium about a second or so after the ball dropped. And the kids and I jumped on the bed watching TV and listening to the fireworks down the street that we could hear, even though we were too far away to see. I remember finding a brief little moment of joy in all that. It was such a relief to be distracted from all the death-watch stuff going on every other moment of the day, day after day.

Bummer to think about Elizabeth Edwards. How much suffering she's been through, in her body AND her heart. And to have to play it all out in public. Shit - you should see some of the comments on one of the reports about it. There are actually people "shouting" "SHUT UP"! to some of these posts. It's a shame they can't shut up and let her reach the end in peace. Heaven knows she's known enough torment. I read some of that stuff and couldn't help thinking - "GEEZ they're mean! Must be republi-CONS or something."

[vduhr]

113. Too many lost from cancer....

My mother passed away in 1999 a few days before Thanksgiving (November 21), she was 72. I never knew my grandmother because she died at a young age of cancer before I was born. Last August my ex-sister-in-law's sweet and gentle husband passed away, he was in his 50's, and November 6th, a very old friend lost her life, she was in her late 60's. When I read this news release about Elizabeth Edwards, it is all too familiar and all too sad once again. I could name so many other of my family members and friends that have died of this disease, and I know many, many of us here on DU can say the same. Why so many?

[ashling]

126. My mom died from cancer in 1973

I still think of her all the time and of my dad who died just after Thanksgiving in 1998.

[unapatriciated]

170. My sister died on Christmas Eve 1960 of Acute Leukemia

This time of year has always been tough. As a child growing up it was always a time of sadness for my parents, myself and siblings.
I didn't celebrate this holiday until I had Children of my own. In Dec 1990 my son became very ill (he was the same age as my sister, 13 and has struggled with JDMS his whole life), and once again the holidays were not a time of joy for my family.
My son had been in remission for six years, in October he began again his struggle with active Dermatomyositis. I celebrate life every day not waiting for Holidays to let my loved ones know how much they mean to me.

I also send the message of Love and Peace to Elisabeth and her family.

[No Elephants]

174. Respectfully, I am quite sure your sister would want--wants--you to enjoy it again.

Sending love.

[Octafish]

4. Love you, Elizabeth!

I always will.

[ClayZ]

5. .

[RamboLiberal]

6. Ah damn

I feel really bad for her and her children. No child should lose a parent until they are grown. I hope she has at least one more lovely holiday with her family.

[CaliforniaPeggy]

7. Safe passage to you, Elizabeth...

:cry:

:hug:

[Uncle Joe]

8. Peace to Elizabeth Edwards and her family.

Thanks for the thread, sabra.

[tishaLA]

9. Very sad.

Best wishes to her and her family. :cry:

[pamela]

10. I'm so sad...

I've been reading updates on this all afternoon and I'm just heartbroken. I love Elizabeth.

[Trajan]

11. We love you Elizabeth ...

I am so sorry for the pain you have endured .... You exemplify how one lives a graceful life ...

You deserved better, but you always did the best you can while always expressing heartfelt love and care for others ...

I am so sorry .... I love you ...

[Vinca]

12. I'm very sad to read this.

[myrna minx]

13. .

:cry:

[slay]

14. :(

:cry:

[Jakes Progress]

15. Peace to Elizabeth and her family.

It seems another good one may be leaving us soon. We are the worse for it.

[knitter4democracy]

16. Damn. I knew this day would come, but I prayed it wouldn't.

Elizabeth, I will never forget the honor of shaking your hand when you came to town to stump for Kerry at that point and talked about healthcare. You get it and always have, and you should have been the one running for office. I have always admired you and considered you a true light, a person lighting the way for the rest of us.

May your light never truly be dimmed.

[sasha031]

17. Elisabeth is such a beautiful woman

[NewJeffCT]

18. What terrible news

She is a woman of tremendous intelligence and grace.

[texastoast]

19. So sad.

What a wonderful, gracious woman. Her light will shine on. Prayers for her and her family.

