Celebrating 16 Years of Elixir

Today we are celebrating Elixir Fund’s 16th Anniversary, which is also the 16th Anniversary of Kevin’s death. While it may seem odd that I say we “celebrate,” it is not a celebration of Kevin’s death, but rather a celebration of his life. It is a time, for me personally, to reflect on Kevin- his joy, his spirit (which includes the slightly wicked part), his humor, his smile, his love of time spent with family and friends and all that he taught us; which is the foundation of Elixir.

Recently, a friend of Kevin’s sent me a series of photos that he had taken of Kevin on his farm in Napa and on a trip they had taken with a group to Bali. I had seen these photos before, but it has been many years (probably about 16). He captured Kevin’s spirit perfectly in these photos. There is one of Kevin not just smiling for the camera, but truly laughing. It took me a bit by surprise.

One of the benefits of Kevin’s positive approach to his treatment is that he really did not suffer, or see himself in a fight or a battle against cancer. As a result, the last two years of his life are filled with many happy memories, and I can conjure them easily. I consider myself blessed for that. It was one of the many gifts he gave us. But to see him once again, clearly and not through the haze of memory, laughing, made me smile and warmed my heart. To be reminded not only of what Kevin means to me and our family, but to a greater community of friends as well, is another reminder of a life well lived. And that is why we celebrate.

Thank you for being a part of the celebration.