Tribute: Lillian Giandolfo

Dear Friend’s:

I am a journalist. I am called “Nannie” by my two grandchildren. I am 55 years young. And my fight is two battle cancer within me and for all. So I reach out to you during what may be the last week of my life.

People keep asking me. Lillian, what can we do to help? Lying in bed and looking out the window at the magnificent view of the lady who holds such promise brought it all into focus. I remembered my Owen visit to the statue of liberty in 1982.

I had just received a chemo treatment. Still, I wanted to keep my date with the lady in the harbor. We were to meet at noon… my “highnoon.”

It was a cold February day as I boarded the ferry, amidst modern buildings and ornate old structure with our flag flying high. I thought of all the families whose lives-including mine-had been touched here. And of how cancer has touched many of those same families. What courage our people have!

The wind blew fiercely as we approached Liberty Island. Damm it! Our lady should be tired. But she keeps a constant vigil, holding her torch high. We must be brave like her. We must all hold the torch high.

And how you can help? One way is by not fearing cancer. By taking steps today to ensure a better life for yourself and those who love you. Why take good health and good health care for granted… until it may be too late?

LICH is my hospital. I have been to them all and returned to the hospital where I was born. It is a gem of a place. We need help for research, more nurses, wheelchairs, equipment.

Now I’ve found the answer when people ask how they can help. We must act Now-to value good health and support good work. Your donation is needed today.

Like the lady, we must stand tall and ensure a more hopeful and healthful tomorrow. This has become my last mission. Please help me succeed.

With love to you and your family,

Lillian Giandolfo

We must all hold the touch high…and ensure a more hopeful and healthful tomorrow. Thai has become my last mission. Please help me succeed.”

The Guardian Brain Foundation encourages you to submit your words of encouragement to inspire others and provide emotional support.