[Arctic Dave]

21. Go in peace dear lady.

[Dennis Donovan]

22. Words escape me...

:cry:

[lamp_shade]

23. Oh my.

[sandyj999]

24. Blessings to you Elizabeth. A woman of courage and dignity. n/t

[bear425]

25. Dear Elizabeth, you are a wonderful person. I wish you peace

and comfort at this time. Please know how much I, and other DU'ers, care. :hug:

[RoccoR5955]

26. I hope that she finds peace. She certainly deserves that much.

[TBF]

27. Godspeed, dear Elizabeth, you'll remain in our hearts. nt

[Monique1]

30. Peace be to you Elizabeth

you are in my prayers O8) O8) :grouphug: :cry: The angels will take you to your maker who loves you.

[Judi Lynn]

28. We've admired her so long. If only she knew how widely she's respected and loved. n/t

[catgirl]

29. Elizabeth is a very special and beautiful person

She has touched so many lives. My heart is with her.

[Lindsey]

44. I think we all knew this time would come. Elizabeth Edwards has

been such an inspiration...so graceful, filled with courage, and everything that I aspire to be. In my opinion, she's been a light on a planet that has had its share of darkness. I know that when she passes, she'll be looking out for us from above. I can't express how sad I feel right now so I'll leave it at that.:cry:

[jennied]

31. So sad. :-(

[Lucinda]

32. I wish someone would make this a sticky for a while...

She and her family and friends are in my prayers.

[whatchamacallit]

33. :(

I marvel at such grace...

[jobycom]

34. Peace to a beautiful person. nt

[The Wizard]

35. We are all saddened.

Elizabeth is a ray of light in today's political cesspool.

[Myrina]

36. Thoughts and prayers are with this brave, amazing woman

O8)

[Haole Girl]

37. Oh man

:cry:

[alfredo]

38. Damn

[Better Believe It]

39. I'm very sorry to hear that.

[PopSixSquish]

40. Godspeed Mrs. Edwards

:cry:

[DailyGrind51]

41. This cancer-survivor applauds your courage and leadership, Elizabeth.

[Old and In the Way]

42. You inspire us all, Elizabeth.

You have made this world a better place.

[classof56]

43. What beautiful words from such a beautiful woman.

I have long admired and respected her beyond measure, and she is truly an inspiration. As someone else said, the world is a better place for her having been here.

Peace and blessings.

[guitar man]

45. Oh no

A peaceful and safe passage to you dear lady :hug:

[Raksha]

46. This is so sad. We love you, Elizabeth.

[MindandSoul]

47. What a courageous, exceptional woman. I hope she finds serenity in the next days, weeks, months

[Botany]

48. I love you Elizabeth

If i could write something to help your illness I would do such ....
If any action in the world I could do that might help you I would do it ....
but sadly there is little I can do but to tell you that I love you and that
you made the world a better place. Shine on my friend shine on.

[susanwy]

123. Wonderful pictures

of a beautiful lady.

Thank you,

Susan

:cry: :grouphug:

[Baclava]

200. That is lovely

thanks

[davidwparker]

49. My prayers to Elizabeth, her children, and friends. n/t

[Janice325]

50. I am just bawling my eyes out right now.

She is such a wonderful, honorable lady.

[Janice325]

51. I am just bawling my eyes out right now.

Sorry for accidental double post.Still crying over the news. I knew this was going to be how the "story" ended, but still.... :cry:

[wolfgirl]

52. May God ease her suffering and envelop her in love!

:(

[Divine Discontent]

88. Lovely sentiment! I think she knows how many love her spirit. God bless this sweet woman.

[WizardLeft62]

53. Sad News

Sad News....My heart goes out to Elizabeth Edwards at this time....

Otherwise, I have nothing else to say.

[onecent]

54. How Beautiful! Yes, we know Elizabeth!

You are so loved!!!!

[Joey Liberal]

55. What a great woman. nt

[connecticut yankee]

56. How sad

Elizabeth has been an inspiration to us all -- so brave and courageous.

I hope her remaining days are peaceful and serene.

[ncrainbowgrrl]

57. Thank you, Elizabeth Edwards.

You taught me how to go on, when it seemed like the world was ending, when I was so sick, when I never thought I'd ever see the pleasures of laying on my couch with my cats and my husband and really living again.

