In Memory of Matthew Cole

My dad Mathew was able to kick his smoking habit in the 1970s after smoking for over 30 years. In 1992, he was diagnosed with lung cancer. A TB test revealed a small spot on his lung. He had no symptoms and probably would not have known until the cancer progressed and was possibly untreatable... Miraculously, there was just one small spot on one of his lungs, and a small portion of his lung was surgically removed, followed by several radation treatments. For the next 9 years, my dad was cancer free! That is what I call a miracle!... In July 2001, a cough and hoarseness appeared and continued to worsen and this time the diagnosis was non-small cell lung cancer... After chemo and more radiation, thankfully, he went into remission for about 1 year. When the cancer recurred, chemo was unsuccessful...

In December 2002, Mom, sister, and me had the pleasure of taking my weakening, but very strong-willed and determined Dad to deliver Christmas candy to many of the doctors, nurses, and staff who took care of him. My sister pushed him in one wheelchair and I pushed over 50 boxes of chocolate in another wheelchair. Oh what fun this was! This was something my Dad did every Christmas season for the last 9 years when he was diagnosed. It was his way of saying "thank you" to all those who cared for him over the years. ...On the very next day, Dad was admitted into the hospital and on December 27, 2002, he passed away, peacefully surrounded by his family.

His strength and courage were incredible! He was a great husband, father, and grandfather and will be missed greatly by his entire family. His memory will continue to live on in each of us. A special "thank you" to ALCASE for all the education you provided me to learn more about my Dad's illness, while he courageously fought every day before he departed this life. I love you Daddy!

Love, your daughter, Tanja.