I thank you for the gifts that you have given me, the promises, the wisdom, the tears, the love for all, and the drive to keep going.

The renewed spirit.

And the tears that flow down my face remind me of how you "watered me like a plant," and allowed me to re-grow.

I will never forget such a classy, wonderful person whom I never met in person- but who touched my life in so many ways.

[Frisbee]

58. No words for this. n/t

[oldtime dfl_er]

59. I'm in tears

and have no words. Love you, Elizabeth!

[Kali]

60. ...

:(

[roguevalley]

61. I feel for her and her family. I hope she goes knowing her kids

are her legacy, that and her good heart. Bless you, Elizabeth.

[NutmegYankee]

62. She will be quite a loss.

May you go out with grace and dignity. :cry:

[budkin]

63. I felt like crying when I read this... not fair.

[dogday]

64. I feel so bad for those kids. I know she would of liked to of

raised them, but that can't happen now. How very sad for all of them. What a great Lady. Such an inspiration to me. I only hope when it is my turn, I have 1/4 of her grace and style.O8)

[CountAllVotes]

65. Elizabeth Edwards

You are a fine lady Elizabeth. :cry:

:dem:

[scarletwoman]

66. Wishing you peace and a good journey, Elizabeth. And prayers for your family.

May all love surround you and guide your way home.

[lillypaddle]

67. My best thoughts are with you, Elizabeth

May you continue to find strength in those who love you. :loveya:

And may you find peace in forgiveness for those who have been weak and failed you.

Rock on, brave lady.

[chimpymustgo]

93. You speak for me. I had not found the words in my tears. Thank you.

[lillypaddle]

173. Chimpymustgo ...

:hug:

[LiberalEsto]

68. Godspeed, Elizabeth

You've been an inspiration to so many.

[MsLeopard]

69. Such grace and dignity

Wishing you the best, dear, dear Elizabeth. You are an example for us all. K&R

[LibraLiz1973]

70. So sad about this. I hope it brings peace to her children and loved ones that

she will be reuniting with Wade.

[TwilightGardener]

71. May she be pain free and filled with peace in the coming days.

[demnan]

72. Godspeed and blessings to one of the best

who took her fight for liberal causes. Thank you, dear lady.

[Island Blue]

73. So very sad.

:-( My heart goes out to Elizabeth and her family.

[Lochloosa]

74. To one of ours.

:cry:

[man4allcats]

75. She has courage, nobility of spirit and grace.

I hope I shall have as much at that time.

Peace to you, Elizabeth.

[MBS]

76. Beautiful, graceful statement, terrible news. n/t

[leftofcool]

77. There, but for the grace of God go I................

Time to fly, Elizabeth.

[proud patriot]

78. I wish her the best

[KatyaR]

79. Horrible news...

i can't imagine how hard this must be for her family, especially at this time of year. I hope they find some comfort in the time they have left together.

:cry:

[tpsbmam]

80. My heart and love go out to an incredible woman who continues to uplift

even now. Hundreds of thousands of us are holding you in our embrace, Elizabeth.
:hug: :grouphug: :cry:

[Horse with no Name]

81. Thank you for your inspiration.

I love you. You and your family will remain in my thoughts.

[d_b]

82. .

[democrank]

83. Bless you, Elizabeth.

~PEACE~

[CatWoman]

84. ......

:( :cry: :hug:

[skygazer]

85. So sorry to hear this

Such a strong and inspirational woman. My best wishes go out to her and her family.

[madmax]

86. Peace Elizabeth.

[emilyg]

87. Terribly sad.

[AllyCat]

89. Wellness to you Elizabeth and thank you for your courage.

[mvd]

90. That is sad. It sounds like there isn't much hope, but..

I'll hope for a miracle.

[OhioChick]

91. Bless her heart....

:cry:

[rasputin1952]

92. Elizabeth has braved many things...

as the final curtain draws to a close, I am reminded of Hubert Humphrey who succumbed to cancer and ever such a noble and dignified individual faced his future, as we all must, fighting on for the common man. I am reminded of Theodore Kennedy, who faced horrific challenges during his life, noble and dignified, faced his future, fighting for the common man.

As this tragic news comes forth, there is a great sadness that comes over me, and I know that Elizabeth has fought for all of us over the years, nobly and with great dignity has faced an uncertain future. Rarely have we seen an individual of courage, compassion, empathy and passion...all backed by a remarkable intelligence, which makes this just a little harder to take.

Dear Elizabeth, you have been an inspiration for all of us here, may your final days be pain free, and you can rest in the knowledge that you have done wonders for the women and men of this nation. My heart weeps for you and all the others that face this as their future...you are loved and you will be deeply missed. You are a true lady, and we all stand with you during this time.

[sabrina 1]

94. Such sad news. I was so hoping for a miracle for her

At least until her children were grown.

She is a beautiful woman, inside and out.

[MissDeeds]

95. This just breaks my heart

Somehow, I thought she might have more time, a few more years. I am so very sorry for the pain this courageous lady has had to endure, with the loss of her beloved son, Wade, the strain of two unsuccessful presidential runs, the cancer diagnosis, and the hurt she had to endure publicly with her husband's infidelity. It seems so much to endure.

She is in my thoughts and prayers, as are her friends and family. I hope whatever God there may be grants her peace and safe passage. You will not be forgotten, Elizabeth.



:cry: :cry: :grouphug:

[Bucky]

96. This is heartbreaking

We've been so lucky to have her voice out in public affairs for the last 15 years. It's ending too soon, but her time has been magnificent and her wisdom has been unshakeable.

[JerseygirlCT]

97. Prayers and continued blessings to her on this journey

She has such courage!

[laylah]

98. Brave. sweet Woman...

my thoughts are with you. Peaceful passage, Elizabeth! Our hearts are with you! :cry:

[caseymoz]

99. Goodbye, Elizabeth, and may you finally feel relief from the pain. :(

You have truly been among the best of humankind.

[madmax]

100. Peace Elizabeth

And to your family.

[laylah]

102. I am so very sad...

no words :cry:

[BlueCollar]

103. I'm so sorry...n/t

[Inspired]

104. The tears won't stop today for my hero.

I love you Elizabeth.

[underseasurveyor]

105. Nooooooooooo damn it

Man this just breaks my heart :cry:

[blondeatlast]

107. Go with God, Ms. Edwards. Whatever happens, your light will shine on. nt

[laylah]

108. Thinking of you, Elizabeth, and wishing you

a peaceful passage. You "done" good and we have appreciated your efforts. Our thoughts are with you always!

[cyr330]

109. Ah, Awful news. . .

What a wonderful lady. I think very highly of her, unlike what I think of her ex-husband.

[Guilded Lilly]

110. Courageous woman. Silent prayer to her.

[Mad_Dem_X]

111. Such sad news.

She's an amazing woman. My thoughts and prayers are with her and her family. :cry:

[BobTheSubgenius]

112. I get the feeling I'm sadder for Elizabeth than she is.

I hope so, anyway.

[EmeraldCityGrl]

114. Elizabeth took time out of her busy campaign schedule

to visit with parents at The Compassionate Friends annual convention. There was no media coverage this is something she did because
she empathizes with other parents that have lost children. The Compassionate Friends is a support group for parents that have lost children.

Any mother that survives that, survives everything else because nothing is worse. In these days that follow we send our thoughts, prayers to
Elizabeth and we "know" what she will be thinking of in the final moments of her life, Wade.

Such amazing grace. Peace be with you Elizabeth.

[catrose]

115. Blessings & comfort for Elizabeth & the children

[Highway61]

116. May God Bless you

:hug:

[Irishonly]

117. Reading this makes me sad

She is a kind, gracious lady. I am an eleven year survivor and this just breaks my heart.

[madrchsod]

118. words each of us should live by ..she truly is a beautiful lady

[susanwy]

119. Peace and Love to Elizabeth Edwards

and her family in her final days.

My sister-in-law had her cancer come back and metastasize to her bones about a year after Elizabeth's returned. Bridgette(SIL)is undergoing constant chemo (6 weeks on, 2 off) to keep it out of her soft tissue. During that time I purchased Elizabeth's books and pointed Bridgette to Elizabeth's face book page. We read the books together and Elizabeth has become an inspiration to us both. Elizabeth set a goal to see her youngest graduate High school. Bridgette set the same goal for her self and her twin son's (my beautiful nephews - about the same age as Emma Claire). Here is to Bridgette, may she meet the goal that now eludes sweet Elizabeth.

My family lost my brother, their first born, in a car accident at the age of 17. Elizabeth's words and pain of losing Wade gave me a glimpse into the horrific emotions my parents endured when John died and a window into the strength they mustered to go on living. For that, I am eternally grateful.

:cry: Go in Peace....

Susan

[delightfulstar]

120. Thank you Elizabeth, you are an inspiration.

Peace to you, Elizabeth, as you take this final leg of your journey in this world. May every day be one that you cherish.

My thoughts are with the Edwards family. I broke down in tears when I saw this thread.

It looks as though she will be taken from us much too soon. But she absolutely has had - and will continue to have - a positive impact. What a great, brave, stong, graceful woman, and I admire her greatly.

[lonestarnot]

121. Oh my. Such sadness in that.

:cry:

[The Wielding Truth]

122. We are all going. She may get there sooner. She has shown herself to be one

of the strongest,most sincere among us. Her spirit will remain. I hope she knows how we appreciate her.

[David Zephyr]

124. Elizabeth Edwards! You lift me up!

Breast cancer has struck my family like so many others. My mom, 93, is a breast cancer survivor and she thinks Elizabeth Edwards if the tops. My mom is right. She is.

I love this amazing, gifted and brilliant, loving woman!

[southern_belle]

125. :(

[Ilsa]

127. Peace and blessings to her family. She has had a tremendous impact on the world. nt

[wisteria]

128. I am so sorry to hear this news. n/t

[BrklynLiberal]

129. ...

:cry: :cry: :cry: :cry: :cry:

[dark forest]

130. Sad

I almost lost my wife to cancer, and even though she survived and is thriving now, it was the most devatating, emotionally wrenching thing either of us has ever experienced.

May God be with her

[craigmatic]

131. I feel sorry for her kids my mother was sick this time last year too.

[defendandprotect]

132. Loved Elizabeth and always thought she would have been the beter candidate. ..!!

Haven't seen her younger children in a number of years, but they are still

a family unit -- all together even now and that's good to hear!

This has been a very long struggle for Elizabeth and the family -- and I trust

they all remember the effection the public immediately had for Elizabeth.

It's still there as far as I can see --



What are the figures now? 1 in every 3 Americans with Cancer --

and how few ask WHY?

[Melissa G]

133. Elizabeth, you are loved and admired here.

I wish you and yours peace and comfort. You have uplifted so many! :grouphug:

[Punkingal]

134. I'm heartbroken....

I love her.:cry: :cry: :cry:

[crim son]

135. Very sad news. I have admired her courage, not only

with respect to this despicable disease, but also as a public figure who has had to endure more than her fair share of garbage. Her message is further evidence of that courage. Safe passage, Elizabeth. Many, many people have you in their thoughts and prayers.

[Jefferson23]

136. You will be remembered Elizabeth. Peace to you and your loved ones. n/t

[vanlassie]

137. Hoping for the best for you, dear Elizabeth.

[happygoluckytoyou]

138. too very sad

[benny05]

139. Please keep EE in thoughts

as you did when sending her the 12 dozen roses:



She's still around...

[bettync]

178. Elizabeth is beautiful.

I hope this wonderful woman has a peaceful Christmas. She is as beautiful on the inside as the outside.

[DearAbby]

140. Safe Journey Gentle Lady

May you find peace within the warm love of your family and friends

[kanda]

141. Peace

Wishing peace and comfort to Elizabeth, her family and all who love her. A beautiful lady with true grace and dignity.

[Number23]

142. Grace. Love. Hope. Three things that make life worth living -- especially that second thing.

I wish that everyone would heed the beauty and wisdom of her words.

[MrMickeysMom]

143. Her words are truly beautiful...

... but, not as beautiful as what is inside of her.

Thank you for your message, and may the love and light continue to surround you and your family, Elizabeth.
:loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya:

[bertman]

144. A gracious lady. May peace be with you, Elizabeth. nt

[DesertFlower]

145. love you elizabeth.

[go west young man]

146. She represents the best in all of us.

[vixengrl]

147. How terrible--she is yet a person of grace and resilience--

And will always be remembered for this and for her faith in people, and her optimism, and her strength.

It is not yet an elegy,
but I can feel the themes gather,
the muse calls, the baleful
light falls across the keys
of my instrument, and I type--
But it isn't yet an elegy.

You live, for one, and I can't,
for another, imagine you gone--
a reality that battles back the
themes of mortality,
skews the dying light
to cast about in a certain corner--

What did we call it?
Memory.

And that was mother of the thought
I had of you, being mortal,
and your mortality,
that it should not be rung as an elegy,
but tragedy,
tragedy--

that flesh is tragic,
that loss is tragic,
that we are all flawed like this, which is tragic,
and most tragic of all--
that something still within you stands
passionate, connected,
full of life--

and also full of dying.
Unthinkable. These two competing strains--
I dare not call it an elegy,
no. This dissonance haunts my
instrument, chastens me,
forbids me to wreathe you in
laurel or flowers, makes me honest--

but doesn't make me accept.
I have knowledge of what you are, alive.
I can not take knowledge of you finished,
yet.

~Jennifer Paviglianiti (2010)

[TexasObserver]

148. .

[Raschel]

149. This is very upsetting for me as I was diagnosed wtih Stage 1V as well. I was hoping she

would be around for a good many years to come. There are women with a stage 1V diagnosis who have survived a long time.

People have told me how "courageous" I am as well, but really, what else can we do?
We live our lives day to day, and we do focus on what really matters.

I wish people were more familiar with stage 1V breast cancer and that schools would teach our girls (and boys) about this disease.

I'm glad that she had the chance to write her book, and tell her story. I can't imagine enduring her husband's cheating under the national spotlight while going through treatment. And to have lost a child, how sad.

May angels guide you to a paradise you have never known on this earth, Elizabeth.

[madmax]

184. It's only a number

:hug:

[earcandle]

150. Elizabeth.. even though the medical industry has given up, don't you..

Do some research on edible bentonite and eat some of that
clay.

Also, do some research on Dr. Schussler's Twelve Tissue
Remedies
and take all twelve cell salts under your tongue daily.

Try some activated charcoal as well. 

None of these can hurt.  They just might help. 

And if it is time, you will know it.

Thank you for all that you have done for America.
And for who you are.  

Love and kisses.

[Festivito]

151. How courageously inspiring.

May you find joy in each moment you possess.

[johnaries]

152. Is there any greater Hero or Heroine than this - in her darkest hour

she worries most about others, rather than her own malady.

We love you, Elizabeth. You are, and always will be, an inspiration to us all.

[Beacool]

153. I'm so sorry to hear these news.

I've been terrible sad since I heard about it earlier this evening. She has fought such a courageous battle for so many years. I particularly feel for her young children, what a tragedy it'll be for them to lose their mother. I heard that John is with her. I hope that his presence doesn't make things even harder for her.

I wish the Lord to bless her and make her passing peaceful and painless.

:(

[politicasista]

154. Very sad to hear this

Thoughts are with her and the kids in this sad time. :(

[Riley133]

155. FLASHBACK: Elizabeth posts after 2004 election

God bless you, Elizabeth.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=104&topic_id=2604461

[YvonneCa]

158. Thanks for the link. I remember this...

...thread. After reading the Jefferson quote, I made a copy and put it on my wall...it's still there.

Thanks, Elizabeth for your inspiration! My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family tonight. :grouphug:

[Riley133]

185. You are welcome

Elizabeth had the right idea about HCR, plus I remember being here so many hours following the 2004 election and listening to her words (here and elsewhere). I wish her peace and love.

[YvonneCa]

192. Me too...

...I think she inspired a lot of people. She deserves peace, love and so much more...

[susanr516]

156. Peace for Elizabeth and comfort for her family

She is the epitome of class.

[susanr516]

157. Peace for Elizabeth and comfort for her family

She is the epitome of class.

[LiberalFighter]

160. She endured a lot of valleys and enjoyed many hills. I'm sure there were more hills than valleys.

[shireen]

161. a lovely lady ....

my thoughts are with her and her kids.
:hug:

[kimi]

162. Safe and peaceful passage to Elizabeth

She really has been an inspiration. We've witnessed her grace and devotion to other people, and this world is a better place because of that.

Blessings to her family and friends.

[webDude]

163. her statement very much reminds me of my Mom, an angel in touch with ...

...the other side, spreading joy and wisdom.

[SleeplessinSoCal]

164. I've been reading Beth Nielsen Chapman's blog about coming through stage 2 breast cancer....

http://www.bethnielsenchapman.com/index.php?page=recovery

In there she exposes the AMA, Health Insurance Industry, Drug Industry, and still find a way to battle with wisdom and aid of every alternative treatment there is. It is worth reading if you have a loved one with cancer.

[ProfessionalLeftist]

165. What a terrible time for the Edwards family

My thoughts are with them and I wish her a peaceful, painless safe passage surrounded by loving family and friends. What an amazingly brave woman.

[fortyfeetunder]

166. Elizabeth, my thoughts are with you

I cannot imagine the pain you suffered over the years, but I feel your spirit and resilience. I wish you peace and joy and precious moments with your family.

[lafayettelonewolf]

168. My dearest Elizabeth...

May peace and love be with you and your family. Our hearts will ache when you go away but we will sing with joy when the angels come to take you home. Peace be with you, Elizabeth...peace be with you forever.

[earth mom]

171. Love You Elizabeth...

I will never forget you. You are in my heart forever. Your light shines on.

:grouphug:

[vanboggie]

172. For one of our own

You've always had my deepest admiration and respect. A strong, intelligent woman with grace and honor. Our thoughts are with you and your family.

[Rhiannon12866]

175. Incredibly sad news...

What a lovely and courageous lady who graced us with her presence here on DU... ;( :loveya:

[pam4water]

176. So sad.

[pecwae]

177. Dearest Elizabeth

You and one of my very best friends have been given the same news in the same week; she with lung cancers mets. I hold the both of you very closely in my heart.

[SalmonChantedEvening]

179. Safe passage and love, Elizabeth.

:cry:

[racaulk]

180. Very sad.

May your remaining days be filled with much love and peace, Elizabeth. Thank you for being an inspiration to so many.

:hug:

[Mayflower1]

181. Horrible

just horrible.

She sure has been handed some pretty tough situations in life. I pray she finds peace in eternity.

[DirkGently]

183. She is a terrific lady. Thinking of her here in Orlando. nt

[Coventina]

186. We love you, Elizabeth!

I'm just broken-hearted to hear this news.

[colsohlibgal]

187. I Hated hearing This

The old saying that the 'good die young" is not always true of course but we've all seen too many good people go before their time.

The world will miss her when she is gone, she has made a difference.

[waiting for hope]

188. Bless you Elizabeth, for everything you do.

May you have all the love and comfort your family and friends can provide.

[Javaman]

189. Cancer sucks.

My Dad, my Mom, my Sister, My Two Aunts and my Uncle.

I'm sure she has good hospice care. I hope she has peace.

[Dokkie]

190. My prayers are with her and her kids

Theres nothing more heart breaking than watching a loved one die

[Arugula Latte]

191. Beautiful words from a beautiful woman

[Deep13]

193. .

:cry:

[Loge23]

194. In the midst of all this insanity...

Elizabeth Edwards reminds the planet about grace, humility, and hope.
In some ways, the world doesn't deserve such a person.

[pleah]

195. .....

:-(

[Oldtimeralso]

196. Breaking News

ABC local station in Chicago announced Elizabeth Edwards has passed away!

No Link Yet

[wisteria]

197. I just heard the same news on MSNBC. What a shame. n/t

[Kate Sorensen]

198. Rest peacefully,

dear woman. You deserve it.

[bushisanidiot]

199. Love and prayers for the Edwards family today.

.

[Tripod]

201. I've always respected her. n/t

[AikidoSoul]

202. Peace and love be with you always

You are greatly admired for the woman you have become. A loving example to us all.